Support group for caregivers (autism) in Singapore

Dear everyone:

It has been a very busy two months... Unfortunately, much as I would like to put up a new article on my latest efforts in dealing with the challenges of Sebastien, my autistic adolescent, I still have not completed it. However, I would still highlight a few things for the coming July:

1. Support Group for Caregivers of children with autism: I am dedicating the last Sunday of every month to a support group for CAREGIVERS of children with autism (7:30 - 9 p.m.). Caregiving can feel like such an isolated journey that caregivers need to come together in a supportive space where they can share with others what they have learnt or what they are going through. There will be some light refreshments. Participants can also bring stuff if they like. There are no obligations or membership requirements.

For this month, the meeting will be held on Sunday, July 31st, 7:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.

Please RSVP me with the number of people coming by Thursday (July 28th) and contact information (mobile number and email). If I do not have at least 3 participants (including myself), I will cancel the meeting.

I am happy to host the meeting (Orchard; address will be given to those who have confirmed their participation), though I am open to us having rotating locations...

* Caregivers refer to individuals who are responsible for caring for autistic individuals. This support group is LIMITED to CAREGIVERS only in order to ensure that caregivers feel free to share their thoughts and feelings.


2. Sebastien's paintings
Thanks to the encouragement of friends who have viewed Sebastien's paintings, I am pleased to announce that we are entering Sebastien in a UOB painting competition this year and thinking about organising an exhibition of Sebastien's paintings. At this juncture, I am looking for help from people with the knowledge and connections to make such an event possible. Areas to cover include:

- exhibition spaces
- framing costs
- PR and marketing for such an event
- sponsorships/donations
- helpful contacts

I would be grateful for a brainstorm of ideas and feedback.

3. Highlights of my Website:

Books: http://www.awakeningminds.sg/books.html: my published books on autism, manic depression and a storywriting template and workbook.

Workshops (My proposed topics): http://www.awakeningminds.sg/workshops.html: my self-formulated workshops covering autism, caregiving, educational strategies, behavioural management and creative writing.

http://www.awakeningminds.sg/mental_wellness_workshops.html: my workshops on mental wellness and caregiving.

Workshops conducted: http://www.awakeningminds.sg/past_events.html: a comprehensive listing of all talks and workshops I have conducted.

Consultations: http://www.awakeningminds.sg/consultations.html, http://www.awakeningminds.sg/mental_wellness_consultations.html: my private, home-based consultations for families and institutions.

Learning Materials: http://www.awakeningminds.sg/learning_materials.html: Learning materials designed for children with learning difficulties.

Articles: http://www.awakeningminds.sg/articles.html: Articles on autism, special needs, mental wellness and parenting by me, as well as articles featuring me and Sebastien, written by journalists.

Please feel free to share this email with others who may be interested.

Regards,

Kah Ying