a ommunity of support for autism€¦ · sydney support group st.george family day ‘trapeze’ is...
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Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
Editor: Steve Drakoulis
Autism Community Network Incorporation No. INC9896017 ABN : 64 103 662 535 CFA No: 22825
Address: 5/154 Broad Arrow Road Riverwood NSW Postal: PO Box 188 Riverwood NSW 2210 Email: [email protected] Website: www.autismcommunity.org.au
Tel: (02) 9584 0073
SPECTRUM
I S S U E 7 8
A Community of Support for Autism
April 2015
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
Disclaimer This newsletter is for the purpose of providing readers with information and options in their communities. Inclusion of events or information does not imply endorsement by the A.C.N. We have made every effort to maintain up to date and correct information but urge every reader to only use the content as a guide and do their own research before deciding on any course of action. The Autism Community Network reserves the right to choose whether to publish or edit any information provided for distribution to readers of this newsletter or our website. Any dealings with members of this network must at all times be conducted in a manner based on mutual courtesy or respect. Failure to observe this may result in exclusion from this network.
The Autism Community Network acknowledges the support we receive by the following organisations, without whom we could not provide all the programs and services we do for our community. We are extremely grateful to all these partners and sponsors.
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
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Penrith Support Group
Blacktown Support Group
Maroubra Support Group
St.George Information Day
St.George Art Group
Hornsby Family Day
Sutherland Trampoline Day
St.George Cooking Club
St.George Youth Club
Inner West Support Group
Northern Beach-es Family Day
Ryde Area Support Group
Bankstown Art Group
Ryde Family Day
Penrith Support Group
Blacktown Support Group
Caringbah Support Group
Sutherland Shire Day Support
Sydney Support Group
St.George Family Day
‘Trapeze’ is a program supports in transitioning teen-agers into the adult health system, run through the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, who assist
children/young adults who are clients of westmead or Randwick childrens the hospital to transition into adult services. They mainly assist with the transition into the health service, but I know they also help link young adults into Centrelink and other relative services. Health professionals also run sun great groups I am not sure how involved they get with other aspects of a child’s transition, http://www.trapeze.org.au/
LASER TAG CARINGBAH
TRAINS BANKSTOWN
Sutherland Trampoline Day
GYMNASTICS FUN DAY
KIDS MOVIE DAY
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
I WISH
On Tuesday 7 April 2015 , the ACN ran this seminar, the first of its kid that we know of, for service providers and profes-sionals working with autism. It provided them with a unique insight into the needs and expectations of the community, exploring common problems in service delivery, gave exam-ples of best practice and discussed a wish list of support from the point of view of families living with autism. Our gratitude goes to the people who spoke on the day. Matt B related some of his experiences as a young adult on the spectrum coping in the workforce.
Mitchell, 15, shared his story about why he liked his autism traits. Leanne Pearce delivered a video interview on the impact of Diet on Behav-iour. Jane Tzakos spoke about schools and the relation-ship with parents Judi Huxedurp reinforced the importance of play in
the way you engage with our children. Briana Blackett addressed the need to “Set the bar”, a power-ful speech that set the tone for the day. Claudia Walters covered Quality and Innovation, getting across the message of how much ser-
vice providers can benefit from listening to the parents and carers, as well as the individuals living on the spectrum. And Steve Drakoulis ended the day with a talk on the needs of carers and to never be left feeling isolated. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and we look forward to working with some of the organisations who approached us afterwards. I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your event yesterday. I was in-spired to see your group of strong, resilient families being proactive about getting what you need. I hope Holdsworth can continue to work collabora-
tively with the ACN in the future. If you see any opportunities where you think we may be able to support you please don’t hesitate to contact me. Many Thanks Ruth
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
The ACN is fortunate to count among our greatest supporters, both our local and Federal members. Mark Coure MP has long been a great advocate for tor the work that we do and he once again brought the NSW Minister for Disabilities, Mr John Ajaka to visit us. The Minister brought with him a cheque for $10,000 which will help us continue to pay the bills for the
moment, but also brought many great words of support. It is a good thing to be recognized by our leaders for all the hard work that our team puts in, and the difference we are making for carers and individuals on the spectrum.
Somebody asked, “What training do police receive on autism awareness to help them deal with our kids in the community?” It started a process that we are hoping will lead to a future where peo-ple on the spectrum will not be misunderstood by police and where our police, who have a hard enough job as it is, will be able to make more effective decisions when dealing with someone with an ASD. We put the question out to our members who are on any of the region based Facebook pages we run. “If you could ask a police officer a question on autism, what would you like to know? Their answers have been used to help us arrange a Talk in Kingsgrove in May, where NSW Police will come to speak with ACN parents and car-
ers. Further to that, higher ranking officers will also be present to observe, as a first step in us working more closely with our police. There are some good training resources used by police in other countries and we want to see what we can help bring about to help our own police in their dealings with our ASD community. If you would like to come along on Thursday 7 May, please see our website to book a spot. POLICE & AUTISM When: 7 May 2015 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Venue: Kingsgrove Community Aid Centre, 30 Morgan St Kingsgrove Cost: Free Guest speaker - Senior Constable Judith Piazzetta Catering: Tea and coffee by gold coin donation
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
Sent in from one of our mem-bers, this is for other disabili-ties but very easily be applied for a child on the spectrum experiencing anxiety when a
different teacher takes their class. I designed this substitute teacher card after my daughter had a few incidents with teachers who were not made aware of her issues. It got used for the first time in the last week of term. My daughter said "I saw the substitute teacher and the hairs on the back of my neck stood up before I remembered I had my card!" It worked wonders. The teacher checked to see if she knew what to do and made sure she was coping. It is designed so that it is folded in half and laminated. Keep in pencil case, desk etc. I was a substitute teacher for many years and you are rarely told of kids with any issues and it caused me problems. Use as you wish! ATTENTION TEACHER PLEASE READ Xxxxxx Xxxxx has DYSLEXIA AND ANXIETY This affects; reading handwriting spelling mathematics processing speed working memory organisational skills focus and attention PLEASE SEE OVER FOR CLASSROOM ACCOMMODATIONS Classroom Accommodations: Do not keep Xxx in to complete work Do not get Xxx to redo written work reward effort not outcome Do not make Xxx read out loud to the class Do not expect Xxxx to copy large amounts of written work Provide notes to highlight where possible use positive reinforcement and encouragement modify work allow use of assistive technology where applicable allow use of word banks and maths aids break down instructions into steps and ensure she understands Do not make negative comments about Xxxxx work. She is a SMART child who has A SPECIFIC LEARNING Disability. she is trying her very best.
Inexpensive Refurbished Computer or Laptop with Maintenance
What? WorkVentures Connect IT supplies affordable ex-corporate desktop and laptop computers to individuals receiving Centrelink or DVA Benefits plus schools and non-profit organisations around Australia. The refur-bished computer or laptop packages include: fully licensed software from Microsoft (Windows 7 Professional operating system), Office 2010 Home and Business edition, and Security Essentials anti-virus software; free technical support for the life of the computer; and nationwide delivery.
Eligible? You are eligible if you receive Cen-trelink or Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, hold a Centrelink Low Income Health Care Card or are a not-for-profit or-ganisation or school.
Cost? Desktop $249-$349, laptop $299-$449, WorkVentures offers a range of pay-ment options including Centrepay (deductions from Centrelink benefits).
Optional upgrades include optical mouse, upgraded RAM, tutorials, webcam etc. Or-der? Order at www.workventures.com.au/webshop/4-webshop?maxproduct=0 or call 1800 112 205 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (Eastern time).
Volunteering and employment for teen-agers with autism spectrum disorder
Teenagers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can get a lot out of volunteer and paid work. The first step is matching your child’s interests and strengths to work opportunities.
http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/au-
tism_spectrum_disorder_employment_teenagers.html
What is the NDIS? A good website to access more info Information and resources on the NDIS
Carers NSW fact sheets
Sign up for our NDIS Update
The NDIS one year in: Experiences of carers in the Hunter trial site
Other information and resources
http://www.carersnsw.org.au/NDIS
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
Booklet: Leisure for youth and adults with disability – Northern Sydney Region 2014-2015
This free A4 sized book has 30 pages of details of recreation and leisure activities for people with disabili-ties aged 15+ in and around the Northern Sydney area. Sections deal with accessibility, leisure (art, craft, dance, drama, gardening, music), communication (colleges, libraries), holiday camps, social clubs and groups, sport activities, transport and the LINCS database. For your printed or electronic copy, email Marjorie on [email protected] or phone 9942 2686. See www.warringah.nsw.gov.au/live/community-support-services/disability-services for this and other publications.
Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA) Establishes Youth Net-work Please share far and wide across your Networks, and help support WWDA’s new and exciting Network for young women and girls with disabilities aged 13-30 years. The WWDA Youth Network, has offi-cially commenced today with the open-ing of the WWDA Youth Network Face-book Page www.facebook.com/WWDAyouth. The WWDA Youth Network aims to pro-vide young women and girls with disa-bilities living in Australia with easy to understand human rights information; keep our followers up to date with events occuring in Australia and around the world relating to both women's rights and disability rights; introduce young women and girls to the stories of inspiring women with disabilities living in Australia; and engaging young wom-en and girls to become empowered women. This Youth Network will continue to un-veil exciting additions including a closed Facebook discussion group exclusively for young women 13-30 years; an Insta-gram feed and Youtube channel; and easy to read Youth section to the WWDA website. We encourage you to follow the WWDA Youth Network as we gradually expand and pursue our aims of empowerment for young women and girls with disabili-ties all across Australia! Cashelle Dunn WWDA Youth Network Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA) Phone: 0477 074 289 Email: [email protected] Web: www.wwda.org.au Facebook: facebook.com/WWDAyouth Twitter:@CashelleDunn @WWDA_AU
Free one-day educational seminar is designed for parents and caregivers of adolescents on the autism spectrum. The pro-gram aims to provide essential and practical information on topics such as: addressing autism in adolescents, behaviour management strategies, transition to work, life skills and sexu-al education.
Speakers include
Dr Peter Gerhardt, leading international behaviour ana-lyst specialising in teens and adolescents on the spec-trum
Martin Wren, CEO of Nova Employment
Michael Whelan, author of 'The Other Country' and au-tism dad
Nicole Rogerson, CEO of Autism Awareness Australia
PLACES ARE LIMITED. PRE REGISTRATION IS ES-SENTIAL
http://www.trybooking.com/Booking/BookingEventSummary.aspx…
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
Family Energy Rebate 2014-2015 http://www.resourcesandenergy.nsw.gov.au/energy-consumers/financial-assistance/rebates/family-energy-rebate A Guide to all schools in Sydney http://www.australianschoolsdirectory.com.au/sydney-schools.php A Guide to Community Care in the Sutherland Shire http://www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/files/assets/website/documents/community/community-support-services/community-care-guide-sutherland-shire.pdf Disability resources Directory incl post school options and organisations http://cslc.org.au/Resources/Disability_Directory_of_Services_2011.pdf Project Youth Inc - see page 41-42 and pages 55-56 http://www.projectyouth.org.au/userfiles/file/PY-Directory-2012.pdf ASPECT - National Disability Insurance Scheme http://www.autismspectrum.org.au/content/national-disability-insurance-scheme-ndis-0 NSW Smart & Skilled Program- funded TAFE courses for Centrelink card holders http://reachfortraining.com.au/government-funding/strategic-skills-program-nsw/ What government has said they will do with the NDIS – there’s 2 places to look: http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/C2013C00240/Download http://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/legislation-rules-and-government-agreements Teenagers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can get a lot out of volunteer and paid work. http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/au-tism_spectrum_disorder_employment_teenagers.html Autistic Boy With Higher IQ Than Einstein Discovers His Gift After Removal From State-Run Therapy http://wakeup-world.com/2013/06/04/autistic-boy-discovers-gift-after-removal-from-state-run-therapy/ Schoolink Schoolink gathers the resources most frequently used
by schools, careers advisers and parents in one place. . http://www.uac.edu.au/schoolink/
HELP RAISE AWARENESS IN SCHOOLS
DURING APRIL
In 2014, During April Autism Awareness month, the Au-tism Community Network wrote to 100 Primary schools, inviting them to participate in an autism awareness day. This year, our aim is to con-tact 500 schools. We have created a very simple Power Point slide show, with the theme of "How I can be a better friend to a classmate with autism". An accompanying information sheet allows a teacher to present this information in no more than 5-10 minutes during the day. With so many members now we ask for you to help get your school involved, by letting them know of this year's campaign and how easy it is for them to participate. All the information they will need is on this page, and for a small effort they can help create a better environment for all ASD children. World Autism Awareness Day is April 2nd. As this is the day before the Easter break, most of our primary schools will be running Easter themed activities, so we are proposing a day during the first week back after the school holidays. Please don't hesitate to contact us via [email protected] for more information. For your school to register click on the image of George on our website,
New ACPET-NDCO Resource for all education pro-viders Building Confidence in Enrolling Learners with Disa-bility ACPET has partnered with the National Disability Coor-dination programme to develop this online Resource Guide to assist small to medium providers of education and training in supporting students with disability. The Guide aims to build confidence in supporting students with disability through the determination of training path-ways, course selection, enrolment, and individual educa-tion planning. It is the only resource currently available that focuses specifically on the selection and enrolment process. To access the resource go to the following website: www.acpet.edu.au/services/acpet-ndco-resource-/
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
Sixteenth Annual Transition Careers Expo 2015 For Senior Students & School Leavers with Disabilities Sutherland District Basketball Stadium
Reminder: Stress and Coping Group for Adults with Mild Intellectual Disability
What? Adults with a mild intellectual disability are invited to learn more about stress and how to cope in a group where they can share their experiences and hear others’ stories.
When? Six Fridays 10.30am-12pm, from 17 April to 22 May.
Where? Interaction Head Office, B2/11 Hudson Avenue, Castle Hill.
Cost? Free for adults with mild intellectual disability living in the Cumberland Prospect region.
RSVP? Phone Rebecca of TABISS on 1300 668 123, or email [email protected] for infor-mation and to register.
If you are interested and live outside Cumberland Prospect region, call to enquire about available plac-es and cost.
Bella Program for Children, Youth and Adults with Disabilities
What? The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) coordinates free programs for people with specific needs. Programs for children and young people aged 5-18 with specific needs including physical, intel-lectual, behavioural or sensory disability. The Bella Program includes individually tailored access to contemporary art, hands on art making activities in its Creative and Digital Studios and access to our Bella Room, an interactive, tactile installation created for people with specific needs. There is also a Bella Plus program for adults with specific needs.
When? The first Monday of every month from April, 12.30pm–2pm.
Where? Museum of Contemporary Art, 140 George Street, The Rocks NSW 2000. Level access at both the Circular Quay and George Street entrances to the MCA, with lift access to all levels. 15 mi-nute drop off points on George Street or via Wilson Parking on the corner of George Street and Argyle Street. One hour public parking in The Rocks, which is unlimited with a disability parking permit.
RSVP? Places are limited so advance bookings are essential – email [email protected] with your details. See www.mca.com.au/mca-learning/bookings-schools/bella-bookings for details. For infor-mation, phone 9245 2400 or email [email protected].
Source: Warringah Disability Newsletter"
Rawson Ave, behind Sutherland Leisure Centre / Pool Complex Free Admission Monday 1st June, 2015 EXPO : 9am – 2pm in the Stadium The venue is wheelchair accessible and free day long parking is available on site. At the TRANSITION CAREERS EXPO, service providers representing employment, further Education, day services and community support groups will provide information about: * Options for school leavers * ADHC Post School Programs * Specialist Employment Services (DES) and support * Further Education and Training - TAFE and University * Community support services and agencies * Residential and Respite care services and Parent / Carer support networks * Therapy and Support services * Technology aids For more information contact Support Teacher Transition (Sutherland LGA) Phone Endeavour SHS 9524 0615 ext 140 Or Support Teacher Transition (St.George LGA ) Phone Cairnsfoot School 9567 1338
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
Special Olympics Northern Beaches – Inclusive Young Athletes aged 2–8 years What? Special Olympics Sydney, Northern Beaches is of-fering a program specifically designed for young athletes with an intellectual disability and their siblings. This inclusive multi-sport program develops the fundamental skills of all sports for children aged 2 to 8. The Program focuses on physical devel-opment of sport, with the awareness that all areas of develop-ment are incorporated. It is based on the Early Years Frame-work. Confidence and skills result in the ability for children and their families to participate in further Special Olympics sports and activities, and or filter into community sport. The Program is coordinated by a trained professional. Where? Sessions are held at the Collaroy Community Centre, 36 Blandford Street, Collaroy Plateau. When? Sunday mornings during school term, for about one hour, starting 10.15 am. Cost? $50 per school term. RSVP? For details, contact Elise Bulie on 0447 924 954.
“Sensory Movie Day” for Families with Special Needs
What? Children are free to try every seat, flap or stim; lighting stays on dim; fire exit doors are monitored for escape artists. The movie experience is a positive non-judgmental experi-ence.
When? Monthly on Sundays at 11am: Home –26 April, Tinker-bell & The Legend of the Neverbeast – 24 May, Minions 28 June.
Where? Birch Carroll & Coyle locations at Cronulla and more locations. Wheelchair access to all areas and cinemas, Disa-bled toilet available, Wheelchair bays in all cinemas, Hearing Loops in all cinemas
Cost? $8 each and can be purchased on the day. Free mem-bership cards are required to purchase tickets, which will be handed out on the day of the screening. Children aged 2 years and under are free; companion ID cards are accepted.
RSVP? Contact [email protected] for infor-mation.
Source: Warringah Disability Newsletter"
Free Parent Workshop: Social Skills in Children with Autism
What? Run by a Northcott Speech Pathologist, this workshop helps you to support your child’s social skills at school and in the home environment. Topics covered include: Understand-ing social skill challenges faced by children with autism, How to teach these social skills, Advice on profes-sionals who can help, Links to other resources available.
When and Where: At each loca-tion, 10am-1pm.: Gladesville Library, 6 Pittwater Road,
Gladesville on 30 March 10am-1pm
Parramatta - Northcott, 1 Fennell Street, North Parramatta on 31 March, 10am-1pm
Hurstville - ADHC, 390 Forest Road Hurstville on 1 April, 10am- 1pm
Fairfield – ADHC, Level 4, 25 Smart St Fairfield on 2 April.
RSVP? Bookings are essential so contact Merry Chau on 0448 368 791 or [email protected] for infor-mation or to book a spot.
Child care will not be available on the day.
Young Adult Programme at Tzu Chi, Eastwood NSW
The Young Adult Programme will be run by a Speech Pathologist (with OT input) for those aged 16 years and over to further develop conversational, functional and work-related skills and may involve groups outings to apply the skills being learned. The groups will be between 2 and 5 depending on the needs and goals of the group.
The session will run for 1 hour on Sunday afternoons starting in Term 2 (time still to be confirmed). Depending on the time, the young adults will be encouraged to attend lunch together at the centre before or after the session for further socialisation.
The sessions are free for the teenagers to attend.
Volunteer Programme at Tzu Chi, Eastwood NSW
In addition, Tzu Chi are developing a volunteer programme for these Young Adults, where they will be placed in an area of Tzu Chi to develop work-related skills with a buddy (Tzu Chi volunteer).
We are still in the initial setting up stage, but looking at interviewing both the young adult and their parents / guardi-ans to find out what their true passions are and what skills they are looking at developing. From this information, they will be placed in an appropriate area (kitchen, coffee shop, planting of trees in national park, meeting and greet-ing visitors, visiting the elderly, administration, etc).
Please contact Karen So for further enquiries and enrolments:
E: [email protected] M: 0404 897 082
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
NORTHERN BEACHES GYMNASTICS FUN DAY Gymnastics session- Ages 5-16 A fun routine of gymnastics for the whole group led by qualified instructors and supported by the parents. WHEN: Thursday 9th April 2015 PROVIDED BY: ACN FACILITATOR: Judi Huxedurp VENUE: Manly Warringah Gymnastics, 24 Middleton Rd, Cromer COST: $12 per child for 1 hour
An activity for the holidays, if you would like to take the kids to this, please RSVP to [email protected]
LASER TAG CARINGBAH
Tuesday 14 April 11 am—1 pm Each school holidays this is a popular activity for older kids (over 9 years old) We play two games then go off to lunch together nearby. ORGANISED BY: A.C.N. VENUE: ZONE 3 LASER TAG 3 Koonya Circuit Caringbah FACILITATOR: Steve from ACN COST: Cost of 1 - 2 games $13.50 each Note: For kids over 9 years old. .
ST. GEORGE KIDS MOVIE DAY
When: Wednesday 8th April 10am to Noon Venue: George River Life Care 23 Stanley Street, Peakhurst Facilitator: Steve Drakoulis. Note: Parents or carers must remain on site to supervise their children. Provided By: ACN & Georges River Life Care Bring the kids along for a fun start to the day. As always, the kids sprawl on the floor in the hall on cushions while they enjoy a dvd on the big screen with popcorn and juice. We get to relax with a cup of coffee and catch up with other parents. Please RSVP so we know how many kids to expect.
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
BANKSTOWN KIDS ART GROUP Frequency: Second and Fourth Friday of each month When: Friday 4.00-5.30 Venue: RSAC - 11 Greenfield Pde Bankstown (opposite Bankstown Sports Club) Facilitator: Veronica Pepe Cost: Free. ASD Kids and Siblings all welcome Free parking at Bankstown Sports Club or council car park metres away—Enter via door at end of entry lane Provided By: ACN with funding from Bankstown Sports Club and support from RSAC RSVP: Simply Click Book In on our website, select this group and enter your name
EASTERN SUBURBS SUPPORT GROUP Frequency: 1st Wednesday of the month
When: 10.00 am to Noon
Venue: Juniors at The Junction - in the Board room
Corner Anzac Parade & Haig Street, Maroubra
Facilitator: Jackie Atallah
Cost: Free
Provided By: ACN & Maroubra Seals
BANKSTOWN MONTHLY FAMILY DAY
Frequency: 2nd Saturday of the month
When: 10.00 am to Noon
Venue: Bankstown Steam Locomotive Society
Ruse Park—cnr Hoskins and Cottam Avenues Bankstown
Facilitator: TBA
Cost: Free entry, cost for rides covered by each user
Provided By: ACN & BSLS
HILLS DISTRICT SUPPORT GROUP
Frequency: Meet at least once per term for lunch or morning tea. Term 1 meeting: Date: To be confirmed Time: Midday Cost: Buy own lunch and drinks Facilitator: Elena 0417 447 992 Venue: Lunches at The Winston Bistro Morning teas at Elena’s Place, 239 Excelsior Avenue, Castle Hill Support group meetings for parents of children with autism. Elena has been providing support for many years for her local community and as part of our network now brings all the ACN's re-sources into the mix.
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
HORNSBY FAMILY DAY Frequency: First Sunday of each month
When: Sunday 10.30 to 12.30
Venue: Bobbin Head — in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - meet next to the playground on the water's side
Facilitator: Caroline Nicholson
Cost: $11 per car entry—buy your own lunch and drinks
This is run as a social skills group for children with an ASD, their siblings and their entire family. There is a lot to do there, they have a fenced park, bush walks, you can feed the fish, there are BBQ's and a café
Note: Parents or carers must remain on site to supervise their children.
HORNSBY SUPPORT GROUP
Frequency: First Tuesday Monthly
When: 7.30 to 9.30 pm
Venue: Hornsby RSL Club— in the Sports Lounge — 4 High Street Hornsby
Facilitator: Caroline Nicholson
Cost: Free
INNER WEST SUPPORT GROUP—BELMORE
Frequency: Monthly — Second Sunday of each month
When: Sunday 2.00 to 4.00 pm
Venue: Canterbury Leagues Club—26 Bridge Rd Belmore
—In the inner section of the bistro
Facilitator: Jan Wright
Cost: Free
Children always welcome, we sit them at a table beside us so that they can so-cialise together.
NORTHERN BEACHES SUPPORT GROUP
Frequency: Monthly—Third Thursday
When: 7.30 to 9.30 pm
Venue: Encores Annex on the ground floor—Manly - Warringah Rugby Leagues Club
Corner Federal Parade & Pittwater Road Brookvale
Facilitator: Judi Huxedurp
Cost: Free
Provided By: Our meeting room is kindly donated by Manly Leagues Club.
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
RYDE AREA SUPPORT GROUP Frequency: Second Thursday of each month
When: 7.30 to 9.30 pm
Venue: Eastwood Rugby Club 146 – 150 Vimiera Road Eastwood NSW John Haynes Room
Facilitator: Andrea Lee
Cost: Free
NORTHERN BEACHES FAMILY DAY
Frequency: Third Sunday of each month
When: Sunday 3.00 pm
Venue: Collaroy Beach Park - By the Surf Club
Facilitator: Judi Huxedurp
Cost: Free – BYO own munchies and drinks
RYDE AREA FAMILY DAY Frequency: 3rd Saturday of each month When: 3.00pm to 5.00pm Venue: Blenheim Park in North Ryde—16 Blenheim Road North Ryde
Facilitator: Andrea Lee
The Blenheim Park has play areas that suit kids with a wide range of age from toddlers to teenagers as it has sand pits, scooter and bike paths, play equipments suiting a wide age range, flying fox, an enclosed dog park and a remote control car track. .
Check out this website http://www.weekendnotes.com/blenheim-park/
We will be meeting at one of the sheltered pagoda near the toilet facility. Come join other fam-ilies at the park for a play and a chat.
To RSVP respond to [email protected]
PENRITH SUPPORT GROUP
Frequency: Fortnightly during school term
When: 9.30 to 11.00 am
Venue: Kingswood South Public School
60-68 Smith Street Kingsgwood
Facilitator: Christine Smallwood
Cost: Free
Provided By: Autism Community Network (ACN) and the Luke Priddis Foundation (LPF)
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
SUTHERLAND SHIRE EVENING SUPPORT GROUP
Frequency: Third Tuesday Monthly
When: 7.30 to 9.30 pm
Venue: Tradies Club Caringbah—Level 2
28 - 30 Banksia Road, Caringbah
Facilitator: Steve Drakoulis
Cost: Free
An opportunity to meet other carers who understand you. We share experiences and new information.
SUTHERLAND SHIRE TRAMPOLINING PLAY DAY
Frequency: First Sunday of each month
When: 10.00 to 11.00 am
Venue: Flipout Caringbah—12 Parraweena Rd Caringbah
Facilitator: Alex, Laureine or Judy from the ACN
Cost: $14/hr—All families pay own costs
Carer can participate free if you advise venue that child has disability.
A chance for the kids to have some fun while parents socialise together
Notes:
A) Parents or carers must remain on site to supervise their children.
B) Venue requires all to complete a waiver before using trampolines.
http://www.st-thomas.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Flip_Out_WAIVER.pdf
C) Socks are compulsory for all jumpers.
Organised By: ACN
SUTHERLAND SHIRE DAY SUPPORT GROUP
Frequency: First Wednesday Monthly
When: 10 am to Noon
Venue: Tradies Club Gymea
57 Manchester rd Nth, Gymea
Facilitator: Alex Baltins
Cost: Free
An opportunity to meet other carers who understand you. We share experiences and new information.
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
ST.GEORGE INFORMATION DAY
Frequency: First Thursday each month
When: 10.00 a.m. to noon
Venue: Kingsgrove Community Aid Centre— 30 Morgan Street
Facilitator: Steve Drakoulis
Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Provided By: Kingsgrove Community Aid Centre
Guest speakers monthly
ST. GEORGE KIDS COOKING CLUB Frequency: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month
When: Tuesday 4.00 to 6.00 pm
Venue: Kingsgrove Community Aid Centre— 30 Morgan Street
Facilitator: Liz Diab.
Cost: Free to ACN members thanks to funding
You can register through the ACN website for this group each fortnight. Kids will have the opportunity to learn cooking skills and have fun while their parent or carer remains on site and can watch them getting right into all the fun. We aim to give as many children an opportunity so new kids will be given priority each month.
To register click on BOOKINGS on our website and select Cooking Club.
Note: This group is expensive to run, if you book a spot please make every effort to attend as It costs to run and others are missing out.
Closed shoes must be worn to participate.
Provided By: ACN & Hurstville Council
ST. GEORGE FAMILY DAY
Frequency: Last Sunday of each month
When: 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
Venue: Smith Park—30 Morgan Street Kingsgrove (behind Kingsgrove Communi-
ty Centre)
Facilitator: Liz from the ACN
Cost: Free
Children: This is a group for all ACN families
This is run as a social group for children with an ASD, their siblings
and their entire family. The park has an enclosed playground, bbq
facilities and suitable areas to bring bikes and scooters along.
Note: Parents or carers must remain on site to supervise their chil-dren.
"The pursuit of normality is the ultimate sacrifice of potential.”
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
WESTERN SUBURBS SUPPORT GROUP (BLACKTOWN)
Frequency: First Wednesday of the month When: 10 am to Noon Venue: Blacktown Workers Club - 55 Campbell Street, Blacktown Facilitator: Briana Blackett Cost: Free Provided By: ACN and Junaya
ST. GEORGE KIDS ART GROUP
Frequency: 1st & 3rd Friday during school terms When: 4.00 to 5.30 pm Venue: George River Life Care—in rooms upstairs 23 Stanley Street, Peakhurst Facilitator: Steve Drakoulis. Cost: Gold Coin Donation.
This is run as a social skills group for children with an ASD and their siblings are also encouraged to attend. We have painting, drawing and craft activities and a chance for kids to make friends.
Note: Parents or carers must remain on site to supervise their children. Provided By: ACN & Georges River Life Care
ST.GEORGE YOUTH CLUB
Frequency: 2nd and 4th Friday during school terms When: 4.00 to 5.30 pm Venue: George River Life Care—in rooms upstairs 23 Stanley Street, Peakhurst Facilitator: Geoff Marks Cost: Free This is a social group for teens between 13 and 18 years old who have high functioning autism Note: Parents or carers must remain on site and will be seated in an ad-join room to enjoy a coffee together. Any younger children must remain with the parents it all times and cannot participate with the teens’ group. Provided By: ACN and Georges River Life Care
SYDNEY CITY SUPPORT GROUP
Frequency: Last Thursday of the month When: 6.30 to 8.00 pm Venue: The York - 95-99 York Street City Facilitator: Jamie Blake Cost: Free
To book in to attend the next group please respond to [email protected] .
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
The Autism Community Network, along with our community partners presents this opportunity for fathers, grandfathers and all other important male figures in a child’s life. The meetings help us learn how to feel more involved and gain a better understanding of autism issues affecting our children.
Guest speakers from professional backgrounds, as well as people with lived experiences provide these valuable insights to give us hope for the present and the future of our children.
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To register please click on Bookings at www.autismcommunity.org.au For more information contact us at [email protected]
Or call Steve, on (02) 9584 0073 or 0431 724 229
Autism Community Network Inc.
Incorporation No. INC9896017 | ABN : 64 103 662 535 | CFA No: CFN/2282
Inner West
Tuesdays 6.30 for 7.00 pm start to 9.00 Club Burwood RSL—96 Shaftesbury Road, Burwood
Northern Suburbs
Tuesdays 6.30 for 7.00 pm start to 9.00
Chatswood Club—11 Help Street Chatswood
Western Sydney
Tuesdays 6.30 for 7.00 pm start to 9.00
Penrith Golf Club — Northern Road Penrith
Southern Suburbs
Tuesdays 6.30 for 7.00 pm start to 9.00
Tradies Club—57 Manchester Road North, Gymea
Supported by
Provided Free by ACN, our community partners and venue sponsors. Refreshments also provided See our website closer to dates for guest speakers and any changes.
Autism Community Network Inc. www.autismcommunity.org.au [email protected]
COMMON GROUND GROUPS The ACN provides opportunities for our members to connect with others who have similar experiences to their own. Be they language based, health issues or other aspects of their autism world, you can connect with people who share a Common Ground with you.
Many of our members have joined some of these groups, but as there have been more created since then, we are sending out this update.
You can choose to join any of these groups or suggest another.
We will then add to that list: your first name and initial Your suburb Your child’s gender and age where relevant And your email address You can then in your time contact others who may live near you for a chat or mutual support. Updated lists are
sent out monthly.
In addition to the lists, we also invite you to join the Facebook page set up for your Common Ground group as well as the page for your area. These are Secret pages, meaning no outsider can search for them or see what is written, and require us to invite and then accept you. It allows our members to speak in as private a forum as the internet allows.
Note: If you are using a different name on Facebook than with the ACN please let us know, if we don’t recognize the name we will not give you access
If you would like to be added to any of the following Common Ground groups and aren’t already, please provide the following details.
Name / Suburb / Child’s Gender / Child’s Year of Birth / Your email / Groups You wish to Join / Do you also wish to be invited to the group’s Facebook Page? / Provide Name used on Facebook
For Fathers to connect to Fathers of an ASD Child group, please provide contact details if not already primary de-tails.
Father’s Name, Father’s email
FURTHER ISSUES / CONDITIONS FAMILIES OF A CHILD WITH AN ASD: PLUS ADD/ADHD PLUS ANXIETY ISSUES PLUS CHROMOSOME ISSUES PLUS VERBAL DYSPREXIA FAMILIES WITH NON VERBAL ASD CHILDREN
AGE/GENDER FAMILIES WITH : ASD CHILD UNDER 7 PRIMARY SCHOOL AGED ASD KIDS YOUNG DAUGHTER ON THE SPECTRUM TEENAGERS WITH AN ASD TEENAGE DAUGHTERS WITH AN ASD TWINS ON THE SPECTRUM MORE THAN ONE CHILD ON THE SPECTRUM ADULT CHILDREN WITH ASD ADULTS WITH AN ASD WOMEN WITH ASD FATHERS OF AN ASD CHILD
LANGUAGE/CULTURAL (These are not available on Facebook) ARABIC SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD CANTONESE SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD HINDI SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD INDIGENOUS FAMILIES WITH AN ASD CHILD ITALIAN SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD JAPANESE SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD KOREAN SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD MANDARIN SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD SPANISH SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD VIETNAMESE SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD THAI SPEAKING FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILD
MORE HOME SCHOOLED CHILD WITH AN ASD SAME SEX FAMILIES WITH ASD CHILDREN TEACHERS WHO ARE PARENTS WITH ASD CHILD
If you would like to have a group which is not shown here, please suggest. The criteria is it must be for Autism. For example, a group for non ASD kids with ADHD is outside our criteria.