Back to Back Seminars: STAR Program and Crisis Management

Strategies for Teaching based on Autism Research (STAR Program)

ASP hosted Strategies for Teaching based Autism Research seminar was held in Autism society Philippines National Headquarters last June 25, 2016. There were 42 participants who were teachers and parents.

Teacher Tess presenting in seminar

Ms. Maria Theresa Aficial a.k.a. Teacher Tess presented demos, Q & A’s and talks of strategies for parents and teachers to be able to learn about languages. She also showed objectives and 3 levels of STAR Program for people with special needs who have difficulty understanding in commandments. Teacher Tess showed an example of a physical prompt by letting one of the participants sit in front of people using those materials 2 plastic cups, a chart of I’m Working For coins, purse, marker, lollipop and a dish.

Teacher Tess let people see the STAR Program guide of students’ lessons for them to be taught as routins. She divided groups into 6 and distributed 3 small boards of “I’m Working For” with pennies and dimes and photos of animals. Then participants discussed briefly about how they worked and wrote on a daily data sheet as their tasks. One of them also put pennies and dimes in each board about them practicing especially for motor skills.

After the discussion, one of the heads in each group shared on how they taught their children / students as correcting behaviors for them to be more skillful. They mentioned about how they experience educating special children and learned after Teacher Tess answered their comments.

“It is good that talk, demo and Q & A are all given a designated & enough time.”

“It is good that everyone or most of the attendees are given a chance / time to share their knowledge, experiences to all of us.”

“The strategies I’ve learned this morning will help me in teaching my daughter structure teaching.”

Crisis Management at home, school and community

ASP hosted Crisis Management persented by Mr. Mark Padil and welcomed 38 participants. The seminar was held in Autism Society Philippines National Headquarters last June 25, 2016. They were teachers and parents who attended.

Participants watching safety video

Mr. Mark took out safety and first aid kits and put them in a table for participants to see what he used. He presented the table of contents of how to prepare for safety precautions in case of earthquake, fire, floods and other dangerous situations.

He even mentioned about how to rescue people with autism to teach parents on how to handle them safely. Mr. Mark showed a step on saving people from disasters. He also showed videos in front of participants on how children with autism reacted after being rescued. The mat was seen as Mr. Mark folded to show the safety cross and an arrow.

The rules on how to be safe, planning to do and other needs of people to be survived were shown such as in case of a flood, fire, earthquake and active shooter so they would not panic if something happened in buildings and roads as well as to defend themselves. The slides were also shown about prevention, encounters, Tips for EMS and Your indentification is your Safety to be alert on saving people / children with autism especially non verbal. Mr. Mark presented Emergency Comm-Board as he gave examples of kinds of deseases and illness.

He let one of the participants lie down on the floor to let people see on how to hold a person who has a risk of restraint.

“This seminar is definitely helpful & highly recommended. I think that Teacher Mark can also deliver such seminars to public SpEd schools.”

“Very knowledgeable! Good speaker.”

“Socially relevant!”

About the contributor. Lloyd Ngo worked as an ASP intern when he attended Independent Living and Learning Center. He began working in 2012 as an encoder at the Ongkiko Manhit Custodio and Acorda Law Offices in Makati. He is currently ASP’s Program Assistant for Communications.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,behavior,crisis,research,seminar

Karl at Kidzania

Experiencing Kidzania is often a fun, educational opportunity for many kids who have entered this community of imaginative play. Through interactive play, young children learn social skills such as sharing and taking turns; but the opportunity for "make believe" play takes a more significant turn for Karl Robert, an adolescent with autism.

Karl Robert, together with his mom, Carolyn Sumague of ASP Biñan Chapter, won in the ASP Kidzania Manila Raffle held at the ASP National Headquarters on 2 June 2016 -- together with 24 other pairs. Thanks to a generous gift from Cebu Pacific, the chapters of the Autism Society Philippines were able to experience a day of whimsy.

Karl assembles a burger with the McDonald's crew.

Karl was excited, upon entering this labyrinth of fun -- and his unbridled delight could be seen as he lined up for the different career tracks. His parents were mindful of the activities he enjoyed -- food service was on top of the list!

Karl taking in the sensory delights of working in a kitchen.

We feel this exposure helped him better understand the concept of work and career. Observations on what he enjoyed will be important inputs to his IEP and his pre-vocational class teachers at the Biñan SPED School.

About the contributor: Engr. Ariel M. Sumague is the proud father of Karl Robert Sumague, a kid with autism. He is currently connected with Colegio San Agustin Biñan as the Head of Marketing. He is also an active founding member of ASP Biñan and helps the group in their dealings with the LGU and DEPED.

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Posted in: cebu-pacific,chapters,journey,kidzania,laguna,regional

Daddy Albert leads Family Support Group

Daddy Albert welcomed 13 participants in a Family Support Group held in Autism Society Philippines National Headquarters last 18 June 2016. ASP’s monthly family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges.

Daddy Albert leads Family Support Group

Mr. and Mrs. Aragon shared Yanna’s experiences and challenges towards independence. Yanna shared her experiences about school and bullied and shared how she overcame those dark times.

“Passion is important in handling PWDs in general. That parents play a vital role in the lives of PWD children aside from therapists and teachers.”

About the contributor. Lloyd Ngo worked as an ASP intern when he attended Independent Living and Learning Center. He began working in 2012 as an encoder at the Ongkiko Manhit Custodio and Acorda Law Offices in Makati. He is currently ASP’s Program Assistant for Communications.

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg

ASP PweDay on June 29: Videoke + LipSync

"If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world." --JRR Tolkien

The Autism Society Philippines Wednesday "PweDay" aims to provide enrichment for teens and adults with autism (16 years old and above) who are not currently enrolled in schools. ASP PweDays will offer opportunities to learn new skills, to socialize with non-family members and to have fun.

PweDay Videoke + LipSync

On June 29, Wednesday, from 2pm to 5pm, we will be conducting a session on videoke and lipsyncing. Each participant will be asked to emote and project while singing their favorite song. If they are not verbal, they can lip sync or dance. The group will then decide on a song for which they will create a music video.

We would like to foster independence among our participants. But if needed, a maximum of one (1) companion per PWA will be allowed in the training room.

"Adults with autism who are no longer in school end up in the fringes of society." Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National President shares, "ASP is deeply invested in building a society where a individuals with autism be the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, independent, productive and socially-accepted members of the community -- no matter where they are on the spectrum. By keeping PWAs active and engaged outside the home, we are also training the society to be more aware of what autism is, to be more appreciative of their gifts and to be more accommodating of their deficits."

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Posted in: 4pwas,pweday

ASP Lagro SibsCamp III

ASP Lagro held its third SibsCamp last 24-25 May 2016 at Pueblo Del Sol Village, Tagaytay City, with 10 siblings in attendance. We engaged the services of Teacher My Sorongon as Camp Facilitator and she suggested that the elder sibs who had attended the previous camps be her assistant facilitators -- Leslie Abigail Tan, Louisse Margaux Pagcaliwagan and Fernando A. Tan. The assistant facilitators prepared the games and the mechanics, documented the event and served as watchers and marshals in camp activities.

ASP Lagro Sibs Camp Group

This event was supported by many advocates in our community. Brgy. Captain Renato U. Galimba of Barangay Greater Lagro covered food and transportation. Mrs. Brigida Aniban, a Barangay Treasurer volunteered to cook for us.

We are very happy, because the parents of the attendees expressed their gratitude for the positive effect of the camp on their children.

About the contributor: Marieta F. Tan serves as the President of ASP Lagro. She studied at MBA, UE and UST. She has 4 children.

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Posted in: 4siblings,siblings

ASP Diliman Chapter First Holy Communion and Holy Confirmation

The St. Benedict Parish in Don Antonio Heights, Quezon City -- through the advocacy of ASP Diliman -- will conduct First Holy Communion on July 11, 2016, Monday and Holy Confirmation on September 30, 2016, Friday. There will be a special Catholic catechism lesson for Persons with Autism (PWAs) for the preceding 2 Sundays. Participants must be a ASP Member or willing to be a ASP Member.

Holy Communion Giving Bread

Registration of interested participants is until June 24, Friday. Deadline for submission of baptismal certificate will be on June 30. Sign up on the form below. For inquiries, please call Jo Palomares at 0922-847-2776.

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Posted in: 4pwas,chapters,church,community

ASP PweDay on June 22: Pancake Making

"You think I am paying attention to what you are saying but really I am just staring at you and thinking about pancakes" -- Someone very smart

The Autism Society Philippines Wednesday "PweDay" aims to provide enrichment for teens and adults with autism who are not currently enrolled in schools. ASP PweDays will offer opportunities to learn new skills, to socialize with non-family members and to have fun.

PweDay Pancake Making

On June 22, Wednesday, from 2pm to 5pm, we will be conducting a class on Pancake Making. This informal class will also teach the PWAs on proper food hygiene, simple pancake preparation, and presentation. Participants must bring their own hair net, apron, and closed shoes (no slippers or sandals please).

We would like to foster independence among our participants during the class. But if needed, a maximum of one (1) companion per PWA will be allowed in the training room.

"Adults with autism who are no longer in school end up in the fringes of society." Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National President shares, "ASP is deeply invested in building a society where a individuals with autism be the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, independent, productive and socially-accepted members of the community -- no matter where they are on the spectrum. By keeping PWAs active and engaged outside the home, we are also training the society to be more aware of what autism is, to be more appreciative of their gifts and to be more accommodating of their deficits."

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Posted in: 4pwas,cooking,food,self-advocates

ASP National NMVO held in June 2016

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." --Gandhi

The ASP National New Member and Volunteer Orientation is a monthly welcome for all new members and volunteers to guide them on how they can immerse themselves in the autism advocacy ASP pioneered in; and on how ASP can make a positive impact on their lives through its projects and programs.

NMVO Group with Ms. Mona

ASP National President Mona Veluz welcomed 27 participants (including 2 PWAs) to this month’s orientation last 11 June 2016. New member and volunteers (some, not so new) from Cavite to Bulacan joined the seminar. Ms. Mona covered autism definitions and myths as well as practical ways to deal with persons with autism. She introduced ASP and its many initiatives and highlighted ways people could contribute. The session ended with a group work on what ASP can improve on and what projects they would like to propose and work on.

Some of the participants shared:

“Orienting parents like us help so much!” -- Catrina C.

“It is an excellent avenue to meet people from different walks of life who have the same advocacies ...” --Andrea R.

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Posted in: 4public,angel-corps,seminar

The search is on for the Angels Walk for Autism 2017 TShirt Design!

Autism Society Philippines has been creating unique tshirts for Angels Walk for Autism participants since the walk first began in 2007. These shirts which were designed as souvenir items back then, have metamorphosed to icon shirts which reflect the aspirations of our community.

AW Shirt 2017

The signature green has become an ASP trademark in disability community events. They have also become a favorite item of clothing for advocates, individuals with autism and their families who wear them year round.

Kindled by last year's Abbey Road-inspired design created by PWAs Kim Austria, Vernice Prado, Javee Fua and Kobie Trambulo from Bridges Foundation, ASP is launching the search for the Angels Walk for Autism 2017 TShirt Design in the hopes of discovering more PWA design talent!

Who can join?
1. The contest is for persons with autism (PWA), regardless of age.
2. PWA must complete 80% of the design; and can be assisted by a neurotypical individual.
3. An artist may submit as many entries as he wants.
4. Multiple PWAs may collaborate on one entry.

What must be submitted?
1. Digital artwork, which may be scanned versions of art in any medium.
... Design must include the text “Angels Walk for Autism” -- the central theme
... Dimensions: Max 10 inches x 10 inches
... Resolution: 300dpi
... Maximum of 3 solid colors and must be suitable for rendering on a green shirt
2. A 1-minute (max) video documenting the design and execution process to prove that PWA completed 80 percent of artwork. Must be NOT be a montage of photos.

How do we enter the contest?
1. Digital artwork and video must be submitted to autismphils@gmail.com as attachments or Google Drive links. Other services like Dropbox or Box.be will NOT be accepted.
2. Subject line MUST read: ANGELS WALK TSHIRT CONTEST / Name of Artist.
3. Body of email MUST read the following. The text can be edited to suit the number of artists who worked on the entry:

I/We, Names of Artist, acknowledge that the attached entry is (a) wholly original; (b) does not incorporate or include any material that would require the consent of any third party; and (c) does not violate any copyright, trademark, publicity right, privacy right, or any other right of any third party.

I agree that ASP shall have the right to edit, composite, scan, duplicate or alter the entry design for any purpose which it deems necessary or desirable, without the need for any further compensation, and/or permission.

By entering, I/we acknowledge/s, agree/s and understand/s that the winning design will become the exclusive property of Autism Society Philippines (ASP), which retains exclusive rights to the reproduction.

4. Please send one email per entry.
5. Submission must be received before 5pm of 30 July 2016.

How will winners be selected?
1. The winners will be selected based on the following criteria:
... Originality (30%) - Design innovation and uniqueness.
... Creativity (30%) - Artistic and appealing arrangement of the design elements.
... Relevance (20%) - Suitability to theme and purpose of the event.
... Manufacturability (20%) - Can be rendered on fabric at best cost and quality
2. The names of the judges will be announced shortly.
3. Winners will be announced by 6 September 2016, Tuesday.

What will the winners receive?
1. The winning designer/s will receive P5,000.00.
2. The winner/s will be recognized and featured on the ASP blog and social media channels.

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Posted in: angels-walk,contest

ASP Sibs Camp Cavite 2016: Give Us More!

The ASP Siblings Camp Cavite, a yearly activity aimed at instilling camaraderie, role acceptance and leadership among siblings of persons with autism, kicked off its fifth season last May 26 and finished off touchingly with a bang on May 28. It was held at the Andrea’s Hidden Villa (a PWD- accessible private resort owned by Mr. Jing D. Caringal, the Head of PDAO of Tagaytay City) in Patutong Malaki North, Tagaytay City. Joined by fourteen ASP brothers and sisters from Carmona, Bacoor, Dasmariñas, Silang, Mendez and Gen. Trias, this year’s Sibs Camp in Cavite also welcomed five other enthusiastic sibs from Manila and Muntinlupa ASP chapters.

The nineteen Sib Campers, 10-23 years old, were quick to lay down the barriers within the hour of signing in. They felt comfortable amidst their peers even before the breaking of ice— they sat in groups, exchanged wits and banter, played and ran around. As one of the Kuya’s declared, he sees ASP Siblings Camp Cavite as his chance to “escape from reality,” a time to put his “responsibilities” in the backburner and have relaxing time with old and new friends. ASP Siblings Camp affords time for both fun and serious matters, with lots of bonding, relationship-building, and playful moments with fellow sibs, as well as time for self-recollection and expression, coming to terms, and looking ahead.

Writing Suggestions to make Sibs Camp More Interesting

Among the siblings’ favourite activities were the “SIB-er Games,” where the sibs were submerged in two hours of physically intoxicating and vocal-chord-wrecking water games, and the “Amazing Sibs Race,” which was not merely a feat of treasure hunting to be enjoyed, but an exploit that challenged the analytic, communication, decision-making and caring skills of the team players. The Race significantly brought home some very valuable lessons on trust, leadership and teamwork and was pegged as the most-liked activity in camp.

Line up with blindfold

Even as they enjoyed the playful hours, the siblings became very dedicated during the more serious and reflective moments, where they were guided to define and process their thoughts and emotions regarding their life’s journey as siblings of PWAs. Being siblings of PWAs, the campers were able to openly share one’s highs and lows in living with someone on the spectrum. It is much like what parents do when they engage in the Family Support Group meetings of ASP.

Sibs Group sharing discussions

One of the siblings remarked later that over all, the camp had a re-charging effect. It was obvious during the closing ceremony that everybody felt an unusual kind of revival, a readiness to face the greater challenges that lie ahead as they “return to reality” once again.

ASP Siblings Camp Cavite hopes to be instrumental in shaping a positive and healthy perspective by which both parents and siblings of persons with autism can manage and balance their roles and responsibilities as care-sharers in the family. As the sibs campers ostensibly voiced out their wish to have “More!” of everything that they experienced in camp, ASP Siblings Camp Cavite will exert every possible effort to sustain a responsive siblings support group to help improve the overall quality of life of our dear families living with autism.

ASP Cavite Chapters would like to thank all the good-hearted organizers of this very successful Camp: Teacher My Sorongon, ever committed and hardworking ASP Sibs Camp Facilitator, together with a dedicated and efficient team of Co-Facilitators – Teacher Eve Perey (Mendez, Cavite), Ate Thea Peña (Dasmariñas), Kuya Paul Valencia (Trece Martires) and Tita Jan Peña (Dasmariñas), Camp Director. Likewise, we are endlessly thankful to our partners who generously supported Sibs Camp 2016: Mr. Jing D. Caringal of Tagaytay City PDAO Office, owner of Andrea’s Hidden Villa; Mrs. Romana Bough of Sacramento, USA; Mr. Marvin Tiania of Jollibee Mendez Crossing –Tagaytay; and PWA Muneer Peña for the sweet cupcake tokens!

Thank you most especially to all the nineteen cooperating siblings from Cavite, Manila and Muntinlupa for whom the ASP Siblings Camp Cavite 2016 is sincerely dedicated, and to their parents and guardians who put their full trust and support in allowing the siblings to partake of this extraordinary experience! God bless you all and Mabuhay!

Cavite Sibs Camp group

The last day was inevitable. The siblings did not want to part, and they constantly joked about extending the camp, or having five times of it a year, or joining the subsequent camps of other chapters. They exchanged numbers, names on Facebook, and promised to keep in touch. They also had plans of reunion and future activities which hopefully would materialize soon.

All in all, the ASP Siblings Camp Cavite was a worthwhile endeavor which perfectly fits into the vacation days, and is a combination of fun and “recollection” moments, it was also a chance to meet new people with similar stories, and reunite with old buddies to catch up and bond. As expected, they were already looking forward to ASP Siblings Camp 2017!

About the contributor: Thea Peña is the elder sister of 20-year old PWA Muneer Peña of Dasmariñas City, Cavite. She is a fresh graduate (Salutatorian) of BS Occupational Therapy from the De La Salle Health Sciences Institute, Dasmariñas, Cavite. Ate Thea is a long-time sibling participant in various Sibs Camps in Laguna and Cavite, consequently developing her skills as a co-faciliator in the recent Sibs Camps held in Cavite. Tita Jan Peña is the mother of Ate Thea Peña, the current President of ASP Dasmariñas Chapter and the untiring steward or “Gobernadora” of ASP chapters in Cavite. She served as the Camp Director and house parent in this year’s Siblings Camp Cavite.

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Posted in: 4siblings,camp,chapters,regional,summer

June 25 Back to Back Seminars

Strategies for Teaching based on Autism Research (STAR Program)

25 June 2016, Saturday, 8:30 am - 12:00nn

ASP National Headquarters, #9 11th Jamboree Street cor. Sct. Fuentabella,

Brgy. Sacred Heart, Kamuning, Quezon City

Map: http://bit.ly/1LwgklB

Strategies for Teaching based on Autism Research or the STAR Program (author, Joel Arick, Ph.D) is an evidence-based, ABA-based and research validated program used in over 2,000 school districts in the United States and in other parts of the globe. It is a strategy for instruction based on research-based methods of discrete trial training, pivotal response training and teaching functional routines method. The program is a method of teaching to address the needs of children with Autism from early childhood through post-secondary level in the 6 curricular areas of receptive language, expressive language, spontaneous language, functional routines, academics, and play and social skills. The STAR program provides curriculum resources and a continuum of professional activities needed for teachers to implement the program which includes detailed lesson plans, teaching materials, data systems and curriculum-based assessment.

This talk will give an overview of the STAR program, instructional activities and materials and demonstrate methods of instruction particularly discrete trial method.

About the Speaker

Ms. Maria Theresa Aficial

Maria Theresa P. Aficial, fondly called Teacher Tess, she has taught in college, high school and SpEd. She worked with Bridges Foundation Inc. for 4 years before she went to the US as a Special Ed Teacher. She is now currently teaching Life Skills, a self-contained class of all autism, from kinder to 1st grade at Coyote Canyon Elementary School at Bullhead City, Arizona. She has attended the STAR seminar-workshop in Phoenix, AZ in October 2015 aside from the on-site training done regularly by the STAR Autism Support. Her class has been using the STAR program and is being closely monitored and evaluated for strict implementation of the program and children’s progress as required by Arizona Department of Education.

Crisis Management at home, school and community

25 June 2016, Saturday, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

ASP National Headquarters, #9 11th Jamboree Street cor. Sct. Fuentabella,

Brgy. Sacred Heart, Kamuning, Quezon City

Map: http://bit.ly/1LwgklB

The rainy season is here and with it comes the possibility of storms, floods, brown outs and other disruptions to our children’s daily routines which could trigger tantrums and meltdowns. How do we deal with these? How do we prepare our children for emergency and crisis situations?

T. Mark will show us how to plan and prepare our children for such occurrences. He will give us strategies to ensure our children’s safety, and what to do when crisis arise. He will give us tips on how to prepare our children for encounters with Law Enforcers, Fire Fighters and Medical Responders.

More importantly, he will give tips and strategies on how to de-escalate tantrums and meltdowns when they begin, how to distinguish between a tantrum and a meltdown and the safety measures to use when we need to physically restrain or isolate them during a full blown meltdown. Parents, teachers and therapists alike will benefit from these important strategies.

About the Speaker

Mr. Mark Anthony Padil

Mark Anthony T. Padil, EMR is a graduate of BS Physical Therapy from Our Lady of Fatima University in 2002. He has worked as a Behavior Therapist ABA / VB - Shadow Teacher with individuals with Autism. Teacher Mark assists in emergency and disaster alleviation efforts and in the promotion of public safety, disaster-preparedness and community service with the Regional Emergency Assistance Communications Team - REACT NCR North Group and with the CRS-AFP Civil Relations Service. A Fire Volunteer and member of Fighter ESD - Emergency Services Division, An Auxilliary Officer under PCGA, An EMS Officer - Ambulance Medic with Dreamsmed Ambulance Transport and he is founder of the eMergency Autism Response sKills (eMark) Services.

Seminar Fees

Pre-Registration (until June 22 or until slots last)
Single Seminar Member - P 400.00
Single Seminar Non-member - P 600.00
Double Seminar Member - P 800.00
Double Seminar Non-member - P 1,000.00

On-site Registration Fee
Single Seminar Member - P 500.00
Single Seminar Non-member - 700.00
Double Seminar Member - P 1,000.00
Double Seminar Non-member - P 1,200.00

Pre-registered participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines, Metrobank, Kamias Branch Account Number 047-3-04751874-2. Please email the scan copy of your deposit slip with the name/s of participant/s and contact numbers to autismphils@gmail.com and bring it on the day of the seminar. There will only be 60 slots available. No refund will be given to participants who do not show up on the date of the seminar. For more details, please call ASP at 7-903-5496.

The ASP Education and Empowerment Program serves as a platform to educate Filipino parents and professionals on the various interventions, modalities and theories surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder. Their application and implementation are left at your discretion. The views and personal experiences of the speakers are their own and may not necessarily reflect the views of the organization.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,behavior,crisis,research,seminar

Kidzania Mania 2016 Raffle Winners!

Autism Society Philippines selected the winners of the Kidzania Mania Free Tickets last June 2, 2016 at the ASP National Headquarters via digital raffle. Selected winners are ASP Members who met the given required guidelines.

Photo credit: Philippine Daily Inquirer

Winners should pick up the prizes on or before June 8, 2016, Wednesday, 5pm at ASP National Headquarters. Unclaimed prizes after this date will be considered forfeited.

The winners together with their kids will visit the Kidzania in Taguig on June 10, 2016, Friday from 9am-4pm. Failure to be present on the assigned date will mean forfeiture of the tickets.

Below are the winners of the Free Kidzania Tickets. Congratulations!
Carolyn Sumague
Josefina Sison
Aileen Basco
Alma Altamia
Rosemarie Dalisay
Caroline Castillo
Reggie Lorenzo
November Romena
Eslyn Mae Gonzales
Monet Pagcu
Vivien Morales
Maria Andrea Santiago
Marie Therese Nagar
Carlito Ortedusa
Antonia Dayon
Eden Regalado
Nestly Bernal
Joce Lumalad
Mercedita Bata
Marilou De Leon
Dion Edwin Francisco
Florence Dela Peña
Carmelita Aranda
Rexel San Felipe

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Posted in: 4parents,4pwas

ASP Family Support Group for June 2016

ASPs monthly family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges. We welcome members and non-members to this intimate gathering. New ASP members are encouraged to join.

Yanna with Daddy Albert

Our facilitator for this month is Albert Aragon, an AB Communications Graduate of UP Diliman and has over 30 years of experience in advertising, sales, marketing, events management and video production. He has written for and directed more than 100 special events and videos, including the record-breaking Angels Walk for Autism 2016 held at the Mall of Asia Arena. A certified facilitator and trainor, he regularly conducts and facilitates workshops on video production, events management, performanace management, marketing, and customer service.

Albert is a proud husband to Agnes Remollino Aragon and father to three children Meg, Yanna and Andrea. Yanna is a thriving adult on the spectrum with a degree from Ateneo de Manila and had been working for the past five years in IBM Philippines. She is currently working in procurement support.

Date: June 18, Saturday
Time: 1:00PM - 4:00PM
Venue: Autism Society Philippines National Headquarters
Address: #9 11th Jamboree Street cor. Sct. Fuentabella, Barangay Sacred Heart, Quezon City
Map: http://bit.ly/1LwgklB

Sign up for the Family Support Group via the on-line form below or call 7-903-5496. Only 15 seats are available.

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Posted in: fsg

Q&A with Autism Experts - May 2016

"It takes a village to raise a child." This African proverb rings louder for children with autism. The Autism Society Philippines believes that parents should build relationships with a professional compassionate support team who can advise and counsel them, in addressing the myriad of questions they have about raising a child on the spectrum.

"If you have met someone with autism, you have met ONE person with autism." There is no substitute for personal consultations with professionals, which consider traits and behaviors unique to the individual with autism.

As ASP continues to receive questions from parents and family members year-round, we have reached out to the following experts to help answer some concerns on health, education and intervention.

Hi ask ko lng po kung ano pwede gawin para ma improve ang social skills ng anak ko n 12 1/2 na nsa grade 5 na. Ok nmn po yung academics at behavior nya. Ang problem lng yung social skills. Thank you! --- Mary C.

Kailangan pong alamin kung paano makitungo ang anak ninyo sa mga ka-edad niya. Kung siya ay kinakausap, siya ba ay nakakapag sustain ng conversation tungkol sa paksa na interes din ng kausap niya? Nababasa ba niya ng tama ang mga facial expression at body language ng kausap niya? Tama bang ang pag-unawa niya sa matalinhagang salita na ginagamit ng iba? May kumpiyansa ba siya sa sarili niya o takot siya sa pakikitungo sa iba? Sumasali ba siya ng kusa sa group activities o' mas gusto talaga niyang mag-isa?

Pag na-identify na ang kakayanan at kahinaan ng anak ninyo sa social skills, maaaring turuan siya ng tamang pagtugon sa sa social situation. Makakatulong ang mga speech therapist sa pag develop ng social skills.

My son is 2 years old and 3 months already but he can't speak straight yet. He understands us but has difficulty expressing himself. He points to things to say what he wants. He plays with other kids and is sociable. I don't think he has autism but I'm suspecting he has speech delay. We teach him every day and read books to him but he does not mimic the words. What can you suggest? Should I consult with a development pedia already? --- Grace A.

Yes.

Warm greetings. My main concern now is to help my grandchild from my pamangin snow a 3 year old boy born in Qatar. He shows most of the characteristics of autism. His father is now staying with us in Quezon Ciy, looking for a job. I accompanied him to the Phil Childrens Hosp for his son checkups under Social Service payment scheme.

I really want to help Louse Angelo to rehab his attitudes and daily life activities. So, Louise Angelo got schedules for rehab on April 20, and assessment on July 11, 2016. and for dental sched too. But still waiting for hearing checkup cz the machine is under repair at the hosp. Currently,his full time mother is in Cebu taking care of the youngest siblings who is 8 months old. and a 7 year older sister. Please advise what other things do we need to do to guide us and take care of this child. Many thanks and more power! --- Helen A.

Hopefully you can get an appointment with a developmental pediatrician soon. they can provide guidance based on their diagnosis of your grandson's condition. In the meantime, it would be good if you could give your grandson a regular schedule of activities and structure at home. Try to teach him self help skills, provide as much language stimulation as possible (e.g. labeling things he sees and does) even if he does not respond. It would also be good if he has a playmate whom he can interact with.

Ms. Cecile Sicam

Cecilia Sicam is one of the 11 original founders of the Autism Society Philippines. She has served ASP in many capacities, as President from 2000 to 2004; and as its current Vice President. Inspired by her PWA son Likas, Ces has been instrumental in the founding of Professionals for Autism Foundation, Inc., Center for Autism and Related Disorders, the Philippine Association for Behavioral Analysis, and Bridges Foundation where she is currently its Directress. She taught SpEd for three years at Santa Clara, California; and came back to serve Filipino children with special needs.

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