Premature Ventricular Contractions and more

FWD From press release
"New Group for Parents of Children With Autism Seeks Participants
10-week group will teach Pivotal Response Training techniques--Palo Alto/South
Penninsula
Who: Parents of children ages 1-5 years, diagnosed with autism spectrum
disorders.
What: Pivotal Response Training for parents of children with autism.
When: 5-6:30pm Tuesdays, for 10 weeks, beginning October 2, with new 10-week
groups ongoing afterwards.
Where: Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, 401 Quarry Road, Palo Alto.
Phone: 650-498-9111 for general information and enrollment eligibility.
SOURCE Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford
Full Press release:
http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/08-13-200\
7/0004644473&EDATE=
or
http://tinyurl.com/23rykh

August 6, 2007
Editorial (The New York Times)
We Never Really Talk Anymore
Experts on language the real ones, not those of us who merely use
it are having an intense debate about which species can talk. On
one side are those who believe that only humans converse. On another
side (this kind of debate can have many sides) are those who say,
what about dolphins and whales and certainly the amazing Koko, the
gorilla?
Koko has a sign language vocabulary of at least 1,000 words. She can
recognize about 2,000 spoken words. And people pay attention. Once
when she had a bad tooth, Koko signed the word for pain and pointed
to her mouth and a medical team was rushed in immediately. The rest
of us mammals can only envy her.
In a new book called "The First Word," Christine Kenneally catalogs
the complex debate over language and includes one particularly
revealing experiment in which scientists put two male apes who knew
sign language together. One might have expected these guys to start
grousing about their keepers, to wonder at beings that are all
thumbs and actually seem to enjoy giving away bananas. But, no, they
started madly signing at each other, a manual shouting match, and in
the end, neither appeared to actually listen to the other.
So, are two creatures actually conversing if they're both talking
and nobody is listening? Where does talking-without-listening put
one in the animal brain chain?
Let's see, talking without listening. Many wives can think of
someone who might qualify. Teenagers do, easily. And parents of
teenagers. Also, a lot of successful politicians and talk show
hosts.
With a hot August and a long political season ahead, we might
venture that what really separates human from ape is not the ability
to talk in complete sentences. It is our underused capacity to
listen.
End.
Not so much my groups.. .
Mike

Behavior Analysis in Practice
ABA International is pleased to announce a peer-reviewed translational
publication designed to provide science-based, best-practices information
relevant to service delivery in behavior analysis. The target audience includes
front-line service workers and their supervisors, scientist-practitioners, and
school personnel. BAP's mission is to promote empirically validated best
practices in an accessible format that describes not only what works, but also
the challenges of implementation in practical settings.
CALL FOR PAPERS
BAP is now accepting papers for its inaugural issue, scheduled for spring 2008.
Types of articles and topics published in BAP will include empirical reports
describing the application and evaluation of behavior-analytic procedures and
programs; discussion papers on professional and practice issues; technical
articles on methods, data analysis, or instrumentation in the practice of
behavior analysis; tutorials on terms, procedures, and theories relevant to best
practices in behavior analysis; and critical reviews of books and products that
are aimed at practitioners or consumers of behavior analysis. Authors should use
language that is easily accessible to practitioners, clearly define all
technical terms, and link research findings directly to practice.
To ensure consideration for the Spring 2008 issue, please submit manuscripts to
the editor by October 1, 2007.
For detailed information about manuscript preparation:
http://www.abainternational.org/Journals/bap_manuscripts.asp

Hi,
I'm a VB therapist looking for additional hours. I have B.A in
education. I was intensively trained in Verbal Behavior by top
consultants.
I just attended to Dr. Carbone's workshop and I'm already registered
to ITT workshop by EO.
I'm willing to have long term commitments. I have excellent references.
Hours are mostly mornings and afternoons.
Resume upon request.
Luciana

Fisher-Price Recalls Licensed Character Toys Due To Lead Poisoning Hazard
"...Description: The recalled involves various figures and toys that were
manufactured between April 19, 2007 and July 6, 2007 and were sold alone or as
part of sets. The model names and product numbers for the recalled toys, which
are all marked with Fisher-Price, are listed below. The toys may have a date
code between 109-7LF and 187-7LF marked on the product or packaging.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from May 2007 through August 2007 for between
$5 and $40..."
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml07/07257.html
More information and pictures of the recalled toys at Mattel
http://service.mattel.com/us/recall.asp

Tutor needed to work with an adorable, loving, 9 year old with moderate autism.
We have an
intensive home-based program and are in need of hiring enthusiastic, energetic,
patient,
and caring people before school starts this fall. Please contact me ASAP if you
are interested
as we are hiring now for a starting date at the end August. We are looking for
someone with
VB/ABA experience, knowledge Basic Sign language, but are willing to train.
Minimum 2 years of College required:prefer college major in education,
OT,PT,ST,Psycology,Sociology, Nursing
Schedules are flexible
1 year commitment is needed for this position
Please feel free to contact me privately trinan@...

Planning Group Natural Environment Teaching (NET) Activities
in School Settings
A Two-day Workshop Conducted by: Thomas M. Caffrey, M.Ed., BCBA
Tuesday, Sept. 18 and Wednesday, Sept.19, 2007, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Rochester Central Library, Bausch and Lomb Bldg., Kate Gleason
Auditorium
115 South Avenue Gleason Auditorium, Rochester, NY 14604
GREATER ROCHESTER S.A.F.E. (Schools Are For Everyone) is proud to
present an incredible workshop to help teachers, speech theapists,
parents and other professionals improve language skills using Verbal
Behavior techniques. This workshop will enhance your current program
significantly increasing your students "understanding" of
language. Just because we teach a child "this is a cup," does
not mean s/he will know "a cup is something you drink out of."
Start Your School Year Off Rightwith the tools needed for success.
Purchase Orders accepted from School Districts. Discounts offered for
groups attending. (see below for details). Early Bird Rates
deadline extended to August 10. (An amazing price for this intensive
workshop.)
WORKSHOP DETAILS:
Traditional ABA programs for children with autism have focused on
teaching skills in a scripted, 1:1 manner. The behavioral literature has
provided convincing evidence that many children with autism can acquire
effective communication repertoires (Maurice, Green and Luce, 1996).
Despite the successes of behavioral approaches, the development of
generalized and functional communication repertoires in children with
autism has been disappointing (Fay and Schuler, 1980). Many behavioral
language programs have failed to incorporate natural environment
teaching methods into their programs (Laski et al, 1988).
This workshop will demonstrate how capturing & contriving motivation is
the key to accelerated skill acquisition & generalization across many
settings & people. Specifically, strategies for planning & implementing
highly motivating group activities in public school classrooms will be
provided. Specifically, participants will be able to:
* Define natural environment teaching (NET).
* Capture & contrive motivation in group settings by identifying
common reinforcers.
* Effectively condition peers & toys as reinforcers through pairing.
* Write & implement NET lesson plans.
* Utilize a variety of strategies for collecting data in the NET.
* Develop play skills in accordance with a developmental hierarchy.
* Identify & teach the component skills needed to be a conversational
speaker.
* Provide meaningful opportunities for the generalization of academic
skills.
Presenter: Thomas M. Caffrey, M.Ed., completed an undergraduate degree
in Education from Arizona State University and a Masters degree in
Education from Georgian Court College, where he was awarded the Project
of Distinction for his work on training paraprofessionals to work with
children with autism. In addition, he completed graduate coursework in
behavior analysis from Penn State University and is now finishing the
requirements leading to certification as a behavior analyst.
For additional information, Please call 585-242-0707 or email
rmiga@... <mailto:rmiga@...
REGISTRATION FORM
PLEASE MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO: Greater Rochester SAFE
Mail to: Rhonda Miga, 205 Viennawood Drive, Rochester, NY 14618.
Name:

On behalf of the Association for Behavior Analysis International Executive
Council, we are excited
to announce the Call for Posters for the 2nd Autism conference: Issues and
Recent Advancements in
the Behavioral Treatment of Autism: Practical Strategies for Changing Behavior
at Home and
School. The event will take place Friday, February 8th through Sunday,
February 10th, 2008 at the Hyatt
Regency Atlanta in Atlanta, Georgia.
Last February ABA sponsored a conference in Boston on the behavioral treatment
of autism that drew
more than 1,650 registrants from 21 Countries and 46 States in the USA. Based
on the
unprecedented success of the 2007, we are pleased to offer this new opportunity
to meet and discuss various
autism related topics.
The 2008 conference program will focus on the challenges, interests, and needs
faced by
parents/family members of children with autism and the practitioners who
provide behaviorally based
education and treatment services for their children. The conference will have
two general themes: home-
and community-based interventions and curriculum and instruction in the
classroom/school. The
emphasis will be on pragmatic, research-based "how to" information that
practitioners and parents can
use to improve the lives of children with autism spectrum disorders. This
program should be of
interest to in-home behavioral therapists, teachers of preschool and school-age
children with ASD,
adult service providers, caregivers, teacher trainers, and students.
The single-track program will feature presentations by ten distinguished
researchers, educators,
and parents whose work has contributed immensely to effective and humane
education and treatment of
children with autism:
Mary Beth Walsh, Ph.D., Caldwell College,
"Our Children Are Worth It: A Parent's Perspective on Behavioral Interventions
at Home and School"
Patricia Krantz, Ph.D., Princeton Child Development Institute,
"Teaching the Social Dance: Using Script-Fading Procedures to Promote
Conversation"
Andy Bondy, Ph.D., Pyramid Educational Consultants, Inc.,
"A Clear Picture: The Use and Benefits of PECS"
Ilene Schwartz, Ph.D., BCBA, University of Washington,
"Effective School-Based Program for Children with Autism"
Cathy L. Watkins, Ph.D., BCBA, California State University, Stanislaus,
"From DT to DI: Using Direct Instruction to Teach Students with Autism Spectrum
Disorders"
Gregory MacDuff, Ph.D., Princeton Child Development Institute,
"Using ABA to Improve the Lives of Adults with Autism in Work, Community, and
Residential
Settings"
Gina Green, Ph.D., BCBA, San Diego State University,
"'Evidence-Based Practice': Improvement or Illusion?"
James Partington, Ph.D., BCBA, Behavior Analysts, Inc.,
"Motivation: A Critical Issue in the Development and Implementation of
Educational Programs for
Young Children with Autism"
Mary Jane Weiss, Ph.D., BCBA, Rutgers University,
"Comprehensive ABA Programming: Matching Learner Needs with Instructional
Strategies"
Laura Schreibman, Ph.D., University of California, San Diego,
"One Size Does Not Fit All: Developing Individualized Treatment Protocols for
Children with
Autism"
For a full list of abstracts and speaker biographies please visit
http://www.abainternational.org/autconf/program/program.asp.
The conference will also include poster sessions and exhibitors on Friday
evening, providing a
great opportunity for researchers and practitioners to showcase their recent
work. Submissions are
now being accepted for the poster sessions. Posters should present behaviorally
based education and
treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorders in a format accessible
to and useful for
practitioners and families. Posters may translate original research to practice
or describe
programs and curricula with supporting data on effectiveness. Poster presenters
are encouraged to bring
handouts, resource materials, or other information that will allow attendees to
learn more about
the treatment strategy, behavior change tactic, program, or curriculums
described on the poster, and
potentially implement it with their students/children.
Submissions may be made on the Web at
http://www.abainternational.org/autconf/callforpapers/poster/form-poster.aspx.
Space is limited,
so we encourage you to submit as soon as possible. The deadline for poster
submissions is
Wednesday, September 26, 2007.
The 2008 Autism Conference will have an exhibit area featuring service providers
and other
organizations related to the field of autism. To become an exhibitor, please
review the information on
our website at
http://www.abainternational.org/autconf/exhibitors/exhibitInfo.asp.
Exhibitor contracts will be available soon and must be received in the ABA
office by November,
2007 to be included in the program book.
ABA is expecting another wonderful event and we look forward to receiving
submissions for the 2008
Autism Conference. Any questions about submissions or exhibiting can be
directed to the ABA
office at (269) 492-9310 or convention@....
Best,
William L. Heward, Ed.D., BCBA
President-Elect
Association for Behavior Analysis International
Maria E. Malott, Ph.D.
Executive Director/Secretary Treasurer
Association for Behavior Analysis International

I am looking for ideas on activities and exercises that I can do as a
parent to help my daughter understand the concept of YES / NO
questions.

To all who are interested,
Precision Teaching Group Ltd and Fosse Way School are presenting the following
courses in October, 2007 in Radstock, near Bath:
The brochures and registration forms can be downloaded at
www.precisionteachinggroup.com
Course:
Introduction to Verbal Behaviour
<http://s155601106.websitehome.co.uk/PTG/default.aspx
Location:
Fosse Way School
<http://s155601106.websitehome.co.uk/PTG/Lists/Fosse%20Way%20School/DispForm.asp\
x?ID=1
Begin:
October 13, 2007
End:
October 14, 2007
Description:
A two day workshop introducing the Verbal Behaviour approach to developing
language
Notes:
Verbal Behaviour (VB) is a functional approach to teaching language and
communication based upon the work of B.F. Skinner and research in the field of
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
This two-day workshop presented by Holly Kibbe, MS, BCBA and Cherish Richards,
MS, BCABA, is designed to provide parents, therapists, teachers, consultants and
other professionals with information and strategies to teach individuals with
autism and other related disorders.
During the two-day workshop, participants will learn about ABA/Verbal Behavior
and spend a great deal of time viewing video-taped illustrations as well as
role-playing examples of good teaching procedures.
Participants will learn methods to teach children with autism across various
learner levels (early to advanced) in both the natural environment and the
one-to-one intensive teaching environment.
Event Type:
ASD Support Training; Verbal Behaviour Training; Behaviour Support Training;
Language Development Training; BACB ACE Level 3 Training
Event Coordinator:
Scott Sandford
<http://s155601106.websitehome.co.uk/PTG/Lists/Training%20Contacts/DispForm.aspx\
?ID=1
Presenter:
Holly Kibbe, MS, BCBA
And
Cherish Richards, MS, BCBA
Cost of this workshop:
Parents £150
Professionals £200
Course:
Intermediate Verbal Behaviour Workshop
Location:
Fosse Way School
<http://s155601106.websitehome.co.uk/PTG/Lists/Fosse%20Way%20School/DispForm.asp\
x?ID=1
Begin:
October 15th, 2007
End:
October 17th, 2007
Description:
A three day hands-on workshop following on from the Introduction to Verbal
Behaviour workshop
Notes:
This three (3) day workshop is designed to provide tutors, therapists, and
parents, that serve as their child's primary therapist, with guided practice in
implementing the methods described in Introduction to Verbal Behavior workshop.
The participants spend most of their time practicing the methods of effective
instruction demonstrated in video-taped illustrations during the Introductory
Workshop.
The participants are provided supervised practice in small groups in the areas
of instruction. Each participant receives precise feedback on their teaching
methods and can get feedback on child-specific issues.
Developing an IEP for the child in your care is an integral part of this
workshop and forms the basis of much of the practice work. Please come prepared
with your IEP targets or a completed copy of the ABLLS.
Ideally, all members of a team should attend to ensure consistency in approach
after the workshop.
Event Type:
ASD Support Training; Verbal Behaviour Training; Behaviour Support Training;
Language Development Training; BACB ACE Level 3 Training
Event Coordinator:
Scott Sandford
<http://s155601106.websitehome.co.uk/PTG/Lists/Training%20Contacts/DispForm.aspx\
?ID=1
Presenter:
Holly Kibbe, MS, BCBA
And
Cherish Richards, MS, BCBA
Prerequisites:
Introduction to Verbal Behaviour
<http://s155601106.websitehome.co.uk/PTG/Lists/Current%20Courses/DispForm.aspx?I\
D=8
Max Attendees:
28
Note: This course is limited to 28 Participants
Cost of this workshop:
Parents £250
Professionals £300
For futher information, please contact:
Scott Sandford, BCABA
Precision Teaching Group Ltd
Studio 6, The Tramshed
Bath BA1 5BB
Tel: 01225 731366
Email: admin@...

Free online video/Windows Media Player
autism speaks to the world/ el autism habla al mundo
International Congress
English/Espanol
Mexico, July 5-7, 2007
Catherine Lord, Geraldine Dawson, Eric Fombonne and others.
http://www.clima.org.mx/congreso.htm

"(Penn) National conference provides opportunities for families with autistic
children to connect"
Note: The links in the press release I received are incorrect/do not work/are
not yet active. I corrected these in the email to active links that work right
now.
For full info on the conference, see:
http://www.outreach.psu.edu/conference/autism/default-Agenda.asp

Corbets Tey School, in Upminster are hosting the next three day introductory
workshop by Dr Carbone: 'Teaching Communication Skills to Children with
Autism or other Developmental Disabilities'
The course will take place at The Thurrock Hotel in Aveley Essex United
Kingdom (junction 30/31 off the M25) from Wednesday 12th to Friday 14th March
2008.
Registration is now being taken and forms are available from Susan on:
_Susan.insole@..._

I am posting this for a young girl who is moving to the north Philly area and is
looking for a position as a therapist........she has experience as a shadow in
the school setting and also providing one to one in a home program (ABA/VB). If
anyone is interested in speaking with her please contact Desiree directly at:
dlbindus@...
Mary

Repeated by popular demand!
Toilet Training Children with Autism or other Developmental Disabilities
Sponsored by Wayman Learning Center
Presented by Gail Wayman, M.Ed., Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Date/time: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Cost: $10 per person; $15 per couple. Seating is limited - please register
ahead of time. Sorry no childcare provided.
Location: Wayman Learning Center, 5170 Village Creek Dr. #200, Plano, TX
75093.
To register, please complete the registration form found online at
http://www.waymanlearningcenter.com/Wayman%20Learning%20Center_workshops1.ht
ml. If you have questions, please contact
workshops@....
The purpose of this workshop is to present parents and professionals with a
comprehensive behaviorally based program for toilet training children with
autism or other developmental disabilities who might not or have not
responded to traditional toilet training intervention. A handout will be
included. This program can be implemented for children of all ages and
includes the following: Teaching the child to independently initiate
toileting; Positive reinforcement for staying dry, eliminating in the toilet
and initiating the toileting process; Consequences for wetting or soiling
clothing. This program has been successful with children who are non-verbal
and/or have cognitive deficits.

My son has some reading comprehension and knows most of the who, what, why
and where questions with categories and knows conversations. He does
conversation too. He also knows some why questions and how questions, but
has trouble with the how and why questions as well as describing 4 things on
categories. I was wondering if you do how and why questions with categories.
Ex with actions.Why does he ride a bike? How does he ride a bike? I also
recognized that how questions go with sequencing.
Lisa

TEACHING VERBAL BEHAVIOR IN THE INTENSIVE TEACHING ENVIRONMENT
Establishing Operations, Inc.
Holly Kibbe, MS, BCBA® & Cherish Twigg, MS, BCBA®
_www.establishingoperationsinc.com_
(http://www.establishingoperationsinc.com)
When: November 13 & 14, 2007
Where: The ARC of Montgomery County
11600 Nebel Street
Rockville, MD 20852-2554
This TWO-day workshop conducted by Holly Kibbe, MS, BCBA® and Cherish Twigg,
MS, BCBA®, provides consultants, therapists other professionals and parents
(who serve as their childâs primary therapist) with guided practice in
implementing the methods described in Introductory Verbal Behavior Workshops.
This
two day workshop is devoted entirely to teaching in the _Intensive Teaching
Environment (ITT)_ (http://establishingoperationsinc.com/images/ITTrev.pdf) .
The participants will spend much of their time practicing the methods of
effective instruction as demonstrated in videotape illustrations during the
workshop. Participants will receive precise feedback on their teaching methods.
This workshop will address the areas of:
* Establishing instructional control with an unwilling learner;
* Manipulating motivating operations (MO) during teaching opportunities
to maintain learner attention;
* Using the ABLLS to develop an intensive teaching program;
* Video examples and guided instruction to teach objectives indicated
in the ABLLS;
* Teaching early to advanced receptive, visual performance, motor
imitation, tacting and intraverbal skills;
* Teaching social skills to early through advanced learners;
* Organizing your program materials and data recording methods
including hands on practice for data recording.
Prerequisites: It is strongly recommended that all participants have
attended a Verbal Behavior Introductory Workshop and have at least some
experience
teaching children with autism within a verbal behavior program.
Required Materials: Participants should bring an ABLLS or ABLLS-R manual
with them to the course.
Registration Fees: Early Bird Registration $390.oo if received prior to
August 1, 2007; Regular Registration: $425.00 if received after August 1, 2007
~ Register Early ~ Limited enrollment ~
For additional registration forms, email us at _SLPBCBA@..._
(mailto:SLPBCBA@...)
************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.

Here is the official announcement about my book. Thanks for all of your
support!
Mary
_______
Mary Lynch Barbera, RN, MSN, BCBA
_www.vbapproach.com_ (http://www.vbapproach.com)
The Verbal Behavior (VB) approach is a form of Applied Behavior Analysis
(ABA), that is based on B.F. Skinnerâs analysis of verbal behavior and works
particularly well with children with minimal or no speech abilities. In this
book Mary Lynch Barbera draws on her own experiences as a Board Certified
Behavior Analyst and also as a parent of a child with autism to explain VB and
how
to use it.
This step-by-step guide provides an abundance of information about how to
help children develop better language and speaking skills, and also explains
how to teach non-vocal children to use sign language. An entire chapter focuses
on ways to reduce problem behavior, and there is also useful information on
teaching toileting and other important self-help skills, that would benefit
any child.
This book will enable parents and professionals unfamiliar with the
principles of ABA and VB to get started immediately using the Verbal Behavior
approach to teach children with autism and related disorders.
Praise for the book:
âThis book is an important one. Parents will be delighted with its easy and
practical approach. It fills a void that currently exists for families trying
to figure out how to do a VB approach. Furthermore, it explains a great deal
about how ABA approaches behavior and teaching. The sections on rapport
building, the importance of motivation, errorless teaching, and reinforcement
are
well-written, accurate, and perfectly suited to the needs of parents and
professionals new to this approach. Her words of advice to families are spoken
from the heart and are very wise.â
â Mary Jane Weiss, Journal of Early and Intensive Behavior Intervention
âAn easy to follow guide that works. The Verbal Behavior approach is
motivation driven, creating the desire to learn.â
â Kathleen Ricca, M.Ed., parent of a three-year-old boy with autism
âOne of the most valuable books for parents of children with autism since
Let Me Hear Your Voice by Catherine Maurice.â
â Mark Sundberg, Ph.D.,BCBA
âBarbera is not only accurate, but easy to understandâ¦her personal
experience in this area makes her explanations and instructions entertaining
and easy
to apply.â
â Dr. Jack Michael, Editor of The Analysis of Verbal Behavior
âA succinct, intelligible tour of an effective intervention for autistic
children through both speech and non-verbal communicationâ¦Autistic children
frequently experience language delays and disorders. Behavioral analyst
Barbera,
whose first son has autism, explores the Verbal Behavior (VB) approach, in
conjunction with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), to aid his communication
skills, as well as providing abundant other examples of its successful
application. VB is a refinement of B.F. Skinnerâs pioneering work on language
and
operates under the conviction that expressive language is behavioral, rather
than
purely cognitive. Barbera takes Skinnerâs arcane language and renders it not
only clear but convincing. VB assesses âwhat your child likes and then uses
those items and activitiesâ¦to motivate the child to do the work necessary to
begin to learn,â with the central theme being to teach your child to make
specific requests. Positive reinforcement is vital, and teachers must be the
locus of enjoyable experience. Barbera walks readers through the process, from
identifying things that reinforce desired behaviors to teaching operantsâ¦
Persuasive arguments for a treatment addressing one of autismâs most
profoundly
hindering conditions.â
-Kirkus Reviews
Book details:
The Verbal Behavior Approach
How to Teach Children with Autism and Related Disorders
Mary Lynch Barbera with Tracy Rasmussen
Foreword by Mark L. Sundberg, Ph.D., BCBA
2007
200 pages
ISBN 978 1 84310 852 8
Paperback
£13.99/US$19.95
How to buy the book:
Further details can be found on the JKP website:
http://www.jkp.com/new/9781843108528
You can also order a copy of the book online from this page.
Related Titles:
If this book interests you, you might also like:
Tales from the Table
Lovaas/ABA Intervention with Children on the Autistic Spectrum
Margaret Anderson
Further details can be found on the JKP website:
http://www.jkp.com/new/9781843103066
or,
Homeschooling the Child with Asperger Syndrome
Real Help for Parents Anywhere and On Any Budget
Lise Pyles
Further details can be found on the JKP website:
http://www.jkp.com/new/9781843107613
If you would like to order a copy of a book and you are unable to access the
Internet, you can contact us at:
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 116 Pentonville Road, London, N1 9JB, UK
Tel: (+44) 020 7833 2307 Fax: (+44) 020 7837 2917 email: post@...
In the US: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, Inc. 400 Market Street, Suite 400,
Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA Tel: (Toll free ordering) 866-416-1078 Tel: (main
office) 215-922-1161 Fax: 215-922-1474 email: orders@...
***********************************************************************
Jessica Kingsley Publishers - 20 years of independent publishing 1987-2007
Independent Publisher of the Year
Academic & Professional Publisher of the Year
Jessica Kingsley Publishers is a limited company registered in England.
Registered number: 2073602
***********************************************************************
************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.

Space still available with two and one-half weeks left to register
POAC-NoVA is proud to present:
Title: WS #1: INTRODUCTION TO VERBAL BEHAVIOR
Teaching Communication Skills to Children with Autism an
Other Developmental Disabilities
Presented by: Vincent J. Carbone, Ed.D., BCBA
Location: Hyatt Dulles (Herndon, VA Washington, D.C. metro area)
Date: July 12-14, 2007
Time: 8:30am-5pm (each day)
Audience: School system personnel, parents, and other professionals
Cost: $250-$275 (depending on POAC-NoVA membership)
CEUs: for BCABAs and BCBAs
Hotel reservations: A special rate of $109/room per night at the Hyatt
Dulles has been arranged for the workshop. This rate is available for
reservations made before June 28th, 2007.
More information available at:
http://www.poac-nova.org/newsmanager/news_article.cgi?news_id=1244

Interesting.
Barb B

Good day everyone,
There are a couple of positions open for therapists to work privately with my
family and my 3 autistic children. Obviously knowledge of and experience
working in VB is a definite asset as well. These would be full time positions,
with medical benefits included, you would get to live on a sub-tropical island,
and gain experience and training. There is a VB consultant from the US who
visits regularly and coordinates the boys' programs, providing ongoing training
to the therapists. The positions will involve some work within the school
environment, as well as at home therapy. Intermediate/Advanced learners.
Knowledge/experience working with socialization and conversational skills
definitely an asset.
These are great positions, looking for energetic and good hearted people to
fill them. Please forward your resume to me. The positions will be beginning
by late august at the latest, sooner if the right candidates are found quickly.
If you would like more information please feel free to contact me at any time.
Regards
Trish

x-post/FYI

Hello all,
The Behavior Analyst Online organization is proud to announce that
the latest issue of our open access journal -SLP-ABA 2.2 is
published on site...Because the site is undergoing upgrades please
enter at http://www.slp-aba.com/
This is a look at the TOC of the issue of SPL-ABA:
1. Allen, K. D. EMG Biofeedback Treatment of Dysphonias and
Related Voice Disorders
2. Barnett et al., Preschool Intervention Scripts: Lessons from
20 years of Research and Practice
3. Pratt, S., Using Electropalatographi c Feedback to Treat the
Speech of a Child with Severe-to-Profound Hearing Loss
4. Jahr, E. & Eldevik, S. Changes in Solitary Functional Play
following the Acquisition of Cooperative Play by Children with Autism
5. Jahr, E. & Eldevik, S. Response Variability and Turn-Taking
in Cooperative Play
6. Nikopoulos, C. K. Use of Video Modeling to Increase
Generalization of Social Play by Children with Autism
7. Schoneberger, T. Autism Research Controversy: A Response to
Howard et al.'s (2005 Defenders
8. Wright, D.J. Response to Schoneberger (2006): "EIBT Research
After Lovaas (1987): A Tale of Two Studies"
9. Correction: (Passos, 2007)

Would someone describe in layman's terms how and if these two tools
would be used the same? How are they different?
Thank you,
Teri

Forward
From Jim Mulick. Message below.

We have a student at our ABA/VB school who has been with us for almost
2 years. He has learned over 70 signs, which he uses spontaneously.
He has many intraverbal fill-ins. Tacts have been a difficult area
for him and we're working on giving objects on request.
His mands are spontaneous and he uses his signs very well, however
we're not having much luck getting vocalizations. When he first came
to us, he made NO sounds...not even when crying. Within 6 months he
was making some decent attempts to speak with his signs (i.e., he said
"ticka" for tickle). He always attempts to say the words he's
signing, but he does not use his voice. They are all grunting noises,
but they're approximations. He either whispers or grunts and is never
very clear. Mama is pretty clear, but he doesn't produce appropriate
sound behind it.
Has anyone dealt with with this issue before? Any suggestions???? He
has done the entire horn hierarchy before (the horns that you use to
increase "air flow"). His mom wants him to speak so bad and we're
just trying to figure out a way to at least get some sound behind his
words.
We do 3-5 echoic trials during manding paired with his signs and we
are tracking if his mands are getting clearer. They are getting
clearer in most cases, but there is no voice.
This week we will re-implement stimulus-stimulus pairing procedure to
see if we can just get a voiced response out of him for "ah." We have
done this before, but it's been a while since we did it, so we're
going to try again.
Thanks for any advice...
Shauna

Autism Workshop Continuing Education
ABLLS-R: Developing Effective Language Goals
Introduction to the Assessment of Basic Language& Learning Skills -
Revised
A Conference for Parents and Professionals
When: Friday - July 27th 2007 - 9:00 - 4:00
Where: Woodstock, Georgia
Presenters: Robert W. Montgomery, Ph.D., BCBA
Description: This one-day conference is designed to provide
consultants, therapists, and parents who serve children in the Autism
Spectrum with an introduction to the ABLLS-R. The Assessment of Basic
Language and Learning Skills - Revised (The ABLLS-R) is an extensive
revision of the original ABLLS so widely used in developing effective
curricula for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other
language delays. It is an assessment tool, curriculum guide, and
skills-tracking system used to help guide the instruction of language
and critical learner skills for children with autism or other
developmental disabilities. This powerful tool is now available to
parents, teachers, speech pathologists, behavior analysts, and others
who design, coordinate, and/or supervise language or skill-acquisition
programs.
Participants will view videotape of actual children in the autism
spectrum, review ABLLS-R protocols from children with language delays,
and be walked through the development of an ABLLS-R assessment.
Additionally, participants will review all materials necessary to the
effective use of the ABLLS-R in our on-site assessment clinic.
Reinforcement Unlimited hosted the first Continuing Education workshop
on the ABLLS-R in the world last year. We are delighted to be
offering this training again in 2007!
Objectives for the workshop include:
· Update on the essential differences between the ABLLS and the ABLLS-R
· Perform skills analyses to determine a child's strengths and deficits.
· Continually measure and monitor learning achievements using
specially designed skill tracking grids
· Utilize assessment results for evaluating priorities, determining
IEP objectives, and developing curricula.
Register by Fax, Mail or Register Online -
Discount for Online Registration
http://www.behavior-consultant.com/ablls%20workshop.htm
Early Registration $155 per person
or $145 per person online
Received on or before July 7th
Regular Registration $175 per person
or $165 per person online
Submit After July 7th
Group Discount $145 per Person
or $135 per person online
3+ Registrants at the same time
Continuing Education Certificates:
Type II CEs for BACB - ($10 additional fee)
To Register by Mail, Fax, or to use a Purchase Order: Contact Us
Location: Reinforcement Unlimited's offices
335 Parkway 575 - Suite 220
Woodstock, GA 30188
(770) 591-9552

Hi all,
Alot of our kiddos love Thomas the Tank Engine...some of the trains have now
been recalled for having lead in the paint. The NBC article and recall list
is below. Please forward this to others who may have or know kiddos who have
Thomas trains.
Thanks
Lori
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19213392/
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of
various "Thomas & Friends" wooden railway toys.
The recall involves wooden vehicles, buildings and other train set
components for young children listed in the chart below. The front of the
packaging has the logo "Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway" on the upper
left-hand corner. A manufacturing code may be located on the bottom of the
product or inside the battery cover. Toys marked with codes containing "WJ"
or "AZ" are not included in this recall.
Recalled Product Name
Red James Engine & Red James' # 5 Coal Tender
Red Lights & Sounds James Engine & Red James' #5 Lights & Sounds Coal Tender
James with Team Colors Engine & James with Team Colors #5 Coal Tender
Red Skarloey Engine
Brown & Yellow Old Slow Coach
Red Hook & Ladder Truck & Red Water Tanker Truck
Red Musical Caboose
Red Sodor Line Caboose
Red Coal Car labeled "2006 Day Out With Thomas" on the Side Red Baggage Car
Red Holiday Caboose
Red "Sodor Mail" Car
Red Fire Brigade Truck
Red Fire Brigade Train
Deluxe Sodor Fire Station
Red Coal Car
Yellow Box Car
Red Stop Sign
Yellow Railroad Crossing Sign
Yellow "Sodor Cargo Company" Cargo Piece
Smelting Yard Ice Cream Factory
Sold at: Toy stores and various retailers nationwide from January 2005
through June 2007 for between $10 and $70.
Manufactured In: China
Remedy: Consumers should take the recalled toys away from young children
immediately and contact RC2 Corp. for a replacement toy.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact RC2 Corp. toll-free at
(866) 725-4407 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Thursday and
between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. CT Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at
http://recalls.rc2.com.

FYI: stories and links to real time audio and transcripts.
Court to Focus on Link Between Autism and Vaccine
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: June 11, 2007
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/us/AP-Autism-Vaccines.html
Op-Ed Contributors
A Spectrum of Disputes
By PAUL T. SHATTUCK and MAUREEN DURKIN
Published: June 11, 2007
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/11/opinion/11shattuck.html?pagewanted=all
Cedillo v. HHS Case No. 98-916V
To register to listen to the trial via phone/real time
http://registration.teleconferencingcenter.com/menu.php?short_name=autismphoneau\
dio
Audio and written transcripts
ftp://autism.uscfc.uscourts.gov/autism/index.html

Hi, I'm looking for an applied Verbal behavior therapist for a home
program. If you are interested, please send me an email privately to
authelp07@....
Thanks

Hello all,
Check out:
TCLC Summer Institute 2007
Applied Behavior Analysis Classrooms
23 - 27 July 2007 - Jackson Hilton, Jackson, Mississippi
http://www.tclc.com/pr01.htm

The 20th International Precision Teaching Conference (IPTC)
is currently having a Call for Presentations
Submission deadline July 1, 2007
For more info on call for presentations:
http://precisionteaching.pbwiki.com/IPTC2007-Call-for-papers

Fellow Parents,
For years, as a mother of a child with special needs, I've been
searching for an enrichment program that makes sense for my daughter.
Organized activities like sports or classes never seemed to work for
her; they never really fit her, or her needs. I decided that I would
create something that would be a meaningful experience for my daughter:
a summer enrichment program that was child centered and operated on the
principle that every child has something to contribute, something to
help them find their greatness.
In my "pre-child" years I had a popular radio show for kids and created
many educational outreach programs for children, and knew that by
incorporating fun into activities, kids stayed engaged and learned
almost implicitly the information that you were conveying to them.
To help develop this program, I joined together with a Licensed
Occupational Therapist and a professor of Psychology and Human
Development at Concordia University, Mary Bernadette, and a special
education teacher in the Grafton, Wisconsin School District who has
developed innovative learning centers for children, Danielle Mossman.
Together, we combed the research on educating children in general, and
special needs children in particular, and developed the Innova-Play
methodology.
This methodology incorporates many techniques that have proven
successful with children with special needs, such as: Applied
Behavioral Analysis/Verbal Behavior, Relationship Development
Intervention, Floortime/Developmental/Individual Difference (P.L.A.Y.
Project), as well components of cutting edge educational philosophies
like Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and Montessori and combined them into a new
approach to working with children.
Innova-Play is a unique methodology dedicated to the principle that
children learn best when they are not forced into an established
curriculum, but excel when they are in settings that are child-centered,
engaged in activities that pique their interest. This is especially
true for children with special needs or for those children who have
difficulty functioning within a traditional classroom: kids who have
very individualized abilities, interests and energy levels. For them,
most programs leave them feeling left out, frustrated or simply lost in
a process that is irrelevant to them.
Innova-Play is different. It starts with an assessment of your
child's play skills, evaluating how they relate to others and their
environment, and determines their energy level and flow. A plan is then
developed addressing their particular needs, and incorporating them into
a group play dynamic. Children work collaboratively and participate in
activities relevant to them, making them full partners in their
Innova-Play experience. Staff continuously observe and interact with
the children, putting them in amorphous groups that adapt to the
child's interests and activity level.
Since your child's play experience "fits" them, they stay engaged,
participating in the Innova-Play plan specifically designed to focus on
areas essential to children with special needs including social skills,
sensory processing, cognition, emotional development and gross motor
skills. By spending the summer having fun, your child acquires the
skills, confidence and internal motivation necessary to engage in life
long learning.
In addition, a multi-media record of your child's participation is
kept, and upon completion of the Innova-Play summer program, a
publication of personalized social stories, a DVD and a scrap book will
come home with your child to reinforce the Innova-Play strategy and
skill development, and allowing them to relive their Innova-Play
experience.
Classes for Innova-Play are now forming in downtown Cedarburg, Wisconsin
just a short drive north of Milwaukee, on Mondays and Wednesdays from
9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. beginning June 11th and running throughout
the summer. Class size is limited, so please contact Innova-Play at
262-268-0609 or at innova.play@... <mailto:innova.play@...
for further information and registration process.
Innova-Play believes that through play, hard work can be accomplished!
Sincerely,
Rhonda J. Greenhaw Wood
Executive Director
DwelLogic, Inc.
Innova-Play

Hi!
Does anyone have any feedback regarding TeachTown? Benefits, flaws,
ABLLS-R compatibility etc.
Thanks in Advance!
S

Prior to the public hearing for SB 178, the bill that would insure that
people with autism had the right to treatment, there will be a rally on
the Capitol Steps, Madison, Wisconsin(the rain location is the Rotunda
of the Capitol). Please bring signs and wear t-shirts or Autism pins,
etc. as there will be media present.
A strong showing here will allow our representatives to see that we are
committed and organized, making our bill's journey through both houses
much easier!
Rhonda
Wisconsin Organizing for Autism Rights Now
WOARN

Thanks to the efforts of Cynthia Singleton (FEAT-Houston), HB 1919 passed
yesterday, and Governor Perry has pledged to sign it into law. Beginning in
September, insurers will be required to provide coverage for treatment of
autism, including ABA, for children up to age 6.
Geraldine

Hello,
I am looking at revamping my team meeting sheet for my in home families.
Does anyone have one that they would share?
Thanks,
Jennifer
Jennifer Crawford, M.Ed, BCABA
http://thelearninglane.com
TX Unlocking Autism State Rep.
http://www.unlockingautism.org/

The Summit Learning Center in Alpharetta, GA (just north of Atlanta)
is now accepting applications for the 2007-2008 school year. We are a
small private school for children with autism and related disorders.
We utilize ABA/VB to teach or students communication, social,
academic, and daily living skills. We have a 1:1 teacher-student
ratio and we also have many different group activities throughout the
day.
This is our 3rd year in operation and we currently have 12 students.
We off a full day of school (9-2) and a half day (9-12). In the fall
we will be moving to a larger location and will accept up to 15 total
students in our program.
For more information please visit www.summitlearningcenter.org
Thanks,
Shauna Courtney, M.Ed.
Summit Learning Center
678-624-1696
www.summitlearningcenter.org

I'm reaching out to you because your presence on this board already
tells me that you're a special person who takes a stand for those with
autism.
I am part owner of Natural Learning Concepts. Our materials are well
known, distributed by many and bought by thousands but what makes us
unique is that we believe in the Greatness of Autism. We are
passionate about ensuring that every child with autism is taken care
of in later life.
We have just started a job placement service for people with
autism/asperger's. This is an opportunity for autism friendly
employers to provide jobs to those on the autism spectrum. There is
NO fee for this service. It's simply a way for people with autism to
be accepted exactly as they are and for them to make a contribution to
the workforce.
I encourage you to post any job you have available. If you think you
don't have a job to post, think again. Do you need a handyman,
painter, secretary? Would your employer be open to hiring someone?
What about your cousin, friend etc? There is no job too big or too
small or too social. We all know that people with autism are diverse
with unlimited capabilities. One job can make a huge difference to
the life of someone with autism. What if that person was your child?
The link to post is http://autism.nlconcepts.com/tool/mb/nlconcepts
A press release about our job placement is at
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2007/05/prweb527152.htm
We welcome any requests for further information. You can call or
e-mail us at the contact information below.
Jene Aviram
Natural Learning Concepts
http://www.nlconcepts.com
Toll free: (800) 823-3430
Main: (631) 858-0188 Fax: (631) 858-0061
info@...

Hi,
I just wanted to let you all know that my book: The Verbal Behavior
Approach: How to Teach Children with Autism and Related Disorders is just
starting
to be delivered to those who pre-ordered it before the official publication
date of May 15th. The response has been so positive that Amazon is now
showing a 4-6 week delay but I am assured by my publisher that books ordered
through Amazon will be delivered much sooner than that. Also, Different Roads
to
Learning (_www.difflearn.com_ (http://www.difflearn.com) ) is showing my book
as "in stock" and it should be available at major book stores soon. For
more information about my book, please see my web site: _www.vbapproach.com_
(http://www.vbapproach.com) .
For those of you that are going to ABA in San Diego this week, my book will
be available in the bookstore there and I'll be signing books on Sunday from
7pm-9pm. I'll also be presenting on Friday (10am-5pm) on the VB Approach and
on Sunday at 4pm as part of the PA Verbal Behavior Project. See
descriptions of these presentations below.
I hope to meet many people from this list serve there.
Thanks for your support,
Mary Lynch Barbera, RN, MSN, BCBA
_www.vbapproach.com_ (http://www.vbapproach.com)
Workshop #27
CE: BACB, PSY
5/25/2007
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Elizabeth B
CE Instructor: Mary L. Barbera, R.N., M.S.N., BCBA
Using a Verbal Behavior Approach to Teach Children with Autism and Related
Disorders
MARY L. BARBERA (Barbera Behavior Consulting)
Description: This workshop will utilize B.F. Skinner's Analysis of Verbal
Behavior to provide a framework for programming for children with autism and
other developmental disorders or delays. In addition to providing participants
with specific ways to improve positive behaviors such as language, this
workshop will also include a review of ABA principles used to reduce negative
behaviors such as crying and hitting. Through lecture, video examples, and
small
group activities, the participants will leave with a better understanding of
ABA/VB programming for a variety of learners.
#279 Symposium
5/27/2007
4:00 PM - 5:20 PM
Elizabeth C
VRB; Service Delivery
BACB CE Offered. CE Instructor: Mary L. Barbera, RN, MSN, BCBA
The Pennsylvania Verbal Behavior Project: Infusing ABA within Public School
Autism Classrooms
Chair: Mary L. Barbera (Pennsylvania Verbal Behavior Project)
Discussant: Michael Miklos (Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance
Network)
This presentation will give participants an overview of the Pennsylvania
Verbal Behavior Project and will highlight research initiatives completed and in
progress. During the first presentation, an overview of the PA Verbal
Behavior Project will be given and a summary of outcomes over the past 4 years
will
be presented. Following the overview, Behavior Analysts will share two
controlled studies done through the Project which evaluated different transfer
procedures to teach tacts to children with autism. The final presentation
within
this symposium will highlight selected case studies completed through the PA
Verbal Behavior Project.
The Pennsylvania Verbal Behavior Project: An Overview and Summary of
Outcomes. DEBRA NAMEY (Pennsylvania Verbal Behavior Project) and Kelly R.
Gansarski
(Tuscara Intermediate Unit 11)
Abstract: This presentation will provide an overview of the PA Verbal
Behavior Project, a unique program funded by the PA Department of Education
which
provides training, materials, and on-site consultation to 65 public school
autism classrooms across the State. A summary of outcomes for the past four
years will be presented.
Transfer Procedure Research Done through the PA Verbal Behavior Project.
MARY L. BARBERA and Amiris Dipuglia (Pennsylvania Verbal Behavior Project)
Abstract: This presentation will provide an overview of a single subject
design published study entitled: Using Transfer Procedures to Teach Tacts to a
Child with Autism (Barbera, & Kubina, Analysis of Verbal Behavior, 2005) and
an unpublished replication/expansion of that study entitled A Comparison of
Transfer Procedures to Teach Tacts to Four Children with Autism.
PA Verbal Behavior Project Selected Case Studies. AMIRIS DIPUGLIA and Mary
L. Barbera (Pennsylvania Verbal Behavior Project)
Abstract: This presentation will highlight selected case studies from the PA
Verbal Behavior Project.
************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.

EO Inc. is proud to announce our NEW NET Manding DVD's!
http://establishingoperationsinc.com/shop.html Click here to buy!
These DVD's are like having a personalized hands-on workshop, providing
definitions and concrete examples of the ins and outs of the natural environment
portion of a verbal behavior program. Teaching Vocal Manding explains how to
teach your child to request items beginning with many prompts and then how to
fade your prompts systematically so that your child can learn to ask for things
independently and spontaneously. Creators and behavior analysts Holly Kibbe and
Cherish Twigg explicitly define each type of mand and clearly demonstrate how to
teach them. In addition, video examples of actual children learning each type of
mand are shown. You will learn what is and what is not natural environment
teaching as well as how to teach the mands in the natural environment. It also
provides important guidelines to teaching the mand, prompt fading strategies,
strategies for problem solving and how to make manding easy and fun for your
child. This DVD is over one hour in duration.
Additional DVD's for sale...
Teaching Manding (Requesting) using Sign Language
Getting Started
Teaching the Tact (Labels)
Order now at: http://establishingoperationsinc.com/shop.html
Establishing Operations, Inc.
www.establishingoperationsinc.com

Hi group,
I am looking for Tristan Smith's seminal writings on ABA. I would
appreciate any references on where I can locate them
Thanks
Alice

Is now part ofthe BAO site. Check out the crowning issue at
http://www.behavior-analyst-online.org of this open access journal.
Joe
Contents
***********************************************
Behavioral Development Bulletin - a BAO Journals Publication
Volume 13, Spring 2007
Introduction to the Model of Hierarchical Complexity
Michael Lamport Commons
Adult Behavioral Developmental Stages of Attachment
Patrice Marie Miller and Suzanne Lee
How Early Negative Caregiving Experiences Relate to Stage of
Attachment
Michael Lamport Commons and Patrice Marie Miller
Stages of Infant Development, as Illustrated by Responses to the Peek-
a-boo Game in Infants
Patrice Marie Miller and Michael Lamport Commons
How are the Processes by Which People Become Attached Influenced by
Stage of Development?
Patrice Marie Miller and Michael Lamport Commons
Changing Stage for Students, Teachers, and Schools
Michael Lamport Commons
Bringing About Changes in Workplace Behavior
Michael Lamport Commons
Assessment of Thinking in Adult Learners
Darlene Eleanor Crone-Todd
*************************************

Dear Friends,
Potential, Inc. is looking to hire a part time in home behavior therapist.
This individual should be experienced and have a good working knowledge of
behavior principles. Saturdays are required. Client is located in the
Edison, NJ area. The therapist will be supervised by a BCBA and position
may lead to full time work in the future for the right person.
Pass this along to anyone who may be interested. Applicants may contact
Kristine Quinby at kquinby@... or call 215-579-0670 for
additional information.
Thank you,
Kristine
<http://www.potentialinc.org/
<http://www.autismbehaviorconsut.com/
Kristine Quinby, M.Ed., BCBA
Executive Director Potential, Inc.
638 Newtown Yardley Road

Special Conference Event: Fundamentals of TEACCH
Presented by Dr. Gary Mesibov, Director Division TEACCH
Division TEACCHs Structured Teaching Approach is being used with success in
classrooms, residential facilities and homes throughout the world. By focusing
on developing a broad-based intervention strategy centered upon each particular
child's specific skills, strengths, interests and needs, TEACCH makes learning
and understanding more meaningful for children with ASD. Parents, therapists
and educators are invited to explore the TEACCH Approach and discover how to
recognize and understand the neurological learning styles of children with ASD;
how to organize environments and learning activities so that they are more
compatible with the way the individual child thinks, learns and understands; and
how to extend the basic principles to facilitate learning in a variety of
settings and curriculum areas, including communication and social interaction.
May 30 & 31 - 9 am to 5 pm at Antonee's, 115 North Broadway, White Plains, NY
Peak Registration by 5/14 $250 (Member Discount $25)
Includes Continental Breakfast and Lunch - Limited to 125 Participants
For more information or to reserve attendance please contact
Navigating the Spectrum at (914) 826-5300
info@... www.navigatingthespectrum.org

The Aurora School in Purcellville, VA is now accepting
applications for a Speech Pathologist and for ABA
Therapists. For more information about Aurora or
other employment opportunities, visit our website at
www.aurora-school.org
Speech Pathologist
The Aurora School is currently accepting applications
for a full-time Speech Pathologist who loves working
with students across the autism spectrum, as well as
with students with developmental delays. We will
consider contracted services for part-time hours.
Speech Pathologists at Aurora conduct evaluations,
deliver therapy and consult with student teams at
Aurora. Qualified candidates must be licensed to
practice in Virginia. The ideal candidate will love a
small caseload, enjoy working with students
individually, be a team player, be open to the
principles of Verbal Behavior, and be creative in
working with students of all abilities. Our students'
speech goals are implemented throughout their school
day--come join a team that is making a difference in
the lives of children with disabilities. The position
offers a competitve salary and excellent benefits, as
well as an exciting work environment! Interested
applicants should email resumes along with a cover
letter that states why they love working with children
with autism to AuroraDirector@... or fax
540-751-1411.
ABA Therapist
The Aurora School is accepting applications for
Applied Behavior Analysis therapists. ABA therapists
work 1:1 with our students with autism and
developmental delays under the direct supervision of a
Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Full- and part-time
hours are available. College preferred or experience
in working with individuals with disabilities. The
ideal ABA therapist has some training in Verbal
Behavior, data collection, and teaching procedures, is
a team player, and is proactive and motivated to work
with children with disabilities. Aurora offers
excellent training and ongoing support. The position
includes competitive salary and excellent benefits, as
well as the best educational experience going.
Interested applicants should email resumes to
AuroraDirector@... or fax 540-751-1411.
Some days you are the pigeon,
some days, the statue.

Dear Fellow Members,
I am new to your group. I am the parent of an autistic 12 year old as
well as the owner of a company that provides DTT-NET, otherwise known
as verbal behavior, in the home of young children. My company is
called Attainment Behavioral Consulting and is located in Central New
Jersey. Finding qualified therapists has been my biggest dilemna. Do
you know a therapist or student studying special education who is
available for 10 or more hours a week to join a team working with a 4
year old in Hamilton? Thank you. I'm looking forward to future
discussions!
Take Care,
Roe Bonomo

Here's something else at ABA2007/San Diego that might be of interest. Pass it
along to others who might be interested.
If you have a good user-friendly ABA brochure, video clips or other things
discussed below, as well as ideas that you think are good at reaching a general
audience, this might be an opportunity to share those and to see what others are
doing in this area. See the description below for details.
Have a great weekend,
Regina F.
"#357 Panel Discussion
5/28/2007
10:30 AM - 11:50 AM
Elizabeth G
AUT/CSE; Applied Behavior Analysis
BACB CE Offered. CE Instructor: Michael Weinberg, Ph.D., BCBA
A Panel Discussion for Sharing Materials and Ideas for Increasing
Acceptance of ABA Worldwide
Chair: Michael Weinberg (Professional Education Resources and
Conference Services)
MICHAEL WEINBERG (Michael Weinberg, Ph.D., BCBA)
JOSEPH CAUTILLI (Children Crisis Treatment Center/St. Joseph's University)
STEVEN WOOLF (BEACON Services)
DAVID M. CORCORAN (BEACON Services)
Abstract: Although ABA has the data showing effectiveness, parents
continue to pursue fad and controversial treatments. Behavior analysts
need to behave in a way that will result in increased acceptance of
ABA and a scientific skepticism of all therapies. Attendees of this
symposium are asked to bring materials - pamphlets, flyers, brochures,
videoclips, etc. - that can be disseminated to other members of the
audience. These materials will hopefully be customized and given to
pediatricians, parent groups, and other professional agencies, to
begin developing a more positive attitude about ABA and a more
objective evaluation of therapies being proposed for children with autism.
http://www.abainternational.org/convention/program/program.aspx
Regina F.

We need to call them before the hearing on Tuesday to voice our
support for Senate Bill 48 (Insurance Mandate)!
Representative J.A. Hines (Chair)
(608) 266-7746 Or
(888) 534-0042
Representative Leah Vukmir (Vice-Chair)
(608) 266-9180
Representative Joan Ballweg
(608) 266-8077
Representative Terry Moulton
(608) 266-9172
Representative Lee Nerison
(608) 266-3534 Or
(888) 534-0096
Representative Charles Benedict
(608) 266-9967
Representative Sheldon Wasserman
(608) 266-7671 Or
(888) 534-0022
Representative Marlin Schneider
(608) 266-0215 Or
(888) 529-0072
Representative Spencer Black
(608) 266-7521

Hi,
I wanted to pass on an FYI on a verbal behavior/ABA website that I started a
couple of weeks ago. The hope was to put together a fairly comprehensive site
with as much free and quality information as I know about and can find to serve
as a resource for both parents and professionals.
The address: http://verbalbehavior.pbwiki.com/
Check it out if you have a chance, and if you think it's useful, pass it on.
There is also a companion Precision Teaching site:
http://precisionteaching.pbwiki.com
Thanks. Have a great week,
Regina F.

Join us next Monday evening on April 30th 2007 at the beautiful Pine
Hollow Country Club in East Norwich NY
5 to 8 pm
http://elijaschool.org/golfouting2007.html
Purchase your dinner tickets online!
There is also still room for golfers!
Support the vision of our school
The ELIJA School
Opening Doors to Independent growth for individuals with Autism
www.elijaschool.org

Please distribute to parents, teachers, therapists, and other caregivers. This
course is designed to provide individualized training for caregivers and those
who seek jobs with in-home autism treatment programs. Training certificates
will be provided to all attendees. To maximize individualized instruction,
class size limited to 18. This is a great resource for parents looking for
beginning training for new therapists hired for summer programming.
Lakeland College Announces:
Autism Basics
One-Day Certificate Course
May 23, 2007 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Fox Cities Center -- 2320 Industrial Drive, Neenah (one block east of Hwy. 41)
Hour one: What is Autism?
a.. Background information and history of autism
b.. Diagnosis: Autism
c.. Diagnosis: PDD-NOS
d.. Diagnosis: Asperger's Syndrome
e.. Behavioral characteristics
f.. "Mind Blindness" vs. Social Cognitive Impairment: The Difference between
high-functioning autism (HFA) and Asperger's Syndrome
g.. Current research regarding cause(s)
Hours two and three: Interventions-overview of behavioral, developmental,
relationship-based, and biomedical models
a.. Applied Behavior Analysis
b.. Verbal Behavior
c.. Pivotal Response Training
d.. Relationship Development Intervention
e.. DIR/Floor Time
f.. Biomedical Interventions
g.. Other Interventions
Hour four: Educational Programs and Challenges
a.. Education: classic autism
b.. Education: High-functioning autism and Asperger's
c.. Overview of education rights
d.. Transitioning from school to college or career
Hours five and six: Help, Guidance, Funding, and Support
a.. Sibling and family issues and support
b.. Traveling, outings, recreation, etc.
c.. Planning for the future: employment and living options
d.. Legal rights and disability advocacy
e.. Local, state, and federal funding sources--when, where, and how to apply
f.. Private funding sources (e.g., health insurance)
g.. Information sources, online chat lists, internet resources, support and
advocacy groups
Registration fee: $49 (includes all materials and professional instruction)
Class limited to 18 participants-register early!
Call Beth at (920) 727-0777 for more information or to receive a registration
form

Third in the series from these researchers proving EIBI more effective than
eclectic. Haven't read it yet -- my trial issue of this journal is on the way
from Sage.
Hope it's useful,
Wil
Behavior Modification, Vol. 31, No. 3, 264-278 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/0145445506291396
© 2007 SAGE Publications
Outcome for Children with Autism who Began Intensive Behavioral Treatment
Between Ages 4 and 7 A Comparison Controlled Study Svein Eikeseth
Akershus University College, Norway Tristram Smith University of
Rochester, NY Erik Jahr Akershus University Hospital, Norway Sigmund
Eldevik Nordvoll School & Autism Centre, Norway This study extends findings
on the effects of intensive applied behavior analytic treatment for children
with autism who began treatment at a mean age of 5.5 years. The behavioral
treatment group (n = 13, 8 boys) was compared to an eclectic treatment group (n
= 12, 11 boys). Assignment to groups was made independently based on the
availability of qualified supervisors. Both behavioral and eclectic treatment
took place in public kindergartens and elementary schools for typically
developing children. At a mean age of 8 years, 2 months, the behavioral
treatment group showed larger increases in IQ and adaptive functioning than did
the eclectic group. The behavioral treatment group also displayed fewer aberrant
behaviors and social problems at follow-up. Results suggest that
behavioral treatment was effective for children with autism in the study.

we are looking for a school in the portland/vancouver, wa area that
caters to kids w/ autism. we are also looking for therapists in the
area. if anyone knows of anything, please message me and let me know!
thanks!

Applied Verbal Behavior Program Director & Therapist Available
Verbal Behavior Center Opening in Fairfax, Virginia
12 hours of 1:1 Therapy available
Extensive workshop training by the best in the field; Carbone,
Partington, Sundberg, EO INC., Verbal Behavior Network
ABLLS based curriculum to cover all areas of need
In the process of becoming BCBA certified
Excellent references available
Reasonable rates

Dower and Associates, Inc., ICAN of Washington, Inc. & Kids Communicating,
LLC
present
Establishing Operations, Inc.
Holly Kibbe, MS, BCBA® & Cherish Twigg, MS, BCBA®
www.establishingoperationsinc.com
When: November 13 & 14, 2007
Where: The ARC of Montgomery County
11600 Nebel Street
Rockville, MD 20852-2554
TEACHING VERBAL BEHAVIOR IN THE INTENSIVE TEACHING ENVIRONMENT
This TWO-day workshop conducted by Holly Kibbe, MS, BCBA and Cherish Twigg,
MS, BCBA, provides consultants, therapists other professionals and parents
(who serve as their childâs primary therapist) with guided practice in
implementing the methods described in Introductory Verbal Behavior Workshops.
This
two day workshop is devoted entirely to teaching in the _Intensive Teaching
Environment (ITT)_ (http://establishingoperationsinc.com/images/ITTrev.pdf) .
The
participants will spend much of their time practicing the methods of
effective instruction as demonstrated in videotape illustrations during the
workshop. Participants will receive precise feedback on their teaching methods.
This
workshop will address the areas of:
* Establishing instructional control with an unwilling learner;
* Manipulating motivating operations (MO) during teaching
opportunities to maintain learner attention;
* Using the ABLLS to develop an intensive teaching program;
* Video examples and guided instruction to teach objectives indicated
in the ABLLS;
* Teaching early to advanced receptive, visual performance, motor
imitation, tacting and intraverbal skills;
* Teaching social skills to early through advanced learners;
* Organizing your program materials and data recording methods
including hands on practice for data recording.
Prerequisites: It is strongly recommended that all participants have attended
a Verbal Behavior Introductory Workshop and have at least some experience
teaching children with autism within a verbal behavior program.
Required Materials: Participants should bring an ABLLS manual with them to
the course.
Registration Fees: Early Bird Registration $390.oo if received prior to
August 1, 2007; Regular Registration: $425.00 if received after August 1, 2007
~ Register Early ~ Limited enrollment ~
For a registration form, email us at SLPBCBA@...
************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.

Attention all people with autism, families with someone on the
spectrum, professionals and supporters: On Tuesday, April 24th at 1:00
p.m. meet up in front of the Wisconsin State Capitol in downtown
Madison to send a STRONG message to Wisconsin lawmakers that we need
their support for autism treatment!
Lawmakers currently have before them a budget proposal that would
increase funding for autism treatment. We need to send a very strong
signal that they should not ignore us by showing up on the 24th and
voicing our needs!
Please pass this along to all of your family and friends telling them
to come to Madison on April 24th to help us help our love ones!
Rhonda
Mother of Alana
5 yr old dx Autism

I have recently been given a job that allows me to live anywhere and I
will be working from home. Where we live now requires everything be
paid out of pocket and we can no longer do this if we ever hope to
retire or set up a future for our child. We have depleted everything
and are hoping that we can get some guidance on good places to move. We
are looking for states/cities that have ABA/VB and speech that are, or
can be funded via insurance mandates, waivers, or is already provided
in school (quality programs only). We would like to move in the next
couple of months since school will be out then. BTW, my child is 6 and
moderately affected. Please email me directly at
believinginacure@...
Thanks in advance
Frank

Sharon and group,
My son was at this stage at 3YO. My first theory was that he was not paying
attention to the SD because he wanted to make any random response in the hope of
contacting reinforcement ASAP. So I used a barrier so that he could not see the
field until I said the SD. Then I removed the barrier and repeated the SD. Not
much better until I added word cards to the field.
I placed the word cards next to the object they named. With the barrier in
place,I set up the field with the word card next to the object. I said the SD
with the barrier in place and removed the barrier,repeating the SD. Using this
procedure,my son became a single trial learner for receptive labels.
Nancy,Colin P's mom

Aloha Group,
I need your help obtaining research based data that shows the harmful
effects on the student when the Educators insist on remaining on a
Drill or Target for way too long in their quest for data.
What I mean is educators seem indifferent to modifying the drill,
lowering the criteria for mastery or altering materials to make the
drill more exciting, interesting and functional.Hence weeks or months
go by before even one target achieves mastery, slowing down the
process of acquiring new skills, and meeting IEP objectives in a
timely way.
Having done some preliminary Internet research on the subject, I fear
this is all too common.
My personal situation is that having pressed the Public School system
to adopt ABA/DTT as a tool to educate my Autistic son, I have found
most or all of my son's IEP Team including his BCBA get caught up on
obtaining the Data,(i.e.8 out of 10 in a row correct ) and as a result
wind up keeping my son mired in the same materials and drills for
months at a time. I am convinced this malingering has negative
consequences such as regression. I believe regression occurs in the
form of maladaptive behaviors, such as task avoidance and escape.In
the case of my 7 year old Autistic son, this has led to SIB's as well.
Additionally,I feel this tendency to malinger on specific targets too
long results in the overall goal/objective being lost on the student
by the time it reaches the NET for generalization.
I need research based proof to take to my son's IEP to demonstrate
this theory . Because I have been so outspoken on the matter I am in
danger of being proved a "Difficult Parent" who is "interfering" in
her child's after school home based program.I do not wish to lose my
after school program, but I want it to run more efficiently for my
son's sake.
Anyone willing to offer help on this matter please feel free to email
your reply to the group or to me privately. Your response is greatly
appreciated.
Thank you very much,
Stephanie

Dear Group,
Thank you all for your insightful and helpful comments. I am looking
forward to reviewing the research and returning to the group for
further discussion.
For those that asked Seth, my son, is non-verbal save for the word "no
no" and uses a PECS book as his primary communication device.
Mahalo from the heart,
Stephanie

Hi,
My name is Cyndi and I'm seeking a position as a behavioral
therapist using ABA with children with autism. I currently have
after-school and weekend hours available in New York City.
I have a BS in Psychology. In the fall, I am going back to school
to study Speech and Language Pathology.
A representative of the Center for Autism Related Disorders (CARDS)
originally trained me in ABA. I have also attended several
conferences regarding the behavioral treatment for autism related
disorders. These conferences and workshops have hosted speakers
such as Dr. Carbone, Dr. Sundberg, Dr. Greenspan, and Dr.
Partington. I am familiar with both the traditional methods of ABA,
as well as Verbal Behavior and Floortime. During my college
internship, I shadowed children during a summer camp with a variety
of special needs including autism, apraxia, and sensory integration
dysfunction.
I have been working with children with autism for the past seven
years. I have worked on both home ABA teams and I currently work
full-time at a private school for children with autism. If you
would like to know more, please email me and I can email you a
resume.
Best wishes!

Special Conference Event: Fundamentals of TEACCH
Presented by Dr. Gary Mesibov, Director Division TEACCH
Division TEACCHs Structured Teaching Approach is being used with success in
classrooms, residential facilities and homes throughout the world. By focusing
on developing a broad-based intervention strategy centered upon each particular
child's specific skills, strengths, interests and needs, TEACCH makes learning
and understanding more meaningful for children with ASD. Parents, therapists
and educators are invited to explore the TEACCH Approach and discover how to
recognize and understand the neurological learning styles of children with ASD;
how to organize environments and learning activities so that they are more
compatible with the way the individual child thinks, learns and understands; and
how to extend the basic principles to facilitate learning in a variety of
settings and curriculum areas, including communication and social interaction.
May 30 & 31 - 9 am to 5 pm at Antonee's, 115 North Broadway, White Plains, NY
Early Bird Registration by 4/6/07 $225 (Member Discount $25)
Includes Continental Breakfast and Lunch - Limited to 125 Participants
For more information or to reserve attendance please contact
Navigating the Spectrum at (914) 826-5300
info@... www.navigatingthespectrum.org

Off-topic but possibly an FYI of interest: Michael Goldberg (writer and parent
of a child with autism)'s blog has a list of Federal and states legislative
developments in re: funding of autism services, other related legislation and
mandates related to removal of health insurance restrictions and/or coverage.
AUTISM BULLETIN
News, Insights and Resources for Parents of Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Link to legislative posts.
http://autismbulletin.blogspot.com/search/label/legislation
Regina F.

BLAIRSVILLE - With four autistic children in her life, one
Blairsville woman's life couldn't get any more hectic ... or
rewarding.
But Heather Pearce's busy lifestyle - which also includes working on
her master's degree in special education and producing a learning
game she developed for autistic children - is well worth it. Her
dedication to the children and to autism itself is evident in the
pictures of her children on her coffee table, the look in her eyes
when she talks about them and the voicemails on her cell phone of the
children singing to her.
And also in the fact that none of the four are her biological or
adoptive children.
Pearce, 30, is a member of Family Behavioral Resources' therapeutic
staff support, out of the North Huntington office, and works with
children with autism, a neurological disorder that affects normal
brain development in the areas of social interaction and
communication skills. She splits her time daily at the homes of four
children and provides one-on-one play therapy, including speech and
occupational therapy.
Advertisement
Over the 4½ years she's worked with autistic children, Pearce has
developed a strong bond with the four children she sees daily, so
much so that she often refers to them as "her kids."
"I don't think I could function without some of my kids. You cannot
not love my kids," said. "My little guys, they're just amazing little
kids."
Her dedication to and emotional bond with one child in particular
prompted Pearce to develop the game Emotions Go Fish, an emotions-
reading game to help autistic children understand emotions.
"One of my guys couldn't understand emotions," said Pearce, an
Indiana University of Pennsylvania psychology graduate.
Autistic children "don't perceive emotions. ... To get it to click is
difficult. ... You can't teach them emotions in a fun way."
So Pearce decided find a way to do it. She got the idea while playing
Go Fish with one of the children. She then created cards, which are
faces that all look identical except for the facial expression.
The game, which Pearce has had patented, can be played seven
different ways, including receptive ways, such as asking the child to
hand over the card with a certain expression; and expressive ways,
such as holding up a card and asking the child what expression that
card is trying to convey.
But the important thing is that, no matter what way it's played, the
game must be fun, Pearce said.
"That's the biggest thing," said Pearce, who noted the game can also
be used for children with other disabilities or brain injuries. "I
want to make it fun for the kids. ... If they're not laughing, you're
not playing it right."
Pearce said she has seen good success rates with the game. One child
she played the game with would cry because something was wrong, but
he couldn't express what it was or how he felt.
"If they can't express that, how can they tell you what they need?"
she said.
Now the child can verbally tell her how he feels and physically show
the emotions.
"If you see any of the kids ... the progress they made is amazing,"
said Pearce, who is willing to train people how to use the
game. "It's so much fun just to see them do well. ... I love it."
Because children with autism learn differently, repetition is key. A
therapist could work with a child on a certain subject 50 times
without the child understanding, which can be frustrating. When one
way of teaching doesn't work, therapists and parents try another and
another until one works and, say, on the 51st time, the child will
understand.
"You have your days when it's bad," said Pearce, who will complete
her master's degree from Seton Hill University in the spring.
But "when it clicks, they don't believe it. It's like the fog lifts.
You live for those days."
Pearce's next project is a therapeutic preschool for children with
autism she hopes to open after graduation. The goal is to get the
children independent enough to be able to handle a classroom setting
and to make friends.
"I don't want them to have tougher lives just because they have a
disability," she said. "I want them to be happy.
For more information or to purchase a game, contact Pearce at (724)
422-5944 or hpearce@... www.emotionsgofish.com

Several families are looking for individuals (with or without experience) to
work with their children in in-home ABA programs. Positions available
include work with early, intermediate and advanced learners. If interested,
please contact me at this email address for more information.
Thanks,
Steph

Hi, I have recently moved to the Raleigh area and am looking to assist
families with their VB programs. I have a master's degree in Early
Childhood Education with a concentration in autism. I have experience
supervising VB home and school programs. I am also looking to network.
Contact me via email: Lchase@...
Lisa Chase

Tools, Tips, Information, Ideas and Inspiration For Teachers/Others that
Work With Students with Autism and Asperger*s
Different Roads to Learning
http://www.difflearn.com/
The goal of this website is to provide is to provide information on
books/manuals, flashcards, sequencing, PECS, scheduling products,
software, videos, puzzles, handwriting, sorting and manipulating and
step-by-step books. There is also a page of over 20 related links for
educators and families.
DoToLearn
http://www.do2learn.com/
Free picture cards and print activities for autism and LD; almost the
same as the Mayer-Johnson pictures but a lot cheaper; great site for
teachers to get some ideas on fun activities; also great for parents.
Enchanted Learning
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/Home.html
Good site for teachers for unit materials.
Shoe Box Tasks
http://www.shoeboxtasks.com/
Good site for ideas