Raising a child with special needs can bring unique challenges. Our hope is that these videos will equip you with information that can help you on your journey. If you have any recommendations for future topics/speakers, we would love to know!

IEPs & 504s

Centers for Exceptional Families

Finding Peace Through Planning

Michael Videll with Thrivent Financial & Bethany Pike with Elrod Firm

He Said, She Heard

Jared and Marisa Elmquist with Tangled House

Behavior Strategies that Work

Improving Compliance and Strengthening Relationships, Dr. Tricia Benish

The Great Mother’s Day Adventure

Jared and Marisa Elmquist with Tangled House

Fall Family Conference

Jared Elmquist with Tangled House

 

Darren Morris, a full-time disability self-advocate hired by Disability Rights Arkansas to conduct training and promote self-advocacy in our state, did a presentation for the Asperger’s Support Group meeting on 4-26-17. If anyone has any questions or would like more information on self-advocacy training, you can contact Darren at the following:  (501) 296-1775; DMorris@disabilityrightsar.org; 400 W. Capitol, Ste. 1200, Little Rock, AR 72201. 

If anyone would like more information about the Asperger’s Support group that meets the last Wednesday of every month at the Main Library (on 2nd Street in Little Rock), please contact Lud Kozlowski: (501) 791-5835 or aspielud@comcast.net.

Click here to view Darren Morris speaking on Disability Rights.

Jerilyn Swalve-Wasson graduated from Ouachita Baptist University with a Bachelor’s in Psychology, graduated from UCA with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, and is a retired Licensed Psychological Examiner. Jerilyn currently works part-time for GetTherapy.com and Arkansas Families First, mental and behavioral agencies serving special needs populations of all ages. Jerilyn, along with her husband of 14 years, Kenny Wasson, serve on two boards at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, and are raising money to build the first inclusive, all-abilities playground in North Little Rock, Arkansas. They have one daughter, Emma, who spent her first 9 months in Arkansas Children’s Hospital, born with a congenital heart defect and Turner Syndrome. She currently resides at home with global developmental delays (non-verbal, and non-mobile), GJ feeds, and lots of medications. Emma is the inspiration for the playground and is a blessing to all who know her. Jerilyn doesn’t seek out public speaking opportunities, but feels when asked it is her calling to speak about their journey in hopes that it will help others and let them know they are not alone.

Click here to view a video by Jerilyn Swalve-Wasson.

Dale Turrentine is the Community Program Development Manager for the Arkansas Department for Career Education through Arkansas Rehabilitation Services. She presented an overview at the monthly Asperger’s Support Group meeting of various vocational support programs available for young adults with special needs through ARS. Very informative! It’s exciting to hear about all the new programs that are being created to support our kids in finding rewarding work and school opportunities. Check it out!

Click here to view a video by Dale Tunnertine.

Mary Garlington, MA, BCBA, MS, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist with 10 years of experience specializing in the treatment of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis.  In 2016, Mary received her board certification to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She currently provides applied behavior analysis (ABA) services through Pediatrics Plus to families impacted by ASD in Central Arkansas.


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