Illinois Statewide Technical Assistance Collaborative

IATTAP News
FAMILIES & HOLIDAYS
The Holidays and Families
The holiday season brings about many joys, memories and
challenges. Some of those challenges may be related to
traditions, the travel, change in routines or families members.
In this issue, we hope to bring you holiday tips, and strategies
to make your holiday season enjoyable!


On behalf of the IATTAP team,
We wish you and your family a safe
and joyful holiday season!

W I N T E R 2 0 1 3
In This Issue:
p. 2-3 The Holidays: Tips & Trick

p. 4 - NEW! Parent Webinars
- In Our World, A Familys
Insight

p. 5 Tech Talk
- Apps, New Tech & On-line

p 6-7 A Season of Opportunity:
Helping Your Child Adapt to
Changes in Routine Over
Winter Break

p 8-9 In The News
- FAA Relaxes Electronics
Restrictions
- Book Review: Sensory
Child Gets Organized
- Disney Changes Disability
Access Pass

p, 10 Family Tips on the New Disney
Policy

p. 11 Hosting Autism for the
Holidays?

p. 12-14 Whats Happening In Your
Area




ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
2
THE HOLIDAYS
By Jacquie Mace, Central Community Partner & Parent
The thought of the holidays always come with mixed
emotions. I love the celebrations, the time with family, and of
course the food. But like most families who have a child on the
spectrum well also be facing a multitude of challenges that
come from well everything that comes with the holidays.
There are decorations, lights, music, travelling, chaotic
schedules, new smells, new clothes, and family. I know from
experience that all of these things can make holiday gatherings
less than ideal at times.

Over the years we have developed strategies that have
helped make the holiday seasons much more pleasurable.
Although we still run into glitches now and then, overall my son
and family look forward to the holidays and the traditions that
weve built around them.

With that in mind I thought I would share some of the
strategies that we use or have used in the past.
Hopefully some of them will help you and your
Pre-Holiday Spirit
8ead books abouL Lhe hollday a monLh or so
before
WaLch movles Lhemed around Lhe upcomlng
hollday
WrlLe a sLory abouL whaL you wlll be dolng, l.e.,
vlslLlng famlly, or havlng vlslLors, openlng glfLs,
eaLlng dlnner. lf posslble lnclude phoLos of who he
wlll be seelng, Lhe house decoraLed durlng lasL
year's hollday season. lf he ls golng Lo church, or a
parLy do Lhe same for Lhose envlronmenLs.
Event Planning
Make a rules board or card (wrlLLen or ln plcLures):
how long he/she needs Lo slL aL Lable, expecLed
behavlor, approprlaLe way Lo excuse Lhemselves lf
needed.
ConLlnue uslng behavlor supporL sLraLegles durlng
Lhe holldays. 8eward good behavlor.
1ry uslng a vlsual schedule lf you are celebraLlng Lhe
holldays on more Lhan one day (e.g., Panukah) Lo
show when Lhere wlll be parLles/glfLs, and when
Lhere wlll noL.
LeL your chlld help plck some of Lhe menu lLems lf
you are cooklng.
Closer to the Holiday
lf you decoraLe, leL your chlld be a parL of
LhaL process.
Co shopplng and leL your chlld plck ouL a
few new decoraLlons. We do Lhls each year
wlLh a new ornamenL LhaL goes on Lhe Lree.
Conslder decoraLlng ln sLages lnsLead of all
aL once so Lhe changes won'L be as
overwhelmlng.
CreaLe a calendar of evenLs abouL a monLh
before, so your chlld can mark off Lhe days
when Lhlngs wlll be occurrlng. 8e sure Lo
lnclude parLles, vlslLlng famlly, havlng
company, when glfLs wlll be open, eLc.






ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
3
Plan for Success
ack some Loys or games he/she can play wlLh - maybe fldgeLs for dlnner lf you wanL Lhem Lo
slL aL Lhe Lable wlLh everyone else.
8rlng foods he/she can eaL, especlally lf Lhey are very plcky or on a speclal dleL.
CeL wherever you are golng early so LhaL Lhe nolse level bullds up slowly.
lan a safe" place Lo go lf Lhlngs geL overwhelmlng - lf Lhere are no rooms, a small pop-up LenL
can work.
lf nolse ls a problem, Lake nolse-cancelllng headphones.
lnvolve your chlld ln Laklng plcLures Lo bulld a scrapbook - you can use Lhls nexL year Loo.
MalnLaln Lhe rouLlne: As much as posslble, malnLaln hls/her normal dally rouLlne. Pave a
schedule showlng noL [usL whlch parLs wlll change, buL Lhe regular rouLlnes LhaL wlll remaln Lhe
same. knowlng some Lhlngs won'L change can be very lmporLanL.
Clve Lhem a ass: lck a slmple gesLure, a code-word", or an l need a 8reak" card LhaL he/she
can use lf he beglns Lo feel anxlous or overwhelmed. racLlce Lhls before Lhe evenL so you're
boLh prepared Lo respond.

Dont be afraid to make your own traditions that play on what
your child loves doing best, making crafts, baking, or a quiet
movie. Try to remember to embrace flexibility as much as
you can and pick your battles. This has helped me keep my
sanity through many of our holiday years. Most of all .you
know what your child best and what he/she needs to be
successful. Dont be shy about putting supports in place to
make the holidays a time that your entire family can look
forward to.

Good Luck and Happy Holidays!
Prepare for Visits & Family and Friends
Lxplaln Lhe sensory dlfflculLles your chlld has wlLh
Lhe hollday envlronmenL, decoraLlons, nolse eLc.
Lxplaln how sLrucLure and rouLlne are very lmporLanL for
your chlld, and how Lhese changes can be very hard.
LeL Lhem know he/she ls noL mlsbehavlng and LhaL Lhey
are learnlng Lo handle Lhese slLuaLlons
Ask abouL foods LhaL wlll be served. Lxplaln abouL food
challenges so Lhey don'L expecL hlm/her Lo eaL whaL everyone else ls
eaLlng. LeL Lhem know you wlll brlng food for your chlld, lf needed.
Ask lf Lhere ls a quleL place LhaL ls safe for your chlld Lo go Lo for some quleL Llme Lo escape.
Send Lhem a shorL noLe ahead of Llme explalnlng why your chlld has dlfflculLles wlLh Lhe holldays
from hls/her polnL of vlew. 1hey wlll have a beLLer undersLandlng of why he/she may noL wanL a
hug, Lo play or share wlLh Lhe oLher chlldren or doesn'L llke when everybody slngs, eLc.




ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
4
IATTAP releases:
NEW WEBINAR SERIES:
Autism Parent Learning Community:
A Place to Learn Together

2
Adobeconnect. All this information and
instructions will be emailed directly to you
upon registration.
Here are some of the upcoming webinars.
Check our website
www.illinoisautismproject.org on
December 1
st
for a full list of webinars and
registration process.

Accessing Community Resources
Independence At Home
Behavior 3-part Series
Structured Teaching for Daily Living Skills
Navigating The Social Scene
DSMs Impact on Autism
Transitions Across the Lifespan
and many more!


In Our World
1
As parents, we often struggle with juggling our
schedules, therapy, work and family life. It can
be difficult to find time to continue learning
about our childs unique needs. So, IATTAP
has decided to introduce our new FREE
opportunity for families to learn with others
who are living it daily. The Autism Parent
Learning Community webinars provide parents
the opportunity to learn in the comfort of their
homes with practical information presented by
other parent who are living the life, and
supporting others in the community. The
webinars will cover a wide array of topics with
easy to implement real life strategies offered at a
variety of times to best fit your schedule.
Never done a webinar before? Dont worry, its
easy. It just takes a computer, high-speed
internet access and a free program called
Llvlng wlLh a chlld wlLh AuLlsm can be dlfflculL buL lL's Lhe llLLle Lhlngs LhaL make everyLhlng
worLhwhlle. My son was unable Lo go ouL lnLo Lhe publlc very much wlLhouL havlng a
melLdown. We were conflned Lo our home mosL of Lhe Llme. lL was very dlfflculL. AfLer Lralnlng,
supporL and help from lA11A, Lhe educaLlonal faclllLaLor and communlLy parLner, we can now Lake
our son back ouL lnLo socleLy and even on vacaLlons wlLh Lhe supporLs Lhey showed us how Lo make
and use! We Look our flrsL famlly vacaLlon lasL summer ln a very long Llme and whlle Lhere were
clrcumsLances we couldn'L conLrol, we had a wonderful Llme. We have used many vlsuals Lo help
ease our son's anxleLy and now are able Lo go almosL anywhere. Learnlng Lhe rlghL way Lo use
vlsuals and supporLs, you don'L have Lo be conflned Lo your home and can en[oy llfe wlLh your klds!
- by krlsLen uonovan, arenL.
By Carla Oldham, Chicagoland Family/Community Partner & Parent


ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
5
Tech Talk
APPS: Disney Interactive Books
Anything that is Disney says interactive, fun and engaging. Disney
Interactive Books connect the movies to books. With the primary
features of following along or read and explore or play, the book
draws your child into stories he/she knows and loves in a new
way. Throughout the books, it engages with puzzles, games,
spelling or other learning opportunities. It has video clips of the
movies. It provides great opportunity to read together or entertain
them alone. Available for android & iOS devices. Priced at $2.99-
$6.99.
New Tech
Does your child need to be constantly moving? Does
them carrying their idevice make you nervous? Or how
about a way to make your life easier? Then check out
this device called Adapt from Outdoor Technology.

This rugged and rubberized little clip transforms any
3.5 mm jack and headphones into a blue-tooth enabled
device. This includes devices like idevices, smart
phones, laptop, tablet, and some car stereos. It has a
built in mic, skip tracks, and can start or pause music or
videos. It has the capability of doing all this from up to
30 feet away from the device. With a full charge, it last
about 5-6 hours. It comes in several colors and is
$39.95. Learn more at:
http://www.outdoortechnology.com/Shop/Adapt/
On-Line Review: Starfall
Starfall is a free website that teaches children how to read and write by using games and
phonics. Practice letter sounds, word recognition, and reading comprehension through online books,
songs, rhymes and other games. Although Starfall is designed for first grade, it can be useful for
children in any grade depending on their developmental level and need. There are a number of free
printables in the download center.

For Purchase & Apps
Members can access more online curriculum based instruction, including Math, Music, and spelling
for $35. Homeschool Kits can be purchased for less than $350.00 the kits includes hands-on
materials include practice books, games, plush characters, books and posters for Social Studies,
Science and more. Apps are: Starfall "ABCs" 2.99 & Starfall All About Me 1.99

By Carla Oldham, Chicagoland Family/Community Partner & Parent


ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
6
A Season of Opportuni ty: Hel ping Your Chil d Adapt
to Changes in Routine Over Wi nter Break
!" $%&'() *)+(%,-. /)+-0" 12++3%-," 4)',%(' 5 4)'(%,. 16-7)82 93:3':;

As wlnLer break approaches, Lhls Llme of year brlngs anLlclpaLlon of hollday
celebraLlons, and a brlef reprleve from packlng lunches and homework for mosL
parenLs of school-aged chlldren. ?eL afLer all Lhe hollday shopplng and
preparaLlons have come Lo an end, resumlng school year rouLlnes can also be a Llme of sLress for some
parenLs. Lvery !anuary, we waLch our chlld geL on Lhe bus afLer wlnLer break. As Lhe bus pulls away, we
ask ourselves, "Wlll lL be a good day?" "lf noL, how wlll hls/her Leachers and classmaLes respond Lo hls/her
behavlor?" "Pow much can l geL done before Lhe phone rlngs wlLh LhaL poLenLlal call from school?" WhaL
wlll Lhe resL of Lhe week brlng?
lL can be dlfflculL Lo explaln Lo parenLs who do noL have a chlld on Lhe auLlsm specLrum LhaL reLurnlng Lo
school afLer a break can be a source of anxleLy for boLh parenLs and Lhelr chlldren. CLher addlLlonal
changes LhaL may also occur aL Lhls Llme as slmple as a subsLlLuLe Leacher, a new alde or bus drlver, or a
dlfferenL classroom seL up or schedule can be enough Lo make our chlld feel as lf Lhelr world has been
Lurned upslde down.
1hls became real for me when my now Leenage son was ln Larly Chlldhood, and hls flrsL reLurn Lo school
from wlnLer break dld noL go as well as expecLed. As l reflecL on LhaL Llme, l remember reallzlng how much
l had Lo learn as a parenL of newly dlagnosed chlld wlLh auLlsm, ad[usLlng Lo whaL lL was llke Lo have a chlld
ln school, and [uggllng Lhe needs of our enLlre famlly. l now Lake comforL ln Laklng Lhe sLeps we've learned
over Lhe years Lo prepare hlm for Lhls change ln rouLlne.
4'-2' ,2 ) !'()< ='2+ 976220
>;( 927-)0 9,2'-(;
?@
A ConLacL your chlld's speech LheraplsL or soclal
worker aL school and ask lf Lhey can provlde a soclal sLory
1M
abouL Lhe
break from and reLurnlng Lo school. Ask lf Lhere are any anLlclpaLed
changes ln sLaff, school day schedule, or classroom envlronmenL. lf so,
ask LhaL Lhese changes be lncluded ln Lhe soclal sLory
1M
.
1'(),( ) B2+( C-;3)0 976(&30( 5 123%,&2D% 1)0(%&)'A 1urn your
home rouLlne lnLo a sequence of sLeps LhaL can be followed and
checked off as compleLed. 1hls works well for chlldren wlLhouL AuLlsm
as well Lo help keep Lhem occupled, and can reduce LhaL sense of boredom. Make a separaLe one
for each chlld, so Lhey know whaL Lhey've sLlll goL lefL Lo do (and you can keep Labs of whaL
everyone ls dolng). lor chlldren wlLh AuLlsm, lL can help reduce anxleLy by creaLlng predlcLablllLy.
1he calendar can be used as a vlsual supporL Lo show Lhe number of days off of school, and when
school resumes.
/-83'( E3, F23' ED% G23,-%(A All Lhe preparaLlon ln Lhe world won'L amounL Lo much lf you're
runnlng around feellng unorganlzed. 1ake some Llme before Lhe break Lo flgure ouL how you're
golng Lo flL ln all Lhe sLuff LhaL you'll need Lo do. lf you know whaL you're dolng and when, lL'll be
much easler Lo sLay calm.




ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
7
$ 9();2% 2= EHH2',3%-,"A B(0H-%8 F23' 16-0& $&)H, ,2 16)%8(; -% G23,-%( EI(' J-%,(' !'()<

*3'-%8 ) !'()< ='2+ 976220A
K;,):0-;6 )% E3, 2= 976220 G23,-%(A 8egln your chlld's day by revlewlng an
ouL of school rouLlne and schedule. 1hls can lnclude golng Lo Lhe counLdown
calendar, marklng off each day, and revlewlng your plans for Lhe day uslng Lhelr
vlsual schedule. ConLlnue Lhe acLlvlLy by counLlng how many days are lefL unLll
school beglns.
4')7,-7( J'-,-%8 2' ?"H-%8: Some chlldren Lend Lo do fewer flne moLor
acLlvlLles over breaks from school, spendlng Lhelr days runnlng errands wlLh Mom or
uad, waLchlng Lhelr favorlLe 1v shows or movles or playlng vldeo games. lor Lhose
wlLh flne moLor challenges, lL can be an ad[usLmenL Lo geL back lnLo uslng a pencll, or
keypad. Pave Lhem wrlLlng, drawlng or Lyplng over a break. lf your chlld has an CccupaLlonal 1heraplsL (C1)
elLher aL school, or ouLslde of school, ask Lhem for some fun flne moLor acLlvlLy suggesLlons.
$-' ?6-%8; E3,: School maLerlals (backpacks, lunch bags/lunchboxes) may have sLrong odors for Lhose wlLh
senslLlve noses. Cpen and clean Lhem lf necessary, and leave Lhem ln an open space or ouLslde for a day or so Lo
reduce Lhe smell.
$ /(D *)"; 4'-2' ,2 F23' 16-0& G(,3'%-%8 ,2 976220:
K), @()0; ), 976220 ?-+(A Cver Lhe long days lL's easy for snacks and meal
Llmes Lo blend LogeLher, and Lhe klds can end up grazlng all day. 1hls mlghL
make lL harder for Lhem when Lhey're back aL school and asked Lo walL Lwo
hours or more before Lhey geL lunch or a snack. uurlng Lhe lasL few days of
a break, Lry Lo edge back lnLo regular meal Llmes LhaL are around Lhe same
Llmes LhaL Lhey'll be eaLlng aL school.
4')7,-7( L(,,-%8 G()&" =2' 976220A lf you have noL malnLalned Lhelr school
year rouLlne, resume Lhelr regular school year bedLlme, mornlng, and
evenlng rouLlnes. 8un Lhrough Lhe whole mornlng rouLlne - alarm clocks, waklng up, eaLlng breakfasL,
geLLlng dressed, brushlng LeeLh, eLc.. use a plcLure schedule or lf your chlld can read, posL a wrlLLen vlsual
schedule. 1hls wlll help you ldenLlfy and prepare for any rough spoLs, and help your chlld geL back lnLo Lhose
rouLlnes.
B)I( ,6(-' !)7<H)7< G()&" -% $&I)%7(: uon'L walL unLll Lhe lasL nlghL of a break or Lhe mornlng of Lhe flrsL
day back Lo school Lo geL Lhelr backpack packed and ready. Clve your chlld Llme Lo remember where
everyLhlng goes and how Lo repack lL Lhemselves. lnvolve Lhem ln packlng, and leL Lhem pracLlce zlpplng
pockeLs.
9,27< 3H 2% /)I2'-,( /22&;A 1he flrsL week back aL school afLer a break ls noL
Lhe Llme Lo Lry ouL new foods. SLlck wlLh Lhe Lhlngs LhaL Lhey already know and
love ln Lhelr lunchbox, breakfasL and dlnner.
L2 EI(' 976220 KMH(7,),-2%;: Some of Lhe Lhlngs LhaL are expecLed ln Lhe
classroom can be very dlfferenL Lo Lhe way Lhlngs happen aL home. lor example,
you can'L go Lo Lhe baLhroom whenever you wanL and you have Lo walL Lo ask for
someLhlng. 8evlew Lhese rules ln a way LhaL ls meanlngful Lo your chlld (uslng
vlsuals or plcLures of speclflc expecLaLlons) so Lhey are fresh ln Lhelr mlnd on Lhelr
flrsL day back aL school.
!3-0& >H 12H-%8 G(;('I(;: ueallng wlLh Lhe emoLlonal, cognlLlve and sensory demands of Lhe classroom can
be exhausLlng for many klds, especlally ln Lhose flrsL days back. So keep Lhe lasL week before school low-key.
1ry noL Lo rush around Lrylng Lo flL ln all Lhe Lhlngs LhaL you were plannlng Lo do all over Lhe break, and make
sure Lhey geL plenLy of resL and sensory downLlme.
G(0)MN Cnce you've done everyLhlng you can Lo ensure a smooLh LranslLlon back Lo school for your chlld,
Lhere's noLhlng more Lo be done. 1ake a deep breaLh and do someLhlng for yourself. 1here are always golng
Lo be bumps ln Lhe road LhaL we cannoL anLlclpaLe. So, en[oy Lhese lasL days of your break LogeLher.


ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
IN THE NEWS
Airplanes & Electronic Devices:
FAA Relaxes Rules
Traveling in and of itself can be a challenge with a
special needs child. For many, electronic devices help
our children in the crowded airline terminals and
keeping them busy on the plane. The problem face by
many parents is that all electronic devices must be
stowed away at the beginning and end of each flight,
regardless of its purpose. Well, Good News! The U.S.
Department of Transportations Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced in
October that passengers can now use their electronic devices at all phases of the flight. Cell
phones will still need to be turned off or put into airline mode. Now the caution note the
expectation is that all airline carriers will move to this quickly but there may still be a few that
have not been safety clearance, so check with the airline carrier you will be traveling with in
advance to see what their current rules are. Want to learn more? Read the actual press release
here:
Book Review:
The Sensory Child Gets Organized: Proven
Systems for Rigid, Anxious, or Distracted Kids
Getting our children organized can often times be a challenging event
DAILY! In this book written by Carolyn Dalgliesh who is a
professional organizer and parent of a child with sensory needs, she
provides a practical and easy to follow road map to getting your
child (and yourself) organized. In recent interview with The
Atlantic (see link below for full article), she explains how parenting children
with Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD ADHD, anxiety, sensory processing disorder and
other disorders can be made to be easier if we just know how to organize routines using
structure, visual aids, and communication devices and about the importance of keeping an open
mind about how parenting should work. The book covers many topics including learning styles,
traveling, creating fun play spaces, storage systems, organizing difficult activities to supports for
those who care for our kids. For $16 this book is well worth the read.
Full Interview: http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2013/10/the-first-step-to-
helping-a-special-needs-kid-get-organized/280854/
By Carla Oldham, Chicagoland Family/Community Partner & Parent


ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
Disney Changes Guest Assistance Card
By Carla Oldham, lamlly/CommunlLy arLner & arLner, Chlcago Suburbs
Disney has always been a magical place for taking our children with
special needs. With the help of the Guest Assistance Card (GAC),
we were able to go onto rides through the fast pass lane without
waiting in the really long lines. Disney has always committed to
providing the best possible supports for our persons with
disabilities.
In October, Disney announced that the GAC was being discontinued due to extensive abuse. The new
services for persons with disabilities are divided into two primary formats: Those with physical
disabilities who use a wheelchair/other device and those with behavioral/sensory issues. If your
child/you require a wheelchair, then the options are wait in line in the accessible lanes or take the
alternative entrance for rides, if not accessible. If using other apparatus like a walker or stroller, check
into guest services. They provide a large red tag that designates a person with a disability then follow
services provided for wheelchairs.
For persons with sensory or behavior needs, you will now go into guest services to request a Disability
Access Service (DAS) card. During the intake process Disney is now asking people what are your
concerns, what needs you may have, and determine the best supports for your child at Disney. They
often remind you there are quiet areas located throughout the park and to take breaks. If a DAS card is
approved, they will take your person with special needs pictures and information to put onto the card.
You must read through the conditions and sign as the adult. Basically the new process is like a Fastpass.
If rides have a 20-minute or longer wait, you get assigned a return time. These are written on the back of
your DAS card where 40 slots are available. Your assigned time is usually, the length of the wait, minus
10 minutes. Once a ride is completed, you can get a new ride assigned. If the wait time is less than 20
minutes, they recommend you just stand in line. The difference between a Fastpass and the DAS is that
there is no expiration time for when you can ride after it is assigned. Disney does recommend that your
family also utilize a Fastpass for all parties to help increase ride options between assignments.
A few additional tips: To get the DAS card takes about 8-10 minutes in guest services and does require
your person with special needs be present, so please plan accordingly. It does not require a doctors note.
The DAS card does allow up to 5 people at Disneyland and 6 at Disney World. If your family has more
you can always ask for additional people, they provide the extras at their discretion. Your DAS card is
good for 14 days so you do not need to do this process daily or if you change Disney parks. The DAS
card is bigger than the GAC cards. There are differences to where you get rides assigned. At Disneyland
you go to one of the kiosks throughout the park. At WDW, you go to the actual ride and a guest
relations attendant at the Fast Pass line will write in the times. The special entrances for shows and
specially marked areas for parades have not been impacted in these changes.
Disney requests if your family needs additional supports, services or help, the best option is to go to
IN THE NEWS


ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
We do not like change! Every event that we take our special person to
requires we have a plan, especially if there is a change. Families that have
now visited Disney with the new program are chiming in and below is a
recap in a 4-step process to create your plan. So first thing to remember, if
you have been to Disney before, this will be a change. If you have not, then
these are just good tips!

Step One: Know Your Needs
When you go into the Guest Services Area, you will need to provide them with what your persons
needs are. Write down what you think you will need during your visit. Just saying my child has autism will no
longer work. Know questions like, how long can my person wait in line if supports are provided, accessibility
issues, do you need a wheelchair/buggy, are there better times in the day then others. What causes sensory
overload for them (noise, ride speeds, darkness, etc.) Writing it down will help you articulate your needs to the
Guest Relation people when they ask or provide alternative options. Remember your old card was not to go to the
front of the line; it was only to shorten your time in line.

Step Two: Planning
What is the most important thing at Disney for your special person? What is important for you? Knowing what is
really important to everyone and then creating a solid plan with sensory breaks, alternating activities and top ride
selections will help to make the days smoother and less stressed. When is your person at their best? Consider
traveling during less crowded time of day/month/year. Consider using apps that provide tools and information
that will help you to tour the parks (there are many of them). Consider when your family may need to split to give
everyone the Disney experience. Have a visual schedule with only a few icons at a time or use a First/Then for
each event most rides and activities can be found on google images. Learn in advance what things your person
can do to help calm and plan a bag of these to carry around. Get a map; identify key places that do not require a
line to go to between ride assignment. Check out these websites for what other parents are doing: Autism at the
Parks, or WDW Autism. If you need more information or have specific questions about an upcoming trip, please
send an email to disability.services@disneyparks.com or contact Disney directly at Guest Services.

Step Three: The Disney Experience Plan
When the day finally does arrive, if you have created a solid plan these changes should not have a big impact.
Remember the essentials snacks and drinks and though offered for purchase, its a line. Light snacks and a water
bottle go a long way for a hungry child or for reinforcement of positive behavior. Remember to bring and use
social stories, schedules, communication board/apps and other tools that will assist your person understand their
day, whats next and share their excitement or frustration. Go Digital it takes up less space! Consider a first/then
or a waiting app. Load up movies, books, games on iphones/ipads to help with the wait times and reinforce good
behavior. Provide toys/activities/sensory aids that will distract and occupy him or her while waiting.

Here are what other parents responded to ways they help their child wait: electronic/idevices, snacks, find the
hidden Mickeys, books, coloring, trivia cards, bubbles, hand fidgets, blanket/cover up, music, headphones with or
without sounds, dark sunglasses, look at photos, taking pictures, joint compressions, push ups on the waiting line
bars, relaxation activities, standing yoga poses and small presents. Whatever it takes, remember to create a
positive reinforcement for appropriate behaviors!

Step Four: Rest & Re-evaluate for the next day
This is a new process and there will be problem so plan for the worst and expect the best. At the end of the day,
provide down time and opportunity to relax for all, its been a busy, sensory overloaded day. Re-evaluate what
worked, what didnt work and create new strategies or supports for the next day. Remember the most important
thing about Disney is the magic for our special person, not how many rides we can get them on.

The best MAGIC we can have is to have a plan and supports in place for our special person and our family.
FAMILY TIPS on NEW DISNEY POLICY
By Carla Oldham, lamlly CommunlLy arLner, Chlcago Suburbs



ISTAC: IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2013
Hosting Autism for the Holidays?
By Chelsea Budde, co-founder of Good Friends, Inc.
Reprinted with permission http://goodfriendinc.blogspot.com. Original publication date was 12/13/11.
If you're the host or hostess of this year's festivities and you have a family member with
autism who's attending, please keep this seasonal AUTISM acronym in mind ...

A is for anxiety. Anxiety is a real factor in determining behavior for a person with
autism. Not knowing where one is going, whether or not and when there will be gifts,
and if there will be a place where one can compose one's self with dignity are all fears
that may block joy.
U is for uncomfortable. Scratchy formal attire, while handsome for photo
opportunities, does not a happy person with tactile-defensiveness make. Caregivers:
lose the shirt, tie, and/or wool sweater and give yourself permission to bring your
loved one in his/her comfiest clothing.
T is for tips & tricks. What's your family member with autism's special
interest? Maybe you could ask his/her caregiver what you could have on-hand in
case of "emergency". Grab some fidget toys from the dollar store (but watch out for
the ones that have gel or liquid inside - that can get messy!). Some people with
autism like light-up and/or music-making baubles and others don't.
I is for information. One of the greatest gifts you can give to the family bringing the
person with autism is a good idea of what's going to happen. What are we eating
and when? Will we open gifts before or after the meal? Do you have a TV where
we can pop a movie in as a distraction in case we're waiting?
S is for sensory overload. I have always liked the song "It's Beginning To Look A Lot
Like Christmas", but I'm starting to think it's just a terrible reminder of the metallic
bells, bright lights, and scented candles that come with the season. Too much input
for the senses will diminish the coping ability for your loved one with autism.

M is for meltdown. And if that loved one runs out of ways to cope, he or she will
indeed have a meltdown. It's not a tantrum. Don't punish it. Understand that it's
meant for your understanding of the state he or she is in. Respect his or her
limitations.


Whats Happening In Your Area - CHICAGOLAND Monthly Events
Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) Coffee Talk -
Algonquin, IL 9:30 - 11:00 AM Panera Bread, 451
South Randall Rd., Algonquin, IL 60102

GymQuest Plainfield Outing 11-12 Celebrate
Differences $5 per child. RSVP to Debi at
Lockwood82998@comcast.net

Libertyville Area Parent Support Group Meeting
9:00am-11:00am Panera Bread, 832 S Milwaukee Ave,
Libertyville, IL Contact Tory Burrows at
theburrows@aol.com for monthly meeting information -
please type Caribou in the subject line of your email
message.

Special Education of Lake County (SEDOL) Autism
Parent Support Group The Group meets the 3
rd
Friday
of each month. Meeting locations may vary. Contact Deb
Hermalyn, SEDOL Social Worker to RSVP at
dhermalyn@sedol.us.

Northern IL Center for Autism (NICA) Family Swim
5:30pm-7:30pm Dolphin Swim Club, 825 Munshaw
Lane, Crystal Lake, IL 3
rd
Friday of each month
RSVP requested: (847) 658-5607

Chicagoland Autism Connection Monthly Meeting
1939 W. 13th Street, Chicago, IL. Registration
required. Contact Paul Butler, Executive Director
at: pebutler@chicagoautism.org

Open Swim for Special Needs Families at USA
Athletic Center & Spa 1975 Melissa Ln, Aurora, IL 4-
7pm Must RSVP to (630) 777-5045

Autism Parent Support Group at Celebrate Differences,
5375 Rt 34, Oswego. Contact Debi at
lock82998@comcast.net or (630) 229-7223 7-9pm
Childcare with reservation.

Alexian Brothers Social Wellness Group & Co-
Occurring Parent Group For children ages 9-12 with a
High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder. Co-
Occurring Parent Group: 6:00 7:00 PM; Outings 6:30-
8:00 PM To register, call 847-755-8090. Select option
#5 and leave a message.

Haleys Playground Special Needs Recreation Center,
special needs scouts, moms night out, open play, teens
groups and more. 1 North Lincolnway, North Aurora
630-777-5045 haleysplayground.com

Parents United, November 21
st
9:15-10:15 am & 6-7pm
KGH Consultation & Treatment 3100 Dundee Rd,
Suite 704, Northbrook, IL 60062
Mondays starting in October Teen Scene Group For
High School Students with a High Functioning Autism
Spectrum Disorder. 6:00-7:00 PM Outings 6:30-8:00
Alexian Brothers Medical Plaza, 1786 Moon Lake Blvd.,
Suite 104, Hoffman Estates, IL To register, call 847-755-
8090. Select option #5 and leave a message.

Autism Society of IL Sibshop 6:00pm-7:30pm 1
st

Monday of Every Month Group is for children age 6-17 who
have a sibling with Autism. Aldrin Elementary School, 617
Boxwood Lane, Schaumburg, IL Advance registration
requested at: www.autismillinois.org Contact: Libby at
libby@autismillinois.org or Melissa at (847) 534-6607

Kaitlins Hideout Special Needs Recreation Center &
programs offered for parents 526 Cresant Blvd, Glen
Ellyn 630-460-0789 kaitlinshideout.com

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)-Lake
County Chapter General Education & Support
Meeting 1
st
Wednesday of the Month Waukegan Field
House 800 N Baldwin, Waukegan, IL Meeting
dates: November 6
th
, December 4, January 2014-NO
Meeting

Libertyville Area Parent Support Group Meeting
9:00am-11:00am Nov. 19 Panera Bread, 832 S
Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, IL Monthly meeting
location, days and times may vary. Contact Tory
Burrows at theburrows@aol.com (Note: Please type:
Caribou in the subject line of your email message).

Mothers on a Mission, Inc. & West Suburban Special
Recreation Association (WSSRA) Monthly Support
Group Meeting (with Specialized Child Care & activities
provided by WSSRA)3rd Monday of the month from
6:00pm-7:45pm

Nov18th, Dec 16
th
& Jan 20th Cicero Community
Center- Room 106 & 107 2250 S. 49th Avenue in Cicero,
IL 6:00pm-7:45pm For more information call: 708-357-
4117 or visit: www.mothersonamission.net Espaol, por
favor llame al Ana: 708-654-4290

Special Education District of Lake County (SEDOL)
Nov. 15 -Autism Parent Support Group-Information,
Resource Exchange & Annual Recycle-Re-Use.
Please bring information and resources to exchange and
gently used clothing, books, toys or games. 9:15 am -
11:15am Lake Villa Township Office, 37908 Fairfield
Rd., Lake Villa, IL



Whats Happening In Your Area - CHICAGOLAND
Nov 2: The Child and Family Law Center
Fall Conference 2013 Special
Education and Autism Summit:
Advocacy Throughout the Lifespan
Deerfield, IL $35pp
karenr@lawforcild.com or 847-926-
0101 8a-3:30pm

Nov 8: Caregiver Support Night:
Caregiver Behavioral Toolkit:
Techniques to Strengthen
Caregiving. 7-8:30p The Therapy
Tree, 80 Cedar Ave, Lake Villa IL.
Community Outreach & Education.
Carrie Newsom 224-643-7747

Nov 9: Special Needs Screening: Free
Birds 11am at Studio Movie Grill in
Wheaton. Special Needs children
and siblings free all others $6 pp.

Nov 13: Special Needs Planning
Ensuring Your Wishes for Their
Future 7-8p Presenters: Thomas
Clark, Attorney; George Silfugarian,
Financial Celebrate Differences 375
US Rt 34, Ste 4, Oswego, Il60543
Free

Nov 15: Nourishing Our Children: An
intro to vibrate health in ourselves,
our family and the next generation.
1-5pm Presenter Renee Renz located
at Home State Bank, 611 S Main St,
Crystal Lake FREE but RSVP
http://www.tacanow.org/event-
list/autism-learning-seminar-illinois-
2/

Nov 15: Verbal Behavior Approach: Using
ABA/VB Strategies to Improve
Autism Programming Across the
Spectrum Presenter Mary Lynch
Barbera 9a-4pm Holiday Inn 1000
Busse Rd, Elk Grove, IL 60007
www.cepautism.org $85-$150,

Nov 17: Fun with Friends Freezer Meal
Workshop Fundraiser. 1-5pm $67 Come
cooke and enjoy time together.
http://wwcelebratedifferences.givezooks.co
m/events/fun-with-friends-freezer-meal-
workshop

Dec 3: Bridges to Adulthood for Learners with
ASD 9a-4pm Holiday Inn 1000 Busse Rd,
Elk Grove, IL 60007 www.cepautism.org
$75- $140 Presenter: Peter Gerhardt, Ed.D.

Dec 5: Dont Make Me Mad Helping Children
Manage Strong Emotions, Starnet Region
II, 8:30-3pm Elk Grove Villiage.
Reservation contact Starnet at 222-366-8579
or thecenterweb.org/starnet

Dec 6: Autism Kinship Event. Friday & Saturday,
December 6-7
th
Creating Traditions and
Surviving Holidsy with ASD. $69 pp
overnight options available

Feb 21: ASI Casino Night 7-11pm Oak Booke
Terrace, IL $150pp contact
libby@autismillionis.org or (888) 691-1270









Whats Happening In Your Area Central & Southern
Nov 7: Being Your Child's Advocate 6:30 - 8:00 PM,
Chrisopher Hall, Family Resiliency Center, 904 West
Nevada Street, Urbana, IL. 61801 www.fmptic.org
Kim at 866-436-7842 Ext. 107.
Nov 7: Positive Behavioral Interventions and IDEA:
New Opportunities for Teaching and Learning 6:00
- 8:30 PM, VCIL, 18 Gunia Drive, LaSalle, IL. 61301
www.fmptic.org/node/1378 Kim at 866-436-7842
Ext. 107.
Nov 9: Sensory Friendly Film Free Birds AMC Theatre,
Mattoon, 10:00 a.m. The lights are turned up, the
sound turned down and audience members are
invited to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing!
Nov 12: Parent Caf: Puberty 6:30-8:30pm 706
Oglesby Ave. Conference Room (between TAP &
Skill Sprouts), Normal Childcare is available with
registration RSVP: Jacquie Mace 309.824.4555 or
mace.jacquie@comcast.net
Nov 13: What is in Your Childs Future? 6:30.8:00
p.m. Christopher Hall, 904 W. Nevada, Urbana.
Free.. To register or for more information contact
Linda Tortorelli at ltortore@illinois.edu or 217-244-
0928
Nov 14: Play Groups begin November 14thThe
Autism Program6081 Development Drive,
Charleston1:00 p.m.2:00 p.m. Play groups l meet
the 2n Thursday of each month, beginning November
14th for children ages 2-5. Most of the play sessions
will be structured play activities that promote positive
interactions amongst the children. To register and for
more information contact Cheryl at
cherylsowers@ctfillinois.org or 217-348-3869 x 206.
Nov 14: Building Bridges: The Transition Process from
Early Intervention to Early Childhood Reg. 8:30
AM, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Danville Area Community
College, Room 141 2000 East Main Street, Danville,
Illinois www.starnet.org
Nov 17: AutiswimNovember 17
th
, 4:30 -6:30 p.m.
YMCA 221 N. 16th Street, Mattoon Fee: Free if
sponsored$10 per family if no sponsor. For more
details contact Jill Rohr at jrohr@mattoonymca.org
or 217-234-9494 or Julia Boyd at
jboyd@consolidated.net or 217-273-4793.
Nov 14: Building Bridges: The Transition Process from
Early Intervention to Early Childhood Reg. 8:30
AM, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Danville Area Community
College, Room 141 2000 East Main Street, Danville,
Illinois www.starnet.org
Nov 16: Teen Connect: Pottery Palace at Round Barn
Center1808 Round Barn Road, Champaign10:00
a.m.11:30 a.m. For more information about YAC
or Teen Connect Events please contact Cathy Testory
at 217-722-4482 or cathytestory@ctfillinois.org




Nov18: Regional Grassroots Employment Conference
First Baptist Church, 213 West Fayette, Effingham
10 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Learn from experts and share what
you and others have done to promote growth and
development of customized employment and per-
son-centered living in Illinois. Register at:
www.iamcinc.eventbrite.com
Nov 21: Looking at Children with New Eyes-The
influence of Sensory Processing on Child
Development, Behavior, & Learning featuring
Jennifer Rosinia, Carbondale, IL.
http://roe.stclair.k12.il.us/starnet/content.php?q=20
112012&PHPSESSID=604d5305ccac0f1b13393883a0
7da5f4
Nov 23: Young Adult Club: Pottery Palace at Round
Barn Center1808 Round Barn Road, Champaign
10:00 a.m.11:30 a.m. For more information about
YAC or Teen Connect Events please contact Cathy
Testory at 217-722-4482 or
cathytestory@ctfillinois.org
Nov 30: Young Adult Club: Volunteer work at the
Salvation Army Angel TreeMarket Place Mall
Champaign10:00 a.m.2:00 p.m. For more
information about YAC or Teen Connect Events
please contact Cathy Testory at 217-722-4482 or
cathytestory@ctfillinois.org
Dec 3-4: The Creative Curriculum for Preschool 5th
Edition, featuring Denise Henry & Sue Novak,
Carterville, IL.
http://roe.stclair.k12.il.us/starnet/content.php?q=20
112012&PHPSESSID=604d5305ccac0fb13393883a07
da5f4
Dec 4: Making Early Childhood Appropriate for
Every Child Reg. 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center, Lumpkin Family
Center, 1000 Health Center Drive, Mattoon, Illinois
www.starnet.org
Dec 10: Parent Caf: Sensory Lead by Jessie Bricker,
MS, OTR/L 6:30-8:30pm 706 Oglesby Ave.
Conference Room (between TAP & Skill Sprouts),
Normal Childcare is available with registration
RSVP: Jacquie Mace 309.824.4555 or
mace.jacquie@comcast.net
Dec 13 & Jan 16: Following Their Lead (Workshop +
Webinar) Day 1: Reg. 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Day 2: Log-in 3:45 PM, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Holiday
Inn Hotel & Suites 3202 East Empire Street,
Bloomington, Illinois Presenters Mindy Ely, Connie
Shugart, and Sherial McKinney www.starnet.org
Jan 11, Feb 8, Mar 8: Sibshop 3 part series. Sibshops
are for children ages 7 & Up who have a sibling(s) with
Autism. 1-3pm 15314 Fort Jesse Rd, Normal, IL 61761
(Jazzercise Building) Please RSVP to: Jacquie @
mace.jacquie@comcast.net or 309.824.4555




Every Family Has A Story
IATTAP NEWS WINTER 2016
Your IATTAP TEAM by Region.
CENTRAL ILLINOIS
Jacquie Mace - Central
309-824-4555
Jacquie.mace@istac.net
Sandy Valentine Peoria Area
309-251-9522
sandy.valentine@istac.net

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
Lyndsey Reedy
217-258-6616
l.reedy@live.com
Kristin Donovan
618-799-8102
kristin.donovan@istac.net

CHICAGO & CHICAGO SUBURBS
Andrea Damenti Northern
847-970-2347
zw9901@comcast.net

Carla Oldham South & Western
630-991-1156
autismteam@aol.com

NORTHWEST IL & ROCK ISLAND
Rick Ramirez
309-716-0815
rick.ramirez@mchsi.com


Illinois Autism Training & Technical Assistance Project IATTAP
550 Quail Ridge Dr., Westmont, IL 60559
Main Office: 630-861-1200
Fax: 630-325-2605
www.illinoisautismproject.org
Need resources?

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about our
services?

Dont hesitate to
contact your
IATTAP team in
your area.





You may not remember me, but I just want to say
thank you. IATTAP went to my son's school and
spoke about using structure and routines in the home
with our kids, and how we shape them now will affect
them later. I've been using your tips with my son and
slowly but surely he has been improving. Thank you,
my son is now doing a lot better."

- A Lake County Parent who attended one of our Parent Caf on
Structure & Routines