Come along and join teachers, parents, grandparents, teacher’s aide, friends, therapists etc to our FREE key word signing group.
5.30pm to 7pm Wednesday 15th June 2011
3 Enterprise Place, Wauchope
(off Bago Road industrial area)
Everyone is welcome and please feel free to pass on this information. We have lots of fun, it is easy to learn – we play games, speak and sign, sign and play and it doesn’t matter if you know 1 sign or 30 or 100 you will learn about 20 – 30 new words every meeting or get to practice some forgotten signs.
Please email/ phone/ text Julie Langeveld if you are interested in coming along to our meetings and RSVP for numbers - all materials supplied.
Contact details: Julielangeveld@gmail.com or 0402 729 319
Tuesday, 31 May 2011
Family Advocacy workshops: Let's get started
Do you have a son or daughter with developmental disability who will be starting school in the next couple of years or has recently started school?
Are you interested in them going to a mainstream school — an ordinary class with children of their own age?
This Family Advocacy workshop aims to help families start planning a positive future and looking at what is needed to achieve an inclusive education. It is especially relevant for families of children preparing for school or in their early school years. Practical tips, strategies and ideas will be shared.
• Belrose 28 June
• Kingsford 29 June
• Mittagong 30 June
• South Hurstville 1 July
Family Advocacy flyer and registration information
Are you interested in them going to a mainstream school — an ordinary class with children of their own age?
This Family Advocacy workshop aims to help families start planning a positive future and looking at what is needed to achieve an inclusive education. It is especially relevant for families of children preparing for school or in their early school years. Practical tips, strategies and ideas will be shared.
• Belrose 28 June
• Kingsford 29 June
• Mittagong 30 June
• South Hurstville 1 July
Family Advocacy flyer and registration information
Monday, 30 May 2011
Is your son or daughter with Down syndrome finishing school this year?
If your son or daughter is in Year 12, and finishing school this year, you should have been offered information about post-school programs and choices in your area, and have been offered assitance in making the transition.
Transition Support
Support Teachers (Transition) (DET) and Transition Officers (Catholic schools) assist with the planning process for students with disabilities moving from school to post-school settings. These students may be enrolled in special schools, support classes in regular schools or in regular classes.
National Disability Coordination Officer Program (NDCO)
Provides information, coordination and referral services to assist students with a disability transition from school into post-school education, training and employment options. The NDCO program works with services to enhance supports and opportunities within the local region for people with a disability.
The process usually works very well at local levels, and is usually implemented well before this stage of Year 12. However, we have recently heard from some parents who have not yet been offered the information they need evne when their child is enrolled in a special education class or school.
If you have not yet had access to this information you should approach your transition support teacher through your school, or your local NDCO soon. Click here for contact details for NDCO's throughout NSW.
School leaver "expos" are one useful strategy for giving families access to a lot of information and local options. They will usually be advertised through your school and other local services.
Information about the two NSW government funded post-school programs for school leavers with disabilities - Transition to Work and Community Participation - is available from the Ageing, Disability and Home Care website: look under the 'for individuals, families and carers' menu, in 'support for people with a disability', then 'for school leavers'. You can access all documentation for both programs, and download lists of service providers in each region. Links and contacts are also provided for further information directly from ADHC.
Family Advocacy runs information sessions for families about both Transition to Work and Community Participation , and about how they can be managed by families, from time to time, across NSW.
Transition Support
Support Teachers (Transition) (DET) and Transition Officers (Catholic schools) assist with the planning process for students with disabilities moving from school to post-school settings. These students may be enrolled in special schools, support classes in regular schools or in regular classes.
National Disability Coordination Officer Program (NDCO)
Provides information, coordination and referral services to assist students with a disability transition from school into post-school education, training and employment options. The NDCO program works with services to enhance supports and opportunities within the local region for people with a disability.
Northcott and NDCO poster
The process usually works very well at local levels, and is usually implemented well before this stage of Year 12. However, we have recently heard from some parents who have not yet been offered the information they need evne when their child is enrolled in a special education class or school.
If you have not yet had access to this information you should approach your transition support teacher through your school, or your local NDCO soon. Click here for contact details for NDCO's throughout NSW.
School leaver "expos" are one useful strategy for giving families access to a lot of information and local options. They will usually be advertised through your school and other local services.
Information about the two NSW government funded post-school programs for school leavers with disabilities - Transition to Work and Community Participation - is available from the Ageing, Disability and Home Care website: look under the 'for individuals, families and carers' menu, in 'support for people with a disability', then 'for school leavers'. You can access all documentation for both programs, and download lists of service providers in each region. Links and contacts are also provided for further information directly from ADHC.
Family Advocacy runs information sessions for families about both Transition to Work and Community Participation , and about how they can be managed by families, from time to time, across NSW.
NSW needs an NDIS: delayed report on services released
The NSW Government has released a report by Pricewaterhouse Coopers into disability services that they say argues the case for a National Disability Insurance Scheme. Alexamandra Smith, writing in the Sydney Morning Herald today reports that Report reveals burden on carers to hit crisis point:
... The Disability Minister, Andrew Constance, said the report demonstrated the ''enormity of the challenge'' ahead. ''What we are seeing is families being put in crisis situations … some 70 families last year had to make the heart-wrenching decision to take the support for their loved ones out of their family unit,'' he said.
Mr Constance said he would ''campaign aggressively'' for a national overhaul of disability insurance, which would cover the cost of care and medical treatment for people with a disability.
The Productivity Commission in February released a draft report proposing the overhaul of disability insurance in Australia.
''We have to be honest about this. The state system is broken. It isn't meeting the needs of families, carers and people with disability across this state,'' Mr Constance said." ... read the full report online here
... The Disability Minister, Andrew Constance, said the report demonstrated the ''enormity of the challenge'' ahead. ''What we are seeing is families being put in crisis situations … some 70 families last year had to make the heart-wrenching decision to take the support for their loved ones out of their family unit,'' he said.
Mr Constance said he would ''campaign aggressively'' for a national overhaul of disability insurance, which would cover the cost of care and medical treatment for people with a disability.
The Productivity Commission in February released a draft report proposing the overhaul of disability insurance in Australia.
''We have to be honest about this. The state system is broken. It isn't meeting the needs of families, carers and people with disability across this state,'' Mr Constance said." ... read the full report online here
Saturday, 28 May 2011
An unanticipated love .....
My life so far is a series of personal stories published online by SMITH magazine. This one has the simple byline 'Fred's brother' ...
I never thought that my younger brother Fred, who sports permanently crooked eyeglasses, speaks with difficult to understand sounds and requires assistance with daily living, would be involved with a significant other: a partner, someone to relieve his not quietly fitting into this world.
In 1957, Mom and Dad authorized New York State to look after Fred at the age of four. He is now 57... read on here to see how Fred's brother's eyes were opened, and what he saw.
SMITH Magazine describes itself as "... a home for storytelling. We believe everyone has a story, and everyone should have a place to tell it."
I never thought that my younger brother Fred, who sports permanently crooked eyeglasses, speaks with difficult to understand sounds and requires assistance with daily living, would be involved with a significant other: a partner, someone to relieve his not quietly fitting into this world.
In 1957, Mom and Dad authorized New York State to look after Fred at the age of four. He is now 57... read on here to see how Fred's brother's eyes were opened, and what he saw.
SMITH Magazine describes itself as "... a home for storytelling. We believe everyone has a story, and everyone should have a place to tell it."
Friday, 27 May 2011
'Follow by email' added
We've just added the new 'Follow by email' button to our right hand column (just under the Down Syndrome NSW logo). Add your email address here for an email to be sent directly to you each time a post is added.
You'll be right up to date!
You'll be right up to date!
Students with Complex Needs: Who are these students? What are their Learning Needs?
10th June, 2011 – 8.30am to 3.30pm
Ourimbah Campus – Newcastle University, Brush Road, Ourimbah NSW 2258
A one day Workshop with Professor Barry Carpenter
Professor Barry Carpenter is Associate Director at the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust (SSAT), and a Fellow at the University of Oxford. He has been instrumental in raising awareness of children with complex learning difficulties, who require more sophisticated pedagogy to meet their potential.
He has over 30 years experience in special education, and established the Centre for Special Education at Westminster College, Oxford. Barry was awarded the OBE by the Queen in 2001, for services to children with special educational needs.
Specialist staff and educators of students with special needs in both mainstream schools and special education school facilities will benefit from this focussed workshop with Professor Barry Carpenter whose expertise and advice is respected internationally.
Registration for:
All NSW DET staff must Register their attendance at My PL@DET - Course No. NR01690.
NSW DET Schools contact: Daniel Hayes, Principal - North Gosford Learning Centre: phone 02 4323 2800
NSW Health Staff and Non-government Schools contact :
Helen Astolfi - School Link Coordinator, Northern Sydney Central Coast Health phone: 02 4304 7878
Source: Disability Education and Employment News No. 7, Vol 7.
Ourimbah Campus – Newcastle University, Brush Road, Ourimbah NSW 2258
A one day Workshop with Professor Barry Carpenter
Professor Barry Carpenter is Associate Director at the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust (SSAT), and a Fellow at the University of Oxford. He has been instrumental in raising awareness of children with complex learning difficulties, who require more sophisticated pedagogy to meet their potential.
He has over 30 years experience in special education, and established the Centre for Special Education at Westminster College, Oxford. Barry was awarded the OBE by the Queen in 2001, for services to children with special educational needs.
Specialist staff and educators of students with special needs in both mainstream schools and special education school facilities will benefit from this focussed workshop with Professor Barry Carpenter whose expertise and advice is respected internationally.
Registration for:
All NSW DET staff must Register their attendance at My PL@DET - Course No. NR01690.
NSW DET Schools contact: Daniel Hayes, Principal - North Gosford Learning Centre: phone 02 4323 2800
NSW Health Staff and Non-government Schools contact :
Helen Astolfi - School Link Coordinator, Northern Sydney Central Coast Health phone: 02 4304 7878
Source: Disability Education and Employment News No. 7, Vol 7.
Thursday, 26 May 2011
A SIBS art project
26 - 29 May 2011
Chrissie Cotter Gallery
Pidcock St, Camperdown
(nr corner Parramatta Rd and Mallet St)
Showcases the work of the many siblings involved with the Pathways Early Intervention Service.
Chrissie Cotter Gallery
Pidcock St, Camperdown
(nr corner Parramatta Rd and Mallet St)
Showcases the work of the many siblings involved with the Pathways Early Intervention Service.
Library Thursday: Water Under Water - a new Australian novel
Water Under Water, Peter Rix, Random House, 2011A novel about a father-son relationship, in which the son is a young man with Down syndrome. This new book is due to be launched on 5th June in Sydney. We have not had time to review it yet, but will do so shortly.
Library copies will be available for loan to Down Syndrome NSW members from Monday 6th June, following the launch.
Adam and Beau turn 21
Many of our members and readers have followed the adventures of identical twins, Adam and Beau Polley, from the mid-north coast of NSW over the years. Last weekend they celebrated their 21st birthday - congratulations Adam and Beau!
Polleys party
Two fantastic young men marked a major milestone on the weekend.
Charity Creek identical twins Adam and Beau Polley celebrated their 21st birthday with 50 family and friends at the Wingham Services Club on Sunday, reflecting on what have been extraordinary lives so far.
Adam and Beau were born with Trisomy 21 Down Syndrome.
They are one of only a few known sets of [identical] twins in Australia with Down Syndrome, so when they were born there was much interest in the community about the special pair. But this interest was matched by a great level of community support – something Narelle is extremely grateful for.
“In the whole 21 years we’ve never had a bad experience – people have been fantastic in Wingham.”
Although Narelle knew she was having twins, it was a shock to discover her new born twins were born with the chromosome abnormality.
“It’s been a challenge but the rewards have outdone this challenge. They are just so loving and happy and carefree.”
Adam and Beau’s primary school years were spent mostly at Manning Gardens with a short stint at Wingham Public School which they thoroughly enjoyed.
The twins currently live with mum Narelle and dad John on the family farm at Charity Creek. They also have two older brothers Josh and Shaun, and a sister Simone.
Both lads are presently going to Breakthru Employment to learn living skills and seek part-time work.
Adam is currently doing work experience at McGrath’s Meats in Taree, and they are very impressed with the way he works. He has previously worked for Ron Crossingham Plumbing.
Beau is currently doing work experience at Coles Wingham and there is a possibility of him getting some part time work in the butcher section. Both twins have previously worked for McDonalds at Taree South.
Beau and Adam are also a great source of help on the Polley family farm.
“They are unbelievable workers,” mum Narelle said.
“People are really amazed at how much they do. They can do most work on the farm, even the milking unassisted. They soon tell you if things are not done right, there are no short cuts with them - it must be done properly.
Narelle said the boys are keen to move into to town to live on their own.
“But they want to take their mule, ute and the cows too!” she said.
Narelle said she felt extremely proud when friends and workmates of Adam and Beau spoke about them on Sunday.
“Everyone who has worked with the lads, including their carers, Tafe teachers, employers, have been amazed at their good manners, knowledge and abilities,” she said.
“They are dedicated to working hard and doing their best at all times.”
Reprinted with permission from the Wingham Chronicle
Polleys partyby Alex Druce
Charity Creek identical twins Adam and Beau Polley celebrated their 21st birthday with 50 family and friends at the Wingham Services Club on Sunday, reflecting on what have been extraordinary lives so far.
Adam and Beau were born with Trisomy 21 Down Syndrome.
They are one of only a few known sets of [identical] twins in Australia with Down Syndrome, so when they were born there was much interest in the community about the special pair. But this interest was matched by a great level of community support – something Narelle is extremely grateful for.
“In the whole 21 years we’ve never had a bad experience – people have been fantastic in Wingham.”
Although Narelle knew she was having twins, it was a shock to discover her new born twins were born with the chromosome abnormality.
“It’s been a challenge but the rewards have outdone this challenge. They are just so loving and happy and carefree.”
Adam and Beau’s primary school years were spent mostly at Manning Gardens with a short stint at Wingham Public School which they thoroughly enjoyed.
The twins currently live with mum Narelle and dad John on the family farm at Charity Creek. They also have two older brothers Josh and Shaun, and a sister Simone.
Both lads are presently going to Breakthru Employment to learn living skills and seek part-time work.
Adam is currently doing work experience at McGrath’s Meats in Taree, and they are very impressed with the way he works. He has previously worked for Ron Crossingham Plumbing.
Beau is currently doing work experience at Coles Wingham and there is a possibility of him getting some part time work in the butcher section. Both twins have previously worked for McDonalds at Taree South.
Beau and Adam are also a great source of help on the Polley family farm.
“They are unbelievable workers,” mum Narelle said.
“People are really amazed at how much they do. They can do most work on the farm, even the milking unassisted. They soon tell you if things are not done right, there are no short cuts with them - it must be done properly.
Narelle said the boys are keen to move into to town to live on their own.
“But they want to take their mule, ute and the cows too!” she said.
Narelle said she felt extremely proud when friends and workmates of Adam and Beau spoke about them on Sunday.
“Everyone who has worked with the lads, including their carers, Tafe teachers, employers, have been amazed at their good manners, knowledge and abilities,” she said.
“They are dedicated to working hard and doing their best at all times.”
Reprinted with permission from the Wingham Chronicle
Wednesday, 25 May 2011
In memoriam: Kathi Beck 1957 - 2011
We are very sad to have to let our members and readers know that our librarian, Kathi Beck, died on Monday 23rd May 2011.Kathi will be most sadly missed by her husband Rob Grieve, her children William, Jeremy and Amy, and by her many friends and colleagues.
Kathi was a co-editor of this blog, contributing posts about our library collection.
Our thoughts are with her family.
Tuesday, 24 May 2011
Down Syndrome Australia Inc – national representation of interests
Down Syndrome Australia Inc was legally incorprated on 1st April as a national organisation representing the interests of people with Down syndrome and their families. Down Syndrome NSW President, Chris Pollock and CEO, Steve Clarke attended the first Down Syndrome Australia board meeting in Melbourne on 4th and 5th May, along with representatives from every Australian state and territory. That meeting was more than 10 years in the making.
Down Syndrome Australia will build strong strategies on its more informal network predecessor’s efforts to advocate strongly for groundbreaking developments such as a National Disability Insurance Scheme and the Better Start initiative.
Angus Graham, Head of Investor Sales at ANZ has been appointed Chairman and Dr Pollock has been appointed Treasurer. Catherine McAlpine, Executive Officer of Down Syndrome Victoria has been appointed part-time CEO of Down Syndrome Australia Inc.
Down Syndrome Australia will build strong strategies on its more informal network predecessor’s efforts to advocate strongly for groundbreaking developments such as a National Disability Insurance Scheme and the Better Start initiative.
Angus Graham, Head of Investor Sales at ANZ has been appointed Chairman and Dr Pollock has been appointed Treasurer. Catherine McAlpine, Executive Officer of Down Syndrome Victoria has been appointed part-time CEO of Down Syndrome Australia Inc.
Monday, 23 May 2011
Freedom Wheels
The Freedom Wheels customised bike program is a joint undertaking by TADNSW (Technical Aid to the Disabled) and Amway’s One by One Foundation, giving many children with disabilities the opportunity to ride a bike for the first time.
A new Freedom Wheels brochure includes a wonderful photo of Jarrod Nicholas, who has Down syndrome, riding his first bike earlier this year.
For more information, visit the TAD Australia website.
TADNSW assesses each child at a bike “clinic” and writes a specification for a bike that will meet their exact needs. This may include stabiliser wheels, postural supports, belts, footcups, towbars and modified handlebars.
Freedom Wheels is available to any child with a disability. Clients do not need to undergo a means test.
For more information, visit the TAD Australia website.
Behaviour Intervention Service: Symposium #12 for families, carers and clinicians
People Driving Change
9 am - 5 pm Thursday 9th June 2011
Northcott, Parramatta
Keynote address: Gerard O'Dwyer and Maria Short - Mentoring, meaning and the Up, Up and Away Program
Other speakers include: David Coyne, ADHC; Carolyn d'Mello and Mitch Zammit, ADHC; Sam Arnold, CDS; Tom Tutton, ASPECT
Cost: $50
To book, contact BIS Events: BISevents@dadhc.nsw.gov.au or 9841 9323
9 am - 5 pm Thursday 9th June 2011
Northcott, Parramatta
Keynote address: Gerard O'Dwyer and Maria Short - Mentoring, meaning and the Up, Up and Away Program
Other speakers include: David Coyne, ADHC; Carolyn d'Mello and Mitch Zammit, ADHC; Sam Arnold, CDS; Tom Tutton, ASPECT
Cost: $50
To book, contact BIS Events: BISevents@dadhc.nsw.gov.au or 9841 9323
Down Syndrome National Swimming Championships - Novice time requirement removed
The first Australian National Down Syndrome Swimming Championships will be held in September 2011 in Noosa.
Now the good news is that the entry times for the Novice races have been removed, making it more worthwhile for new swimmers to participate.
If anyone from NSW is thinking of going and they want more information, please email Sarah Harvey at sg17harvey@gmail.com
Information about the National Championships and about the Sixth International Championships scheduled for November 2012 in Italy is now available on the Down Syndrome Down Under Swimming Organisation’s website
Now the good news is that the entry times for the Novice races have been removed, making it more worthwhile for new swimmers to participate.
If anyone from NSW is thinking of going and they want more information, please email Sarah Harvey at sg17harvey@gmail.com
Information about the National Championships and about the Sixth International Championships scheduled for November 2012 in Italy is now available on the Down Syndrome Down Under Swimming Organisation’s website
Sunday, 22 May 2011
Baby Sign Playtime!
A fun play session where parents and babies can learn baby signs through songs, stories and games.
For babies with and without Down syndrome.
• $150 per term, with eight sessions lasting 45 minutes
• beginning in July 2011 in various Hills district locations.
For further information or enrolment, please contact: Carolyn on 0431 514 787 or info@hillsnepean.com.au
www.babysignplaytime.com
For babies with and without Down syndrome.
• $150 per term, with eight sessions lasting 45 minutes
• beginning in July 2011 in various Hills district locations.
For further information or enrolment, please contact: Carolyn on 0431 514 787 or info@hillsnepean.com.au
www.babysignplaytime.com
Saturday, 21 May 2011
News service on all matters disability
People with Disability Australia now provides a daily news service online, through its website. Articles are provided from Australia media. Click on the ‘daily media roundup’ button on the home page: www.pwd.org.au
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
Special Olympics World Summer Games – Athens
Our very best wishes to all of the 131 athletes representing Australia at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens 25th June – 4th July 2011. The Games website is very well organized, and includes a team page identifying each athlete, their sport, and their State.
We especially congratulate these athletes from NSW, who have Down syndrome, and wish them a good Games:
Softball: Andrew Mujunen, Melissa Eustace
Gymnastics: Tracie Sammut, Ashley Kuhle, Christopher Bunton, Rhianna Sinclair, Joshua Gray
Golf: Alexander Hayes
Tennis: Nick Lorenz
Please let us know if we have missed anyone!
The website also gives several options for following the team’s progress on Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, sending ‘herograms’ and to sign up for a news feed. There is no excuse for not keeping up! To start with the team, click here.
We especially congratulate these athletes from NSW, who have Down syndrome, and wish them a good Games:
Softball: Andrew Mujunen, Melissa Eustace
Gymnastics: Tracie Sammut, Ashley Kuhle, Christopher Bunton, Rhianna Sinclair, Joshua Gray
Golf: Alexander Hayes
Tennis: Nick Lorenz
Please let us know if we have missed anyone!
The website also gives several options for following the team’s progress on Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, sending ‘herograms’ and to sign up for a news feed. There is no excuse for not keeping up! To start with the team, click here.
Pride of Australia Medal nomination - Paul Phelan building love for sport
Congratulations to Paul Phelan (Matthew's Dad) on his voluntary work with Special Olympics, and the nomination it has earned him for a Pride of Australia Medal.
He was interviewed with Amanda Keller by John Barker of the Daily Telegraph for the article published today:
Like many parents across Australia, Paul Phelan loves being involved in his son's sporting pursuits - but he might have reason to feel a little prouder than most.
As chairman of Special Olympics Australia Sydney Upper North Shore branch, his volunteer duties range far and wide.
After his second son was born with Down syndrome nine years ago, Mr Phelan thought "there wasn't much around that Matthew could do sports-wise".
Now there are 280 registered Special Olympians on the Upper North Shore "and then there are the children from the special needs school, about 300-400, who we see every week," the softly spoken father of three said.
Even as a volunteer who goes beyond the call of duty, Mr Phelan is staggered by how many "good people" are willing to help out. "We have a lot of volunteers ... and they just come down because they want to do this," he said.
It's people like Mr Phelan and all Special Olympic volunteers who TV and radio personality Amanda Keller dips her lid to in admiration.
The Talkin' 'Bout Your Generation team leader nominated Mr Phelan for a Community Spirit Medal in this year's Pride of Australia initiative.
"For people who work full-time and then devote their time to the good of the community as Paul does, well, it's hats off to him," Keller said.
She sees not only the benefit of Mr Phelan's work for Matthew but also the "transformations in the families of kids with special needs".
"Thank God people like Paul muck in," Keller said. "That's what Pride of Australia is about - to thank the people who muck in and to show the community's gratitude."
He was interviewed with Amanda Keller by John Barker of the Daily Telegraph for the article published today:
As chairman of Special Olympics Australia Sydney Upper North Shore branch, his volunteer duties range far and wide.
After his second son was born with Down syndrome nine years ago, Mr Phelan thought "there wasn't much around that Matthew could do sports-wise".
Now there are 280 registered Special Olympians on the Upper North Shore "and then there are the children from the special needs school, about 300-400, who we see every week," the softly spoken father of three said.
Even as a volunteer who goes beyond the call of duty, Mr Phelan is staggered by how many "good people" are willing to help out. "We have a lot of volunteers ... and they just come down because they want to do this," he said.
It's people like Mr Phelan and all Special Olympic volunteers who TV and radio personality Amanda Keller dips her lid to in admiration.
The Talkin' 'Bout Your Generation team leader nominated Mr Phelan for a Community Spirit Medal in this year's Pride of Australia initiative.
"For people who work full-time and then devote their time to the good of the community as Paul does, well, it's hats off to him," Keller said.
She sees not only the benefit of Mr Phelan's work for Matthew but also the "transformations in the families of kids with special needs".
"Thank God people like Paul muck in," Keller said. "That's what Pride of Australia is about - to thank the people who muck in and to show the community's gratitude."
Monday, 16 May 2011
An encouraging high school story
This news article from The Tennessean reports the unexpected outcomes from a mainstream high school experience of two teenagers with Down syndrome in Ohio. The story also comments on broader social events driving such positive experiences.
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