Barbara Newman, church and school consultant for CLC Network will be presenting "Practical Strategies: a toolbox for home, school and church," a free seminar highlighting autism spectrum disorders and ideas for interacting with children who have a wide-variety of disabilities.

The seminar will be held Saturday, April 17 at St. Luke-Ann Arbor (4205 Washtenaw Ave.) and is open to the public.

“We are so excited to be able to offer this opportunity to the community,” said Pam Kamrath, coordinator for the Special Needs Ministry at St. Luke. “Autism is one of the fastest growing disabilities in the United States. As numbers increase so does the need for families and individuals to be equipped in understanding how to embrace the needs of these children.”

The seminar will be broken into two sessions.

Session 1: 9-10:30 a.m.
Autism Spectrum Disorders: What they are and How to Respond
One of the most effective tools in allowing individuals on the Autism Spectrum to be successful in structured settings is to arm the people in their lives with information to help them succeed. Newman will educate us about ASD and provide practical strategies for teachers, parents, and congregations pertaining to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), AD/HD and other areas of disability.

Session 2: 11-12:30 p.m.
The Behavior Management Playing Field
Often children with disabilities have difficult time learning and practicing good ways to behave and communicate. In this session appropriate for teachers, parents, and church volunteers, Barbara hopes to fill your behavior management tool box with numerous
options and ideas to help engage children.

Newman has authored many books including “Helping Kids Include Kids with Disabilities,” “The Easter Book,” “Autism and Your Church,” and “Any Questions? - a Guidebook for Inclusive Education.” She is a frequent national speaker at educational conferences and churches. 

“The challenges of raising children with special needs can be overwhelming,” said Kamrath. “We really want to actively reach out to these families and be a support system for them. One way we can do this is by bringing in speakers not only for the families but teachers and church workers alike. We hope this will be an informative and worthwhile seminar for all who attend.”

About CLC Network:
The CLC Network delivers education and support services to faith-based and public charter schools, home educators, and churches nationwide. Services include individual assessment, educational and worship planning, teacher and parent seminars, and online courses. CLC Network staff members work closely with your home, school and church community to ensure that those who have disabilities, unique learning challenges, or exceptional academic gifts become vital participants who are challenged to their fullest capabilities.

Carly Parker is the Communications Coordinator for St. Luke Lutheran Church and its affiliated sites, including the Common Cup a full-service coffeehouse located in the lower level of University Lutheran Chapel.