This Month in Family Support!
March Newsletter
Happy Women's History Month!
Happy Women's History Month! ♀️
This month, we celebrate the extraordinary strength, resilience, and compassion of women everywhere, especially those incredible women who play a pivotal role in supporting and uplifting our special needs students. Your dedication and love make all the difference in their lives!
Association for Autism & Neurodiversity: Parent Webinars
AANE offers multiple webinars each month. Click here to explore topics and dates (please note that times listed are in EST)
"For over 27 years, AANE’s mission and services have been shaped by the people we serve.
From the beginning, AANE has strived to be an inclusive organization. Autistic and similarly Neurodivergent adults have long been members of our staff and governance. As our community has expanded and become more diverse, we have transformed our programs and resources to meet new needs—and we’ve worked to thoughtfully update our language along the way,"
Virtual Parent Support Group for Autism
Every other Wednesday from 10 A.M. - 11 A.M.
"This support group is specifically created for caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The purpose is to create a safe space where parents can come together to find support and encouragement, ask questions, share resources, and connect with other parents who may have shared experiences. This group is held virtually to increase the convenience for parents. Parents can attend from anywhere in Texas!"
Cost: $30-$40/session
Hosted by University Park Counseling Testing Center Pllc
TACA: The Autism Community in Action: Virtual Parent Groups
Wednesday March 6th @ 12pm
Tuesday, March 12th @ 12pm
Tuesday, March 19th @ 6pm
Wednesday, March 20th @ 6pm
Tuesday, March 26th @ 12pm
Wednesday, March 27th @ 6pm
Friday, March 29th @ 6pm
"Navigating the educational system can be overwhelming and confusing. This month, TACA explores federal law including Individual Education Plans (IEPs), advocating for your child, and alternatives to traditional public education."
DFW Virtual Parent/Caregiver Connections Group
Wednesday, March 20th
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
"Our monthly gatherings offer a chance to meet other parents and caregivers in an informal, online setting to exchange information, support, share stories, and laugh."
"Support: Special Needs Families and Caregivers" at Bent Tree Bible Church
"Parents of special needs children gather for Bible study and prayer. Children and siblings have fun activities while paired with a loving servant. We meet every 2nd and 4th Thursday."
DFW Autistic Support Group
Saturday, March 9th (In-Person or Virtual) @ 4:00 PM
Saturday, March 16th (Virtual Only) @ 4:00 PM
"Every 3rd Saturday we will discuss a new common struggle amongst those on the spectrum in life, love, friendships, and careers. We will use this time to discuss realistic and practical solutions that are relevant to the autism community, and not the typical one-size-fits-all solutions we tend to find when seeking professional or independent support.
If you are unable to attend physically, you can always join us remotely! Follow this link : https://discord.gg/r3KhnzrQUM for instructions visit the "#How-To-Use-Discord" channel or click this link https://discord.com/channels/879003997783068703/978776174316650516"
RSVP Not Required
Grupo de Apoyo para Padres y Cuidadores
Wednesdays from 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
"Our online support group for Spanish speakers is open to parents, caregivers, and anyone who has been impacted by autism in the state of Texas! Please confirm your attendance and we will send you the details to access our virtual meeting! Meet others and share support!
This group is moderated by Mayra Corona of Executive Director and Founder of Beautiful Minds ABA and Adriana Crostley State Director of Education and Outreach of the Autism Society of Texas."
Latinos Unidos por Autismo
Monday, March 18th
10:00 AM
"The Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin invites you to join a group for Spanish speaking families. Latinos Unidos por Autismo is a support group, a space for reflection and understanding where parents with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), can connect with other parents to develop skills and learn about resources that can help the family. This group is for all Spanish speaking parents including parents of adults on the spectrum."
Parents from all states are welcome to join
Child Mind Institute: Articles and Resources
The Child Mind Institute provides articles and information on a wide variety of topics related to the Autism Spectrum. Most articles are offered in both English and Spanish.
Article topics include:
- Autism and Picky Eating
- Increasing Cooperation in Kids with Autism
- How Can We Help Kids with Transitions?
- Sensory-Friendly Party Ideas
and much more!
Sensory Friendly Bunny: Shops at Willow Bend
Sunday, March 17th
10am - 11:30am
Shops at Willow Bend
6121 W Park Blvd,
Plano, TX 75093
"Sensory Bunny is an event exclusively for children & families with special needs to visit with Bunny in a sensory-friendly environment.
During this event, families visit the Easter Bunny at their own pace before the mall opens to the public. Sensory triggers including music, fountains, and lights are limited to create a setting that is calm and comforting.
Each child in attendance will receive one goodie bag with the purchase of a photo package. Limited supply. While supplies last."
Cost: Free
Easter Eggstravaganza: Sensory Friendly Egg Hunt
Saturday, March 30th
5:15pm (arrive as early at 4:30pm)
Canyon Creek Project Church
2800 Custer Pkwy, Richardson, TX, United States, Texas 75080
"Join Canyon Creek Project for our Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, March 30th!
5:15pm - Sensory-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt
6:30pm - Rescue: A Candlelight Worship Experience followed by refreshments and FREE photos with the Easter Bunny
7:45pm - Glow in the Dark/Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt
Both egg hunts are FREE, but a ticket is required for each participant ages 2 and up! Tickets will be released in batches on the following Fridays: March 8, March 15, and March 22. Link to reserve tickets will be posted in the event discussion and at www.canyoncreekproject.com/easter . No ticket is required for Rescue!"
Easter Fest @ Irving Bible Church: Sensory Friendly Area/Activities
Saturday, March 30th
10am - 1pm
Irving Bible Church
2435 Kinwest ParkwayIrving, Texas 75063
"Everyone's invited to join us for our annual Easter Fest, right here at Irving Bible Church!
"No registration is necessary for this FREE event, full of music, food, and fun. Join us on Saturday, March 30 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for face painting, egg hunts, inflatables, a petting zoo, and more. Plus, we'll have an indoor sensory-friendly area so individuals (of all ages!) with special needs don't have to miss out on the fun."
Sensory Friendly Screening of Kung Fu Panda 4
Saturday, March 16th
11am
Studio Movie Grill Locations
"Po must train a new warrior when he's chosen to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace. However, when a powerful shape-shifting sorceress sets her eyes on his Staff of Wisdom, he suddenly realizes he's going to need some help."
Crayola Experience: Sensory Friendly Hours
(Held the 3rd Sunday of every month)
10:00AM - 12:00PM
Crayola Experience Plano
6121 W Park Blvd Suite A100, Plano, TX 75093
"Enjoy the attraction adapted just for sensory needs.
- Lights will be dimmed
- Music will be turned off
- Quiet room available
- Crayon Factory Show available at 11 a.m. Our Factory Show is currently running as a pre-recorded video. Based on staffing, show may be live!
No additional charge, included in general admission. More information on the Facebook event page."
Sensory Friendly Screening of "Kung Fu Panda 4" at AMC
Saturday, March 9th
Participating AMC Locations
- AMC Barton Creek Square 14
- AMC DINE-IN Mesquite 30
- AMC DINE-IN Stonebriar 24
- AMC Deerbrook 24
- AMC Firewheel 18
- AMC First Colony 24
- AMC Gulf Pointe 30
- AMC The Parks At Arlington 18
- AMC Willowbrook 24
Movie: Kung Fu Panda 4 (PG)
"Po must train a new warrior when he's chosen to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace. However, when a powerful shape-shifting sorceress sets her eyes on his Staff of Wisdom, he suddenly realizes he's going to need some help."
More Info:
Plano Parks & Rec: Adapted Dance Club
March Theme: St. Patrick's- Wear Green!
Friday, March 22nd
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Sam Johnson Recreation Center
401 W 16th St,
Plano, TX 75075
"Come have a fun night of dancing for ages 15 and up. This is a DJ led themed dance with light refreshments towards the end. The dance is held once a month from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm at Sam Johnson Recreation Center, 401 W 16th Street, from 6:30pm - 9:30pm. View the current Dance Club Schedule (PDF)."
Carrollton Parks & Rec: Adaptive Archery
March Classes: Every Thursday 03/07 - 03/08
4:45PM - 5:45PM
Crosby Rec Center
1610 E Crosby Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006
"This class will focus on range safety, proper shooting techniques,
and target practice in a fun and safe environment. Instruction is provided by a certified archery instructor who has a degree in recreation therapy and experience teaching adaptive activities. This class is intended for newcomers, but all are welcome to participate. "
Resident: $18 / Non-Resident: $20
Carrollton Parks & Rec: Jasmine's Beat Adaptive Dance
Spring Classes: Every Monday 03/18 - 04/29
Youth Class: 4:45PM - 5:45PM
Teens/Young Adults: 5:45PM - 6:45PM
"Jasmine's Beat aims to empower people of all abilities to embrace the power of dance and healthy movement while having fun."
This is an amazing class, affordable, and one of our very own amazing Adaptive PE coaches in CFBISD is one of the instructors!
Resident: $100 / Non-Resident: $110
Miracle League of Irving
Registration Opens January 1st
Games Begin March 4th
"The Miracle League program is offered in the fall and spring seasons. It provides children and adults with physical limitations and other special needs the opportunity to play softball/baseball in a safe, fun atmosphere. The City of Irving and the Irving YMCA have partnered to provide this great program for children and families in our community. The Irving YMCA has a team of committed staff & volunteers that facilitate the program and raise funds to ensure the Miracle League will be free to all participants. Thanks to the Support of our Great Sponsor, Veterans United Foundation. Each child will receive a jersey as well as a medal and trophy upon completion of the season."
Carrollton Adaptive Rec: Turf Time- Frisbee Golf (6+)
Saturday, March 16th
12:30pm - 1:20pm
Josey Ranch Athletic Complex (Field #6)
1440 Keller Springs Rd,
Carrollton, TX 75006
"We would like to invite everyone in the community to Josey Ranch Field #6 for fun and games. This is free for participants of all ages and abilities, their friends, families, and caregivers. Registration is required."
All Abilities Sunset Stroll & Roll
Wednesday, March 20th
7pm - 8pm
Elm Fork Nature Preserve
2335 Sandy Lake Rd
Carrollton, TX 75006
"Attention all adventurers! It's time to embark on an interactive Sunset Stroll and Roll adventure with a Texas Master Naturalist. Bring a hat, water bottle, closed toes shoes, and your sense of wonder, while we explore nature together!
Though not necessary to participate, one adult and one adult/child all terrain wheelchair are available to reserve.
Register online at https://www.cityofcarrollton.com/.../park.../programs-events or email shelby.carradine@cityofcarrollton.com.
Cost: FREE
Ability Connection (Irving, TX)
"Are you looking for a unique and tailored program for your child with disabilities? Your search is over! Our Summer Camps offer children aged 10-17 with intellectual or other developmental disabilities the opportunity to explore new activities, learn new skills, and open doors to endless possibilities. Thanks to a generous grant from The Crystal Charity Ball, we can offer full or partial financial assistance to qualifying families. Our experienced and caring staff provides a safe and enjoyable experience for your child. Don’t miss this opportunity to keep your child’s skills fresh over the summer at Ability Connection’s excellent summer camps."
Summer 2024 Schedule
Dates:
June 3 – June 28 (Session 1)*
July 1 – July 26 (Session 2)**
*No session on Wednesday, June 19!
**No session on Thursday, July 4th!
Times:8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location:Ability Connection
7880 Bent Branch Drive, Suite 150
Irving, TX 75063
More information here
It's a Sensory World Summer Camps (Farmers Branch, TX)
"A one-of-a-kind camp experience that provides routine during school breaks, recreational activities and opportunities for your child to be out in the community. Our campers will be placed in low ratio groups based on an age range, developmental level, and personal interests.
We help them to maintain their skills while using our unique model to regulate the sensory system and target developmental skills that children might not focus on throughout the school year."
Summer Camp
June 3rd-7th, 2024
June 10th-14th, 2024
June 17th-21st, 2024 *4 day camp
July 8th-12th, 2024
July 15th-19th, 2024
July 22nd-26th, 2024
July 29th- August 2nd, 2024
I Belong's: Music & Drama Summer Camp (North Dallas, TX)
"Join us June 24th - 28th as we create community for individuals with disabilities through our Music and Drama summer camp. On the last day of camp, participants will perform for family and friends. This is one camp you won't want to miss!"
Camp Summit (Argyle,TX)
"Camp Summit is a one-of-a-kind camp for individuals with disabilities where the emphasis is on each campers' abilities rather than their disabilities. Traditional camp activities are adapted to each individual, provided in our barrier-free facilities, and implemented by trained, caring staff. Our campers are grouped by age, providing the opportunity to make friends within peer groups while having fun and experiencing new adventures.
Camp Summit is located in Paradise, Texas, just north of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex on 460 acres of land. We are accredited by the American Camp Association and licensed as a Youth Camp in the State of Texas."
Camp CAMP (Center Point,TX)
"Summer Camp is a series of 6-day/5-night sessions for children and adults, aged 5 to 55 years, with mild to severe disabilities (including medical, physical, intellectual, and developmental). Siblings aged 5-13 years without a disability may attend as well!
Summer Camp sessions are held at Camp CAMP in Center Point, Texas, on a beautiful 55-acre property along the Guadalupe River. CAMP modifies traditional summer camp activities to meet the unique needs of each camper. Campers have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities such as canoeing, horse interactions, swimming, music, sports & recreation, arts & crafts, and outdoor cooking."
Camp Fire (Fort Worth,TX)
"Camp Fire Camp El Tesoro includes up to three campers per week with mild intellectual or developmental disabilities. Children with disabilities are included in cabin groups and camp activities.
Though our entire program staff is trained to support students with a mental, social, or health concerns, please keep in mind that Camp El Tesoro does not provide specialized, one-on-one care for any individual camper.
1) THE BELIEF THAT ALL KIDS CAN BELONG AND PARTICIPATE
2) THE ACT OF MAKING SURE THAT NO CHILD SITS ON THE SIDELINES."
Contact Us!
Your CFB Family Support Specialists are here to help!
Email: ihpt@cfbisd.edu
Location: Marie Huie Special Education Center, Pearl Street, Carrollton, TX, USA
Phone: 972-968-5827
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/658989338982483
Website: https://www.cfbisd.edu/departments/special-services/instructional-programs-services/family-support