Premature Ventricular Contractions and more

Oh I just thought of a beautiful name...Destiny.....There have been a
few now out here in Canada...booboo

Hi all..Could anyone tell me how on here you can attach pictures
etc.? I want to put the picture of this cat on my menopause group..It
is hilarious!!!!!! booboo-- In PeoplewithPVCs@egroups.com, "Young,

This ones for you DEB!!!!!

I just discovered this list ten minutes ago. I've been meaning to
get
online and post this remedy for a while now. It has been miraculous
for me. My PVC problem has been solved now for three months.
I had frequent PVCs for about three years, and even had an ablation
to
stop the SVTs that they were triggering. But the PVCs remained. Until
recently. The following works for me. I'm a big skeptic when it
comes
to "natural" supplements, but the day after I began taking these
pills, I had my best day in four months. Now I'm virtually PVC-free.
And I was having skipped beats sometimes every 3-4 beats for hours on
end. I haven't really strayed from this original formula, because I'm
nervous about disturbing a good thing. I take:
Morning: 250 mg magnesium (dirt cheap). 225 mg coenzyme Q-10 (three
75
mg softgels somewhat pricey, non-prescription supplement)
Night: 250 mg magnesium, 150 mg coenzyme Q-10.
I know this won't work for everyone, but it's been like night and day
for me. I mail order them from an online retailer.
My mother is an RN and got the idea by reading "Healthy Alternatives
to the 100 Most Commonly Prescribed Drugs" by Julian Whitaker, M.D.
And I probably wouldn't have tried it if she hadn't shipped a package
full of them to my apartment.
Best of luck to all of you.
Michael

I think I may have found a way to make my PVCs worse (more
frequent). As it rurns out I like black beans in a variety of
dishes, and even by themselves with some ketchup. We hadn't had them
in a while so when my wife made a big pot of them, I dug in and ate 4
small bowls of black beans. This was Saturday, and an hour or so
later I noticed I was in bigeminy (PVC every other beat) for no good
reason. I had a hard time sleeping that night due to the constant
and frequent PVCs. Keep in mind I usually have thosands of PVCs per
day, so I don't even want to estimate how many I was having Saturday
night after the black beans.
Black beans are one of the foods richest in potassium. I know the
doctors would laugh at this, but I think I inadvertantly ODed on
potassium. I'm not sure if potassium is supposed to work this way,
although I know it has a role in increasing and decreasing your
heart's electrical signals. If potassium acts to increase electrical
signals in the heart, then it might make sense that too much results
in too much electrical activiuty (somehow I heard it was opposite to
this - but I don't know how to verify this). Not to be too dramatic,
but I've heard at the extreme end of the potassium range, no
electrical signals occur in you heart, and you can actually die.
Now I'd like to try the other side of this theory and remove some
potassium from my diet to see if it makes my PVCs less frequent.
Anyone have any ideas how to remove potassium form your body, other
than not eating black beans and bananas?

Hey Barb.

I forgot to answer one of your questions. As far as I know, there is no difference between a nephrologist and urologist, just fancy names for doctors that specialize in kidney and urine output function. Hope this helps in your quest for your second opinion. Laurie

Hi everyone!!

Well I had a crazy week!! First my Mother in law ends up in the hospital with symptoms of heart attack, 3 days later they tell her it's kidney cancer and wanted to remove her kidney!! The day after that my dad had ,what we thought was a stroke, and I guess thankfully, it's a relapse after a few years of multiple sclerosis. So he's still in the hospital, she got out and today the whole day I was trying to get her into a kidney specialist, which I know nothing about, for a second opinion. Someone said to get a urologist, another one tells me to go to a nephrologist WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE???

Needless to say I am still up (it's 11pm chicago) The whole day today I have such runs of pvc's that I'm already getting lightheaded. Took 1/2 of an atenelol (25mg) today, and my HR is super slow and it's driving me nuts. I took a xanax around noon..... you think it's out of my system by now??? I could use a lorezepam to help me sleep or even get to sleep, but I don't know if it's safe???/

Well hope someone's still out there???

Barb

Well, my doc is now trying to rule things out one step at a time for
me and my PVC's. Today, I had a Hydascan (spelling?). A "nuclear
scanning" of my gallbladder. The technician told me that it didn't
contract like it's supposed to, so now I must wait to get the final
answer from the doc. I did call him, only to hear him say that I'd
probably want to have my gallbladder removed.
My concern:
I have read a lot of postings here of people who are without a gall
bladder who are having PVC's. I've never had any surgery of any kind
and am quite leary of having my gall bladder removed unless there is
some "guarantee" that it's gonna take care of my PVC's.
Any thoughts?
Steve

I am an etirely new member of this group and until recently didn't
even know of its existence.
Can any one help me at all with my questions (doctors dont)
I am a 40 yr old female and have been having pvcs for 4yrs now.
The last 2 years being the worse.I was taking the beta blocker
sotalol 40 mg twice daily but my heart was starting to take on a mind
of its own and began being very irregular so I was taken off them.
Although I feel better I am by no means "cured".
What I wanted to know was, has anyone had a beta blocker of any sort
that has worked ?also as doctors over here dont seam to think its a
fuss to worry over palps is it dangerous ?
Does anyone know of a non medication type near cure?
I would be very greatfull to ANY advice given.
jackie.

Steve,
Kathryn had her Gallbladder removed in September of 98 - because they
thought it was what put her in the hospital earlier that year (when she had
her heart attacks). Talk to your Doctor and more importantly talk to the
internal specialist that will do the surgery. Gallbladder problems can and
will cause PVCs (as will problems with the pancreas) anyway I would also
talk to your cardio doctor.
Now, I am not telling you to go and spend a bunch of money on doctor's
visits but you need to talk to these folks to get a full understanding of
what the ramifications of removing the gallblader will be. You should also
know that the gallbladder will mask other problems and the only way to
determine this is to ask a lot of questions and run tests (oh how I hate
that word!).
With Kathryn, we found that her PVCs decreased (down a 2 or 3,000 per day)
when they remove her gallbladder. They also uncovered other problems
(pancreaitius (sp - sorry) and other things) that they have not been very
successful in treating (yet).
Anyway, there are folks on this list that know the problems and benefits
much better than I do, listen to what they say.
derrick & Kathryn

Christine and Barb,
My mom passed away last week after spending a week in a coma from a
brain tumor. Don't worry, you will get through everything, pvc's or
no pvc's...... I found that the anticipation of everything you have
to suffer through was worse than the reality.
-john
--- In PeoplewithPVCs@egroups.com, "christine jobe" <CHRISJ817@H...
went
into
Thursday.
My
.......I
feel

I am new to the group, but I am sure glad I found it. I am 36 year
old female, who has had palps (PVC's) for about 12 years. I was never
told by a doctor that I have PVC's per say, they just call them
palpatations. Most recently been prescribed magnesium and serzone.
I do not see a great difference. My palps a worse before and during
my period. I try to just deal with them, but sometimes they get the
better of me. My worse part is the way I feel after one, very uneasy
feeling in my chest, not really pain though, I get really tired, you
could say I feel completely drained, even after just one little
missed beat. Which is usually how it is with me, I only feel one hard
and missed beat, but this might happen several times throughout the
day. I also recently gained about 15 lbs over the last couple of
months. I don't know why, my eating habits have not changed, which
are pretty healthy, and I really don't eat much, about 1000 to 1300
calories a day. I am also sooooooooooooo tired, I mean I almost have
to pull over on my 40 minute drive home from work. I can hardly keep
my eyes open. I get usually 8 hours of sleep. I do wake up once or
twice a night though. I have had all of the wonderful heart tests,
and a major blood workup, with all coming back negative. I feel I
still have so many symtoms of thyroid problems, but the docs say test
do not show that. Does anyone else have these symtoms on top of their
palps? Really happy to be able to be a part of this group. Tammy

John,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I cannot bear the thought of
losing one of my parents. But I know I will one day. Anyways, this is
not about me. I just wanted to let you know I was thinking of you.
Mickey

Mickey, with Suzy's spirit, I don't believe that will be any time soon.
Dani
"Monique Long" <malong@...
Please respond to PeoplewithPVCs@egroups.com
To: PeoplewithPVCs@egroups.com
cc: (bcc: Dani VanDine/US/Donnelly Corporation)
Subject: [PeoplewithPVCs] Re: Suzy,
--- In PeoplewithPVCs@egroups.com, "christine jobe" <CHRISJ817@H...
Suzy, I sure hope it's all that and more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you find
out before the rest of us will you come back to let us know just how
wonderful it really is?
Mickey

The vagal nerve!!!!!!
Christine

Hi all -
We have a situation with our IEP and I am wondering if anyone has run into
this problem. Our son's IEP states that he gets 30 minutes of speech therapy
everyday. Every year up until the current school year, his speech therapy has
always been 1:1. This year his 30 minutes is being shared with at least one
other child, sometimes two. To me, this means he is getting 15 minutes of
speech or less, because the 30 minutes is not 1:1. I am being told by the
school personnel that this is appropriate and basically, they are meeting his
IEP if he is in the presence of a speech therapist for 30 minutes each day. He
has very limited language (maybe a dozen words) so there is no benefit for him
to be in there with other kids, which is another arguement they threw at me. If
he was conversational, that might be a consideration, but he is far from it.
Any thoughts from your experience would be appreciated.
Lori

I tried the SpeechTeach CdROM that Jenn recommended. There is a 14
day trial period, which I took advantage of.
Well....Sam LOVES it! OMG, he is so turned on by the lady who does
the questions and rewards. He anticipates her questions, and tries
to anticipate her reward statement. For a whole day after he went
around with much increased echoing, attention to us. It is kind of
on the cusp of something he's going to be beyond soon, but it has
such a high EO for him, we're getting it, just to reward him. He
actually spent 53 minutes on one sitting with it yesterday, and I
made him stop. Another time yesterday, he spent 30 minutes on it. I
think it would actually be a good way to demonstrate to people how to
do DTT.
I have a friend in CA who ordered it about the same time I did (I
mentioned it to her). She is as pleased as I am. Her little boy is
not quite as verbal as Sam.
Anyway, lol, I sound like a sales pitch. But it is very exciting to
see Sam turned on so much by this. Nathan likes it, but not as
much. He doesn't have the same attention span. But he would go by
and start echoing us while we were doing it.
Oh, it's at www.7gt.com
Naomi, mom to Sam (4yo, autism) and Nathan (2yo, kinda NT, some
speech delay)
Check out Sam's Autism Page http://sam26847.tripod.com
"Sometimes the heart sees what is invisible to the eye."
H. Jackson Brown Jr.

You may want to ask your dentist or dental assistant/hygienist about tooth
brushing graphics. For many school-aged children there are dental information
lessons where they show simple pictures about proper teeth brushing techniques.
Tracie

hi
I am looking for any, prefer experienced, person to do aprox 10 hours
of ABA with my 3 1/2 yr old. We live in Auburn Maine, so if you know
anyone please email me at
daleleeann@...
Thanks
Leighanne, ethans mom

Attached is information regarding these upcoming workshops on January 31st and
February 1st. I appreciate you sharing this infomation with any parents or
practitioners who you feel would benefit.
Thank you,
Lorie Schultz

I am hoping someone can help me with this one :-)
I am having a terrible time with tooth brushing with Alex (just
turned 4). He is becoming more independent and is wanting to do
EVERYTHING for himself. I am looking for a picture sequence for
brushing. Not just the sequence of toothbrush, put on paste etc, but
the actual actions of brushing. I don't want to use photos as he
becomes obsessed with the type of brush, angle, setting etc and I
have used a written story but I think he actually needs pictures as
a reference. We are going to make a video of his sisters brushing
tonite but I would like the pictures to put up in the bathroom.
What I am looking for is a simple picture sequence with the brush on
the front of the teeth, sides, top and bottom. He has an electric
toothbrush so the brushing actions are not really needed, but they
would be good too.
Hope you all had a wonderful Holiday break.
Kind regards,
Kelley
Australia

Is anyone in the US doing an ABA program that focuses on teaching language
skills in ARABIC???
Thanks,
Maryam Michael
Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

Happy Holiday's to everyone. I wanted to clear up my last email that I sent
out last Thrusday. I am by NO MEANS trying to pass myself off as a
consultant. I stated that I wanted to work with other families who either
have a ABA program set up or if the family wanted to "start" a program. If a
family wanted to have a porgram in their home but couldn't find a therapist,
then I was offering my services(AS A THERAPIST). I'm truly sorry if I've
caused any confusion or hurt. I hope that I've answered all questions. If
you have any questions please feel free to email at
teena_austin@.... Thanks Teena

Hi all,
Just wanted to let you all know that we are holding a
Vince Carbone Workshop #1 in February here in Bermuda.
The course will run Feb 11-13 from 8am to 5pm daily.
Cost is $90 including lunch and breaks each day. For
more info on Workshop #1 see Dr. Carbone's website
www.drcarbone.net or contact me privately at
trishcrow@...
Thanks
Trish

Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst relocating to Monmouth County, New
Jersey in late January of 2003. Available to conduct assessments, provide one
on one individualized V.B./N.E.T. therapy, implement and monitor individual home
programs, train parents and/or therapists and supervise team of therapists.
Qualifications are as follows:
ï Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst
ï Trained In Verbal Behavior
ï Five Years experience working with children with autism
ï Experienced in both School and Home settings
I will be available to start in mid February. References and resume are
available upon request.
If interested, please e-mail me privately at melkimk@...
Melanie K. Klastava

** I am posting this on behalf of SpeechTeach. If you have any questions or
want to order this item please contact them at www.7GT.com or call
1-800-500-2921.**
Jenn

We need therapists to work with our 4 year old autistic boy. We are
looking for people in the Psychology field or Special Ed field, with
or without ABA or VB experience. Must be able to work a minimum of 5
hours per week. Our consultant was trained in Dr. Carbone's program,
and will train you in his teaching procedures. Salaries up to $20 per
hour. If you have the time, commitment and compassion to make a
difference in the life of a beautiful young child, please contact us
by email, siannuzzi@... or call 856-374-1022.
We are located in Southern New Jersey, Washington Township area.

We need therapists to work with our 4 year old autistic boy. We are
looking for people in the Psychology field or Special Ed field, with
or without ABA or VB experience. Must be able to work a minimum of 5
hours per week. Our consultant was trained in Dr. Carbone's program,
and will train you in his teaching procedures. Salaries up to $20 per
hour. If you have the time, commitment and compassion to make a
difference in the life of a beautiful young child, please contact us
by email, siannuzzi@... or call 856-374-1022.

Established, consultant led VB program for 5-year-old needs new therapists
for the new year. I am loosing two to higher education - looking to add three.
We are in Lake Zurich, Il. Please reply privately to vivifh@....
Thanks,Vivi Heard

Thought that some might be interested in the below.
Joe

Happy Holiday's to everyone, my name is Quintina Austin. I'm a senior at
Wayne State University majoring in Social Work and Political Science. I'm
also an ABA therapist. I've working with ABA for months now. I'm
interested in taking on new clients. If you would like to start an ABA
program or need extra help please feel free to email me. I come with great
references, patience, excitment, programs, date sheets, and materials. If
your interested please email me at: teena_austin@..., please include
your telephone number. I will get back to you immediately. I'm available in
the state of Michigan. Hope to talk to you soon, and have a safe and
wonderful holiday season, Quintina

Hi everybody,
A family that I work for is currently seeking an
additional person to join their team and work with
their 3-year-old son. They have an intensive ABA home
program which emphasizes speech and language
development. They are located in West Plano. For
more information, please call Mary Kay at
972-985-9151.
Thanks,
Cyndi

Date:December 14th & 15th 2002
Applying Skinner's Analysis of Verbal Behavior into an ABA program
and Effective Teaching Practices For Natural Enviorment Teaching and Structured
Settings
Presented by Christina Burk, MA Consulting Behavior Analyst
WWW.CHRISTINABURKABA.COM
Time: 9AM - 4PM (4-5 optional Q&A)
Cost:For BOTH days $50.00 (includes Coffee & Bagels ~ lunch on your own)
Location: Marriott Residence Inn, Plainview New York
9 Gerhard Road
Plainview, NY 11803
Phone to Residence Inn: 1 516-433-6200
Do you want to learn how to improve the development of functional language
(including speech, sign, & PECS), reinforce effectively, strengthen
generalization, and improve the overall quality of your applied behavior
analysis (ABA) programming?
This workshop will discuss the ABA approach to teaching verbal behavior (VB) to
students with autism. This application of the science of behavior is based on
B.F. Skinner's analysis of VB and the subsequent work of Drs. Jack Michael,
Vincent Carbone, Mark Sundberg, Jim Partington,et al.
Participants will learn about the basic verbal operants, motivation and its
critical role in teaching, assessment procedures, and curricular objectives that
are essential for success in a student's educational program. The workshop will
address effective teaching procedures for students with a range of skill
repertoires and is for anyone looking to increase language, whether the student
is nonvocal, has some language, or is nearly conversational. The workshop will
describe and demonstrate:
· Pairing and establishing operations (EO)
· Errorless learning and teaching, including prompting and fading procedures
· Assessment / Curriculum development, including the Assessment of Basic
Language & Learning Skills (ABLLS)
· Effective teaching practices to be used in both the natural environment (NET)
and in structured teaching environments
CLICK HERE FOR REGGIE:
http://elija.org/ChristinaVB.html

Contact me if interested! 8.5 year old daughter, first grade, a joy
to work with, need Tues and Thurs 3:30-5:30 p.m.703-495-9390

Intensive Social Skills Groups for children 4 - 16 yrs
Elizabeth Watson Speech Pathology has held social skills groups every
January and July for the last 5 years. Participating children are
carefully grouped by age and ability and range from those with specific
diagnosis's (e.g. Autism and Asperger's) to typically developing
children who are experiencing difficulty in developing social skills.
Curriculum is individually tailored for each group and covers areas such
as conversational skills, co-operative play, dealing with bullying, body
language, and making and maintaining friendships.
Time
The groups will run for 2.5 hrs a day for 4 days from 9.30am to
12 noon and from 1.00pm to 3.30pm.
Location
Lane Cove, Sydney
Referral
Children may be referred by ABA service providers, speech pathologists,
psychologists, medical practitioners, teachers or parents.
Follow-up
An optional five session follow-up group will be run every second
Saturday to maintain and extend those skills learnt in the intensive
groups.
For more information
Expressions of interest need to be in by 30th December. Phone (02) 9428
2467 or email lizardcentre@...

I have a 2 year old autistic son who is in need for hours of Verbal
Behavior home programing. Looking for someone to come to my house to
work on vocalization skill, etc. Please contact me at
Rxsuziq@... or contact me at 609-332-1053.Training will be
proviced.
Suzanne Young

I found this also on About.com. It's got really good posts and articles.
http://specialed.about.com/library/blIDEArights.htm?PM=ss12_specialed

Hi! I am looking for therapists for a couple of families in the Ft.
Washington Area, South Jersey area. Please email me privately if you
know of anyone, or are interested!
Thank you!

Experienced VB therapists needed in Bucks and Montgomery Counties, PA.
School and home hours.
Please e-mail privately for more information.
Thank you,
Kristine Quinby
Behavior Consultant
Kristine@...

We are looking for therapists for our home program. Experience is
great but we are willing to train energetic, outgoing, and committed
people. Please email us directly for more information. Thanks.

Hi List,
I like to know if someone heard about the toulouse
university project for autism, in what consist this
program?.
Any help would by appreciate.
Thanx
Diana

Hi Everyone:
Thanks to everyone that answered my question,how to teach writing.
Thanks
Sha

www.handwritingforkids.com has printables. At www.pfot.com (pocket full of
therapy, OT supplies) they have some triangle type grip pencils that I bought
that helped my sons pencil grip. Also, my son love his Magnadoodle.

Folks, I'm designing a website designed to share information about ABA with
families in Germany. They are 10-12 years behind the states in information and
services. From what I've been able to gather, the few that know about ABA are
currently in an ABA = Lovaas which is very strict, uses aversives, and bribes
kids into becoming robots mentality.
I have been putting together lots of information and getting it translated. If
this is an okay forum, I'd like to share a piece I wrote entitled "Why Applied
Behavior Analysis (ABA)?" I would be very interested in any feedback on the
piece. Please remember that it is written with the German parent of an autistic
child in mind as its audience (just think of a parent who is new to the
diagnosis reading about ABA for the first time). As a parent or professional,
does anyone on this list take offense to anything written in this article or
feel that it is misrepresentative or lacking in any way? Again, your feedback
would be very much appreciated.
Why Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
By Robert Schramm
There are three main reasons you should consider using ABA with your child.
ABA makes sense. It is based on scientific principles. It just plain works!
All of us are born with the innate desire to please. It is why we smile when
we cause our kids to smile. It is why we tell jokes to our friends, why we wear
clothes we think our partners will like and why we listened to our parents when
they asked us to do things as kids. The desire to please can lead many of us to
do things we wouldn't do otherwise. Some of us have this desire more than
others however and there are times for all of us that the desire to please isn't
enough to get us to do the things we should. This is where the basic principles
of reinforcement and punishment come in. Every single one of us was taught to
do some behavior because it was either reinforced or punished at some point in
our lives. Some reinforcement is natural - If we never took the garbage out,
our house would begin to smell bad. So we learn to take out the garbage to
avoid the bad smell. Other reinforcement is artificial - some of us only
learned to take out the garbage, because we were rewarded with an allowance from
our parents. Sometimes punishment is used as well. Many people have learned
not to drive too fast because they have received punishment in the form of
speeding tickets. Because of the speeding ticket we received in the past we now
try very hard not to drive above the speed limit. There are thousands of
examples of how the principles of reinforcement and punishment have worked in
shaping who we are and how we behave. The use of punishment has been shown to
be less effective than reinforcement however and it also has the negative side
effects of causing bad feelings toward the punisher, so in ABA we always prefer
to use positive reinforcement to shape behavior. But how does this affect the
lives of our kids with autism?
Children with autism are very often born without the desire to please. Their
brains are wired in such a way that they don't naturally gain positive feelings
by pleasing others. They do however have needs that must be met. Some of these
needs are food, shelter, safety, etc. When faced with a child who doesn't
naturally desire to please us, we need to find a way to teach them behaviors we
want them to have. Some examples of these behaviors are staying out of the
street when a car is coming, dressing, toileting, playing with others, and
especially talking. As if not having a desire to please wasn't enough, children
with autism are often born without the ability to learn from the naturally
occurring reinforcement and punishment in our environment. Life would be so
easy if your child would be bothered enough by the smell of the garbage piling
up that he/she would decide to take it out. Could you also imagine your child
learning how to go to the toilet because you offered an allowance?
Unfortunately this is not usually the case, so just as we do with every other
child, it is the responsibility of parents of autistic children to supply the
necessary artificial reinforcement. When our typically developing children are
learning to follow rules, we hope that their desire to please us works. If it
doesn't, we may need to add reinforcement in the form of a disappointed look or
better yet we may choose to offer a hug to our child who performs the skill we
want. If that doesn't work, we may decide to give them a toy or a small
allowance. If that isn't enough reinforcement, we might need to raise the
allowance. Society works the same way. If we are caught speeding, we may get a
warning from the local police officer. If that police officer sees us speeding
again they will undoubtedly give us a ticket. If the ticket isn't enough to
keep us from driving too fast a higher fine or loss of license or even time in
jail may be what we need to stop. The same is true for our kids with autism.
Lets assume that our child with autism doesn't come to us when we call them.
The desire to please us is not currently apart of their makeup. So maybe we
could find something small that they like such as being swung around in the air.
Then we teach them that if they come when we call them they would get a swing in
the air. If this works great! If it doesn't, we just have to go back to our
speeding ticket example and find something more important to the child than not
listening to your direction to come. Maybe it would mean giving them a cracker
or an M&M. Maybe it would take more, like a favorite activity such as playing
with a spinning top or watching a video. The bottom line is, if we
systematically figure out what is important enough to our kids that they begin
to learn what we want them to learn we can ultimately (given enough time) teach
them almost anything.
The magic of this whole process is that as you begin to teach your child that
he/she can get a swing in the air for coming to you when you call them, an M&M
every time they shake there head no instead of screaming, a deep squeeze hug
when they say "Mommy" or time watching the washer and dryer spin for going to
the toilet, the more your child will begin to understand the concept that their
behaviors have consequences and that the people around them are worth
interacting with. When you carefully pair the rewards with praise and love, you
can begin to teach the child that the praise and love is a worthy reward in
itself and you can then stop using the M&Ms and crackers. In some cases, a
switch is flipped in the brain and they can begin learning from the natural
environment and even gain a desire to please.
When approached intensively and systematically all kids with autism will learn
this way and some can even learn so much that their autism becomes difficult to
detect. But even if your child only learns to say "no" instead of scream, show
you a picture of a glass of milk to tell you what they want to drink, or learns
to sit in a restaurant without knocking all the food off the table, your life
and your child's life can be drastically improved.
The most important thing to know here is that these skills are not much more
complicated than I've explained. A basic understanding of the principle of
reinforcement, knowledgeable guidance and some vigilance on your part and you
can use this approach in your own home. You don't need a special school, or a
PHD to teach your child. You, your extended family, and/or a local college
student can be trained and guided to use ABA. It is important to remember that
even though ABA works with all kids regardless of age or disability, it does
take time. The more time you have the more your child can learn, so it is best
to start a program based in Applied Behavior principles as soon as possible.
Your child may resist attempts to be involved in our world at first, and
sometimes your child will tantrum as this may be the only way they currently
know how to communicate. But don't give up and be sure to make learning fun and
you will quickly begin to see your child learn better ways to tell you want they
need. Ultimately, you will begin to see yourself communicating with your child
in ways you may not have ever imagined.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts, please send them directly to me as to not
them email boxes of others.
Robert Schramm

Hi All:
I would like to teach to print letters( writing) for my daughter who
is 4.6 years old. She knows all the letters and numbers.
She just scribbles right now. I am working on her pencil grip, she
is almost there.
Any info is appreciated. Where do i start?
Thanks
Sha

To all parents in need of a therapist in greater Ft.Lauderdale area:
I am a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) with a masters degree in
applied behavior analysis who specializes in teaching verbal behavior to
young children with autism. I'm available for home consultations to create
an individualized verbal behavior program for your child as well as work
one-on-one with your child, train your family and/or therapists, and monitor
the program. I am available to all families in the greater Fort Lauderdale
area. Please e-mail me privately at keelyrose@... if you are
interested in setting up an appointment. Thank you.

Hi, this is Yong Kim, father of 3 year old twin boys with PDD.
I am new to the group and looking for verbal behavior analyst.
Can you help me with some names and contact info?
I live in Tenafly, NJ - about 10 minutes North of Fort Lee (George
Washington Bridge).
201-227-8933.
Thanks
Yong Kim

In the past week Pharmeceutical companies and their cronies in government
have made a big push in hiding the amount of damage that vaccines have been
doing to untold numbers of children in the form of neurological problems (ie:
autism, ADD, speech) and medical conditions (ie: asthma, diabetes). An
eleventh hour addition was made to the Homeland Security Act (Sec. 1714-1716)
to protect pharmeceutical companies from any liability for the toxic
ingredients they knowingly put in vaccines. As soon as Act was signed by
Pres. Bush on Monday, Lawyers went to court to seal all vaccine injury
records from the public. (See:
We have to do something now. If these agencies/companies have nothing to
hide, why will noone admit to adding those sections onto the HSA and why are
lawyers immediately trying to seal records. Do our kids mean so little that
they think they can sweep them under the rug and forget about them? LET"S NOT
LET THEM!!!!! EVERYONE CAN HELP GET OUR VOICES HEARD.
Spread this from sea to shining sea and show the government that they messed
with the wrong people this time.
Please donate whatever amount you can towards the full page Washington Post
ad. This is the best way to get our side's message out now! We have to all
unify and not let them get away with this. Please everyone write to all of
the organizations you can think of, friends, families, your attorneys, and
tell them to help us get this out now before it's too late. Send any amount
you can even if you feel that such a small amount won't matter. It will if
everyone will also do the same.
For more information and how to donate
<A HREF="http://casiquest.org/washington_post_ad.html"
Project</A
or e-mail Jo at

I just watched the videotape Creating a Classroom for children with Autism and
others Disorders of Relating and Communicating, created by the YAI/New York
League for Early Learning I got it after it was mentioned on this list. It
was great to watch dedicated classroom staff working together to help the kids.
I was more interested in the segment showing intensive teaching at the table.
Errorless learning was clearly shown on the videotape. But I was so surprised
that they did not put emphasis on prompt fading. It was mentioned, but except
for 1 task (gross motor imitation for hands up), transfer trials were not
demonstrated in that video. So when the teacher asked to touch/ID some items,
she immediately prompted /pointed to the picture; hence, the correct response
from the student - but this was not followed by a transfer trial. This was true
of other drills like RFCC which were immediately followed by intraverbals.
(Example: the teacher asked : Give me something salty and she immediately
(point) prompted, so the child handed her the picture of the popcorn. Then she
immediately asked Something salty are (without the picture present), and the
student responded popcorn. There were no demos on how she faded the prompt
for the RFCC later.
So my question is Is it okay to not have a transfer trial immediately after
the first prompted trial? Can the transfer trial be done on the next sitting?
Or several trials away ? - just to keep the momentum going? Some children
(like mine) hate the repetitive stimuli (e.g. 2 transfer trials in a row).
Thanks.

Dear list,
I work with a VB therapist who is moving to Quantico, VA in December. She has
been working with a family I consult with for almost 2 years. She has
attended Dr.
Carbone's Intro to VB workshop and Workshop #4 by Holly Kibbe and Cherish
Richards. She is willing to travel to Southern or Northern VA. Please
contact her regarding her availability. Her name is Crystal Johnson and her
email is <A
HREF="mailto:johnson1419@..."
Feel free to contact me if you want more info.
Jenn

Hi,
We're looking to expand our team working with our 2 1/2 year old
son. He has been in NET-VB program for 6 months and he's progressing
tremendously! Weekend hours are needed the most, but we're
interested in speaking to anyone interested. We will provide ongoing
supervision and training. Please e-mail if interested.

I am forwarding to all the lists where I hope that people might be
interested. Please feel free to forward to your students and others who
might be interested.
Joe

I forgot a complete list of all bills of interest for behavior analysts
can be found in the forum section of www.behavior-analyst-online.org
Thanks,
Joe

Hi everyone,
Just wanted to let you all know that the Bermuda
Autism Support and Education society (BASE) will be
hosting a Vince Carbone Workshop #1 on February 11,
12, 13, 2003. Cost is $90 for the 3 days includes
lunch. Please contact me privately for more
information (bdagirl2@...) or email
basebda@... for more information.
Tricia Crow
mom to Geoffrey 6, Michael 5, Richard 5 (all three
autistic, all three wonderful)

LD Wedewer, US Autism Ambassador just got off the phone at 8:00pm with the US
Capitol in Washington, DC. She says we have a little more time. The bill was
not passed today. She did state however that it is set to go back on the
agenda for tomorrow. So keep the phone calls coming. Anyone who has not
called, faxed, or emailed Please do it now!! You voice does count. Remember
we have till tomorrow at least!! I as many of you are sitting here praying
our US Senators do what it right! I also have faxed, emailed, and made phone
calls!! Keep up the great advocacy for autism! Below is being released from
Senator Dan Burton to his colleagues
LD Wedewer, US Autism Ambassador
Facts and Fiction About Thimerosal in Vaccines
November 18, 2002
Dear Colleague:
During the past 24 hours, a number of incorrect statements have been made
about the vaccine provisions in the Homeland Security Act. The facts are
simple. These provisions severely restrict the legal rights of parents who
believe their children have suffered neurological damage due to vaccines.
The scientific debate remains unresolved. These provisions do not belong in
the Homeland Security Act. I hope the following points will help separate
fact from fiction.
FICTION: Scientists have concluded that there is no causal connection
between mercury-containing thimerosal and neurological disorders such as
autism.
FACT: In 2001, the respected Institute of Medicine concluded that a
connection between thimerosal and autism, while unproven, is "biologically
plausible." The IOM called for further research, stating, "the evidence is
inadequate to accept or reject a causal relationship between exposure to
thimerosal from vaccines and neurological developmental disorders of autism,
ADHD, and speech and language delays."
FACT: Researchers in the state of California concluded this year that there
is no statistical explanation for the nearly 300% increase in cases of
autism in that state. "It is astounding to see a threefold increase in
autism with no explanation," said Dr. Robert Byrd, an epidemiologist who led
the study. "There's a number of things that need to be answered. We need to
rethink the possible causes of autism."
FACT: An internal HHS document produced to the House Government Reform
Committee during its investigation into vaccine safety described what it
referred to as a "weak signal" in its data linking thimerosal to
neurological disorders:
"Preliminary screening of ICD-9 codes for possible neurologic and
renal conditions following exposures to vaccines containing thimerosal
before 3 months of age showed a statistical association for the overall
category of neurological developmental disorders and for two conditions
within the category, speech delay and attention deficit disorder."
FACT: If there were no concerns that scientific research would demonstrate
a connection between thimerosal and autism, Sections 1714-1717 would not
have been tacked onto the Homeland Security Act in the eleventh hour with no
debate.
FICTION: Sections 1714-1717 do not eliminate the rights of vaccine-injured
individuals to sue manufacturers of vaccines and their components.
Proponents of these provisions have stated that once individuals have gone
through the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program they can still choose to
file a civil law suit.
FACT: For many families who believe their children were injured by
mercury-based thimerosal, these provisions do eliminate their right to file
suits. The Vaccine Injury Compensation Program has a narrow 3-year statute
of limitations. Because many families were unaware of the program, they
were unable to file a petition on time. Sections 1714-1717 take away their
only remaining legal recourse.
FICTION: Thimerosal has now been removed from all childhood vaccines and is
therefore no longer a concern.
FACT: While thimerosal has recently been removed from most pediatric
vaccines used in the United States, it is still used in the flu vaccine
given every year to millions of Americans, including children as young as
six months old.
FACT: The argument that thimerosal has been removed from most pediatric
vaccines is beside the point. Because the FDA was painfully slow to seek
the removal of thimerosal during the 1990's, millions of children across the
country were exposed to this mercury-based preservative at a time when
concerns about its health effects were emerging. The legal rights of these
children should not be curtailed.
Please vote to strip Sections 1714-1717 from the Homeland Security Act.
Fifteen years ago, only 1 in 10,000 children was autistic. Today that number
has skyrocketed to 1 in 250. Let's not be stampeded into cutting off the
legal rights of these children without hearings and a full public debate.
Sincerely,
Dan Burton
Chairman
House Committee on Government Reform

The workshop is scheduled for March 14-16 at George Mason University Law School
in Arlington.
Steph

Hello. I am a NJ certified Special Education teacher. I have a MA in
Special Education and 5 1/2 yrs experience with children with autism. I have
worked in both a public school and in home programs using ABA and verbal
behavior. I am currently looking for a few more hours per week. The hours
available are in the mornings, the days flexible. If interested write this
address. Thank you.
Morristown area(will travel reasonable distances)

http://elija.org/Teachers.html
The list is growing for our teachers wanted section. Please check in frequently
, especially if you have some time in the NY area. There are many wonderful
families and their beautiful children seeking therapists/teachers.
Thank you again!
Nicole

Autism Society of America Northern Virginia (ASA-NV) and
Parents for Autistic Children's Education (PACE) present
Workshop #1: Introduction to Verbal Behavior: Teaching Communication
Skills to Children with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities
A Three-day Workshop Presented by:
Vincent J. Carbone, Ed.D., Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Overview
This workshop focuses on the behavioral approach to teaching communication
skills to children with autism and other developmental disabilities. This
approach is based on B.F. Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior and the
research of Michael, Sundberg, Partington, and others. Participants in this
workshop learn (1) to conduct a Behavioral Language Assessment, (2) to
select the most appropriate form of communication for a child (vocal,
signing, pointing to or exchanging pictures, or activating an augmentative
device), and (3) to select the communication responses and supporting
skills that should be taught first. The workshop includes the recommended
teaching procedures for those children who have no formal communication
skills to those that are near conversational speakers. The presenter also
describes and demonstrates errorless teaching, specific quick-transfer
(prompting and fading) procedures, and the use of both discrete trial
training in the natural environment and during intensive teaching sessions.
Many video tape demonstrations are provided to illustrate the methods to
increase spontaneous language and to develop conversational skills.
Cost:
Early registration (deadline December 1st, 2002):
$100/person for ASA-NV members
$125/person for non-members
Registration after December 1st, 2002:
$125/person for ASA-NV members
$150/person for non-members
If interested, please contact Lisa Nicklas at lnicklas@....

Hi everyone,
I have been unsuccesful (very disappointed) in finding a mentor who is a CBA
(Certified Behavior Analyst). I am hoping to take the exam next fall or so to
become a CaBA (Associate Behavior Analyst) and need to have a mentor for one
year in order to fufill the requirements before taking the exam.
I have contacted many people but everyone has been booked or not familiar with
my specialty (ABA/VB). If anyone knows of anyone who is a CBA or who would
qualify as a CBA (with strong background in ABA / VB) and may be interested in
mentoring me primarily through an email relationship, I would very much
appreciate their contact info. Thanks and email me privately if you would
like...
-Libby Majewski
Medford, NJ

Hello,
I'm a mother of a 3 year old high-functioning autistic daughter. My
second daughter is nonverbal at 14 months and may have the same
condition.
Our oldest has been in ABA therapy for 1-1/2 years and has made
outstanding progress with it. Luckily, my husband and I were able to
pay for it out of pocket, but there are a lot of parents in the U.S.
who cannot. Regional centers and school districts have limited funds
and cannot or will not fund ABA therapy for enough or any hours.
Anyway, I have an idea of starting a non profit group to help parents
fund ABA therapy. Does anyone know if this has ever been done or
tried? I don't want to do a lot of work if such an organization
already exists.
Thanks and Take Care,
Laura

Date: Wednesday,January 29th 2003
The CSE & Your Child's Rights
Effective Instructional Strategies & Tactics to Incorporate into Your Child's
IEP and Classroom
Presented by Dr Thomas M. Kelly,Ph.D
Hosted by the Elija foundation
Time: 8 AM pre registration 9 - 5 workshop
Cost:$10.00 (includes Coffee & Bagels ~ Lunch on your own)
Location:Marriott Residence Inn, Plainview New York
9 Gerhard Road
Plainview, NY 11803
Phone to Residence Inn: 1 516-433-6200
REGISTRATION DUE BY January 10th 2003
This workshop is geared twords parents and educational custodians of children
receiveing special services from their districts. This workshop will prepare you
and educate you on your child's rights in the formation of your IEP process.
School teachers, administrators and superintendents are encouraged to attend as
well.
Topics include and are not limited to:
Essential Skills for Student and Adult Success
Competent Learner Repitiores
Measurably Superior Istruction & the importance of close continual contact with
relevant Outcome data
Characteristics of EFFECTIVE schools
Systems for Increased Learning
Ethincal Use of ABA and the Key Components
Skills that EVERY teacher should have and be able to demonstrate
Applying Learner Principles (strategies & tactics thatwork for all students)
Question and Answer period on the IEP process and your child's rights
CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION FORM ~ DUE January 10th 2003
http://elija.org/Kelly.html
Thomas M.Kelly is The Superintendent of Schools for Valhalla UFSD
Adjunct Associate Professor of Education & Pshycology Department of Health &
Behavior Studies at Coulumbia University, Teachers College.
He has been in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis for the past 17 years.
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR UPCOMING CONFERENCES at
www.elija.org

Dear Listers,
We are taking a e-mail list survey of services that districts are currently
providing. All personal information will be kept confidential. We are trying
to set up a database which lists services that are currently being provided to
families who have children on the Autistic Spectrum. We are aware that all
cases are individualized by districts, but we are also aware that policies are
in place. Please indicate town and district, List all services being provided
in CSE or CPSE such as OT, Speech, PT, ABA, Special-ed hrs, etc. It will help
families who are relocating get a better sense of what is possible in certain
districts. It is in no way intended to be used against districts, but for the
purpose in assisting families for better placement of their children. All
information will be posted on the Elija.org website as soon as it is compiled.
Thank you for your participation
DECEMBER 7TH, GARY MAYERSON, ESQ. PRESENTS "HOW TO COMPROMISE WITH YOUR SCHOOL
DISTRICT WITHOUT COMPROMISING YOUR CHILD"......SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR INFO
http://www.nsasa.org November 17th SIBLING SUPPORT & PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS MEET

Dear Lists,
Thank you to the moderators who allowed me to post and thank you to all of
the wonderful parents and professionals who sent me information. I have
decided to postpone the MMR for my son.
Sincerely,
Kristine Quinby

Are there any families on this list in Watertown, NY or surrounding
areas? Please get in touch with privately.
Thanks,
JP

St. Joseph's University has developed a behavior analysis subtrack in it's
criminal justice program. This is an excellent program for those
interested in working as consultants for children and adults with conduct
problems. The four courses in teh subtrack can be taken independantly for
those with a masters seeking certification or part of the master program
in criminal justice with a focus in behavior management. These courses are
offered both on campus and as extension learning. If interested please
feel free to contact lwalsh@... or call him at 1-610-966-1781.
Thanks,
Joe

Press Release
November 8, 2002 2:00pm
US Autism Ambassador Speech Given In Response to
The DENMARK STUDY
First let me say that I want to thank-you for allowing the time to speak out
about autism and to represent those individuals with autism and their
families, this is such an honor and one I do not take lightly. I would like
to thank the "TRUE HEROS OF AUTISM" in this I am speaking of the Parents and
professionals that have risked everything to stand behind individuals with
autism and their families, as I do. People like Dan Burton,
Senator Harkin, DR Andy Wakefield, DR Singh, and other respected individuals
that are not mentioned here, and the parents.
All these individuals speak out bravely even though they know they will be
shunned some even prosecuted by the general traditional medical field, or
other peers. I commend and have respect for these people that have held their
values, integrity, honor, and truth over those who falsely are informing our
communities at large for the gain of money and because of risks of lawsuits.
Once again thank you from the autism community for being there to ensure we
DO get the truth about the connections of vaccines and autism, for it is you
that DO stand behind the people that will continue to fight for the truth and
will not surcome until we do have unbiased research into these connections. I
Promise as the US Autism Ambassador I WILL STAND BEHIND THE PEOPLE ON THIS
ISSUE OF GREAT IMPORTANCE!
There is a lot of concern among the world about the validity of the Denmark
Study and reports surrounding this study, that this report proves there is no
connection to vaccines and autism. In my opinion this study is flawed in the
fact that all vaccines were not addressed including vaccines with mercury.
You cannot make an assumption on one vaccine or one study in comparison to
all vaccines. I also find it concerning that it is being stated generally
that vaccines no longer contain mercury. This is a false statement! Flu and
Pneumonia shots have mercury to list a few. Many previously recalled vaccines
still remain on shelves in doctor offices and hospitals. We have also sent
these vaccines to under-developed foreign countries, have we ensured the
status on the content of those vaccines?
It is a well-known fact that we do have an epidemic of autism. But let me
clarify, we have a pandemic epidemic of autism. Pandemic Epidemic means a
large increase of cases in a large area. Epidemic only means in a small area
with a large growth. So make no mistake we have a pandemic epidemic on our
hands.
When we realized autism was indeed a pandemic epidemic we also realized this
could not in fact be a genetic illness or disorder. There has never in the
history of medical health been a genetic epidemic or pandemic epidemic,
research this as I have and you will find no know genetic epidemics in
history period. Therefore we need to direct increase unbiased research into
the vaccine connections and environmental effects. Make no mistake if we do
not we are in serious trouble.
Growth Of Autism Over The Years:
Ten years ago 1 in 10,000,
Five years ago 1 in 500,
Last year 1 in 250,
Today in California 1 baby born every 3 hours
Next year as many as 1 in 75 - 125
In 2005â¦. Scared Yet?
There is historical evidence of this. California as explained by Rick Rollens
today in the NVIC Conference stated in California rates of autism is
increasing by 1 child every 3 hours with autism, are you scared yet, I know I
am as well. This is not due to better reporting because autism is to
devastating to the family it would have been caught sooner
So you cannot simply explain this as a "better reporting" as evidence. I know
first hand what autism does to the individual and to the family.
My daughter as many of you know has autism. I know by her medical records,
test results, and evidence I hold in my possession that there is a connection
with vaccines and autism, and have wrote about it in the book I authored
called Autism and Vaccines: The Story A Closer Look. In this book I share
with the readers evidence I have seen. We need more unbiased research to
continue to prove this, until the traditional medical community listens so we
stop putting more children at risk.
We need unbiased testing on the vaccines themselves and increased tracking of
all reactions to all vaccines. This is to say we have no testing to prove the
safety of these vaccines to date let alone the effectiveness of theses
vaccines we give the most precious commodity in our world today⦠our children
who are our future. This is the future of our world. We need to not only
take this seriously but do something immediately! It is not the true heroes
that have made inaccurate assumptions on these connections but those the
manufactures of the vaccines that can not presume to assume that we the
public will continue to stand by and agree with them when there is no safety
or eveidence to presume they are telling us the whole truth especially when
they have money interests at risk and submit reports that may have been
tampered or altered to show a result in their favor. Which has been proven in
Autism Hearing in 2002.
Today the parents and professionals MUST stand up and speak out. We must not
request but require that we have new and increased research into these
factors, we must demand that these individuals with autism have increased
alternative treatment, therapy, and educational options and rights. We MUST
ensure all individuals with autism and their families have all the critical
steps and access to ALL OPTIONS they need to ensure they can reach their
potential TO THE FULLEST!
We need to make sure all families have the right to a philosophical exemption
until we can ensure proof of the safely and evidence to that fact. We need to
demand that all individuals with autism have health insurance and mental
health parity included in their insurance plans. You would not take away
insulin from diabetics or heart pills from heart patients; you would not take
away radiation treatments or chemotherapy from cancer patients. Not to take
validity away from these truly devastating illnesses.
Still today autism still does not have appropriate health coverage and mental
health parity
to ensure their health and well-being. We all need to stand up and protect
those children who do not yet have autism, to do the best in the power we
have to ensure they will not obtain autism in their near future.
We need to Demand education of all individual families on the risks of
vaccine and autism and we cannot assume that the government will do this. We
as a grass roots effort of the parents and professionals need to take
responsibility to stand up and educate the people.
Remember we have over 1.5-2.5 million families with loved ones with autism
that is over 3-5 million voters with voting power. I know of at least one
legislator that lost their race just a few days ago because of their views on
autism and vaccines it cost them over 6,000 votes. We need to remind
legislators of this fact and remind them we need their help.
Please remember you are the voice for the voiceless. Remember it is your
loved ones, your clients, your students, your patients, and your friends,
that will be effected.
WHEN WILL IT BE YOUR NEIGHBOR, YOUR GRANDCHILD, OR WILL IT BE YOUR CHILD NEXT?
Thank you again for the time to speak today on this issue of great
importance! Please feel free to contact me for additional press comments.
Please feel free to send a copy of this press release to friends, families,
and groups you are associated with.
Peacefully,
DR. Rev. LD Wedewer, DD., US Autism Ambassador
DR. Rev. LD Wedewer, DD., US Autism Ambassador
1900 K Street SW
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404-3620
319-364-2687
USAutismAmbasadr@...
www.autismawakening.com

Hi,
Mark Sundberg, Ph.D. will be presenting an advanced workshop on November 14 &
15, 2002 at Luzerne County Community College in Nanticoke, PA. The cost is
$100.00 for the 2 days and lunch is included. Following is a brief paragraph of
his presentation. The workshop is intended for those who have a basic knowledge
of the Analysis of Verbal Behavior. For information call: SAFE at
1-877-510-SAFE or e-mail me privately....Mary
The workshop will focus on more advanced treatment of Skinner's VB, more
advanced behavior analysis of the teaching and curriculum and more advanced VB
skills such as RFFC, Intraverbal, multiple tacting, reading, social
interaction, and inclusion.

Does anyone have the address for Carbone's 53 minute training video?

Pay private up to 30 and hour.In Bayside Queens
For Sundays (flexible hours)
Someone with a good understanding of the functions of behavior and
the variables of reinforcement, to do natural enviorment teaching.
Email
apolito@...

Hello all,
This is to let all know that the current issue of the Behavior Analyst
Today (3.3) is now available at the BAO website
www.behavior-analyst-online.org. As always this issue is absolutely free.
Just log on to the site. Go to BAT issues and download.
Thanks,
Joe

Hi Listmates:
We're struggling here. We are so proud Jer's progress but feel that
right now we are at a loss as to where to go next. We are so fortunate in
that Jer can spontaneously mand for anything he wants (items or actions). We
have added "I want" and similar carrier phrases and he is doing pretty well
with these although he sticks to the "I want" most often. Jer also has many
Interverbals -- the problem is he does not use these unless initiated by us.
He does not mand for attention by spontaneously commenting spontaneously
tacting. He will mand for our attention so that he can mand for an item or
activity.
Does anyone have any ideas? Someone suggested manding for
information. Someone else suggested tacting using "I see". Our consultant
right now does not seem to have a clear sense of direction right now. Any
help would be much appreciated. If you want to email me privately that's
great too.
Rosie

Kenny's jaw keeps sliding to his right side when he's talking.
Does anybody have any ideas how to go about correcting this?
I think his speech would be a lot clearer if we could resolve this problem.
P.S. Yes, he is apraxic.
Cindy (Cary, NC)
persistentC@...
President, The Mariposa School for Children with Autism
www.MariposaSchool.org

We are looking for a junior / senior therapist to join our ABA team and
work with our 5 year old son.
We have an organized and well supervised ABA / Verbal Behaviour program
and offer a friendly team
environment and competitive pay.
We live in central Toronto, a few minute walk from the St Clair West
subway station.
If anyone knows of anyone looking for more hours, please have them
contact Helena via email at
dd2034@....

Hi, everyone
I have a 5 year-old daughter who is autistic, and we live in Orange
county Southern California. We are trying to switch to VB from
ABA. Please share your information or experience about Verbal
Behavior Consultants, therapists, funding from school district in
Orange county, LA county, or other county in Southern Califorinia.
Any advice would be appreciated.
If you prefer to respond privately, please email me.
Thank you,
Mimi

My 5-yr-old son is having a hard time understanding the concept of
same/different. Please share your experience on how to teach this
effectively.
thanks,
Huong

I'm looking for a Verbal Behavior Consultant to manage a home based
program for my twin boys. I live in Mt. Laurel, NJ about 20 minutes
from Philadelphia. My boys will be 3 in December and are both verbal.
Please email me privately if you can connect me with anyone who is
qualified to do this job.
Thank you.

Hi everyone,
For anyone living in the Lemoore/Fresno, CA area I work with a therapist, Kim
Brittian, that is moving there. I have supervised her work on a monthly basis
for the past year and half. She is an absolutely fabulous lead therapist. She
has attended Dr. Carbone's Intro to Verbal Behavior Workshop (Workshop #1) as
well as the Parent workshop (Workshop #2). She has also attended Holly Kibbe
and Cherish Richard's Hands on therapists workshop (Workshop #4). She also is
trained in teaching Reading Mastery.
If anyone is interested in her services, please contact me and I will send
you her email address.
Jenn

Hi
My 5yo daughter is thoroughly unmotivated by her home program; I can't blame
her - the agency the SD contracts with does ALL table work, no-no prompts,
the same SD every drill... No wonder she drifts off and doesn't pay
attention. Any ideas how I can get her motivation up outside of drills?
She attends an ABA based Kindergarten class with an emphasis on communication
but the home program is not verbally based. She's non verbal! (She has a
few word
approximations and signs, but not consistently).
Help! I know she's capable of so much more than she is showing us right now.
Margaret

Hi All,
I am in need of an after school tutor and/or possible playgroup facilitator
who is trained in VB for my 6 year old daughter. Behavior Analysts are our
consultants. We live in Oakland, CA. Thanks for any leads...
Julie

Dear Friends:
We are proud to announce the winner of the Autism Arts "Essay Contest" to
attend the Inaugural World Autism Congress this November 10-14th. 2002, in
beautiful Melbourne, Australia.
And the "winner" is............... <A
HREF="http://www.autismarts.com/gpage3.html"
We want to thank all the thousands-and-thousands of visitors to our website
-- and all the applicants for the contest. It truly was an honor and humbling
experience for us.
Sincerely,
Sandy McMurray
http://www.autismarts.com

A family is looking for therapists to start a program for their 4
year old son in the Garden Oaks area of Houston. Training will be
provided. If you are interested, please contact me at
stephhulshof@...
Thanks,
Steph

AVB Therapist needed in West Springfield,MA
10-30 hours weekly - $15-$22 hourly. Training provided
E-mail/Brittainwj@...
Phone/413-527-9293 or 413-788-7091

I am new to the list and new to the special education world, I am actually still
a student learning. Can someone please tell me what the TEACCH Program is about?
or Point me in the right direction so that I may learn more about it in regards
to ABA?
Thanks,Becky
bitzy841@...

I have heard of teachers who were told to implement a
TEACCH program without even being sent to training on
TEACCH. The teachers were told to read on their own
about the program and someone would put up stations
for the kids. It was ridiculous!
To add insult to injury, some of these teachers who
were told to start TEACCH stations in their classrooms
were NEW to special eduation. They had never taught
special education kids a day in their lives prior to
that!
What the schools need to do is to send the teachers to
the real TEACCH program to learn how the darned thing
is supposed to work. And if the schools can't do
that, for whatever reason, then they need to CONTRACT
WITH the real TEACCH program so that a well-versed
person from the TEACCH program comes to the school for
a specified period of time to train the special
education teachers on how a well-run TEACCH program is
supposed to work.
Simply having stations for autistic kids does NOT a
TEACCH program (or any program for that matter) make!

Leslie,
I'm sorry for Kayla's troubles, I know from MUCH experience and many, many ER
visits. Our daughter has a VNS implant and it has been a miracle. It takes
a LONG time to adjust it to the point that it is effective so I don't think
it would make her worse...I've never heard of this. They told us not to
expect to see anything for at least 6 months and we didn't have any big
effect on seizure control for about a year...BUT we have gone from over
twenty status seizures and countless smaller seizures per year to two so far
this year. She is still on Topamax and if I mess with that we have a seizure
so maybe there is something else going on with Kayla?
Heat is one thing that used to set Emma off, our neuro explained that she
cannot regulate her body temp so we tried to avoid overheating her. Can you
bring a fan into the classroom or even a window AC? I would definitely hang
in there with the VNS, I think worse case scenario it just won't work but I
don't think it would cause seizures unless they skipped from "off" to the
highest setting.
All the best,
Julie

Dr. Carbone's Workshop #1: Introduction to Verbal Behavior is being held
on March 14, 15, & 16, 2003 in the Washington, D.C. area. More information
and the registration form is available at:
http://www.asanv.org/carbonereg.htm
Thanks very much,
Lisa Nicklas
lnicklas@...

Are there any parents in York County currently using an AVB home
program with their autistic kids and if so have you had any success
getting the school to fund your program? I am currently paying for
my consultant and have been for about a year now. My son, who is 3,
has just started in an autistic classroom and I was wondering if any
other parents had had any luck getting their programs paid for by the
school district. I am in the West Shore School District.
Also, have you had to use a TSS to implement your therapies? I have
been having major problems with my TSS agency and would like to find
some other parents who may be getting services through them, they are
T.W. Ponessa in York. They have sent me one really great TSS, but
they have been sitting on 15 hours a week of services since July and
not providing anyone.
Thanks for any feedback.
Lisa

What about copyright laws??
Would love to see a system where the ABLLS is simplified, just not sure if
it's legally possible without S&P consent.
Let us know if it is.
Deb

Pam,
We haven't been at a table with Evy (other than for drawing and art) for a
year. Evy is very happy. My one concern was that the NET was not an
efficient way to teach the abstract language piece. Evy can have simple
concrete conversations, enjoys playing with friends (and recently has been
able to play with a friend unassisted for up to 8 hours at a time--major
milestone). His symbolic play is becoming wonderful. His pretending skills
have blossomed. He told me the other day when I caught him walking outside
barefoot, to "Pretend my feet are shoes." He still has very significant
gaps in abstract thinking. But I won't take him back to the table for
anything. He doesn't like it. And by table, I mean where he knows and I
know that he is expected to perform or give answers in order to get
something or escape. He knows that a demand is placed on him and he doesn't
want to go through that anymore.
So we have to be a little sneaky. I take out games and work on language
skills on the sly. His SLP at school gets away with this game board like a
token economy. He thinks he's playing a game, but has to do sequencing
cards in order to move his token. Move the game to the floor, if you need
to. And let him stop when he's had enough. Sometimes, the real issue is a
power struggle, where he just wants to have control of how long he engages
in an activity. If he doesn't feel like you are mindful of his needs and
wants, he may act up. He doesn't feel like a partner. He's being bullied,
and knows it. Not to say that is the case with your son. But sometimes the
most powerful words in building social relationships are, "Ok, you don't
have to do that if you don't want to. " If a child trusts that he has your
respect in that manner, he may return to work--as a partner, because he will
feel appreciated and respected.
If your team members have been using ABA just to control output, without
stopping to think, "Hey, there's a boy in there who may want to have a
different life" then they haven't really been fair to him. In my opinion,
of course. But when you are trying to build a social relationship, don't
you want to keep that in mind? I'd rather have a social child who takes
longer to learn abstract language, than a great speaker with no desire to
talk to anyone. So we plug away in the NET. And guess what? We enjoy
each other, and breakthroughs still occur.
Yesterday, after getting in serious trouble for deliberately stepping on his
hamburger because he didn't want to eat it, Evy sulked and tantrumed for
about 5 minutes. (No eat hamburger, then no drink slushy--which he
understood very well). Then OUT OF THE BLUE, unprompted, he said, "Mom, I
squished the hamburger. I'm sorry." First time apology on his own. Made my
week. (Gave him a sip of my slushy) To which he said, "Pretend it's my
slushy." (YES!!!!)
Hope this helps. But it's just my opinion. Do what you feel is right for
your son.
Juliet Burk
Www.autismteachingtools.com

Hi everyone,
For anyone living in the Lemoore, CA area I work with a therapist, Kim
Brittian, that is moving there. I have supervised her work on a monthly
basis for the past year and half. She is an absolutely fabulous lead
therapist. She has attended Dr. Carbone's Intro to Verbal Behavior Workshop
(Workshop #1) as well as the Parent workshop (Workshop #2). She has also
attended Holly Kibbe and Cherish Richard's Hands on therapists workshop
(Workshop #4). She also is trained in teaching Reading Mastery.
If anyone is interested in her services, please contact me and I will send
you her email address.
Jenn

We are looking for therapists to add to 2 teams in MD. One team in
PG county, one team in Montgomery County. These are Verbal Behavior
teams. Both are 5 years old.
Please email me privately if interested.
Thanks!

FYI, here is a Verbal Behavior workshop in Ypsilanti MI, just east of
Ann Arbor and west of Detroit, close to the DTW airport (about 20 miles
west). Feel free to forward...
Barb B
Ann Arbor MI
************
Verbal Behavior Intro Workshop in Ann Arbor-Detroit area
Teaching Communication to Children With Language Delays Using
Applied Behavior Analysis: A Verbal Behavior Approach
Presented by John Esch, Ph.D. and Barbara Esch, M.A., CCC-SLP
Workshop
This 2-day workshop introduces participants to a behavioral approach to
teaching communication skills to children with language delays. Many
children diagnosed with autism or other developmental disabilities
require intensive teaching in order to learn. Our goal is to help
children acquire the critical skills necessary to learn without 1:1
instruction and to use language effectively, fluently, and accurately
whether they are vocal or non-vocal at present.
The workshop presents information and practice in:
- the differences between a traditional and verbal behavior approach to
teaching language
- how to assess which skills should be taught
- how to select first targets to teach
- how to teach effectively so language skills are acquired, maintained,
and generalized (errorless learning)
- how to capture motivational variables to enhance skill acquisition
This workshop is designed for parents, teachers, teaching assistants,
speech/language pathologists, in-home trainers, as well as other family
members and professionals who interact with children with language
delays. It is limited to 40 participants to allow guided practice of
teaching skills.
* Participants are encouraged to obtain and bring a copy of The
Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS) by James W.
Partington and Mark L. Sundberg available at www.behavioranalysts.com or
at (925) 210-9370, ex 100 (PST). A few copies will be available for
reference at the workshop.
Follow up assistance
Follow-up clinic consultations will be offered to smaller groups of
participants from this workshop and others who have established Verbal
Behavior Programs. Consults may include skill tracking, data collection
and management, program review and evaluation based on videos,
maintaining teaching competencies, and natural environment training.
Efforts will be made to provide individual family consultation within
the group on specific issues of importance to each family pertaining to
the language program they are developing.
Presenters
Dr. John Esch is a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) and licensed
psychologist with over 25 years of experience as a consultant and
teacher of children, adolescents, and adults with disabilities. His
workshops and presentations have focused on verbal behavior (VB) and VB
classroom design, classroom management, functional assessments, and
challenging behaviors of difficult-to-manage students.
Barbara Esch is a speech pathologist and board certified behavior
analyst (BCBA). She has extensive experience in applied verbal behavior
(AVB) language interventions for children with autism and other
disabilities and has worked in school, home, and hospital settings. She
has presented many workshops in AVB language teaching applications using
the principles of behavior analysis.
Esch Behavior Consultants, Inc. of Jupiter, FL specializes in language
assessment and acquisition programs for children and adults with autism
and other developmental disabilities and in the design of Verbal
Behavior Classrooms (VBCs) in school settings. Consultant services are
provided in home settings with individual families and in public and
private schools. Workshops, presentations, and clinics are also
available.
Registration and Workshop Information
When: Friday and Saturday, October 18-19, 2002
Time: 8:30 4:00
Where: Marriott Eagle Crest Resort and Conference Center, Ypsilanti,
Michigan
Directions: I-94, exit 183, just east of Ann Arbor, south about 0.2
miles @ 1275 S. Huron Street
For hotel reservations: www.ypsilantimarriott.com (734) 487-2000
Cost: $235.00 per person (am/pm beverages included; lunch on your own)
No on-site registration will be available.
Make checks payable to Esch Behavior Consultants, Inc. Send
registration form and check to:
VB Workshops, Esch Behavior Consultants, Inc., 5047 W. Main # 375,
Kalamazoo, MI 49009-1001
Registration Form
- 2-day Teaching Communication Skills Workshop ($235)
(Participants will receive a copy of the book Teaching Language to
Children with Autism or Other Developmental Disabilities by Mark L.
Sundberg and James W. Partington)
- Deduct $40 if you have a copy of the book Teaching Language to
Children with Autism or Other Developmental Disabilities
- Late registration fee $25.00 (Add if payment will be postmarked after
September 30, 2002)
Amount enclosed $

Can anyone provide some possible contacts. We need a consultant willing
to travel to the central coast of California at least 6 times a year.
Needs to have an NPA and extensive experience combining VB, Fluency
and DTT.
We are in our 4th year of an ABA program and have already used UCLA and
Behavior Analysts.
Any suggestions on who to contact would be appreciated.
Thanks

Hello friends! We've been burning the midnight oil at
www.autismteachingtools.com. Check out our reorganized Children's Book
List. Now easier to use, you can search by skill level (Early,
Intermediate, and Advanced) as well as by concept. Check out a recent
addition--"Just Dog" by Hiawyn Oram. " Just Dog" will help facilitate
pretend play skills by helping your learner brainstorm names for pets, dolls
and toys. Happy Searching!

Does anyone know about services (consultants/ school programs) in
Wilmington