April is Autism Awareness Month

Events held during Autism Awareness Month 2010

"How to Interact with a Person with Autism"

Thursday, April 22, 2010 6:00pm to 7:30 pm, Barber National Institute Forum.
M. Eileen McNamara, MD, will address the regular meeting of the Erie County Chapter of the National Alliance of Mental Illness; free and open to the public. Information at (814) 456 – 1773 or info@NAMIErie.org. info@NAMIErie.org..

Eric Chessen "Fitness: The Newest Intervention for Children and Adults with Autism"

Friday, April 23, 2010
9:00 am - Noon (Morning Session)
Noon - 2:00pm (Optional Lunch and School Fitness Program)
Join Eric Chessen, MS, YCS, founder of Autism Fitness, as he discusses the importance of physical activity for individuals with Autism. Chessen began as a fitness trainer, received his Masters in General Psychology, and is certified in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). His methods help improve balance, compliance, coordination, and help reduce self-stimulating behaviors. His interactive presentation includes exercises and tips to help those with Autism to live a healthier, more active life. This is a must-see program for all educators, physical and occupational therapists, fitness professionals, and parents. An optional lunch and afternoon session will be held immediately following. "School-Based Fitness—How to be successful" will feature faculty and therapists from the Barber National Institute. Program is free, however, registration is required. For information or registration, call 480-6831, or click here.

Northwestern Pennsylvania Walk for Autism

Saturday, April 24, 2010
10:00 am The Barber National Institute is a supporting sponsor of the 9th Annual Walk for Autism held at Presque Isle State Park. Join the over 1,000 participants on the two-mile scenic walk. A lunch of hotdogs, chips and drinks is included. There will be inflatable bouncers (weather permitting), face painting, and a themed-basket auction. Recreation events sponsored by the Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania. For more information and to register, please visit http://www.nwpa-asa.org/.

Autism Day with the Erie Storm provided by Epic WebStudios

Sunday, April 25, 2010
2:00 pm at the Tullio Arena.
Cheer on Erie’s indoor football team and learn more about autism from professionals at the Barber National Institute.

M. Eileen McNamara, MD, "Medications: What They Can and Cannot Do For Your Child or Adult with Autism"

Thursday, April 29, 2010
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm, Barber National Institute Forum.
This free presentation will feature Dr. M. Eileen McNamara, psychiatrist and neurologist, offering the most current information about medication for individuals on the Autism Spectrum.