Raising Special Kids: A Group Program for Parents of Children Recently Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Dates: Time: Location: Fridays, September 27, October 4, 11, 18, November 1, 8, 15, 22, 2013 (No class will be held on October 25, 2013) 9:00 AM to 11 AM Estes Office Park, 104 S. Estes Drive, Suite 206, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Group Description: Hearing the words "your child has autism" for the first time can have a profound effect on parents, caregivers and other family members. Receiving the diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is often met with not only guilt and disappointment but also social isolation and a lack of knowledge about how to deal with the unexpected level of care that is required. Parents hopes and dreams as well as expectations of themselves as parents may be radically altered; their ability to focus on their childs needs in the midst of this emotional turmoil can be greatly compromised. The adjustment to this new diagnosis and change in a familys life can be difficult, confusing and overwhelming. Research has shown that having a safe place to share feelings and receive support is a necessary component that allows families to adjust, adapt and better meet their childs needs. It is true the child that was expected did not show up; however, another one did one that is precious, unique and very special in his/her own way. By receiving the emotional support needed, many parents can and do rise to the challenge of providing for their child with special needs and find courage, contentment and connection in the shadow of autism. This eight week program is for parents of children who have received a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder within the last two years. These sessions will offer insight and guidance for any parent facing the unfamiliar challenges of raising a child with ASD. This program is designed to assist families by connecting them with other families in their community, by providing perspective on their emotional experience that can lead to acceptance and empowerment, and by helping them understand the goals of healthy, conscious parenting. The group program will focus on: Encouraging parents to explore their emotional responses to raising a child with ASD. Helping parents identify their lost dreams, express feelings that accompany loss, and, at the same time, deeply love the child now in their lives. Helping parents experience the gifts that their child offers. Encouraging parents to practice self-care and appreciate all that they do for their child. Strengthening both the parent-child connection and the family as a whole. Improving family communication and developing skills to help children reach optimal potential. The group facilitators will be using the The Raising Special Kids program developed by Jared D. Massanari and Alice E. Massanari. Each group member will receive a Parent Guidebook for the group (included in the cost of this program).

Facilitators: Sherry Mergner, MSW, LCSW is the AHEC Liaison and a Clinical Assistant Professor at the UNC-CH, School of Social Work, where she coordinates continuing education programs for mental health professionals. She also serves as the lead social worker at UNC-CHs Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, where she participates in clinics and oversees social work students as part of the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Program. Sherry is the proud mother of Noah, 14 years old with ASD and Nathan, 11 years old who is typically developing. Sherry has served as a Mothers Mentor for UNC-CH, TEACCH and was on the board of the Orange/Chatham Chapter of the Autism Society of NC from 2005-2007. Sherry is very active in her community and within her childrens school promoting autism awareness and education. Ann Palmer, B.A. is a parent of a 30 year old son with autism, an author and presenter, and a professional having worked with families for over 20 years. She was the Parent Support Coordinator at Division TEACCH and the Director of Advocacy and Chapters at the Autism Society of North Carolina. Ann is currently a faculty member of the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities (CIDD) at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. She is the author of three books published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Her book, Realizing the College Dream with Autism or Asperger Syndrome: a Parents Guide to Student Success was written about her sons college experience. Parenting Across the Autism Spectrum: Unexpected Lessons Weve Learned, was co-authored with Maureen Morrell and was the Autism Society of Americas Literary Work of the Year. Her latest book is A Friends and Relatives Guide to Supporting the Family with Autism: How Can I Help? Registration: This group is limited to 10 people. Participants are expected to attend all sessions. Unfortunately, childcare cannot be provided. Early registration is advised. Registration is due no later than September 13, 2013. Registration fee is $180.00 and is due at the time of registration. Please make checks payable to Sherry Mergner and mail completed registration form to: Sherry Mergner, 64-G Willow Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516. Email any questions to Sherry at scmergner@yahoo.com or call 919-210-0450. Need Financial Assistance? Parents of children with developmental disabilities may receive funding for this class through: The Jean Wolff-Rossi Fund at: www.nc-ddc.org/services/rossi_fund.html (apply at least 30 days in advance) OR First in Families of North Carolina - Contact Peter Mora at 919-886-3973 or centralcarolinafif@fifnc.org If you are approved for this funding, you are still required to pay the registration fee up front and the Rossi Fund or First and Families will reimburse you for the class. The facilitators will give you a signed receipt at the first class.

REGISTRATION FORM FOR RAISING SPECIAL KIDS Name_________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number: ________________________________________________________________ Email Address: _________________________________________________________________ Name and Age of Child with ASD:_________________________________________________ When was your child diagnosed:______________________ Where:_______________________ What are some of the current issues you are struggling with as it relates to your childs diagnosis? _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ ____________ What are some of the current issues your child is struggling with? _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________ Registration is due no later than September 13, 2013. Registration fee is $180.00 and is due at the time of registration. Please make checks payable to Sherry Mergner and mail completed

registration form to: Sherry Mergner, 64-G Willow Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516. Email any questions to Sherry at scmergner@yahoo.com or call 919-210-0450.