The Many Faces of Thomas the Tank Engine and Autism

An interesting study about children with Autism and how Thomas the Tank Engine helped them learn social emotions. “Parents of children with ASD have known for years that Thomas and his friends have special value to their children. The report confirms this anecdotal evidence, stating that children with ASD associate far more strongly with Thomas the Tank Engine than with other children’s characters. Some parents of children with ASD have reported leaps of emotion, imagination and symbolic play that were unimaginable before the child’s relationship with Thomas.” Why Thomas the Tank Engine?Children with ASD seem to be particularly fascinated with Thomas. A number of reasons have been proposed to explain … READ MORE >>

Parent’s Free Day @ Respite Care Event!

Westminster Family Resource Center together with Families and Communities Together (FaCT) are hosting a Parent’s Free Day – Respite Care Event! Photo Credits: Mary Tran Your child(ren) will enjoy: a day with pizza, snacks, and WATER FUN! You’ll want to pack their wetsuits and a change of clothes. Date: Friday, August 31, 2012 Time: 5pm– 7pm Location: Sigler Park Splash Pad 7200 Plaza Street Westminster, CA 92683 This event is open to families with adopted and foster children and/or relative caregivers. For more information or to register for the event, please call (714) 903-1331. Click here for more info –> Parent’s Free Day Flyer City of Westminster’s link about the … READ MORE >>

Get 50% off parking at State Parks, Camping Sites, etc. with the Disabled Discount Pass!

Get 50% off parking at State Parks, State Beaches, Camping Sites, Boat Parking, etc. with the Disabled Discount Pass! Only $3.50 to apply. (Does not apply to city parks). See application for eligibilty requirements (includes developmental, autism, hearing, mental, physical, speech, and visual disabilities to name a few – see page 2 of application for more) Send your application with required certifications to: Photo credits: Mary Tran California State Parks Attn: Disabled Discount Pass Program PO Box 942896 Sacramento, CA 94296 All questions can be directed to California State Parks Pass Sales at 1-800-777-0369. For more info and application, please follow this link: Link to Disabled Discount Pass Application

Family Support Network

Family Support Network (FSN) provides services and resources that help children with special needs reach their full potential. Founded in 1985 by a group of concerned parents, FSN has been serving the special needs community in Orange County by bringing together parents and professionals all dedicated to helping children achieve their dreams. FSN has developed and implemented several successful programs to meet the health needs of parents with young children. Collaborating with several local agencies, FSN reaches out and serves the community in many different ways . Early Intervention Services Family Support Network 1894 N. Main St. Orange, CA 92865 M-F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m Phone: (714) 447-3301 FAX: … READ MORE >>

Surf Lessons with OT Therapist Karyn Strong!

1.5 hour individual Surf Lessons with OT Therapist Karyn Strong! Wednesday and Friday mornings thru July 27, 2012. Equipment will be provided. *********************************** Come surf with BIG FUN this summer and explore the water like never before. Students will discuss: ocean safety and awareness, discover balancing techniques, learn paddling positions, and practice riding waves JUNE 27-JULY 27 2012 Location: Newport Pier 1.5 hour individual sessions offered twice a week. Wednesday & Friday mornings Equipment will be provided. Open to children of all ages and levels of function. Students must be pool safe. Call to reserve your space! Phone: 310-837-7849 or 877-BIG-FUN8 More info about the Occupational Therapist Karyn Strong can … READ MORE >>

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