|
Marymead Autism Centre is pleased to present this month’s newsletter to share updates on current events and activities for families of and individuals on the Autism Spectrum.
|
|
Marymead is moving back to Narrabundah!
All activities from July onwards will be held at 255 Goyder Street, Narrabundah.
|
|
|
Check our Events Calendar for Marymead Autism Centre and other community events.
Regular events coming up this month are:
Support Groups
Social Groups
Workshops
Access Days
Community Activities
Check the Community Activities page for other regular events such as:
- Boundless Buddies (every Monday, including school holidays)
- Early Intervention Playgroups (various locations, during school terms)
- Board Games Sessions (Saturday 15 June, 3rd Saturday of the month)
|
|
Circus Quirkus
EVENT
Sunday 21 July 10:00 am, 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm, RSVP by Tuesday 4 June
The Canberra Rotary Club is hosting its annual Circus Quirkus on Sunday, 21 July at the Queanbeyan Bicentennial Hall for the local special needs and disadvantaged children & families.
Circus Quirkus is a non-animal, family-oriented show with plenty to thrill all ages. It will feature a troupe of local and international performers steeped in the traditional circus disciplines of clowning, juggling, acrobatics, contortion and balancing as well as unique comedy routines. The show lasts for 90 minutes, with a short interval for refreshments.
We have been offered FREE tickets to this wonderful show so please let autism@marymead.org.au the time of the session and the number of tickets, and address to be mailed out to by no later than 4 June.
|
|
Tuggeranong Arts Centre: Children's Musical
PROGRAM
Expressions of Interest close Wednesday 5 June
After the award-winning success of Just like Clockwork in 2018, Tuggeranong Arts Centre and Tim & Nathalie Bevitt are once again joining forces to provide a unique opportunity for children aged 8-14 years to devise, produce and perform their very own musical! Find out more about the Children's Musical or get in touch with Tuggeranong Arts Centre today by emailing info@tuggeranongarts.com or calling 02 6293 1443 to register your child’s interest! Priority will be given to first time participants.
|
|
Early Days: My Child and Autism
WORKSHOP
Friday 14 June, 9:30 am to 2:30 pm
Early Days workshops are for parents, relatives and carers of children 6 years and under with an autism diagnosis or currently going through the assessment and diagnosis process. The workshop will cover, understanding autism, what autism looks like for your child and your family, how you can make a difference and navigating the NDIS. The workshops are held at Marymead, Yarralumla. There is no cost to attend the workshops. REGISTER NOW.
|
|
Aspie Sistas Social Group: Mini Golf
ACTIVITY
Saturday 15 June, 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
The Sistas have spoken – Mini-Golf it is! Who knows, there may be some treasure that needs finding too … (A mixture of easy and cryptic clues). There is also the petting zoo, the train and the maze at Weston Park. Please bring a plate of food prepared by our Sistas, for a winter picnic by the lake (please accommodate any special dietary requirements). Standard golf fees apply. Download flyer.
|
|
Board Games
ACTIVITY
Saturday 15 June, 5:30 to 8:30 pm
Board games for people on the autism spectrum (13 years +) and their friends and families. Come and enjoy an evening getting to know others, learning new games or playing old favourites. Pizza/snack food/soft drink provided. Gold coin donation. A plate of food to share is appreciated. This will be on every third Saturday between March and November 2019. At Downer Community Hall, Frencham Place, Downer. Contact Bronwyn 0434 565 159 or Deon 0417 422 537. Download flyer.
|
|
The Yellow Lady Bugs: Drama Fun and Games
ACTIVITY
Sunday 16 June, 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm (5 to 10 yrs), 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm (11 to 17 yrs)
Enjoy an afternoon of excitement with the Yellow Lady Bugs and Drama Star Academy. Check out the stage, play warm-up and improv games, try script reading and writing, all while having fun. At Unit 4/5 Heffernan Street, Mitchell. Cost is $26. You may come dressed in your costume of choice or have fun trying on costumes from Drama Star. Bike shorts or leggings and singlets are recommended for costume changing or being active. RSVP by 10th June at info@yellowladybugs.com.au.
|
|
APAC 2019: Thriving with Autism (Singapore)
CONFERENCE
Tuesday 18 to Saturday 22 June
The conference theme, Thriving with Autism, reflects our aspiration towards achieving quality of life for all persons with autism, their families and the professionals serving in the community. This conference seeks to inform participants of the progress made internationally in the development opportunities and provisions for the autism community and to empower them with the knowledge and skills to help them thrive and be successful in life. We will also learn more about the latest in autism research and global best practices in the field.
|
|
Self Advocacy Workshop
WORKSHOP
Thursday 20 June, 27 June and 4 July, 10:00 am to 11:30 am
Come along to one of our free self-advocacy workshops at the Vikings Club Tuggeranong. Learn how to speak up for yourself as a person with a disability in Canberra. Find out about the options available, where to go and who to speak to. Presented by People with Disabilities ACT at the Vikings Club Tuggeranong. Three date options available. Content will be repeated, so only necessary to attend one session. RSVP via Eventbrite 20 June, 27 June, 4 July To register contact admin@pwd.org.au or Maida 6286 4223.
|
|
Quizzic Alley: The Great Wizards Ball
EVENT
Saturday 22 June, 3:00 pm (under 16 yrs), 7:00 pm (over 16 yrs)
Come one, come all to The Great Wizards' Ball presented by Quizzic Alley. The main event gets off to a siriusly magical start at 7:00 pm. However, there is an equally magical but earlier and shorter ball for families and smaller witches, wizards and magical creatures (under 16) that starts at 3:00 pm. Book your tickets now, numbers are limited.
|
|
Autism & Mindfulness
STUDY
We are testing the effectiveness of the Smiling Mind meditation app on wellbeing for individuals with autism and their families. We want to know if regular home use of this app can help people manage feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. The project involves collaboration from Smiling Mind, a not-for-profit company that has developed the free popular Smiling Mind mindfulness app. We are looking for participants on the autism spectrum 11 years and older as well as parents or carers. Find out more. Email Matthew Hartley on matthew.hartley@adelaide.edu.au for more information and to get involved. Download flyer or visit the Facebook page.
|
|
Families’ Lived Experiences of Autism
STUDY
The project is about families, including young people on the autism spectrum, their mothers, fathers, and siblings. The project is looking to develop a better understanding as to how these families experience and think about their identity, relationships and interactions, and how services can better support families. The findings of the project will provide researchers, practitioners, service providers, schools, and policymakers a better understanding of these families and a greater knowledge of how best to support them.
If you have a child between 12 and 18 years of age and you would like to get involved or would like more information you can contact Sebastian Trew on 6209 1228 or sebastian.trew@myacu.edu.au. To find out more, download the following:
|
|
Lifeline: Applied Suicide Intervention Skills
WORKSHOP
Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10 July, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
ASIST is a two-day interactive workshop which aims to improve participants suicide awareness and prevention skills at Lifeline Canberra. The course is presented by LivingWorks-accredited facilitators, who use internationally standardised resources and materials. Participants are trained to recognise when a person may be at risk and how to respond to improve the immediate and long-term safety of the person at risk. Find out more (other dates available).
|
|
Aspie Sistas Social Group: Craft Day
ACTIVITY
Saturday 13 July, 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
A chance to sit and chat in a warm space, whilst we put our artistic skills to work on the next Blue Poles! For girls 12 to 18 years. Please bring a plate of food or some snacks (please accommodate any special dietary requirements). There will be Nachos from the Village People – “Nacho, nacho man…”!! A $5 contribution towards hall hire and craft materials would be greatly appreciated; however, not compulsory. At the Downer Community Hall. RSVP by COB Thursday 11 July to Deon Revet on 0417 422 537 or deon.revet@benmax.com.au. Download flyer.
|
|
Go4Fun
PROGRAM
Thursday 25 July, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm (10 sessions)
Go4Fun is a free 10 week program for children aged 7-13 years who are above a healthy weight and their families. The program provides information and support to improve eating and activity habits. Go4Fun will be run at the Q-One Indoor Sports during Term 3 2019. Parents/ carers can self-refer into the program by calling 1800 780 900 or sending a SMS to 0409 745 645 for a call back or register online.
Go4Fun Online
If your family is unavailable to attend the program on a Thursday afternoon, there is the option of enrolling in a Go4Fun Online program.
|
|
Capital Psychology Clinic: PEERS
PROGRAM
Wednesday 31 July, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm (8 sessions)
PEERS Program is a 16-week evidence-based social skills intervention for young adults. Each group session will involve important social skills training as well as the opportunity to practice these skills and is accompanied by homework assignments designed to reinforce the groups understanding of the skills they learned during each meeting. PEERS is designed for young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression or other social and behavioural disorders. Parent/Carer participation is required. Contact Capital Psychology Clinic on 6156 4780 or info@capitalpsychologyclinic.com to register, places are limited. Download flyer.
|
|
National Community Engagement
CONFERENCE
Thursday 15 and Friday 16 August
The Conference will bring together people from across Australia who share a personal and professional passion for building citizen-driven communities. This two-day Conference will be preceded by an optional one-day Masterclass on Wednesday 14th August. The Assets Based Community Development Masterclass is on 14 August 2019 and will be presented by Peter Kenyon (creator of Bank of Ideas). The Place Making Masterclass is also on 14 August 2019 and will be presented by David Engwicht (founding Director of Creative Communities International). Register Now.
|
|
Self Care for Mums
COURSE
Thursday 5 September, 10:00 am to 12:30 pm (4 sessions)
Self-care for mums focuses on looking after ourselves so we can be a more effective parent. Incorporates mindfulness, strategies and barriers to self-care and understanding values and identity. Cost is $100 (full cost), or $50 (concession), please discuss options if there are financial difficulties (finances are not a barrier to attending group). Includes a light morning tea. At Marymead, Narrabundah. For further information contact Bec Robinson on bec.robinson@marymead.org.au or phone 6162 5800.
|
|
Navigating Parenting
COURSE
Thursday 24 October, 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm (4 sessions)
Navigating Parenting is for all genders and covers topics for children of all ages. Cost is $100 (full cost), or $50 (concession), please discuss options if there are financial difficulties (finances are not a barrier to attending group). Includes a light refreshments. At Marymead, Narrabundah. For further information contact Bec Robinson on bec.robinson@marymead.org.au or phone 6162 5800.
|
|
Premier Psychology: Group Therapy
PROGRAMS
Premier Psychology have a range of small group therapy groups for kids of all ages. Groups include We Thinkers! for kindergarten to year 2, Secret Agents Society for years 3 to 6 and PEERS for years 7 to 10. To find out more about any of the group therapy programs please contact Gemma on gcross@premierpsychology.com.au or 02 6231 1043.
|
|
Community Services #1: Food Pantry
SERVICE
Wednesday & Thursdays by appointment between 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Fridays drop in between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm
Are you or someone you know on a low income or struggling to get by? The Community Services #1 Food Pantry has a variety of low-cost quality groceries and household products that will help stretch a limited budget. A generous delivery of fruit and vegetables from Oz Harvest, currently available. At 63 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah, 6126 4700.
|
|
Community Service #1: Yoga for Women
ACTIVITY
Thursdays at 10:30 am to 11:15 am
CS#1 is offering a new yoga class for women seeking to improve their physical and emotional wellbeing. The class will be followed by a light morning tea where participants can connect and participate in facilitated discussions. The class will be followed by morning tea and discussion, concluding at 12:00 pm. Women of any fitness level can participate. There is no cost to participate. At Community Services #1, 63 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah. Contact Louise 6126 4700 for more information.
|
|
Allegro Education: Creative Arts
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
Mondays 3:30 to 5:00 pm
For children 5 - 12 years old. Join Allegro as we explore many art forms on a weekly basis in our education program for children with additional needs. Find out more or contact Samantha Truscott at the Salvation Army Church in Scullin. Download flyer.
|
|
Allegro Education: Sing, Play and Socialise Group
PROGRAM
Friday 9:30 am to 11:00 am (birth to 3-year-olds)
Saturday 9:00 to 10:30 am (3 to 7-year-olds)
For children with a disability, Allegro Education works with the whole family through a transdisciplinary approach to help your child develop, learn and grow to maximise their greatest potential. We also assist parents to access the resources they need to function at their best while focusing on the specific needs of their child. Find our more or contact Samantha Truscott at the Salvation Army Church in Scullin. Download flyer.
|
|
PCYC Playgroup: Play With Friends
ACTIVITY
Thursday mornings 11:00 am - 12:30 pm (during school term)
This playgroup is designed to assist young children (3 to 5 years) to develop confidence with their gross motor and movement. To encourage the development of social skills and cooperation through Music and Play activities. To assist with sensitivity develop by encouraging engagement in messy play activities. The children will also be encouraged to stay and have lunch to further develop their social skills. At Canberra PCYC Gym Erindale Shopping Centre, the cost is $5.00 each week per family. Please remember to bring children’s lunch. At this stage PCYC are hoping for a group between 6 to 10 families, so please let any possible interested family know . If you have any other inquires please feel free to call Canberra PCYC on 62967822.
|
|
Aspie Sistas Social Group
ACTIVITY
A casual social group for teenage girls on the Autism Spectrum. Aspie Sistas is a community group created to provide our Teen-Angels with regular social outings and activities, with a group of understanding, accepting and empathetic friends. The group embraces the uniqueness of each and every one of our Aspie Sistas, for who they are, not what the magazines say they should be. The activities range from craft to bowling, games, treasure hunts, lunches … whatever the girls decide on. Parents are encouraged to come along also, as it a great chance to share the journey. So don’t wait to be invited to the party, make your own with us, because ‘Aspie Girls just wanna have fun too!’ Contact Deon Revet on 0417 422 537.
|
|
Social Living Solutions: Family Joy
PROGRAM
Patricia Falcetta helps families with autistic children move away from the stress anxiety and overwhelm that they so often experience; to relief, better family balance and joy. Her latest resource is The Family Joy Guide. This clear guide for parents helps them to reach:
- better alignment within the family - to stop worrying and create relief
- a more peaceful family environment, to create more happiness and joy
- better family nourishment to stop feeling anxious and create better family balance.
Patricia Shows you how to transform your family life to more balance, relief, happiness and joy with support so you do not feel overwhelmed and stressed. For further information please contact Patricia on 0420 973 042 or book online.
|
|
Disability Trust: Sport and Recreation Activities
ACTIVITIES
Fun is the focus of The Disability Trust’s Sport and Recreation Services, which provides opportunities for people of all ages with disabilities to participate in and enjoy physical and creative activities. We have programs and support options for children, teenagers and adults that provide opportunities to meet people, learn new skills, play in competitions, perform on stage and develop their creative side. Call on 1300 347 224 if you would like support to meet new friends and participate. Upcoming activities for kids with disabilities, please see flyer for information.
|
|
In Home Care Support Agency
CHILDCARE
Do you and your family need alternative childcare? Perhaps due to shift work? Or challenging and complex needs such as illness or disability? Or perhaps you have multiple children needing to access different care types? If you have answered yes to any of the above, you are eligible and maybe be suitable for In Home Care. An early childhood education alternative for families unable to access mainstream services. Contact us today 1800 940 906 or email us at support@ihcsupportagencyact.org.au or IHCSupportAgencyACT@marymead.org.au.
|
|
Autism Advice
ADVOCACY
Paul Jordan, from Autism Advice, provides mentoring and advocacy services for young people on the autism spectrum. Paul uses his life experience, books, mindfulness, defusion and social stories in relating to individuals and is a registered NDIS provider. Contact Paul today.
|
|
Parents as Career Supporters
GUIDE
Parents and carers play an important role in helping their children to make career choices. They are the greatest influence on their children's career choice. Download guide.
|
|
Want to advertise in next month's newsletter?
ADVERTISEMENTS
If you'd like us to place your service or event in next month's newsletter, please fill out our online form or email the details to autism@marymead.org.au.
|
|
Donations
If you would like to donate to the Marymead Autism Centre, please visit our Donations page.
|
|
|
If you are interested in opening a savings account, please consider Beyond Bank's Community Reward Account. On your behalf and at no cost to you, every year Beyond Bank will donate a percentage of account holders’ annual average balances to the Marymead Autism Centre if you choose us as your nominated organisation when you open your account.
|
|
|
|
|
