April is Autism Awareness Month

UPCOMING AUTISM AWARENESS EVENTS:

"Guidance for Grandparents & Caregivers: Autism Beyond the Basics"

"Guidance for Grandparents & Caregivers: Autism Beyond the Basics," a free program on Tuesday, May 5, from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at the Barber National Institute. Call 878-5903 for information.

2009 EVENTS FOR AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH WERE:

Second Annual Art Show

Second Annual Art Show, "Celebrating the Possibilities," was held on Friday, April 3, Sunday, April 5, and Monday, April 6, at the Barber National Institute.
Read more ...

Autism Awareness Day at the Millcreek Mall

Clifford The Big Red Dog received an enthusiastic welcome from children and their families visiting the Autism Awareness Day sponsored by the Barber National Institute at the Millcreek Mall in April. Professionals from the Barber Institute were on hand to answer questions and provide information about America’s fastest growing disabilities.

Children enjoyed creating craft projects and having their faces painted. A “Kids On The Block” Puppet Show was also held to help youngsters better understand the challenges faces by children with disabilities. C Wolf, the mascot for the Erie Sea Wolves, also stopped by with schedules for the 2009 baseball season.

The following programs held in April for Autism Awareness Month were sponsored by the Erie County Planning Committee for Autism Awareness, comprised of the Northwest Tri-County Intermediate Unit, the Barber National Institute, and the Northwestern PA Autism Society of America:

• A Portrait in Progress: Autism and Creating a Rewarding Life
  Northwest Tri-County IUS, Waterford
  A mother and her teenage son share their experiences of growing up with Autism.
• Child Psychiatry in Erie County: A Panel Discussion
  Barber National Institute Forum
  A panel of area psychiatrists will discuss current issues including medicine, hospitalization and clinical support for students with autism.
• Adult Life Presentation
  Barber National Institute Forum
  Representatives from Erie County Care Management and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation will discuss services available for adults with autism.
• Bringing the Birds and Bees Down to Earth: Sexuality and Sexuality Education for Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders
  Barber National Institute Forum
  Lisa Mitchell, LSCW, trainer and counselor for the Cody Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities in Port Jefferson Station, NJ, will lead this workshop for caregivers and professionals.

8th Annual Autism Walk

The Barber National Institute also served as a supporting sponsor for the 8th Annual Autism Walk held on Saturday, April 25 at Presque Isle State Park (Beach 11).