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Music Workshop

Music crosses all barriers, and is a valuable tool. There are 3 levels in this workshop that teach parents how to use music everyday!

Launch Workshop

Squag

squag.com/
[skwag] is a new application designed specifically for tweens and teens on the autism spectrum.

Looking at Needs and Overcoming Obstacles

The most exciting part of creating a plan is the opportunity to dream, develop goals and brainstorm all of the potential possibilities that motivate a person. On the flip side, and not necessarily as exciting, is having to look at the needs of a person’s day-to day life and the ways in which needs can be accommodated and obstacles overcome. Although, this does not take a lot of time during a plan, it is just as important so that supports can be identified and planned for when looking for opportunities.

Each person’s needs are unique. Here are some examples to give you an idea of things to think about.

Daily Routines:

Thinking about a person’s existing daily routine is very important when looking and planning for potential opportunities for the future.

A number of questions to ask when thinking about daily routines are:

  • Does the person rely on a structured daily routine?
  • How does the person adjust to change in their routine? How much preparation do they need to accept change in their day-to-day life?
  • What time of day works best for the person?
  • Are there medical considerations that affect the person’s routine? For example, if the person is diabetic they may need to eat at certain times of the day or more frequently throughout the day.

By looking at these factors, you improve the chances that the new opportunity will compliment the existing routine.

Length of Time:

When thinking about new opportunities, it is important to consider the person’s physical stamina and ability to focus. Maybe the person is only physically able to handle a 2-4 hour shift at a work placement as opposed to an 8 hour day. The goal is to make the chosen activities as enjoyable and successful as possible instead of just trying to fill up an entire day of activity.

Transportation:

Looking at how the person will be traveling from point A to B will also play a role in finding the most appropriate activity and location and should be considered before confirming the new opportunity. It may be a great opportunity, but if you don’t know how the person will get to and from the activity then it is not necessarily the right option.

Here are some questions to think about:

  • Is there someone to take the person to and from the activity?
  • Is the person able to take public transportation?
  • Will training on public transportation be needed?
  • Is the activity accessible from public transportation?
  • Are services such as Wheeltrans needed?
  • Will the person require a support staff to take them to and from the activity? Is this affordable?

Safety and Security:

Think about the kind of activity that the person is getting involved in. If it is a work placement at a large retail store, is lifting heavy boxes part of the training? If so, is the person capable of carrying heavy objects? Will there be any hazardous materials that the person may come into contact with? If so, is there training provided by the work or volunteer placement?

Another area of safety and security is related to our last topic; transportation. If the person travels in the community by themselves, do they know how to use a public telephone if something goes wrong? Does the person recognize who they can direct questions to if they are in trouble, such as police officers or public transit employees?

As you can see there are many areas of concern that need to be addressed prior to committing to a new activity. Entering the community, can be an overwhelming experience at first but by preparing for the transition and covering all bases the person will soon realize that it can be a very safe and meaningful experience.

Coaching & Support:

Knowing what kind of supports the person needs before beginning the new activity is also an area that needs to be considered carefully. Often times, when going into the community and entering a work or volunteer placement initial support and coaching are needed. This is to ensure that the person is receiving one-on-one training in the area that they are working or volunteering in. Once training has begun, the support staff can also determine how long support will be needed. Some people only require initial support which is then decreased, while others will require support throughout their placement. Support may also be needed for recreational activities, either to get to and from the activity or during the activity. The need for support will be clear when an activity is decided on. Once you now what kind of support is needed you can begin to look at the kinds of resources available for this opportunity.

Amount of Training Needed:

It is always a good idea to think about what kind of training is involved in an activity, especially if it is work or volunteer related. Some volunteer positions require volunteer orientations and police checks before beginning to work. Police checks can sometimes take up to 6 weeks to be completed which means it will delay the start date for the person.

Accessibility:

Going to see the environment in which the activity is being held and asking the right questions is also very important when looking for new opportunities. A person’s place of work should be accessible in all the ways they need it to be.

Things to look for are:

  • Can the person access the building from the outside?
  • Are there ramps and elevators?
  • Are there accessible washrooms the person can use?

When the above questions are looked at, you will have made sure that the person’s needs have been considered and met.

How to Problem Solve:

There is no right or wrong way to problem solve in order to overcome potential obstacles. Perhaps, you may choose to have a follow up meeting (with some or all who were involved in the planning meeting) once decisions on potential activities have been made. If this is done, create a list of possible obstacles that may arise and go around the group to see who can help ensure that the obstacles are overcome. This may just mean making a few phone calls, visiting a site or seeing if anyone within the circle can support the person at their activity. As stated earlier, you may just realize that one of the activities is just not suitable for the person. This simply means that it is time to look at an alternative. Trial and error is the best way to see what works and what does not.

Life can have many obstacles when planning for the future but with careful consideration and the assistance of a strong support network there are always ways to overcome them.

Planning for Life After School

This is a series of workshops and tip sheets designed to help plan for life after school. It is important to go through all of the workshops in order as each one prepares us for the next one.

Workshops

Getting Started Early

It’s never too early to start thinking about the future

Gaining Experience

Starting early will provide a person with a wider range of choices

Getting Ready

Prepare for the planning meeting by exploring what people are interested in experiencing

Organizing the Planning Meeting

Important questions to consider for a successful meeting

Tip Sheets

Life after high school


Play video

In this webcast we cover:

  • Accessing employment supports and resources
  • Other learning options and programs
  • Related online community resources
  • Hearing from staff, families, and partners

Read more >>

Interactive

Person Directed Planning

An interactive presentation on Person Directed Planning tools and resources.

Play

Videos

Transition Practices: Transitioning Out of High School

Ministry of education mandated items

Mary Ierullo, ASD Consultant, School Support Program, Surrey Place Centre

Transition Planning for exit out of high school

Michelle Murphy, Autism Support Teacher, Autism Programs & Services Department, TCDSB

DSO eligibility

Melanie Randall, Community Liaison Service Navigator, Development Services Ontario

MagnusCards

MagnusCards is a free app that combines a proven method of instruction (Social Stories) with elements of game design to help people learn life skills. Read more >>

Why is it Important to Have a Cell Phone

Often one of the biggest difficulties to someone becoming independent in their community is the worry about being safe. What if I get lost? What if I get hurt? What if the bus does not come? What if I am late? What if the community centre is closed when I get there? What if I can not find a pay phone to use? The “what if’s” do not need to stop you from going out and enjoying activities in your community.
A cell phone or a smart phone (Blackberry, iphone) is a tool that can give you independence while providing you with a safety net if you ever have a need for it. Phones come in all sorts of styles and colours, with a wide variety of programs including games, GPS (Global Positioning System) capability, and tools such as a calculator.
It is important to understand the particular safety issues that are of most concern to you. You should sit down with your parents and /or support worker to talk about what your worries are concerning taking the TTC or walking around in your neighbourhood. It is important to express your concerns and also to listen to the worries of others who are important to you. Once you have an understanding of the safety concerns, you can start looking at ways a cell phone can be used to address those worries. Here are some examples:

  • To have immediate access to someone to help, you should enter important phone numbers (parents, support workers, friends) into the address book of your phone. These numbers can be entered on speed dial so that you will be able to call them by holding down one button. If you have trouble reading, most phones allow you to add a picture so you can choose the right number for the person you wish to call.
  • You should give your phone number to the important people in your life. If they are worried about you or have to tell you something important right away, they can call you on your phone.
  • If you are late meeting someone and they have your phone number, they can call you to find out where you are. You can also phone them to let them know that you are going to be late.
  • If you are lost, you should call one of the important numbers you have put into your address book. This person can help you find your way home.
  • 911 is also a good number to put into your address book. By calling 911 you will be connected to the police, ambulance and fire services in your community. Remember that this number is to be only used in an emergency and when you are in real trouble or hurt.
  • If you do not know the directions to where you are going, most cell phones now have GPS (Global Positioning System) program which allows you to find out how to get to the place. The phone will give directions to where you are going. There often is an option to have the directions read out with a speech reader.
  • There are services built into some phones that allow a parent or support person to track the location of the phone such as “TELUS Kids Find”. If you are an adult, 18 years or older, the decision to use a service like this should not be taken lightly and should be based on a mutual agreement between the parent / support worker and yourself. However, once the decision is made to use a tracking service, it can provide reassurance to both the adult who is nervous about going out into the community by himself/herself and for the parent / support worker who is worried about the adult’s safety.

Cell phones today can be more than a safety device. Once you have determined how you want to use the cell phone for safety, think about other positive uses for your cell phone. Here are a few examples:

  • Most phones have calculators built right into the phone so you can determine whether you are getting the right change back from a purchase. The Money Magic Arcade game teaches how to make change with Canadian coins and how to use a calculator
  • Phones can also be a source of entertainment, especially when waiting for an appointment or when you are on a long car or bus trip. All cell phones have some free games that come with the phone. There are usually many more that can be purchased and downloaded for as little as $.99 per game.
  • All cell phones have a clock to tell the time.
  • Some phones allow you to download music and movies.
  • Some phones allow you to check the weather forecast for the city you are in, so you can make decisions about what to wear or the method of transit that is the safest to get you to where you need to go.

You will also need to decide how you are going to pay for the cell phone and service. There are various options available.

  • A term contract means it can not be changed for the length of the contract (e.g. a 2 or 3 year term). Each service provider has standard contracts that they offer. You need to pay close attention to what is and is not covered in the contract. Going over the limits covered for particular services or using services not included could cost a lot more money in addition to your monthly charges.
  • The “Pay as You Go” option allows you to have more control over the costs incurred each month. With this option, you put an amount of money on your account which gives you a certain number of minutes to talk. You will only be able to make calls as long as there is a positive balance of minutes on your account. You can purchase “Pay as You Go” cards in various amounts at many retail stores including convenience stores. You need to follow the instructions on the card to activate it and add the minutes to your account. Many service providers also have an option to automatically add money to your account each month using a credit card.

A cell phone can be a great way to give you more independence while addressing safety worries. There are a variety of features and programs you can get on a cell phone. It is important to understand the particular safety issues that are of most concern for you and the other purposes you want to use your cell phone for. Now you are ready to search for a phone that is right for you.

What Cell Phone is Right for You?


There are a lot of things to think about when you are trying to decide what cell phone will be good for you.

The first thing you must do is decide on the maximum amount of money you want to spend. Once the salesperson shows you the phones that are in your budget, you can begin to look at the features that you want and/or need.

Such features can be broken down into 2 categories.

  1. Software features (programs, user-friendly, etc.)
  2. Hardware details (buttons, shape, size, flip, screen, etc.)

Since everyone is different with unique needs and abilities, you can use this tip sheet to help you decide what features would be good for you. To keep the cost down, choose the 3-5 features the phone MUST have.

1. Software Features

Internet

  • E-mail
  • Facebook (to communicate with your friends/family).
  • Instant messaging (programs like msn or yahoo used to communicate with family/friends).

Camera (Pictures or Video)

  • Take pictures of things you want to remember.
  • Take pictures of things to show your family and friends.
  • Take pictures of signs, etc. to show someone so they can help you read and understand them.

Bluetooth

  • Transfer files from a computer or phone to your phone without plugging anything in.
  • Use your phone hands free.

USB charging

  • Charge your phone by plugging it into your computer instead of a plug on the wall.

Storage capacity (memory)

  • High capacity means you can store lots of pictures, video, music and files.

GSM( Global System for Mobile Communications) for overseas calling

  • Be able to make phone calls when you are out of the country.

Walkie-talkie

  • Talk to other friends who have the same feature on their phone by speaking into a speaker instead of holding the phone to your ear.

Speaker function

  • Listen to your voicemail through a speaker without holding the phone to your ear.
  • Listen and talk to someone during a call without holding the phone to your ear.

Radio/MP3s (sound files – songs)

  • Use headphones that plug into the phone to listen to MP3’s (your music), or the radio (the headphones act as the antenna).

Voice memo recorder

  • Record your voice – say things that you see or that you want to remember later.
  • Record someone else’s voice or a conversation with someone so that you can play it back later.
  • Record you or someone else giving instructions or directions so you can play it back over and over again when you are alone and it will help you complete a task – at home or in the community (e.g. the directions to the doctor’s office for your appointment).

Calendar

  • Enter important dates and events that you want to attend in your calendar.
  • Set reminders to complete tasks and your phone will alert you at whatever time you want.

Alarm

  • Set the alarm to help you wake up in the morning or from naps.
  • Set the alarm to help you with managing your time – give yourself a certain amount of time for an appointment, a task, etc…

Speed dial

  • Program important phone numbers in your phone so that you only have to hold down 1 button to call that person.

Games

  • Play games while you are waiting.
  • Play games that might help you work on skills you want to develop.
  • Play games while you are travelling on the public transit.

Hearing Aid compatibility

  • Allows use of a hearing aid without feedback.

TTY compatibility

  • A special device that lets people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired use the telephone to communicate by allowing them to type text messages.
  • A TTY is required at both ends of the conversation in order to communicate.

GPS enabled

  • See where you are on a map.
  • Get turn by turn directions.
  • Share your location with others using a service.

Text messaging

  • Send and receive messages.

Smart phone (Blackberry, iphone) Programs

  • Auto verbal – can speak for you.
  • Calculator.
  • Convert units.
  • Updates and information on the Weather, News, Sports, TTC, etc.

Voice Dial

  • Make a call by saying the name of the person you are calling into the phone – no need to press buttons.

2. Hardware

Size of the phone

  • How are you going to carry it? In your pockets, in your purse, in your knapsack? Will it fit?
  • Can you hold the phone in one hand?

Touch screen

  • To use the phone, buttons are on the screen.
  • There are no physical buttons to press down on.
  • They can be quite delicate; the screen is usually glass and could break easier than other screens.

Flip phone

  • The phone folds in half.
  • To answer or make a call, you have to “open” the phone.
  • Buttons cannot be pressed when the phone is “closed” and in your bag.
  • Sometimes, flip phones are smaller than other phone.
  • Usually more sturdy since the keys and screen are protected by the hard shell when it is closed.

Slider phone

  • To answer or make calls, you need to slide part of the phone up or down.
  • Certain buttons cannot be pressed when the phone is “closed”.

Keyboard

  • For text messaging or typing e-mails, there is a full keyboard like one you would see on a computer.
  • Usually easier to use than touch-screen keyboard.

Display/screen

  • How large does the screen need to be so you can see it properly?
  • Can you see better with certain colors displayed?
  • Can you change the size of the text to make it easier to read?

Buttons

  • Are the buttons big enough so you can press them without difficulty?
  • Are they too close together?
  • Think about your fingers and fine motor skills – do the buttons present a problem with this?

Shape

  • Make sure it is comfortable when holding the phone to your ear.
  • Make sure you get a good grip on the phone with one hand.
  • Do you need/want to make sure you can press the buttons while holding the phone in one hand?
  • Think again about where you will be keeping your phone while you are out in the community – does it fit comfortably in your pocket?

Headset

  • Plug in a headset so you can talk on the phone without holding it.
  • The headset might go in your ear or sit around your ear, or it might be like headphones.
  • Some headsets have cords and others are wireless and use Bluetooth technology.

Ringtones

  • Make sure the phone rings loud enough so that you can hear it.
  • Choose from different ringing options available in the phone.

Cases

  • Keeping your phone in a case will protect your phone and it will last longer.
  • What cases are available for this phone?
  • Do you need one that has a belt loop so you can keep it on your pants or belt?

Why I got a Cell Phone and How it Helps Me

Cell Phone context story

My name is Phyllis and I would like to tell you about why I got a cell phone and how it helps me.

A long time ago I was living at home with my mom and dad, and I was taking the bus to the day program. I got turned around at the subway and couldn’t find my way. I was lost! A nice lady finally noticed that I was upset and helped me to find the right bus. I had been so scared.

When I got home, I told my brother about it and he talked to my mom about getting a cell phone. It was close to Christmas and when Christmas arrived, there was a special gift for me under the tree… a brand new cell phone! My brother had helped my mom purchase the cell phone, and together they had decided which service provider to go with.

I practiced using the cell phone, as I can copy numbers and was able to call the day program, my brother or his wife, or my mom and dad! Especially if I got lost! I always carry my phone book with me.

One day my cell phone broke, and my brother contacted the service provider and they sent me another phone in the mail to replace it. We had a contract with them, so this was covered and we didn’t have to pay for the new phone! I had that phone for a while, but then my mom said it was just costing too much money. I was upset because what would I do if I got lost again? At this time, both my parents had passed away and I was living on my own.

One day when we were at a retail store, my sister-in-law suggested we check out the prices of plans there. The sales person tried to sell me and my brother all kinds of silly gadgets like, head phones, car chargers and cases. My brother helped me a lot because if I had been by myself I don’t know what I would have ended up buying! We decided on the pay as you go plan, which means that because I don’t use it all the time, I add money when it runs out. My brother and sister-in-law help me with this.

It is important to have a cell phone because if you are going to be late, not feeling safe when on the bus or if you get lost then you are able to let people know where you are. I also used it one day when I fell. I was able to get a hold of my brother and I was able to get help.

I am using it a lot right now because my home phone is not working. I can at least call my brother, sister-in-law, or my support people with my cell phone and let them know so they can call to get my home phone working.

Online Gaming


Internet or online gaming is becoming a common activity, especially with young adults. They can be played on your computer, on a portable device such as an Ipod, or using a gaming consol such as a Playstation or X-Box. Online gaming can refer to many types of interactions online including:

Board Games/Puzzles:

These usually involve playing alone, against a pre-programmed computer opponent, or against real people via the internet. They are animated versions of traditional and favorite board games or puzzles.

Gambling/Casio:

Casino sites are typically for adults only (ages 18 or older). Most offer free games that allow you to practice various games that you would find at a real Casino (i.e. Roulette, Black Jack, Poker). They usually offer players a chance to bet real money by using a credit card.

(Standard) Video Games:

Video games typically include sports, action/adventure, simulators (i.e. flight simulators, driving games), and shooting games. These games typically tell a story or involve an objective that the player is trying to achieve. Video games vary in content from stories that appeal to all ages, to adult content not suitable for children. Many of these games can be played alone, against a computer opponent, or against actual people via the internet.

Role Playing/Multiplayer:

Multiplayer games are a more intricate form of video game, involving an entire virtual “universe” created around many different games to be played within a specific environment. Some multiplayer games are based in fantasy, such as science fiction or “dungeons and dragons” types of environments; others are based upon real life. Whether it is a beach or a space station, these games allow people to pretend they are interacting in environments that they normally would be unable to spend time in. They also allow the player to create a character that is unique and personalized.

Positive outcomes of Online Gaming:

Communication:

Most online gaming that involves playing with other people, also involves communication. Most games involve a way to “chat” with one another by sending written information back and forth – similar to having a written conversation with someone. Communication can also include using a headset. A headset allows you to physically talk to someone while you play, and hear what they have to say as well.

Social:

Online gaming provides an opportunity for people to socialize. People can interact and meet new people. For example, you can play checkers and “chat” with someone who lives in an entirely different country than you – all from the comfort of your living room.

Challenge:

Many games offer challenges and objectives for you to overcome. They make you think in different ways, and challenge the player to play the game more accurately.

Fun and Excitement:

This is the primary purpose of video games and multiplayer games. They allow you to pretend you are a different person, and pretend you are in new and exciting places, and in unique situations.

Safety Tips for Online Gaming:

Online gaming can be a fun hobby. Playing against other people can be an exciting experience, yet like any other online resource, there are some things you need to remember to ensure your safety.

One of the best ways to stay safe is to maintain an ongoing open dialogue about what you are doing on the internet with someone you trust. This could be a parent, a staff, a friend or a volunteer. Someone else may be able to point out safety concerns that you did not think of or were not aware of. Talk about where you are going on the internet – the websites, the chat rooms, the game sites that you are going to, the people you are chatting with and the types of conversations you are having.

Here are some other tips that will help ensure you are being safe while gaming:

  • NEVER give your credit card number out to an unknown website or service. Many gaming services require payment – only provide this information if you know that you have the money to pay for their service, and that you are giving it to the correct company
  • Recurring payments – it is common for multiplayer games to require a recurring payment that YOU are responsible for cancelling. Make sure that if you are not going to be playing the game that you cancel your subscription.
  • Many video games have content geared toward a mature audience. Like movies, videogames follow a rating system that will help you choose the content you are looking for.
  • The people you chat with and play games with are still strangers. Don’t share personal information with them no matter what they say.
  • A person’s virtual character (a character they have created to use in the game) is not going to be indicative towards who that person is. Don’t assume that a female character in a game is played by a woman, or a male character is a man.
  • Be respectful – your actions are usually monitored when playing a game online. You can be easily identified and if your actions are serious enough, you can be charged by local authorities for obscene behaviour (i.e. threats, harassment)
  • If you are being harassed, learn how to block these people. Report any harassment to a family member or someone who can help you report the harassment to the appropriate person.
  • For some people online gaming can become an addiction. If you are playing more than a few hours a day, and playing every single day you might be heading towards something that is dangerous for you. Now would be a good time to talk to that person you trust. Together you should be able to plan out how you can continue to have fun with online gaming but make sure it is not getting out of control.
  • Take a ten minute break every hour to stretch your legs and clear your mind.

Caregiver / Professional tip:

  • If you see that the individual is spending too much time in the gaming or virtual life, talk to him/her about real vs. imaginary life. To make the difference between the two more concrete, use real situations in the individual’s life. The goal would be to create a plan that includes expanding real life experiences and putting some limits on time spent online.
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