ASP Baguio City Chapter Free Therapy

ASP Baguio 2010 Pamaskong Thera-Free

*Click image for larger view

For inquiries: Call ASP Baguio City Chapter President Jenny Gundran 0927-295-4744

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The Basics of Behavior Modification

The seminar-workshop entitled “Caring for Caregivers”, was held at the Asian Social Institute, Malate Manila on October 16, 2010. ASP Trustee, Ging Viado, gave a talk on Behavior Modification Strategies.

Ging Viado presenting 3 kinds of autism’s triad of impairments

Ging Viado is a mother of a 24-year-old adult with autism. She conducts lectures on autism to parents and professionals, and facilitates support groups for moms with special children. She manages and owns a special school, GS Option House for Autism and Related Disorders, located in Biñan Laguna.

She gave an overview of autism’s triad of impairments: (a) communication (delay in the development of speech/the lack of speech), (b) social interaction (difficulty making friends/reading social cues) and (c) behavior (adapting to the environment).

Behavior refers to one’s response to various stimuli or inputs, i.e. the action of a system in relation to its environment. Children with autism usually have sensory processing deficits and therefore respond to their environment differently, oftentimes inappropriately. All behaviors occur for a reason and usually have a communicative intent.

Behavior modification strategies can help families and caregivers manage inappropriate behaviors and teach more appropriate responses through control or modification of the environment, and by reinforcing desired behaviors.

Commonly Manifested Behaviors (REFERENCE: INDEX)

These are some of the usual problem behaviors of a child with autism:

1. Resistance to change

The child will quite openly reject, either verbally or physically, changes in his environment which confuse him or which he cannot adapt to. He may also move away, appear not to be attending or ignore requests.

2. Obsessive and Rigid Behaviors

Obsessions are often displayed as an excessive interest in a topic or which the child may talk about whenever the opportunity allows. If he is obsessed with an object, he will repeatedly engage in ritualistic play with the object. The child may discard or ignore anything that does not involve his/her interest.

3. Aggressive and Destructive Behaviors

Physical aggression and destructive behavior can take many forms including hitting, kicking, biting, pulling hair, scratching or purposely breaking items. Aggression can also be verbal: shouting, insulting or hurtful.

4. “Cut-Off” Behaviors

The child who is often cutting off is quiet, not disruptive. He may engage in self-stimulatory behavior e.g. flicking his fingers, rocking, humming to drown out stimuli he cannot cope with or to calm himself.

5. Tantrums

Tantrums usually involve loud screaming and/or crying, with the child throwing himself on the floor or against the wall. The level of emotional upset can appear severe.

6. Manipulative Behaviors

The most common methods that a child uses to manipulate his environment are non-compliance, verbalization, physical resistance, screaming and crying.

7. Attention-seeking Behaviors

Attention-seeking could take the form of shouting, purposely breaking rules, being aggressive and destructive or constantly requesting for help.

8. Physical mannerisms and self-stimulatory Behaviors

SSBs are the child’s way of getting the sensory stimulation his brain needs. The need for joint stimulation may manifest as repeated flapping of hands, rocking, jumping; Visual stimulation twiddling fingers in front of the eyes, gazing quickly at moving objects, blinking. Auditory stimulation frequently involves tapping of different substances, or making the same sound repeatedly.

9. Problems with functional skills

Lack of skills or inappropriate functional behavior can be seen across the different skill areas e.g. eating, dressing, bathing, washing, communication, social interaction, etc. For example, in the area of eating: the child may eat nothing because he can’t unwrap his food and doesn’t know how to ask help or he may reject the food if it is not what he wants.

10. Lack of awareness of danger

The child may jump into a swimming pool even though he is unable to swim or may dash across the road with no attempt to look or wait.

11. Avoidance Behavior

The child is physically withdrawing himself from the disliked situation through running away or hiding in toilets.

Here are some of the various strategies for modifying behavior:

1. Cause and Effect Strategy - “Demand-Reward” or “First-Then” system helps the child develop compliance and trust, and reinforces desired behaviors.

Example: Sit first, then candy; if you finish your job you can play blocks;

First do writing, second reading then you can watch TV.

2. Graded Change Technique – Is a systematic approach of shaping the child’s obsession to objects, topics, interest, rituals or routines. Modification of obsessive behaviors is done in small phases until appropriate behavior is achieved.

Example: The child is obsessed with his favorite racing car that he cannot sleep without it.

Gradually increase the distance between the child and the car every night until the CWA can sleep without the object

3. Desensitization - Is the gradual introduction and exposure to the particular feared object or event and pairing it with something he likes so he associates it with something positive.

Example: The 6 years old child does not eat rice; he prefers to eat only cookies throughout the day. But the parents want him to learn how to eat rice.

v 1st Day - taste the rice then reward 1 bar of chocolate
v 2nd Day - 1 pc of rice then ¾ bar of chocolate
v 3rd Day - 2pcs of rice then ½ bar of chocolate
v 4th Day - 1/16 tbsp of rice then ¼ bar of chocolate
v 5th Day - 1/18 tbsp of rice then 1/18 bar of chocolate
v 6th Day - 1/4 tbsp of rice then a bit of chocolate
v 7th Day - ½ tbsp of rice then social praises
v 8th Day - 1 tbsp of rice then social praises and so on…

4. What to do Stories

This is the use of a visual and written representation that gives clear information about what may happen and what the child is expected to do in a new place or situation. This is a step-by-step procedure that helps make new situations more predictable for the child thereby decreasing frustration and resistance to changes in his environment.

Example:

Michael had great difficulty stopping what he was doing to listen to the teacher’s directions. A simple what to do story was written for him:

Mrs. MacGregor claps her hands when it is time to pay attention.

I hear Mrs. MacGregor clap her hands

I will put my pencil down.

I will put my hands on my knees.

I will look at Mrs. MacGregor face.

I will listen to what she says.

Social Stories - are written for high functioning students with problems in adapting to social situations. It is usually a 2 to 3 paragraph story composed of:

· Descriptive sentences which describe the situation in terms of “wh”: where the situation takes place, who is involved, what they are doing, and why they may be doing it

· Perspective sentences which give a peek into the minds of those involved in the story; they provide details about the emotions and thoughts of others.

· Directive sentences which suggest desired responses tailored to the individual.

· Control sentences are authored by the student himself as something of a mnemonic device -- a sentence to help him remember the story or deal with the situation. These are not used in every story and are typically used only with fairly high functioning children.

5. Error Free Learning - Use of positive directions with statements that tell the child what to do rather not what to do (use positive statement rather than negative).

Example: If he does run when he is outside tell him to walk only instead of stop running or no running.

Take note: that we may use NO, if the child is in danger or aggressive behavior.

6. Contracting – The child assumes responsibility for his/her behavior. A contract is a written agreement between the child and adult. A target behavior is identified and consequences are explained.

Example: I promised to listen to my teacher and be good by Day 1 to Day 5

(Put check mark if GOOD and Put a cross mark if BAD)

Good (check mark) can play on computer

Bad (cross mark) no computer

Signed by: Teacher and Child

7. Extinction Strategies

Ignoring – do not react to the behavior, simply pass with no comment at all when the behavior occurs. Usually used to extinguish attention-getting behaviors, expect an increase in severity or intensity of behavior before it disappears.

Turning Away - moving the equipment from the table, holding the child’s hand down gently and turning your head away for 10 seconds or so.

Separation - Alternatively turning the child’s chair away from a desired group activity e.g. singing

Time Out – putting the child in a separate location e.g. a corner or outside until he is ready to participate or behave appropriately.

8. Taking away privileges

* (e.g. class snack, free play or any other favorite activities).

* Sit or No Watching TV

9. Differential Informational Feedback

– the following chart illustrates some phrases that can be used to give the child positive reinforcement or directive feedback

CORRECT & GOOD ATTENDING

WOW

BEAUTIFUL

YOU GOT IT

GREAT LISTENING

PERFECT

YOU FIGURED IT OUT

YOU’RE SMART

TERRIFIC

GOOD DOING

ALL RIGHT

SUPER JOB

THAT’S WONDERFUL

CORRECT BUT POOR ATTENDING

THAT’S RIGHT

CORRECT

OK

YEAH

YOU CAN DO IT BETTER

YEP

GOOD

ALL RIGHT

MMM-UHMM

PRETTY GOOD

GOOD JOB, BUT….

THAT’S NICE

INCORRECT BUT GOOD ATTENDING

GOOD TRY, BUT…

ALMOST

USE BOTH HANDS

DO IT WHEN I DO IT

LET’S TRY IT AGAIN

YOU’RE GETTING CLOSE

CLOSE, BUT…

THAT’S NOT THE….

UH-UH

NOPE

NOT QUITE

SHAKE HEAD NO

NO RESPONSE OR INCORRECT WITH POOR ATTENDING

YOU NEED TO PAY ATTENTION

YOU NEED TO LISTEN

NO

WAKE-UP

YOU’RE NOT LISTENING

YOU’RE NOT PAYING ATTENTION

YOU NEED TO TRY

LISTEN!!!

PAY ATTENTION!!!

I’M ASKING YOU A QUESTION

YOU NEED TO ANSWER

HELLO!!!

REFERENCE: P.35 OF THE BOOK: A WORK IN PROGRESS BY RON LEAF AND JOHN MCEACHIN

Tone of voice, facial expression and use of tangible reinforcers further clarifies reinforcement.

Other strategies are Modeling, Chaining, Offering an Alternative, Verbal Prompt, Giving Chances and Natural Consequences.

Lastly, Behavior Modification can be successful with the following: Structured activities, Specific/ clear words, drills and most importantly, REMAIN CALM AND BE CONSISTENT.

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Ms. Dang Koe together with ASP Divas and Sparkle Band live at UNTV

ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe

Let's watch our ASP Chair Emeritus Dang U. Koe this coming Sunday 7 to 8AM at DOC ON TV, it is a one-hour live clinic-on-air show of UNTV that renders public service by providing important, up-to-date information relevant to health.

Hosted by Dr. Edwin Bien, a US trained integrative medicine practitioner and co-host Ms. Rhea Horrilleno, a friendly pediatrician Dr. Ato Basco, Dr. Daisy Camitan, a beauty and skin specialist, Dr. Rylan Flores & Ms. Yasuy Muralla.

They will also be celebrating they're 3RD Anniversary of Public service. The event will be highlighted by the MEDICAL MISSION for Special Children with ‘learning disability and opening ceremony of the launching of more public service rendered by the station.

the ASP Divas: Vell, Thara and Nica

Music really helps develop self-esteem and social awareness

ASP Divas and Sparkle Band are also there to grace up the show through they're music and moves. Don't miss the chance to watch them live on UNTV this November 28, 2010.

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ASP Zamboanga City Chapter Seminar

ASP Zamboanga logo

ASP ZAMBOANGA CITY CHAPTER

invites you attend the seminar on

"Parents, Teachers and the society, partners in nurturing the gifts of our child"

The seminar will bring together local experts in the different fields involved in dealing with children with special needs. It will focus on helping parents, teachers, nurses and other child advocates identify and understand the wide topic of the Autism Spectrum and other special needs, as well as provide techniques and strategies in the effective management of the condition.

on December 04, 2010

at ELearning Center Inc.

3F ZGU Bldg., Gov. Alvarez St.,

Registration Fee:

ASP Member Php 180.00

ASP Non-Member Php 200.00

Fees include AM snack, Lunch and Certificates

For more information call 992-7269 and look for Yolynne or email yolynne@gmail.com

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Birthday Wish Fulfilled!

By: Olive Del Rosario-Medina

Every year on my birthday, I do a little something special, as I will never be able to thank God enough for showering me with so many blessings. I do not even possess anything, for everything is HIS. All I can humbly offer is my entire life and being, hoping that with every breath I make, He may always be glorified.

It would be easy for me to just concentrate on Enzo and his daunting needs. If anyone cannot see Enzo or any individuals with disabilities as perfectly okay, then he/she is looking with an eye of prejudice. In the depths of my being, I know God has greater plans for me. So in the journey, I use my pains of having a child with autism to bless and reach out to other families instead, turning my pain into joy.

Momie Olive with son Enzo

I decided to spend my day with some young adults with autism and their wonderful mothers in Autism Resource Center (ARC), Laguna. The Center aims to create an enabling community for young adults with autism, where they can "Live, Work and Play" in an accepting environment.

members of ASP Laguna at ARC

In lieu of personal gifts for my birthday, I asked my friends to give gifts to my various causes. As my way of thanksgiving to my donors, I invited them for lunch at the ARC Diner. The PWAs, together with their job coaches showed their catering skills. The guests were truly amazed and they were also able to shop Christmas items also made by the PWAs.

God has given me wonderful people to help in HIS work. Many donors were not able to come due to other commitments, but they are with us in spirit. To all my certified angel friends and to ASP Laguna Chapter, Maraming, Maraming Salamat for making my birthday wish come true!

Postscript

I can't begin to tell you how happy I was last Sunday. If I can just have half of your dedication as a mom, then I can die happy. You are all an inspiration to me. I really hope I can become an active member of ASP Laguna Chapter. This term, I have a Saturday teaching load. But come January, I requested not to have a Saturday teaching load, so I can join your monthly Saturday meetings. In the long term, with God's grace, I hope we can have a Sta. Rosa or Cabuyao Chapter. Thank you so much for making my birthday truly memorable.

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AutiSM, Caring this October

By Cristine Republica, ASP Trainee

ASP, in partnership with SM Commitee on Disability Affairs, is one with SM in envisioning a PWD- Friendly environment in the mall. ASP National and ASP Chapters collaborated for the "Autism Orientation” project which started in the year 2007, that aims to educate mall frontliners about Special Shoppers with Autism.

Through the years, ASP Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe, has been actively and tirelessly imparting knowledge and sharing awareness to every SM frontliners all over the Philippines. Through her mentorship, ASP Leaders are trained and the pool of speakers has increased.

The distance doesnt really matter in advocating for Persons with Autism. From National Capital Region comprise of Metro Manila like Parañaque and Pasay. Going to North area, Region 3 of Central Luzon specifically Pampanga and Bulacan. To South bound, Region 4 of Southern Tagalog mainly the Cavite and Cebu City of Region 7 Central Visayas.

Orientation in Caring: To Our Beloved Persons with autism

Just to review, from October 2 to November 18 of last year, a total of 2,464 mall guards, housekeepers, tenants, managers and other personnel attended SM Malls’ quarterly seminar on “Caring for Special Customers”.

This time, a total of 3,456 personnel were oriented, over less than a month from October 5 to October 29, 2010 by the following Autism Advocate Speakers:

ASP National President, Grace Adviento, VP, Peng So, Auditor and President ASP-Metro South Chapter Evert Malapad; ASP Cavite Chapters Governor, Jan Peña, ASP Cebu Chapter VP, Haidi Fajardo, ASP Marikina Chapter President, Alex Cabason, ASP Metro-South Chapter Secretary, Desy Dulay, and Melanie Hisole, and ASP Molino Chapter, Rony Bambilla.

Here are some of the SM Supermalls that ASP has visited and oriented for the month of October

In the following malls: SM Bacoor, SM Baliwag, SM City Bicutan, SM Cebu, SM Fairview, SM Las Piñas, SM Marikina, SM Marilao, SM Molino, SM North EDSA, SM Novaliches, SM Pasig, SM Rosario, SM Southmall, SM City Sucat and The Podium/ SM Mega Mall.

Furthermore, if we add the orientation from September 19 and 27 at SM Dasmariñas and SM Mall of Asia, the total will come to 4, 241, to be exact! So in less than a month, ASP has doubled last years’ record!

Our sincerest thanks to SM Program on Disability Affairs, headed by Eng. Bien C. Mateo for long time partnership and unwavering support; PWD advocates: United Architects of the Philippines, Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, ADHD Society of the Philippines, and Southeast Asian Institute for the Deaf.

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Posted in: 4public,frontliners,seminar,sensitivity,sm

ABA Seminar-Workshops a Legacy for Parents of ASP Dipolog

By: Ma. Lizetta Manago, ASP Dipolog Chapter President

ASP Dipolog Chapter participated in a once in a lifetime opportunity with David Eisenhart, a Peace Corps volunteer from the USA who has a big heart. Eisenhart gave Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) seminar-workshops for free to teachers, parents, caregivers, occupational therapists and students of Master of Arts in Special Education from Dipolog City and Dumaguete City. The activities were held the Silliman University Library and at GPRehab in Dumaguete City last October.

David Eisenhart while having hands on training to a child with special needs

Parents from Dipolog City brought their children for the hands on training on October 18 to 23, 2010. They later learned that the first week’s seminar-workshop was for non-verbal children with autism. Having children who can imitate words and others having children who can read, this realization made them decide to join the second week’s seminar-workshop for verbal children with autism from October 25 to 29, 2010.

Participants get tips from David Eisenhart in handling children with autism

The seminars included series of lectures in the morning and hands-on-training with the children in the afternoon. Eisenhart made sure that each participant got to experience on how to handle the CWAs and apply what learned. Eisenhart generously a shared software called “Cookbook,” which he himself designed. This software serves as guide on how to handle the different issues of a special child, like establishing eye contact, learning to sit, getting control and over with head banging, trying to refrain from the biting habit, and many other useful tips to help directly involved caregivers, mothers and teachers.

Indeed, the meaningful event left a lasting impression in each of the participants’ hearts and minds. They acknowledged the special opportunity with humble appreciation to David for sharing his relentless skills and talents. The participants in turn promised to willingly extend assistance to children with special needs and to those who would sincerely show interest in learning ABA. David Eisenhart went back to the US leaving a legacy for ASP Dipolog Chapter.

======

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Mother Knows Best

By: Cathy Genovia, ASP Member and Volunteer

ASP had another successful Sensory Friendly Movie Showing or SfM, last November 20, 2010, which was shown at SM Cinema 1, The Block, SM City North EDSA; one of the largest malls in the country.

Unexpectedly, a 3D movie entitled “Mega Mind” was shown. It was indeed another new experience for children with autism, who are first timers in watching the SfM at an SM Cinema.

Sensory Friendly Movies is one of SM Program on Disability Affairs or SMPDA’s project to help persons with autism and their families, be integrated in the mall environment. The SMPDA is chaired by Eng. Bien Mateo, who also worked with other SM Cinemas in Baguio, Manila and Davao to feature the SfM environment. The initial screenings benefited children with autism from different special schools. And through the partnership between ASP and SM Supermalls, they hope to have more SfM in all branches of SM, nationwide.

There’s this one PWA that really caught my attention. I saw ASP Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe, who was talking and helping Ryan’s uncle and caregiver to enter the cinema. As I discovered that Ryan didn’t want to enter the cinema, because he was scared of the dark.

ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe having a light moment with CWA Ryan (left) and his uncle (left) caregiver in the cinema.

SM personnel immediately responded and took action by switching on the lights by the entrance door of the cinema. Eventually, Dang was able to prompt and convince Ryan to enter the cinema, just like it were a pretend play.

Truly mother knows best, since Dang is also herself a mother to Gio, a teenage boy with autism. She is used to handling special situations exhibited by Ryan. She was excited and happy to find out that Ryan was finally able to sit comfortably and enjoyed the new experience. He stayed put inside the cinema.

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The15th Autism Consciousness Week Celebrations

The annual celebration of the Autism Consciousness Week is set from January 16 to 23, 2011 with the theme “AUTISMO PAGHANDAAN: Maagap na Deteksyon at Interbensyon Isakatuparan!!”

Former President Fidel Ramos signed Presidential Proclamation 771 in 1996, which mandates the whole nation to celebrate Autism Consciousness Week (ACW) every third week of January to raise the public’s awareness of autism and to promote the rights and welfare of persons with autism.

Now on its 15th year, Autism Society Philippines (ASP) spearheads the celebrations with government agencies, business establishments, and other non-government organizations. For 2011, the Autism Consciousness Week-National Working Committee organized themselves as early as October of this year, to plan and implement various activities for the ACW.

The 2011 ACW-National Working Committee is co-chaired by The Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), represented by Architect Rizal Morales, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), represented by Mr. Prime Bonife.

ASP Executive Director Ranilo Sorongon (fourth from the left) brainstorming with other ACW-National Working Committee members.

Other member organizations also joined in support are, National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Commission on Human Rights (CHR), House of Representatives Committee on Social Services (HOR-CSS), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of Education (DepEd), Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Kapisanan ng May Kapansanan sa Pilipinas (KAMPI), Buhay Party List, Bagong Bayani, Liliane Foundation, SM Supermalls and SM Committee on Disability Affairs (SMCDA).

The ACW-NWC members agreed to conduct the traditional Angels Walk for Autism to launch the celebrations In between, there will be Autism Awareness Seminars, Family Support Group Mettings, On-The-Spot Art Contest, Photo Exhibits, Film Showing Sensory Friendly Film and Alyana Film showing, Quiz-A, Talent Show, Educational Fieldtrip and Family Day Celebrations. A Thanksgiving Service will serve as the culminating activity.

Let’s join hands to Share Hopes and Build Dreams together with ASP and its 47 Chapters, nationwide in celebrating the 15th National Autism Awareness Week! Keep checking ASP sites for more information.

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I’m Aware, I Care, I’ll Run

By: Abegail Mendoza, ASP Program Assistant

Autism Society Philippines institutional member, PVI Foundation Inc., will be holding the “RUN4SPEC 2010, a Fun Run Awareness for Children with Special Needs” at QUEZON MEMORIAL CIRCLE (Runnex Area) on December 5, 2010, Sunday at 6am.

According to PVI Auditor, Jenni Lizardo, the foundation has been organizing this event since 2005. Under the heat of the sun, wearing runners attire – shirt, shorts, rubber shoes – holding the hands of children with disabilities, running together, added are cheering squads screaming “motivationals” at the top of their voices.

In line with this, PVI Foundation invites the members of ASP to join in this much awaited event. There will be 30 slots designated for registered updated ASP members. Registration is until December 1, 2010 only.

Category A: One (1) Child with Autism (CWA) and One (1) Companion for P100 will be collected (This fee applies to indigent ASP member families only). Fee inclusive of snack for CWA. Just wear your ASP shirt and kindly bring your ASP ID.

Category B: Paying ASP members, the registration fee is P250 per head. Fee inclusive of (1) T-shirt.

Pagkakaisa Volunteers Incorporated Foundation, Inc.

The PVI Foundation Inc. is a non-stock non-profit organization, composed of volunteer students and professionals committed to the welfare and development of CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. One of the highlight activities of the organization is the Summer Therapeutic Camp every year.

Last April, Muneer and his older sister, Ate Thea, children of ASP Bacoor Chapter President Jan Peña, joined the 2010 Therapeutic Summer Camp, in Mexico Pampanga. The funds of this race will be use for the upcoming 2011 Therapeutic Summer Camp in Iriga, Bicol, a week before the Holy Week.

Witness how these kids become winners in their own way… We all care, we all are aware, so, we run for them and with them!

For more information please contact: Catherine Genovia at 0915-406-9338.

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ASP San Fernando City Chapter Seminars December 4

San Fernando City Chapter

Seminars on

1. Home Management Program: A Parent Perspective

This Seminar aims to furnish parents, caregivers and professionals with different approaches on how to teach persons with autism (PWA) adaptability to daily family activities, routines, chores, down to functioning in the home setting. Acquired valuable skills can support the PWAs road to self-reliance. Home Management Program is created to meet the specific needs of the PWA and also aims to address behavioral concerns of PWA at home.

2. Daddy's Power: A Father's Journey with Autism

Traditionally, mothers are the ones responsible for their children with disabilities while the fathers take on the role as breadwinners. But Ever Malapad and his wife Apple chose the road less travelled. Evert has taken upon himself the responsibility of taking care of Mae Mae, their daughter with autism for the past eight years. It has never been that easy yet the rewards have been immeasurable.

This talk shares Daddy Evert's journey from the moment his daughter was diagnosed with autism, his decision to forego his rising career as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), his struggles and triumphs as a "daddy-teacher" and his advocacies in championing the cause of persons with autism and other disabilities.

Be inspired and encouraged as you listen to his unique story!

Speaker: Mr. Evert L. Malapad, M.A. Sped

Mr. Evert L. Malapad is the current president of Autism Society Philippines- Metro South Chapter and a Trustee of ASP National Office. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Technology. He is presently teaching adult program for individuals with special needs at Candent Learning Hauz in BF Homes Las Pinas City. Mr. Malapad complet his Masters Degree Program in SPED and B S Secondary Education at the University of Perpetual Help–Las Pinas City. Evert is a father of a 16 year-old girl with autism.

Venue: Heroes Hall Magdalena St., San Juan San Fernando Pampanga on December 4, 2010 Saturday 1pm - 5pm

Seminar Fee (with Snacks and certificate)

ASP Member - P150

Non-ASP Member - P200

Pre-Registration is advised.

For details: Pls. call or text: Teacher Joy 0908-876-5625 / 0922-854-3574

Grace 0908-892-2038 / 0916-230-0163

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'Techie' education for children with autism

By DANG U. KOE, ASP Chair Emeritus

It is really uplifting to see our local technology companies offering their wares and expertise in assisting our public school system. Companies giving computers and internet providers are allowing some of these public schools internet access. These schools are also now receiving computer instructional programs.

Autism Society Philippines saw the potential of technology and was able to acquire a technical grant of two full licenses of VizZle © — a visual learning software created through collaborations with the Monarch Center for Autism, and Children’s Hospital Boston/Harvard Medical School.

With its capability to add video and audio and share lessons across a web-based library, Vizzle has won numerous awards in the United States and in the World Wide Web.

ASP’s original plan stipulated that it will hand over the software to the Special Education Division of the Department of Education. “We wanted the public school system to embrace educational technology for special needs,” says Cristina Estampador, ASP’s techie-trustee and this week’s angel talker.

“Technology is here and available. There shouldn’t be excuses to delay this.”

* * * * *

Technology responds to the growing deficit of allied medical and SPED professionals in the country. During ocular of the SPED center at P. Gomez Elementary School, this Angel Talker discovered that the centers had outdated, non-functioning computers. Internet connection was also non-existent.

What is sad though is that the Special Education Division of the DepEd thought that this center had computers and was ‘tech-ready.’ But ASP was not daunted. “We don’t dwell on that mishap. You see a need, you fill a need,” says ASP executive director Ranil Sorongon. ASP thus sticks to its original plan.

SPED STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO - 25:1

Amid the increase in public SPED centers in the last five years, there are still very few of them scattered all over the country. In most cases, these centers are over-populated and host a mix of disabilities: autism, Downs syndrome, cerebral palsy, deaf, speech/visually impaired, physically-challenged, etc. The mix of students is unimaginable, yet this is our reality.

The 231 public SPED centers have an alarming student-teacher ratio of 25:1. This figure is not ideal as it leaves no room for dedicated attention for each student’s unique needs. This undesirable figure leaves most teaching efforts ineffective and a grave misuse of time. This ratio also shows the lack of government and public initiatives to address the growing concerns of the special needs community.

It was revealed in private discussions that some of these centers have computer instruction, yet this is confined to ‘fast learners’ and for teaching computer skills only; such as word processing, spreadsheets, and some graphics design. They have not explored technology in using it for teaching other academic subjects and even behavioral modification. Technology is, therefore, not maximized.

TECHNOLOGY AS TEACHING TOOL

Technology allows easy implementation of differentiated learning across a class of unique learners. Teachers can thus teach a variety of subjects like behavior modification, life skills and even academics, across a variety of skills and levels, while being able to efficiently record and monitor the students’ progress. This allows proper assessment and profiling of the students’ skills.

Multimedia was enough to engage home school parent, Gina Bermudo. “They’re having fun with their lessons. I’m having fun, too.” Bermudo confessed she gets stressed out and frustrated if her boys, Nicolas and Alexander, both with autism, don’t meet their IEP (Individualized Educational Program) goals. “Ultimately, I feel ineffective as their teacher. But Educational Technology delivers me from that. If the lesson is meaningful and fun, learning happens. And that’s for both, the student and the teacher.”

Derek and Henry's photo

MULTI-SENSORIAL LEARNING

Technology is your best bet in to respond to the need for multi-sensorial learning. You can deliver the visuals, the auditory and the kinesthetic experience to your students. Digital books can automatically read the books for students. An engaging audio recording can read through highlighted words like a red bouncing ball would to an old sing-along video. Touch screens and motion sensors allow the children to kinesthetically respond to the programs.

There are mobile apps (applications) that teach handwriting. This Angel Talker’s own son uses a cursive handwriting game on a tablet and helps him practice his skills with a stylus. He thinks it’s a game. He’s having fun but more importantly, he’s more interested in writing now. It makes it easier for mother/teacher and son/student to expand to a writing curriculum now.

Social Skills Training Through Video Modeling

Lessons are presented in groups through an interactive white board, which is similar to the motion video games that are available in the market. Having this feature creates “joint focus.” It creates opportunities for students to be social and participate in group socialization activities.

Social skills classes are supported by graphical social stories and visually-supported learning games. Social stories and games can be delivered in groups through ACC software, videos, interactive whiteboards and LCD projectors.

Assistive Communication

Students with autism have been found to be visual learners. Visual supports take advantage of the generally stronger visual processing capabilities of such students. One would be hard pressed to find a speech-language pathologist who does not use visual schedules, timers, token boards and instruction boards.

Receptive and expressive communication is taught with topic boards and AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) pictures cards for the verbally-challenged.

Using video captured on flip cameras or instructional videos dropped into interactive lessons — is one of the exciting features of this software, “Static cues are difficult for my older students with lower-level cognitive skills to comprehend,” explained Kelly Yaworksi, a speech pathologist. “The videos provide more concrete examples of what is expected.”

CARLY AND STEPHEN

The most affected function in most neurological disabilities is communication and this is where technology levels the playing field for non-verbal or minimally verbal children. There have been several inspiring cases of non-verbal children finding their voice through technology. Most often, they have been found with profound intelligence- something that most people wouldn’t expect.

The general population has equated intelligence and potential with communication and language. Mostly viewed with the ability to speak; that vocalization is the ultimate expression of thought. Carly is one shining example that this isn’t so. Several therapists, teachers and parents have experienced looking into their children’s eyes bearing innate intelligence and often wondered how else can they express more and communicate more.

Carly Fleischman (a teenager with autism), who, in spite of her inability to talk, has found a platform through the use of computers. Carly has been diagnosed with severe autism. She displays over-the-top tantrums, uncontrollable stims (self-stimulatory behaviors), unconventional responses to situations and cannot speak a word. That was until during a therapy session, at the age of 11, she ran to a computer and typed the letters, H-U-R-T. Her therapist edged her to type some more and she typed, H-E-L-P. Unable to contain her pain, she threw up.

Because of this breakthrough, her therapies are now assisted laptops and speakers. Her inspiring story has been featured in 20/20 and on Larry King. She now chronicles her personal journey thru her blog at carlysvoice.com. She has also been accepted at a public high school in Canada.

Vizzle© Tech for Public SpEd Centers ASP is currently leading a project to acquire used laptops and computers to fill a computer lab for the SpEd Center in P. Gomez Elementary School, so that they can use VizZle ©.

Mrs. Leticia Corona, the school principal, welcomes this extension of assistance from ASP. “We need this. This can help our special needs students, as well as the teachers, in a very big way. We’re excited in learning a lot from this experience and become better teachers for these kids,” says Corona.

It is an opportunity to make a difference and create a ripple of excitement for educational technology, especially the special needs community. ASP is looking forward to creating a tsunami of hope for parents and kids out there.

If you have, or your company has used yet functional computers or laptops, and wish to give them a new lease on life, donate them to help special needs children and give these kids the hope they deserve. You may send your inquiries via email to cristina@autismsocietyph.org.

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Two special education experts from Singapore will conduct ASP’s monthly seminar this Nov. 27: Ignatius Peh, and Bimal Rai on “Empowering the Special Child,” 9 a.m.-12 nn, and Rai on “Relationship Development Intervention,” 1:30-5pm. Venue is at the Asian Social Institute, Malate, Manila. Click here for more details. Uploaded with permission Source: Manila Bulletin - 'Techie' education for children with autism Photo Courtesy of Cristina Estampador.

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First Pinoy PWA in ASEAN Children’s Forum

Ian Lopez, 18, the first Filipino with Autism, attended the First ASEAN Children’s Forum with his mentor, Ms. Cathy Lopez, Vice President of ASP Laguna Chapter. The conference was held on October 19 to 23, 2010 in Fontana Leisure Parks in Clark Freeport, Pampanga, with youth participants representing the 11 countries of ASEAN. Ian filed this report.

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The first ASEAN Children’s Forum is very helpful when it comes to improving the lives of many children in South East Asia. It would be easy for people from one ASEAN member-state to interact with another in terms of opportunities.

I represented over a million Filipinos who have potentials, but limited by various stumbling blocks, including their disabilities. It is my hope that my participation in the First ASEAN Children’s Forum will enable me to be an inspiration to children with disabilities. I believe children are the hope of every nation.

Ian make a stand for Children with Disabilities

During the 4-day conference, significant decisions were made during the Terms of Reference Forum.

(1) To have an ASEAN Children’s Forum annually

a) this will be supported by the ASEAN Secretariat- coordinating with information dissemination and activities

b) ACF will have children delegates between 12 to 18 years old

c) ACF will have special consideration for Children with Disabilities

(2) To advocate for children’s rights in the region

(3) To utilize the new ASEAN Children Forum’s Website to:

a) Serve as a tool for communication, advocacy, awareness and information

b) Have a format that ensures the safety, security and privacy of children

c) Make decisions through consensus and suggestions.

(4) To make action proposals on the children’s participation in the environment, HIV-AIDS, poverty, child labor and internet.

(5) To select representatives to the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Social Welfare and Development (AMMSWD) Leaders in November 2010. This will be decided by the organizing committee, pending the availability of the participants, plus other considerations.

Ian during his reporting

I have made a personal commitment to help the children of ASEAN and decided to be of service to them through volunteer work and by providing assistance, like tutorials. If you need my help, I am more than willing to help you.

I would like to express my appreciation for my family and friends; Autism Society Philippines, Executive Director Ranil Sorongon; ASP Laguna Chapter President, Riza Cansanay; City Government of San Pablo, through Mayor Vic Amante, the San Pablo City Social Welfare and Development Office headed by Ms. Grace Adap and SWDO staff; University of the Philippines Los Baños; the ever-supportive Council for the Welfare of Children for their kind-heartedness that helped me continue my advocacy.

For comprehensive report, click here.

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The First ASEAN Children’s Forum

By: Ian Lopez, PWA, ASP Laguna Chapter

ASP-Laguna Chapter Vice President, Cathy Lopez, mentor and Ian Lopez, person with autism, participated in the First ASEAN Children’s Forum (ACF) from October 19 to 23, 2010 in Fontana Leisure Parks in Clark Freeport, Pampanga. The ACF aims to turn the immense vision of its participants to the momentous actions of millions of children through the active and enthusiastic participation of the children and youth of Association of South East Asian Nations.

participants, mentors and facilitators

Day 1 Welcoming Delegates & Showcase of Philippine Culture

On the first day, the start of the journey, many people came from diverse backgrounds from different countries. We all familiarized ourselves with new acquaintances’ names and faces; and were oriented about the activities that will happen in the next four days; all these through the lively young facilitators, headed by Lakan Bunyi.

In the evening was the Philippine Cultural Night, started with the parade of national colors and costumes. Child leader, Jaylord Langbayan gave an inspirational speech to participants and mentors. His speech was followed by welcoming addresses from the Chairperson of Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman.

After the speeches, each participant was asked to make a “signature cheer” for their respective countries. To end the cultural night, a ritual followed, where all delegates (including mentors and facilitators) committed to the success of the ASEAN Children’s Forum.

Ian Lopez with other Philippine delegates

Day 2 Lectures, Workshops & Learning ASEAN

The second day was an important day because the ASEAN Children’s Forum Web and Blog Sites were launched. According to the presentation of Maria Elena S. Carballo, CWC Deputy Executive Director, the sites were created primarily as outlets where children from the 10 South East Asian Nations can basically express themselves and bring up child-related issues to local and national governments and organizations within the region. Later, Clark Apuntar and Josef Baldo, explained to participants on how to use the website and blog.

After the break, Alicia R. Bala, DSWD Undersecretary and ACF Steering Committee Chairperson, explained the importance of child participation in regional and international events; while Mega Irena, from the ASEAN Secretariat, discussed the significance of the ASEAN Children’s Forum within the ASEAN Structure. In between the discussions was a brief dramatization on the history of ASEAN from the youth.

Children participants presented their outputs from Five Simultaneous Workshops. Different aspects on ACF’s “What, Who, What For, and How” were discussed. There was also a workshop regarding the ACF Websites, while adults attended a separate Focal-Point Workshop.

After the whole day’s work, we had an hour of rest and relaxation in our respective villas. We returned to the Fontana Convention Center (FCC) for the “Proud to be ASEAN” Cultural Night, which featured the diverse cultures of the ASEAN Member Countries.

Day 3 Research & Reporting

On the third day, participants were split into groups of local organizations that dealt with various issues/problems in the community. For Poverty and Child Labor - Lingap Pangkabataan, Inc. (BASECO, Port Area, Manila); For Health (HIV-AIDS and Sexual Issues)- Babae Plus (Malate, Manila); For Child Participation - Save the Children (Navotas City); For Environment – Greenpeace (Quezon City); For Children with Disabilities- Elsie Gaches Village (Alabang, Muntinlupa City); and lastly Cyberspace and Internet for Children - ECPAT Philippines (Quezon City).

After the day’s rigorous activity, we returned to eventually the FCC for dinner and Plenary Reporting of Field Visit findings and the output from the Second Workshop. A collective message from the different issues will be reported during the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Social Welfare and Development (AMMSWD) Leaders in November 2010.

Day 4 Rest & Recreation, Plus More Work!

Today was a more relaxed day, compared to the other days. Last night the participants and their mentors collectively decided to contribute to the local economy by shopping in SM City Clark, one of the country’s biggest malls. Other facilitators decided to go swimming at the Fontana Water Park.

After a handful of hours of fun and relaxation, it was back to business at 11:30 for a Press Conference. Local media from Sun.Star Pampanga, ABS-CBN Pampanga, CLTV 36, UNTV Pampanga News Bureau, and the Philippine Information Agency, discussed on accomplishments for the last 3 days.

We validated the Terms of Reference for the ASEAN Children’s Forum- the VOICE of ASEAN CHILDREN; where all children can express opinions and issues affecting them and to create recommendations for various solutions to ASEAN leaders.

Click here to read more of Ian Lopez’s personal reflection on the First ASEAN Children’s Forum.

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Sensory Friendly Movie Set

Sensory Firendly Movie
Official Logo

Due to the success of the first Sensory-Friendly Movie (SfM) showing last September 25 at the Block, SM North EDSA and SM City Davao last December 2009.

SM Programs on Disability Affairs (SM-PDA) in partnership with Autism Society Philippines will be having another Sensory-Friendly Movie (SfM) showing on November 20 Saturday at 9AM at SM Cinema of The Block, SM North EDSA.

Children with autism (CWA) can watch the cartoon movie “Despicable Me” for free while their caregivers/yayas will be paying the regular ticket of the cinema.

ASP is inviting 50 CWA whose parents are members of ASP to view the movie for free. This will be on a first come first serve basis. So what are you waiting for, dial 7-903-5496 to register your child or sibling with autism.

This project was inspired by a similar project of Autism Society of America, SfM will give persons with autism and their families/caregivers the opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment.

Persons with autism experience the world differently. Their senses don’t process information in the same way so that they may have unique sensory (seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting and touching) experiences in a different manner.

To provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for our special audience, SM Cinema 3 will be

o Bringing up the lights

o Turning down sound volume

o Allowing families/students to bring in their own snacks

o Eliminating movie previews and advertisements

o Welcoming audience members to get up, dance, walk, shout, sing, go in and out of the cinema (as long as safety of audience is not threatened).

o Supporting desensitization program of special schools in training their students to acquire socially-appropriate behaviors inside movie houses

“SM Cinemas are already accessible to other PWDs. Now, Sensory-Friendly Movies (SfM) will allow families to bring their loved ones with autism inside movie houses, without worries“ said SM-PDA Chairman, Eng. Bien Mateo.

We hope that other movie houses will follow SM cinemas’ example of embracing persons with autism thru the SfM!!!

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ASP National Back to Back Seminars November 27

1. EMPOWERING THE SPECIAL CHILD

9:00AM - 12:00NN

By: Ignatius Peh and Bimal Rai

This seminar will discuss about the child with special needs, understanding more about Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Autism and ADHD. It will also discuss intervention strategies and support referral and psychological services, and training for parents and teachers

Ignatius Peh is the founder of linguistic council and is credited with shaping the special needs industry in Singapore, Malaysia and Jakarta. His trainings in counseling, special education and psychology helped bring professionals together to work on his vision to provide strategies for teachers and to initiate awareness and intervention programs in these countries. He serves as an ambassador of change and his main role now is to spread the word on how children with special needs can receive attention. He also travels to Asian countries working with government agencies and NGO's such as the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Community Youth and Sports in Singapore, National Autistic Society of Malaysia, and Dyslexia Association in Malaysia and Hope Foundation in Jakarta to further the cause of special needs children.

Bimal Rai MA (AppPsych,) DISE, BSc (Hons), BA (SocSci), MSPS, a Educational Psychologist and RDI® Program Certified Consultant. Bimal Rai has over 15 years of experience working with a wide range of children with special needs, including Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Developmental Delay. After graduating from Monash University with an Honors Degree in Psychology, Bimal began his working career as a special education teacher with M.I.N.D.S. This experience laid the foundation for him to learn about the many and diverse conditions special needs children have, and their developmental and learning difficulties. After his stint as an educational psychologist for the Child Development of K.K. Women’s & Children’s Hospital (KKH) in Singapore, he started a private practice at Reach Therapy Center. Currently, the bulk of his work is geared towards the RDI® Program. In 2007, Bimal became one of the first RDI® Program Certified Consultants in Asia. He was one of the most applauded speakers during the 10th National Conference on Autism in 20017. RDI® has allowed him to educate families about autism from a developmental approach. It has been meaningful for him to see the family and the child develop a closer relationship while still remediating the core issues of autism.

2. RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT INTERVENTION

1:30PM - 5:00PM

By: Bimal Rai

This Seminar aims to provide attendees with an understanding of the Relationship Development Intervention® (RDI) Program. RDI® is a cognitive-developmental therapy, which addresses the core deficits of individuals with Autism, Asperger and other relationship based disorders. This seminar is meant to inspire parents in helping their ASD kids develop meaningful relationships and help them flourish in social situations. Therapists and Special Education Teachers will also benefit a great deal in learning the tools of RDI ® towards helping their ASD students be more engaging and active during lessons

VENUE: Asian Social Institute, #1518 Leon Guinto cor. Escoda Sts. Malate, Manila

SEMINAR FEE is inclusive of certificates and 2 snacks

Registration Fees (Pre-reg. until November 24)

Seminar 1

Member
Pre-registration P300
On-site Registration P400

Non-Member
Pre-registration P400
On-site Registration P500

Seminar 2

Member
Pre-registration P700
On-site Registration P800

Non-Member
Pre-registration P800
On-site Registration P1, 000

Double Seminar

Member
Pre-registration P900
On-site Registration P1, 000

Non-Member
Pre-registration P1, 000
On-site Registration P1, 200

Pre-registered participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines, Banco de Oro, Savings Account #3980002955. Please fax the deposit slip with the name/s of participant/s to ASP office and bring it on the day of the seminar. On-site registrants will be accepted depending on the availability of slots. There will only be 120 slots available. No refund will be given to participants who did not show up on the date of the seminar. For more details, please call Autism Society Philippines at 7-903-5496.

The ASP Seminar Series 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 of their own and don’t necessarily reflect that of the views of the organization.

Sharing HOPES...Building DREAMS…

http://autismsocietyphilippines.org

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Caring for Lucky 13 Caregivers

By: Thine Republica, ASP Trainee

ASP dedicated its October 16, 2010 seminar-workshop to autism heroes, carers for autism. The seminar-workshop entitled “Caring for Caregivers”, was held at Asian Social Institute, Malate Manila. ASP Trustee, Ging Viado and My Sorongon, both veteran speakers in the field of Special Education, served as facilitators. The activity aimed to help caregivers understand, accept, and establish commitment in their crucial role in the lives of Children with Autism (CWA).

ASP Trustee, Ging Viado (2nd Pictures) and My Sorongon (1st Pictures), both veteran speakers in the field of Special Education, served as facilitators.

To orient caregivers, a refresher overview on autism’s triad of impairment – communication (delay in the development of speech/the lack of speech) or social interaction (difficulty making friends/reading social cues), and behavior (adapting to the environment), was given. After discussing, participants joined in an exercise in compartmentalizing given behaviors to the particular impairment.

There are many factors affecting the CWA’s learning. Some CWAs have splinter skills or abilities that are above normal range, yet they are poor in other skills. They can range from motor, cognitive, to communication. When the CWA learns to adapt, he can be taught functional or vocational skills.

Autism can also be a threat to family relationships because autism is also life long. Common problems encountered are feelings of being burnt out; relationship problems between married couples (such as lack of time for each other, changed priorities or budget for the CWA’s therapy); siblings (feelings of neglect, inability to cope with the brother/sister with autism); all these can be contributing factors leading to “chronic” stress.

It is important for caregivers to familiarize themselves about the CWA’s condition in order to give them the appropriate intervention. Communication (exchange of thoughts, messages, or information through speech, signals, writing, or behavior) is also vital- from the Carer to the CWA and vice versa.

Patience, commitment, willingness to learn, hardworking, humble, and good service – these are the qualities to look for in caregivers. Bottom line the emphasis is managing the CWA’s “self care” and ensuring their safety and welfare. Definitely it was a good fortune for the thirteen participants because they had a comprehensive in-depth seminar-workshop.

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ASP continues to work very hard to equip carers to empower persons with autism and their families. Be an Angel for Autism. Donate to ASP Programs and services – email us at autismphils@gmail.com or make a call to 7-903-5496.

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“Autism affects families from all walks of life”

By: Thine Republica, ASP Trainee

“Autism affects families from all walks of life. It’s a trial and error and there’s no perfect solution. We’re not alone. There are good people who are willing to help. There’s hope for our kids,” said one father who attended Family Support Group at ASP National Office last October 16, 2010.

Family Support Group in action together with Parents and PWA facilitated by Mommy Chrissy Roa (center)

This FSG was facilitated by Ms. Christine C. Roa, author of “Federic's Flight,” one of the two a locally published book on autism, authored by mothers. Mom Chrissy is a communication and education specialist. Her son, Federic Christian is now 15 years old and a 4th year high school student at the New Era University.

One concern was on seizures on children with autism. Mom Chrissy cautions parents to be ready and watchful as seizures can occur during adolescent stage. They also took home practical tips on parenting and how to advocate for your child with autism.

The sharing session is more of a mind and heart interaction between 1 Father, 3 Mothers, and 1 CWA. The ASP Office Angels also joined in their discussions to learn their different challenges of autism families.

“There are many more ways to teach our kids with autism. Ways that parents can do even at home. Patience and consistency is important and also by having target goals for your child. Cooperation and discipline for all the other family members needed,” mentioned a parent autism advocate.

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Autism affects many families, from all walks of life. Through your support and encouragement, families become empowered. Be Angel for Autism. Make a Difference. Donate to ASP Programs and Services. Email us at autismphils@ gmail.com, call us 7-903-5496. Please deposit your donation to Banco de Oro, Anonas- Kamias Branch, Account Name: Autism Society Philippines Saving Account No. 3980002955. Or you can drop by at our ASP National Office Room 307, ML Building 47 Kamias Road, Quezon City, Philippines.

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ASP supports NVAP in march to CHR

By: Cristine Republica, ASP Trainee

ASP, represented by Executive Director, Ranilo Sorongon, showed support to New Vois Association of the Philippines Inc. (NVAP) in filing a letter of proposal to Commission on Human Rights (CHR) last October 04, 2010. NVAP is a support group for victims of laryngeal cancer and tobacco control group headed by Mr. Emer Rojas. The 50 strong PWD group appealed to the CHR to support the Department of Health (DOH) in its fight to put graphic warnings on cigarette packs. ASP participated in this exercise to show solidarity with NVAP.

The CHR Group composed of Commissioner Cecilia Rachel “Coco” Quisumbing, Commissioner Norberto Dela Cruz welcomed for advocates. CHR Chairperson, Etta Rosales, expressed full support and assured that CHR will come up with a resolution to impose penalties on agencies that will not enforce laws pertaining to warnings on the ill effects of smoking.

Ka Ranil of ASP (wearing Green Visor) together with Ka Pete (seated), Ka Lauro (with Collar) and other KAMPI members

The Movement For The Realization Of The Rights Of PWD is headed by Lauro Purcil of KAMPI-NCR, Emer Rojas of NVAP, Ranil Sorongon of ASP, and Abner Manlapaz of Life Haven. The leaders expressed unwavering commitment to promote the welfare of the sectors.

Last July 19, ASP and other PWD groups joined the Indignation March against Drug Stores who continue to deny 20% discounts on medicines for PWDs. The group submitted a formal complaint on violation of RA 9442 and BP 344, or the Accessibility Law.

ASP continues to promote the welfare and rights of person with autism and remains proactive in empowering PWDs, who are of the marginalized sector of society.

Other PWD Groups participated: *Akbayan Party *Catholic Organization of Deaf and Adults in St. Joseph Church *Katipunan ng May Kapansanan sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAMPI) *Philippine Laryngectomee Club *The Urban Poor * Urban Land Reform Task Force (AKO BAHAY-PL)

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ASP Family Support Group for November 2010

Share your hopes and dreams with us. We will listen.

Ms. Ma. Therese Macapagal
with son Andrei

This November, take this opportunity to meet Ms. Ma. Therese Jalandoni- Macapagal, better known as Mariter. She is married to Arturo, second child of the late President Diosdado Macapagal. Mrs. Macapagal is the current Executive Directress of St. Joseph Cupertino School for Special Children, one of the oldest schools for children with special needs in the Philippines.

A senior professor at Miriam College with a Master’s Degree in Special Education and a Doctorate Degree in Educational Administration from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. She is also the present president of Special Olympics Philippine and a Trustee of ASP; Mariter dedicates all her achievements to her family and to Andrei.

“The most important thing that I have learned in my life so far is to thank God for giving me Andrei. Through him I have learned how to love without expecting anything in return.”

Andrei, now 44, is a prolific artist with autism. His private collections have been exhibited in ASP’s World Autism Awareness Day Celebrations and other ASP events. Andrei’s colorful biography is now featured in the book “Our Andrei: Living with Autism”

Don’t miss this opportunity. Sign up now for the November 20 Family Support Group

FREE Registration

Date: November 20, 2010, Saturday

Time: 1:00 - 5:00 PM

Venue: ASP Office, Room 307, ML Bldg. #47 Kamias Road, Quezon City

Hurry! Call now at 7-903-5496

Only 15 seats available!

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2nd Seminar on Understanding and Managing Kids with ASD

Known for providing rigorous and extensive review courses in licensure exams for teachers and nurses, the N.G Review and Training Center, Inc. (NGRTCI) in Jaro, Iloilo City embarked on a worthwhile activity last September 18, 2010. The Center organized a whole day autism seminar as a response to the increasing desire for the community to further understand this baffling/ complex condition.

Ms. Rosalyn Sorongon

Ms. My Sorongon, a SPED professional and Autism Society Philippines’ (ASP) accredited trainer flew from Manila to Iloilo City for the seminar. More than 80 participants joined the activity to gain proper knowledge and updates on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). General teaching and behavior management strategies were also imparted to the participants in response to the several questions they raised in this area.

The lively exchange of experiences and opinions, and the attentiveness of the participants signified a certain level of commitment in Ilonggos to continuously understand and eventually accept people with ASD.

With the overwhelming success of the first seminar, a second one is scheduled on November 13 Saturday from 9AM to 5PM at the Sta. Isabel International School, Q. Abeto St., Manduriao, Iloilo City. The seminar coming is sponsored by the NG Review and Training Center, Inc., Sta. Isabel Educational Foundation, Inc., and ASP Iloilo City chapter with the support of ASP National Office.

For details, please contact telephone 320-2053.

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Autism Conference in Bangkok

TRIA Integrative Wellness and Medical Institute and Piyavate Hospital Foundation will be conducting a conference on "Integrative Care for Autism Spectrum Disorders” on November 25 – 27 at the Piyavate Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand. Experts like Dr. Jeff Bradstreet (DAN! doctor) from USA, Dr. Michael Maes from Belgium, Dr. Suriya Na Naklon, Dr. De Andrea, Dr. Sayan and Dr Jintana are among the keynote speakers.

Integrative Care for Autism Spectrum Disorders

For details of the conference, please visit

www.piyavate.com

www.triaintegrativewellness.com

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Diagnosis

By: Gina L. Bermudo

When I though all is well

there is another concern to spell.

It’s a labyrinth to navigate

in a wilderness with a gate.

Autism was the diagnosis

It was a word that I thought didn’t exist

I had to find out what it is

Is it a curable or a contagious disease?

I was confused with everything I read

All terms are new and never heard

I tried to grab all the books that I can find

Just to condition and prepare my mind

The journey ahead is long

And the final destination is unknown.

I don’t know where this road will lead me

But at the end trip, I just want to be with my family.

I can only wish that someday there is a cure

to this diagnosis whose origin I am not sure.

In an instant my world was turned upside down

Is the future looking at me with a frown?

Even God was initially questioned about our situation

Is this a blessing or a test of faith and endurance?

I just hope that someday that acceptance will come

And we can truly say “Thy will be done”

ASP Trustee Gina Bermudo with husband Lito
and sons Xandi (right) and Niko (2nd from left)

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“Diagnosis” is just one of the many series of poetry Gina Bermudo has written for her two sons Nicolas and Alexander. Gina is serving as ASP Trustee and is a regular contributor to ASaP. Her own compositions have been compiled in a CD called “Mga Awiting Alay sa Autismo”. Be an Angel for Autism. Order your copy now and help fund ASP Programs and Services. Call 7-903-5496 or email autismphils@gmail.com for bulk orders. Click here to see more Angels Merchandise.

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Dealing with Social Shutdown

Do you know how it feels to be socially-disconnected, much like children with autism?

MANILA, Philippines – The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) participated in a recent global fundraiser called Communication Shutdown which called social network users to give up their Facebook and Twitter habits for one day to know how it feels like to be socially-disconnected as children or adults with autism do.

For those who took the challenge, it was doable, but difficult. A great deal of personal restraint had to be used for most of these people. It was agonizing for some, not being able to take a peek at their minute social world.

Social interaction is one of the core deficits of autism. Children with autism have a hard time dealing with changes and controlling distressing emotions. The latter can be very stressful for parents, particularly in public places.

Our angel talker this week is ASP’s board trustee and techie mom Cris Estampador. Cris’ background in IT allows ASP to progressively venture into internet communications, including overseeing the society’s participation in Communication Shutdown. Cris has two children in the autism spectrum, Henry, 12, and Derek, 10.

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Social shutdown happens to children, youth and adults across the autism spectrum. They encounter this almost every day and it confuses them. Sometimes they exhibit socially unacceptable behaviors such as tantrums, which can lead parents baffled and powerless to help.

“Parents do not need to feel powerless. There is help for them to be able to develop relationships with their kids with autism, pass this empowerment to their children, and allow them to feel good about themselves,” says educational psychologist, Bimal Rai.

Neural underconnectivity can bring a rigid and static view of the world. This is the underlying reason why people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) do not develop dynamic intelligence, which is essential for relations, independence, and quality of life. Due to their social difficulties, ASD children emotionally break down in seemingly simple social situations.

RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT INTERVENTION FOR AUTISM

Relationship Development Intervention or RDI is based on the belief that the dynamic development of intelligence is essential to improve the quality of life for people with autism. The goal of the treatment is to systematically strengthen the motivation and tools to interact effectively in social relationships, to correct the deficit in this area, which would be common to all people with autism.

RDI provides families the needed support to rebuild, a slow and reflective response to changes and social situations. Children need to learn to refer to their parents, sharing feelings, and using language for the exchange of experiences. This will build a close and trusting relationship from which they can learn and cope with the uncertainties of life.

Parents cannot and should not depend on their children’s teachers and therapists. The foundation of social skills is more effectively taught in the home setting. This is where their empowerment can be harnessed. If parents feel empowered, so will their children.

RDI focuses on cultivating the building blocks of social ties - the feelings of sharing, co-regulation and the sharing of experiences - which usually develop in childhood and early childhood.

The treatment begins with parent education, followed by an objective evaluation of the relationship between parents and their children. Subsequently, the consultant provides a series of specific objectives to build and strengthen a parent-child relationship in everyday life. These are developmentally staged objectives which are designed to restore optimal neural connectivity through a series of “discoveries” and “elaborations”.

RDI’S HISTORY AND CURRENT TRENDS

The RDI program is based on a model of dynamic intelligence developed by Dr. Steven Gutstein who studied how the typical children become competent in the world of emotional relationships.

RDIConnect’s training program offers Guided Family Participation program, as well as a Dynamic Education Program for students with autism. RDIConnect has trained consultants in the United States, Great Britain, Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Singapore, India, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand and Switzerland.

MR. SMILEY

In Singapore, there are only 6 RDI trained professionals and one of them is Bimal Rai. Bimal Rai a.k.a. “Mr. Smiley” has over 15 years of experience and is trained to evaluate and diagnose children with autism and developmental disabilities.

He has extensive experience in planning individualized programs for children with special needs. Having graduated from Monash University with an honors degree in psychology, Bimal began his career as a special education teacher with great optimism.

Bimal Rai at work.

Bimal’s genuine smile can be seen a mile away making one very comfortable that it feels like you’re old friends. He gives the ASD child the same smile and receptiveness he gives his own two children.

With his sincere love for children and his mission of empowering them, he decided to pursue further education and training. With a master’s degree in hand, he joined the Child Development Unit of KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) in Singapore as a child psychologist. Here, he played a key role in developing programs and training. He now pursues private practice at Reach Therapy Center in Singapore.

Currently, most of his work focuses on the RDI ® program. In 2007, Bimal became one of the first RDI ® Certification Program Consultants in Asia. He started practicing RDI ® in 2006 as a training consultant. RDI ® enabled him to educate families about autism from a developmental approach. It was important for him to see family and child to develop a closer relationship while remediating other issues in autism.

He is a keen advocate for public education and has been a keynote speaker at regional conferences. He also lectures for the School of Linguistics (Singapore) on Autism, ADHD, Child Psychology and the various intervention strategies available.

Bimal Rai will provide an introductory lecture on RDI on Nov. 27, at 1:30 p.m., at the Asian Social Institute corner L. Guinto and Escoda streets in Metro Manila. This event is organized by ASP as part of its efforts to empower families in helping them cope with autism.

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Source: Manila Bulletin, Dealing with Social Shutdown

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