Paving the Way to Self Determination is a program developed to support children with developmental disabilities (ages birth – 12) and their families in raising expectations people have for them by introducing the concepts and tools they need to lead self determined lives. This series provides virtual (online) educational opportunities for children with developmental disabilities and their families on topics that promote self-determination and independence, including history of the disability rights movement, disability pride and ally-ship, how to ask for an accommodation, supported decision-making and self-determination and how employment will impact social security benefits. The program will also provide information and referral services to families on a statewide level and access to the Charting the Life Course program.
Below are the webinars being offered within the Paving the Way to Self Determination program at this time. All webinars are live and interactive; participation is available through an internet connection or a phone call, and accommodations are available.
Paving the Way to Self Determination is a collaboration with Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council, Arc Michigan, Michigan Alliance for Families and Charting the Life Course and was made possible through funding from Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council.
TRAINING AVAILABLE
Intro to Neurodiversity
For family/guardians
Neurodiversity is the diversity of human brains and minds. The neurodiversity movement is a human rights movement for people with brain differences. In this workshop, we will discuss:
● How neurodiversity contributes to sensory, movement, and communication differences
● How ableism impacts people with brain-based disabilities
● How you can support the neurodiversity movement
Presented by Max Hornick of Disability Network Southwest Michigan on:
● Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM — Click here to register
● Wednesday, August 20, 2024 at 1:30 to 3:30 PM — Click here to register
The Power of Disability Language
For family/guardians
Language is more than just a form of communication. It shapes the way we think and shows how we view others. The language we use can enforce stereotypes or create inclusion and equality. In this presentation, we will talk about how you can use powerful disability language to model disability as human diversity and not something that is wrong, broken, or needs to be changed.
Presented by Miranda Grunwell of Disability Network Southwest Michigan on:
● Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 12:00 to 1:30 PM — Click here to register
Preparing Your Child for Employment (LONG Before Employment)
For family/guardians
Many parents worry about the employment future of their child with a disability. This training, led by staff who spent years removing barriers to employment for young adults, will focus on important independent living and pre-employment skills that you can help your child start building in their early years in preparation for a successful and fulfilling work life in the future!
Presented by Mary Fortney of Disability Network Southwest Michigan on:
● Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 9:30 to 11:00 AM — Click here to register
Instilling Disability Pride in Your Child
For family/guardians
Disability pride refers to a positive outlook that a child can develop over time about their own disability. Pride helps to develop self-esteem, self-worth, and an understanding of abilities. In this presentation, we will help you to empower your child to embrace their disability as part of their identity and see the gifts and community it brings with it.
Presented by Miranda Grunwell of Disability Network Southwest Michigan on:
● Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 3:30 to 5:00 PM — Click here to register
Building Resilience
For family/guardians
How do we help children with the skills they need to not just survive, but thrive? Being a caretaker is hard work and at times overwhelming. A caring and resilient adult’s role is crucial in the formation of a resilient child. In this course, we will identify the skills that go into becoming a resilient adult, how to instill that resilience in our children, provide some scientific insights, and provide some practical tools and resources.
Presented by Anne Kooy of Disability Network Southwest Michigan on:
● Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 9:30 to 11:00 AM — Click here to register