Pasadena Child Development Associates, Inc.
Pasadena Child Development Associates, Inc.
PCDA News
The psychology and counseling department is now offering Developmental Screening as well as more in-depth Team Developmental Assessments. Please click here for more information.
2010 Summer Theater Workshop Final Project Videos are Here!
The children who participated in the PCDA Summer Theater Workshop really enjoyed working on their project. You can see their final production videos here.
The "story board" video for the PCDA
2010 Summer Theater Workshop final project.
Click to see it on YouTube
The PCDA
2010 Summer Theater Workshop final project.
"The Night of the Living Patty".
Click to see it on YouTube
Original story board artwork for the PCDA 2010 Summer Theater Workshop final project.
Show Your Support for Autism Services for Military Families
Letters are needed NOW for resolution to support federal funding for autism services for military families.
Read the full resolution here: Assembly Joint Resolution No. 46 (Acrobat PDF)
Click for a sample letter (Word Doc)
FAX letters to: the Health Committee 916-319-2127. TODAY!
DIR Regional Institute Starting Soon
Register now for the 2010-2011 DIR Regional Institute. Information and applications here
Welcome to Nancy Davidson!
We are so pleased to welcome Nancy as our Development and Communications Director. Nancy is a resident of Pasadena, and has a great deal of experience in helping non-profit organizations to be successful in achieving their mission. We are eager to utilize her expertise to help share our work with the community.
Nancy can be reached at extension 281 or nancy@pasadenachilddevelopment.org
DIR Mentorship Group
Dr. Diane Cullinane is leading a reflective mentorship group for professionals working toward a certificate in DIR/Floortime. The group meets once a month and a new group is forming now. For more information email: diane@pasadenachilddevelopment.org
Autism Task Force Recommendations
The California Senate Select Committee on Autism, Task force has been working on recommendations across a broad range of topics related to children and adults with autism. Read more here: http://www3.senate.ca.gov/portal/site/senscoa
For parents of children with autism: Please participate in a research study by completing a questionnaire about your child's sensory experiences.
You may qualify for the online survey research study about your child’s sensory experiences and the impact of these sensory experiences on your child and family. We are particularly interested in how sensory experiences change over time, thus, you will be asked to complete the comprehensive survey (about 60 minutes) as part of the first phase of the research study and a shortened version (about 40 minutes) of the survey one year from now as part of the second phase of the research study. As a token of appreciation, you will receive a $5 gift card for completing the survey as part of the research study at each time point. Click on the following link, www.uncsensorysurvey.com/research if you are interested in joining or contact the research team at University of North Carolina at autism@unc.edu.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Inclusion criteria: Parents of children, ages 2-12 years, with a current Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis
- Exclusion criteria: Families with children with specific associated conditions (e.g., tuberous sclerosis, neurofibromatisis, fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome; blindness; deafness, cerebral palsy) are not eligible.
Now accepting insurance
PCDA is pleased to announce that we are now accepting Medical Insurance for occupational therapy and speech therapy services (This also applies to the occupational therapy portion of feeding services). We accept all PPO/POS insurances. Dottie Valadez is our new Medical Insurance Specialist, and will be happy to talk with you about how your insurance plan may be able to provide funding for these services. She can be reached at (626) 793-7350 ext. 261.
PCDA welcomes a new board member!
Steve Rothschild has just been elected to serve on the PCDA Board of Directors. He is an attorney and partner in the law firm of King, Holmes, Paterno & Berliner. LLP. Steve has a special interest in supporting services for children and has expressed an interest in helping PCDA to serve even more children and families over the coming years.
Department of Developmental Services to Direct Regional Centers to Give Proper Notice Before Making Changes to IPPs
If Your Services Were Changed Without an IPP Team Meeting, You Are Entitled to a Meeting Now to Ask to Restore Them
If you are one of the consumers whose services were changed without an IPP/IFSP team meeting in the last year, or if you are the parent or other designated representative or conservator for someone that happened to, you can request a planning team meeting now to more appropriately address your needs. Read more.
This Year's Pasadena Child Development Associates
"Harvest Moon" Benefit for Children is scheduled for October 23rd 2010.
Check back soon for more details!
Click here to see photos from last year's event.
Pasadena Mayor Bill Bogaard
Visits PCDA
Mayor Bill Bogaard, on the right, visits with PCDA Chairman of the Board of Directors Norm LeDuc and Executive Director Dr. Diane Cullinane.
Henry L. Guenther Foundation Grant
PCDA is pleased to announce that we have received a $5,000 grant from the Henry L. Guenther Foundation to purchase equipment for our new AAC Center. AAC stands for augmentative and alternative communication. This specialized technology can be used to support speech and communication for children who have limited ability to speak.
The PCDA AAC Center, directed by Anne Davis, MS, CCC/SLP, Speech and Language pathologist, specializes in incorporating technology with gestures, sounds and body cues to support communication. By using a developmental, relationship based approach, known as DIR®, the modern technology is combined with emotionally meaningful interactions, resulting in life changing powers for these children.
Thank you to the Henry L. Guenther Foundation!
The Bob Baker Marionette Show on July 27th - A Great Success!
New Program: PCDA Lunch Buddies!
Lunch Buddies is a program for children, 2-6 years of age
who are highly sensitive and selective eaters.
The children and their parents come to have lunch together once a week. The children benefit from the group experience with other children, and the activities provided by the staff. Parents learn strategies to support their child's exploration and acceptance of a greater variety of foods. Parents enjoy the support of other parents and are able to share ideas with each other.
The PCDA staff considers the developmental, sensory, and nutritional needs of each child. Each group is lead by an occupational therapist, and is supported by a registered dietitian.
The cost is $20.00 per session.
For questions, or to register for the Lunch Buddies Group, please contact:
Carol Fodera, MA, OTR/L at 626-793-7350, extension 204 or carol@pasadenachilddevelopment.org
Click below for a flier with information about the PCDA Lunch Buddies program
PCDA_Lunch_Buddies.doc (Word Doc)
PCDA_Lunch_Buddies.pdf (PDF)
DIR/Floortime Coalition of California
Dr. Diane Cullinane has recently been selected as Chair of the newly formed DIR/Floortime Coalition of California. Please check out the above website for a lot of great information regarding the Class Action Lawsuit involving Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities and Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center. Also, read about the recent Rally in Sacramento to support Parent Choice in autism treatments, and MUCH MORE!
www.DIRFloortimeCOC.com
Parents Rally on Capitol Steps for A Choice of Autism Treatment Options
Members of the DIR®/Floortime Coalitiongather on the Capitol Steps on June 9th to rally
for parental choice of ASD treatment options.
Parents of children diagnosed with Autism journeyed to Sacramento from across California on June 9th to gather on the steps of the State Capitol to demand a choice of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) treatment options for their children. The parents were joined by many D.I.R.®/Floortime practitioners. D.I.R.®/Floortime is a developmental intervention model that has helped tens of thousands of children and adults diagnosed with an ASD to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
Ron Ostrow, a renowned Hollywood actor and the parent of a ten year old son diagnosed with ASD, spoke at the rally. "Parent choice is quickly going out the window," he said. "Arguments will always be raised about what research shows, but parents know what works and what doesn't. They know when it is time to try something new. There is no excuse to withhold services that a child needs because a bureaucrat thinks they know what's best. Read more »
Pasadena Rotary Club Grant
Dr. Diane Cullinane attended the Pasadena Rotary luncheon on May 26, 2010 to receive a grant from the Pasadena Rotary Foundation in support of PCDA. The grant money will be used to replace several very old computers.
We are very grateful to have the support of the Pasadena Rotary, and extend our thanks to Kathy Meagher, the community grants chair and Estela Richeda.
Law Suit Settled!
We are pleased to announce that the class action lawsuit filed by the law firm of Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher, on behalf of children with autism whose DIR services were terminated by Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center, has now reached a settlement. The Settlement Agreement, which has been signed by all the Class Representatives and by Gloria Wong on behalf of herself and Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center, clearly states that DIR services should not be considered experimental, and that the various forms of service using a DIR approach are not recreational or non-medical in nature. All families should have the option of choosing a DIR based treatment approach.
PCDA looks forward to continuing to provide these valuable services to children in the ELARC area, and are thankful that the law firm of Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher provided pro bono services to support these families.
Click below for a summary of events including the proposed settlement agreement:
Settlement_Summary.doc (Word Doc)
Settlement_Summary.pdf (PDF)
50 Fabulous Women of Influence
Dr. Cullinane Honored
Pasadena Child Development Associates is proud to announce that our Co-Executive Director, Dr. Diane Cullinane has been selected as one of the 2010 "50 Fabulous Women of Influence" by The Pasadena Foothills Magazine. She was honored at a reception on May 18 at redwhite+bluezz in Pasadena.
Not only does Dr. Cullinane provide leadership for PCDA, but as faculty of the ICDL Institute, she is also involved in teaching and advocacy for children with developmental disabilities at the state and national level. Dr. Cullinane fulfills all attributes of the award: "spirit, heart, mind, persona."
Raise Your Voice for Parents' Choice!
Join the RALLY to preserve Parents' Choice in Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. on the steps of the Capitol Building in Sacramento
Fight for Parents' Choice!
Convince our legislators!
- Support the right to Parental Choice in Treatment.
- Meet other parents and professionals in the field.
- Join open forums with your local legislators.
- Share concerns about arbitrary treatment
cut-off dates. - Advocate for cost-effective treatments.
Click for a flyer:
JuneRallyFlyer (Acrobat PDF).
Visit www.dirfloortimecoc.com for more information.
Fight for your right! Fight for your child! Join us and advocate!
2010 Summer Theater Workshop Coming In August
Children ages 7-17 enter the world of imagination through the PCDA Summer Theater Workshop.
Children create their own dramas and design all aspects of a performance including script, costumes, set design, sound, and videography. Exercises in improvisation help build skills in emotional communication and dramatic expression.
| Dates: | August 2nd - August 13th (Mon-Fri) or August 16th - August 27th (Mon-Fri) |
| Times: | 9:00 am to 12:00 noon |
| Fee: | $400 for the workshop |
Please contact Melissa St. John for more information: (626) 793-7350 ext. 277 or melissas@pasadenachilddevelopment.org
Click for a Summer Theater flyer:
PCDA_SumerTheater2010 (Acrobat PDF)
Announcing a new resource: DIR/Floortime Coalition of California!
There is now a new website specifically for parents and professionals who use a DIR/Floortime approach. www.dirfloortimecoc.com will provide information and be a hub for outreach and fundraising efforts. Please consider donating now to support lobbying efforts in California to maintain parent choice in the treatment approach used for their child.
NEW PROGRAM! Sibling Saturdays
All brothers and sisters, age 6-12, are welcome to PCDA's Sibling Saturdays! Sibling Saturday is a fun activity specifically for brothers and sisters of children with developmental disabilities. This is a chance for siblings to meet other siblings and have their own special time!
- Who: Brothers & sisters (6-12) of children with developmental disabilities
- When: 1st Saturday of the month, Saturday, May 1, 2010 Time: 1:00 to 2:15 pm
- Where: PCDA, 620 N. Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA
- Cost: $5 donation per family requested
To register or for more information,
please contact Jana Fristad at (626) 793-7350 x 450
In Memoriam - Stanley I. Greenspan, M.D.
It is with great sorrow that we share with you the news that Stanley I. Greenspan, M.D., died on April 27, 2010. Dr. Greenspan was the Founder and Chairman of the Interdisciplinary Council on Developmental and Learning Disorders (ICDL), the founding president of Zero to Three: The National Center for Infants, Toddlers and Families, and past director of the NIMH Mental Health Study Center and the Clinical Infant Development Program.
Dr. Greenspan developed the Floortime/DIR approach. He was a wonderful teacher, mentor and visionary, who had a profound influence on many lives and on the study of child development. We share in the sense of sorrow and loss, and renew our dedication to this work.
Here is a link to a guest book where you can read and add a tribute to his amazing life.
Spring Into Action - A Great Celebration!!!
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this years' Spring Into Action fundraising campaign. We raised over $7,000 to support children to receive services including Music therapy, Feeding Therapy, Social skills, and Occupational therapy!
The Spring Into Action picnic at Lacy Park was a great celebration. It was a beautiful venue for lunch, crafts, and wonderful performances.
Thank You Everyone!
Thank you to our parent speakers: Victor Voisard and Jenny Salazar for sharing their heartfelt thoughts about the PCDA services their children have received. Thank you to the children who shared their awesome talent: Nicole, Luca, Adam, Simon, Alan, Pranav, and Alessandro! And Thank you to all our volunteers who made it all possible! 
PCDA Community Representatives
Representing PCDA in the community at fairs, events and conferences are Jana Fristad and Virginia Forest. Our Community Representatives attend a variety of events, providing materials and information about our programs and services. At these events, Virginia and Jana also support inquiring Parents and Professionals with essential information on how to support children in a variety of settings, using the DIR/Floortime model.
New!! Sibling Support Group
Through a generous grant from the Northrop Grumman Employee Charity Organization (ECHO), we are pleased to offer a support group for brothers and sisters of children with developmental disabilities.
The group will meet once a week for 10 weeks. This will be a chance for children to learn, reflect, and share their experiences, concerns, and hopes with the guidance of a therapist. We will begin with a small group of 7-9 year olds, led by Melinda Martinez, MFTI and later expand to other ages.
The cost is $250 to participate, and need-based scholarships are available.
CLICK BELOW FOR AN APPLICATION
Sibling_Support_Group_application.doc (Word Doc)
Sibling_Support_Group_application.pdf (PDF)
Class Action Law Suit
The law firm of Gibson Dunn and Crutcher, along with Public Counsel has filed a Class Action law suit, representing a group of children, against Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center. This Class Action law suit was brought because services were terminated for many children, which the suit claims were done in an illegal manner. This law suit has brought a great deal of attention to the actions of ELARC, and to the DIR® approach.
UPDATE: We are pleased to announce that on February 19, the court granted a preliminary injunction, so that children can continue to receive services until 'final resolution' and that services would be reinstated for children whose services had been terminated. In addition all fair hearings related to this are now suspended. If any families have questions regarding their child's services, please be sure to call and speak with the program supervisor or program specialist.
We need your help.
We are concerned about potential State cuts for developmental intervention treatment for Autism. Since the State is facing another huge budget deficit, we believe it is very important to let the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS), the Governor, the Legislature and other decision makers know about the progress children are making using developmental intervention such as DIR®/Floortime.
Please read the attached letter requesting your support in sharing your experiences. Your letters can make a difference! Thank you, from all the staff at PCDA.
January 5, 2010
Dear Parents: As a parent of a child diagnosed with a developmental delay or disability you know the value of parental involvement in the choice of treatment and in support of that treatment. You also know just how unique your child is and are in the best position to make the critical decisions that will assist your child.
As California continues to grapple with a financial crisis, it is important that parental choice be maintained. We know that the increased incidence of Autism coupled with the reduction of state funds for Regional centers means that some changes will have to occur. But we hope that any changes will increase parental choice and involvement rather than limiting them.
You've seen the progress your child has made using the developmental approach of D.I.R./Floortime. We know that if the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the Regional Centers could see that progress as well, they would agree that this option should be available to all parents. And since developmental treatment programs such as D.I.R./Floortime often cost less than comparable alternative treatment measures that may not be as effective for a particular child, they make financial sense as well.
In order to ensure that the California Department of Developmental Services and the Regional Centers recognize the value of developmental treatment programs such as D.I.R./Floortime, we need your help. They need to hear your story.
Attached is a sample letter addressed to the California Department of Developmental Services Director, Terry Delgadillo. If you could write a letter in your own words following the guidelines in the sample letter and include your own observations about your child and his or her treatment, it would be a great help in educating the Department of Developmental Services and the other State decision makers about the value of developmental treatment programs in the treatment of Autism and other developmental challenges.
Once you have drafted a letter, and, of course, you are under no obligation to do so, please send it back to me. I will see that the Governor, the Legislature, the Department of Developmental Services, the Regional Centers and anyone else that needs to will see it so they can be informed of the value of keeping parental options as open as possible.
We know that more cuts to the State Budget are on their way and we want to ensure that the appropriate decision makers have all of the information they need to make the right decisions and we need your help to do that. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call me. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Diane Cullinane, M.D.
Click for a copy of the above letter to PCDA parents:
letter-to-PCDA-parents-Jan2010.doc (Word Doc) letter-to-PCDA-parents-Jan2010.pdf (PDF)
Spanish version: carta-a-los-padres-en-español.doc (Word Doc) carta-a-los-padres-en-español.pdf (PDF)
Click for a sample letter to California Department of Developmental Services Director, Terry Delgadillo in English:
example-letter-for-parents.doc (Word Doc) example-letter-for-parents.pdf (PDF)
Spanish version: letra-del-ejemplo-en-español.doc (Word Doc) letra-del-ejemplo-en-español.pdf (PDF)
Valentine's Day Socials - Thanks for Making This Year's Events A Great Success!
The 2010 Valentine's Socials were a great success. At the Valentine's Celebration Social (2-7 year olds), the children expressed their creativity during the heart decorating craft. They created beautiful hearts for themselves and their loved ones. They also enjoyed a variety of other activities, such as Pin the Ribbon on the Heart, dancing, and parachute play. The children had fun dancing and playing together, as well as watching and imitating one another.
At the Cupid's Crush Social (8-12 year olds), the children worked up a sweat as they danced the night away to the freeze dance, and Cha Cha slide. They enjoyed playing games such as limbo, musical chairs, and hot potato. By the end of the social, the children were tired, but were excited about the new friendships they developed. Although the children from both socials did not want it to end, they look forward to next year.
Reports about the rate of autism continue to show a steady increase.
The most recent report from the CDC states: In 2006, on average, approximately 1% or one child in every 110 in the 11 ADDM sites was classified as having an ASD (approximate range: 1:80 - 1:240 children [males: 1:70; females: 1:315]). The average prevalence of ASDs identified among children aged 8 years increased 57% in 10 sites from the 2002 to the 2006 ADDM surveillance year.
Here is a link to read the full original report:
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss5810a1.htm
This increase has been steadily growing since the late 1980s. Still, there is no answer as to why this is occurring. The increase is too great to be simply a matter of changing definition or increased awareness. While there are efforts underway in research about the cause and the treatment, much more needs to be done.
Fortunately, we have found many ways to understand children's behaviors and the ways to support development. The DIR approach, which was initially formulated by Dr. Greenspan and Serena Wieder through the study of typical development and high risk infants, has provided a framework for supporting development for all children, and is particularly helpful for children with difficulties in relating and communicating, such as children with autism.
Here is a link to the ICDL website to learn more about DIR: www.ICDL.com
New Online FloortimeTM Resource!
The Floortime Repository (www.floortimerepository.com) is a great resource for parents and professionals to connect with others locally and internationally and learn more about DIR/Floortime.
Ahmanson Foundation Donation
PCDA is pleased to accept a generous donation from the Ahmanson Foundation to complete the funding for our web-based database conversion. PCDA has lumbered under an antiquated database for years. In the near future we will have a modernized streamlined system to track all of the client and donor data. This will allow us to report more accurately about the children and families we serve, and enhance all aspects of communication.
Thank you to the Ahmanson Foundation!
THANK YOU to our sponsors, volunteers and everyone who came to show their support for PCDA's Pictionary Tournament at The Comic Bug in Manhattan Beach on Jan 13th!
This PCDA benefit was sponsored by Comics And Comics, The Comic Bug and the Comics On Comics fan world podcast.
PCDA is pleased to announce that we have been awarded a "California Early Start Personnel Development Fund Training Grant for Program Enhancement"
Our project is called: Interdisciplinary Peer Mentoring Program for Senior Early Intervention Staff. PCDA is unique in being able to provide services by a group of professionals from a wide range of disciplines, who truly work together as a team. Every member of PCDA shares their knowledge and skills, and utilizes the expertise of each discipline to the benefit of the children and families we serve. We are happy to continue this professional growth.
Grant from the Pasadena Foothill Association of Realtors
Pasadena-Foothill Association of Realtors (PFAR) has made a generous donation so that more children can receive music therapy at a very low cost. If a child loves music, and has challenges in social-emotional development, communication or behavior, Music Therapy may be a great way to help. Thank you very much to PFAR!
Music therapy can help a child to achieve non-musical goals, such as increasing shared attention, reciprocal interactions, and increase creativity and shared problem solving.
If your child loves music, and this sounds like a service you're interested in pursuing, please click here for more information about PCDA Music Therapy services.
If you would like to apply for this grant, please fill out the application and submit it by March 26th, 2010:
PFAR_Grant_Application.doc (Word Doc)
PCDA's 2009 Holiday Recital
On Friday, December 11th, we hosted our annual Holiday Recital for children and families involved with PCDA.
Everyone had a great time as you can see from the photos below. For all those involved in this wonderful seasonal production, thank you and Happy Holidays!
Thank You Carl E. Wynn Foundation
PCDA was very please to receive a donation of $1,000 from the Carl E. Wynn Foundation. This will be used to support our mission, and help us during this time of budget cutbacks. We appreciate the support from this distinguished charitable foundation.
Congratulations to Deborah Camp!
Deborah is now not only state-licensed, but also ASHA certified as a speech language pathologist.
Congratulations on earning your C's:
Deborah Camp, MA, CCC-SLP!
Another Successful Halloween Social!
Here are some photos from our latest Halloween Social Event. Thanks to everyone involved for a great and fun time!
We would like to thank all of the volunteers who made the event such an elegant evening including: Susan Stroebel, Ann Margaret Chrisney, Lucia Rosling Shaw, Cecilia Chavira, Grace Chen, Bill Cullinane, Rae Dawn Hadinger, Dave Hadinger, Colleen Ferguson, Olga Garibyan, Aida Grigoryan, Dika Karakashian, Janessa Kelly, Christine Kim, Ada Lew, Jeff and Vivian Mercado, Jacqueline Ochoa-Rosellini, Ruhi Sharma, Anne Yee, Miju Kim, Ryan Cowden, Julie Miller, Amber Angell, Daryl Heater Synowiec.
And a great thank you to our sponsors: Costumes by StarMakers, Inc., Food from Elements Kitchen, Appetizers from Bristol Farms, South Pasadena, Wine from Fairplex, Flowers by Jesus Mendoza and Victor Mendez, Graphic design by Josh Ross, Printing by TC Do, 8 Cubed Technologies, and Indie Printing, Rentals by Queen's Party Rentals.
Pasadena Child Development Associates "Harvest Moon" Benefit for Children
held on October 24th
was a great success!
The evening included a tour of a spectacular Neoclassical Revival home built in 1891, in the Garfield Heights area of Pasadena, a delicious gourmet meal under the stars and an evening program of speakers, including Mr. Dave Hadinger, speaking about his son Henry. This event served to highlight the wonderful accomplishments of the past year, reacquaint with old friends and introduce PCDA to a new group of friends and supporters.
A special thank you to Onil Chibas and John Orders who opened their home for the evening. In addition Chef Onil Chibas provided the catering from Elements Kitchen. Building biographer, Tim Gregory, provided the historical information about the home. A barbershop quartet, the "Testoster-tones" entertained on the lawn, and Melissa St. John played ragtime on the piano in the house. Docents were dressed in period costumes as they led groups through the beautiful home.
UPS donates $5000 to PCDA
PCDA was very pleased to receive a grant of $5,000 from the UPS foundation to be used for technology upgrades. The check was presented to Diane Cullinane, by Mr. Gerald Yee.
We are sorry to announce that we are canceling the summer programs, Summer Theater Workshop and Music and Movement. The state budget crisis has led to cuts in funding to Department of Developmental Services. Funding for Music therapy has been eliminated by the budget cuts. We sincerely regret that there is no longer any funding for these programs and services through the regional center. We will be searching for other sources of funding for the future.
Legislation Ends Support for PCDA's SEDI and Socialization Skills Programs
Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center (ELARC) has informed PCDA that all services to children in our Socialization Skills Training Program (individual and group) and all children in our SEDI program will be ended due to the recent CA legislation. Here is a link to the actual legislation.
They are basing this decision on 1) that DIR/Floortime is an experimental treatment, and 2) that these programs are 'specialized-recreation' programs.
Families do have the right to appeal these decisions, and can continue to receive the service while the appeal is being considered. Families must indicate that they want to appeal within 10 days of being notified in order to continue receiving the service.
Click here for Information about the appeal process (PDF) Click here for a Fair Hearing request form (PDF)
On this PCDA website under 'Resources --> articles' we have posted a general paper about DIR®/Floortime, information about the research and clinical support of DIR®/Floortime, an article by Barry Prizant about the importance of parent choice, and will be adding other articles pertinent to this discussion. Dr. Cullinane will present "Research and Clinical Support for DIR®/Floortime" at the October Parent Support Group meeting, on Oct 13 at 6:30. Watch this site for further resources over the next few weeks.
ELARC is the only regional center ending these PCDA services.
Families who are receiving services from other regional centers are continuing to be funded for both socialization skills training and SEDI services. Our opinion is that these services are neither experimental nor primarily recreational. We believe the intent of the legislation was to reduce costs by eliminating ancillary services, 'extras' or supplementary services. Our services address basic developmental challenges and do not fit the intent of legislation. Families are encouraged to present their own stories through the appeal process.
More information and resources about the appeal process:
If you have been told by your regional center service coordinator that your child's services will be cut due to the recent State of California budget changes: Let your PCDA therapist or DI know! We may be able to help. There is a lot of confusion about which services are impacted by the budget cuts and what parents can do.
| Step 1: | Be sure to ask for a written Notice of Action. Regional centers are required to provide written notice, 30 days in advance, of any termination of service, with information about your right to appeal this decision (Due Process Fair Hearing). |
| Step 2: | Consider your right to appeal the regional center decision. Your child's services will continue while you are in the Fair Hearing. It will not impact other services your child receives. The Fair Hearing process is designed to settle differences between regional center and a family. Services stay in place until an administrative law judge hears your case and rules on it. This is called Aid Paid Pending. Many resources are available to help you understand the procedures (see list on other side). We can help. |
Information about how to file for an appeal:
- You must complete a Fair Hearing Request form within 10 days to file for an appeal and continue services. Legally, you must file the form within ten (10) days of getting the written Notice of Action to request that the services continue. If you missed this deadline, file anyway and explain the reason, e.g., did not understand your rights, etc.
- If you are notified by phone, ask for the decision in writing (this is called the Notice of Action). You should also receive information about your rights.
- If you have not received the information by mail, don't wait! Pick up a Fair Hearing Request form from the Regional Center or PCDA office and complete it. Continue to follow-up with the service coordinator to request the written Notice.
- Fair Hearing Request form: It is not necessary to provide a detailed explanation at this time. Keep it simple. Your child is benefiting from the services and you disagree with the decision of the regional center stated in the letter you received (or telephone call). Request that current services remain in place. You will have time to learn more about preparing for the hearing.
- You may wish to consider the Mediation step before the Due Process Hearing. This is not required.
It is very important to keep a written record of all communication with your service coordinator, with dates of calls and what was discussed (and/or email file).
The Mediation involves an independent, impartial person/mediator with expertise in settling disagreements who meets with the family and the regional center to help work out differences. The goal is to reach a solution that both parties agree to. If you are not satisfied with the mediation meeting, you may continue to the Due Process Hearing.
The Due Process Hearing is a more formal process designed by the State of California Office of Administrative Hearing and conducted by an impartial expert in the law referred to as an "administrative law judge." This judge listens to evidence from both parties and make an independent decision about the disagreement. There are resources to help you understand the Regional Center's fair hearing procedures and preparing for a hearing.
Important Resources/Websites: Ask about Parent Information Meetings
Disabilities Rights California (formerly Protection and Advocacy)
www.pai-ca.org
www.disabilityrightsca.org/pubs/529601.pdf
Publication: Rights under the Lanterman Act (many languages available)
English: http://pai-ca.org/pubs/506301Index.htm
Spanish: http://pai-ca.org/pubs/506301Index.htm#Spanish
2009 Changes to the Lanterman Act : What they are and how to appeal cuts in services
http://www.ihsscoalition.org/documents/2009ChangestotheLantermanActslides.pdf
Office of Clients' Rights Advocacy
http://www.pai-ca.org/OCRA/index.htm Matt Pope (ELARC) 626-576-4437
Office of Administrative Hearings www.oah.dgs.ca.gov
Department of Developmental Services http://www.dds.ca.gov/Complaints/
Developmental Disabilities Area Board X www.areaboard10.org
East Los Angeles Regional Center http://www.elarc.org/J/
| English information line: | 626.299.4830 | 626.299.4830 | ||
| Spanish information line: | 626.299.4831 | 626.299.4831 | ||
| Chinese information line: | 626.299.4832 | 626.299.4832 |
Click here for a copy of the above letter in English: cuts-in-service.doc (Word Doc) cuts-in-service.pdf (PDF)
Spanish version: A-los-padres-y-familias.doc (Word Doc) A-los-padres-y-familias.pdf (PDF)
We are pleased to announce that The Southern California DIR®/FloortimeTM Regional Institute will be offered in Pasadena, CA beginning October, 2009
Click for a complete description
Children's Music Therapy Program Receives Target Grant
for Adapted Music Lessons
- Grace Lecanu-Fayet
Please help children like Max, to explore their creativity through the beauty of music. Donations of any amount are gladly accepted to support this program.
Click for an Adapted Music Lesson Grant Application from Target (Word doc):
TargetGrantApplication.doc
Please submit your application by August 31st, 2009.
Click here to learn more about the Adapted Music Lessons program.
We are very grateful to Target who give back to their community!
New Department. New Department Head!
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Brandt Chamberlain will now become Department Head of our newly formed Department of Psychology and Counseling Services. Members of that department are Melinda Martinez, Christina Reyes, Oscar Soltero, Betina Shain and Hugo Galicia.
We are now able to offer marital counseling, and individual and family counseling, especially focused on families with a child with a disability. Other services include Developmental-Behavioral consultation, Behavioral intervention in the school, Social-emotional assessments, Teen counseling, and consultation to all of our other programs and services. In addition, Brandt will also continue to have the role of Teen Club Coordinator. Congratulations to Brandt!
PCDA is pleased to announce a new music class for Preschoolers
Please join us for a playful music class for caregivers and young children on Friday mornings!
- Friday mornings from 9:00 a.m. for children 9-24 months and 10:00 a.m. for children 18-24 months**
- For children of all developmental levels.
- Builds social skills
- Children are engaged in music and musical games.
- Led by a board-certified music therapist
- Utilizes a relationship based approach.
**Children can attend younger or older groups if developmentally appropriate
For more details, call us at (626) 793-7350 ext. 226 or 275.
Next class begins Friday September 18th, 2009
Family Fun Day
Thank you to all the families who came and participated in our 9th annual Family Fun Day on July 18th, 2009. We had a great turnout enjoying all the fun with our families and friends. PDCA looks forward to seeing you at our next event!
The teens on Family Fun Day, 7/18/09:
We had a great time volunteering at Family Fun Day! We're part of a community. We did everything! We served up snow cones, set up chairs, painted faces, handed out nametags, gave tattoos, floated ducks, ate fruit kabobs, hobnobbed with little kids...
The pizza for the volunteers wasn't bad either!
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Congratulations to Dr. Karla Ausderau and Dr. Kim Wilkinson...
... two of our occupational therapists who have just completed their Ph.D.s in Occupational Science from USC! We are proud of this great accomplishment and are glad to have them on our team.
Our Inaugural Fundraising Event,
"Spring into Action", Raises Over $4,000
PCDA's inaugural fundraising event "Spring Into Action" was held on April 30th at Celestino Ristorante. It was a great success in showcasing the children and families served by PCDA, and the many programs and services offered. The event honored Mr. Phillip Hain, the Executive Director of the Los Angeles Chapter of Autism Speaks.
Andy, a member of the Teen Club spoke about his experiences, and his mother reflected on her son's achievements and the benefits he has received from his participation in Teen Club. A beautiful "wish tree" held pictures of needed therapy equipment and toys. The event was successful in raising over $4,000 to support a range of services for children with special needs.
Thank you to all of the volunteers and donors who made this possible!
PCDA Dodgers Night, Friday, May 8
was a GREAT SUCCESS!!
Dodgers vs. Giants with FIREWORKS immediately following the game!
With the support of PCDA families, friends, and staff, we were able to raise $1200! PCDA would like to thank everyone who attended this event.
Please look forward to another PCDA Dodgers Night in the near future!
Pasadena Child Development Associates, Inc. will host a weekly Parent Support Group every Tuesday from 6:30 -8:00 PM at PCDA. There is no cost.
This is for YOU - the parents of children with special needs. We hope the Parent Support Group is place where you will feel safe to share your ideas and feelings because everyone here understands what it means to be a parent of a child with special challenges- and all that it brings. There is grieving- and all its stages, learning, battling, and rejoicing in victories big and small. The parent support group is meant to be a respectful, tolerant, and supportive group where you can find others who care about how you are doing, and offer encouragement and care...
Learn more about PCDA's free weekly Parent Support Group
For further information please call 626.793.7350
The Glen Oaks Escrow Company is holding a Toy Drive for PCDA.
This beautiful display of flowers contains descriptions of toys and equipment that can be used in our various programs.
Thank you to Glen Oaks Escrow!
PCDA is pleased to announce two new services for Preschools
Pasadena Child Development Associates, Inc. is proud to offer free Speech, Language and Hearing Screenings in conjunction with the Language, Speech and Hearing Center at California State University at Northridge (CSUN). A screening is designed to identify children who show signs of speech, language and/or hearing difficulties, so that they may be further assessed and provided with therapy, if appropriate...
Learn more about our FREE Speech, Language and Hearing Screenings
Jumpstart is a music enrichment program provided to pre-schools which addresses social-emotional development for children 2-5 years of age using the DIR® approach. A music therapist or a music therapy student (with on-site supervision) provides weekly music enrichment for a class of up to 25 students for 30 minute sessions, over a 6 month period.
Learn more about the Jumpstart Music Enrichment Program
PCDA held its annual Valentine's social where children enjoyed dancing and games with their friends!
On Wednesday, April 15th, 2009
the Teen Club did a fantastic presentation for the Foothill Autism Alliance.
Members of the Teen Club did a wonderful presentation at the Foothill Autism Alliance meeting on April 15th. They shared stories about their activities and things they had learned through the club. They demonstrated the group process and they fielded questions from the audience. Congratulations for a job well done!
Budget Cuts Hit PCDA
The State financial crisis has hit home at PCDA. We receive 85% of funding for services from the regional center system, through the State Department of Developmental Services. We were notified that the State has imposed a 3% across the board rate cut, (their term is "discount") beginning February 1, 2009. This discount is to last until June 2010, but whether or not it will ever be reversed is in doubt. In addition, further cuts of additional 7% are threatened.
The regional centers provide funding for therapy services and programs for individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism, mental retardation, and cerebral palsy, from birth to death. The law requires state funds to be used based on an individual's need for services, regardless of financial status. Managing this entitlement program has become more difficult over the years as the ever expanding 'entitlement' must be paired against a fixed budget.
The current financial crisis is the most dire since the regional centers were first created. In an effort to save costs, regional centers are taking dramatic actions. Every service is being scrutinized. Many parents have told us that their services will be cut because the regional centers 'don't have money'. Parents are being asked to choose between services, or to accept fewer hours of service. Some services such as weekly social skills groups, may not be funded every week.
The 3% cuts in rates, combined with decrease in authorized services, has resulted in a net decrease in income substantially more than 3%. We are implementing several actions in our effort to survive this crisis. All PCDA staff have accepted a 3% cut in wages, as well as a decrease in benefits. We have also increased the workload for our administrative staff by eliminating vacant positions.
We know that the children and families who receive help from our therapists and developmental interventionists make substantial progress. We see the benefits everyday for children who achieve developmental milestones and their families who are devoted to helping them overcome challenges. Our staff is communicating as much as possible with regional center service coordinators to provide detailed explanations about the value of continuing services for specific children.
As a non-profit corporation, PCDA is seeking additional funding through foundations and charitable giving to help fill the gap between funding sources and the cost of providing services. Your contribution, of any amount, will be greatly appreciated to support our mission to provide quality services to children with special needs, and training and support to their families and other professionals who serve children and families. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, professional, or a caring person, you can help PCDA to help children and families who benefit from these services.
We appreciate your help, and together we will continue to offer the many services that the children and families deserve.
With our sincere thanks,Diane Cullinane, M.D. and Mimi Winer, MS, RN
Co- Executive Directors
Dr. Diane Cullinane spoke at the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce on April 9th
Bunny Banquet, April 9th
PCDA invited all of our current and past clients to come and share in a community of shared feeding experiences. It was a wonderful opportunity for moms, dads, and caregivers to meet other families and share information.
On March 24th, The Alliance of Preschool Directors met at PCDA to learn about our services, and had a tour of the facilities.
The PCDA Events Planning Committee held its first meeting on Sat. March 21st. The first fundraiser is planned for April 30th. Watch for invitations soon!
On March 18th, Diane Cullinane, M.D. and Mimi Winer, RN, MS, presented an afternoon training to over 200 teachers of Volunteers of America Head Start.
On Friday March 13th, Melissa St. John, music therapist, and Julie Miller, occupational therapist, presented an in-service training for Pasadena Christian Preschool.
On Feb 27th, a film crew from Joni and Friends was here filming Dr. Diane Cullinane for an upcoming documentary about autism.
Dr. Diane Cullinane, and Dr. Brandt Chamberlain spoke during a series on Autism hosted by the South Pasadena Kiwanis Club on February 4, 2009.
Dr. Diane spoke about the Floortime/DIR approach and Dr. Brandt discussed Pasadena Child Development Associates teen club.
Dr. Diane Cullinane provided training for Head Start teachers regarding the DIR Floortime approach at the Child Development Resources of Ventura County on February 1.
Julie Miller, MOT, OTR/L, SWC recently met with family members from Rio Visto School in El Monte.
As part of an ongoing training program offered by Rio Visto School, Julie discussed the feeding challenges with special needs children.
Dr. Diane Cullinane, MD, publishes "Closing Circles" article for the Interdisciplinary Council on Developmental and Learning Disorders
Thinking About Your Child's Health:
Considerations for the Child with Special Needs
Click for the full article.
Here is a brief excerpt:
"...Particularly challenging for children on the autism spectrum is their inability to recognize and express pain. Some children "under register" pain due to their sensory arousal profile. Illnesses, such as ear infections or dental pain, are more difficult for a parent to notice and therefore seek medical advice, if the child does not complain. Pain from GERD (gastroesophagealreflux disease) or other GI discomforts may result in acting out, retreat or seemingly regressive behavior.
How often is your child's aggressive behavior the result of a headache, a stomachache, sore throat or a toothache? It is important to remember that physical discomfort may be "expressed" through behavior. Any sudden and uncharacteristic departure in behavior may warrant a medical check up..."
Brandt Chamberlain published
in The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
Involvement or Isolation? The Social Networks of Children with Autism in Regular Classrooms
by Brandt Chamberlain • Connie Kasari • Erin Rotheram-Fuller
Click for the full article.
Here is a brief excerpt:
"...To understand how a child with autism functions in a social environment, it is crucial to establish an effective method for describing the set of social opportunities and restrictions offered by that environment. What is the nature of the social structure into which the child is being included? What peer relationships are available, and how will participation influence the child's status in the classroom? This study utilizes the social network clustering method developed by Cairns and Cairns (1994) to address these questions. Combining the viewpoints of multiple participants, this method enables us to explore how children with autism perceive their own social connections within the classroom social structure, and how other children perceive them..."