UCF CARD - Center for Autism and Related Disabilities

20/09/2026

Thursday Sept 24th @ 6:30pm - The IEP can sometimes feel like it's written in another language! Join us as we decode the IEP, explain what each section means, highlight what belongs in an IEP (and what doesn't), and discuss how these decisions can affect your child's education.
Gain the knowledge and confidence to better understand and advocate for your child's needs. 😊

Scan the QR code or register here >>> https://IEP10126.eventbrite.com

20/09/2026

Attend the program overview of our Shine Bright Self-esteem Program on September 28th at 5:30 PM! It's never too early to help your child develop self-esteem. Learn about this self-esteem building program for 5-7 year olds being offered virtually every Monday & Wednesday, October 12th - November 4th.

To register, scan the QR code or go to SBoverview.eventbrite.com

19/09/2026

OCA’s 2026l Monster Dash 5K is creeping up fast! Join them on October 17th at 7:30 AM for a morning of community, costumes, and giving back — all to benefit individuals with autism and other disabilities.

Scan the QR codes to register, sponsor, or volunteer!

19/09/2026

The Sunshine Spectrum Support Group is back with a new focus on family health and support. If you have an adult with autism who needs high support, you and your adult are invited to take part.

This fall we are introducing a parent-adult culinary skills component to the support group. One parent and the adult with autism will create a meal component for a lunch time meal featuring healthy foods, and the session will conclude with a meal and connecting with other attendees. The kitchen will be supported by staff of the Kitchen house.

Each session will include time for parents to connect together for resource sharing and support, while the adults receive some education on the meal preparation and a visit to explore the culinary garden, then the group will convene together to cook a healthy meal, and eat together to celebrate the creations. Cost per pair is $10 to participate (food is included). Registrants will receive further communication before the date.

Scan the QR code or register here >>> https://ss1014.eventbrite.com

19/09/2026

“Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.”

18/09/2026

👏Third Wednesday of each month! - Caregivers of Adults Resource and Discussion Group 👏

The Caregivers of Adults and Soon to be Adults Support Group is a monthly discussion group exclusively for parents/guardians/caregivers of teens and adults aged 16+ registered with UCF CARD. While this group does not have a specific assigned topic for each session, we do focus on adulthood and transition to adulthood topics.

Scan the QR code or click here to register >>> https://coafall26.eventbrite.com

18/09/2026

🎉 PALS Safety Day is one of their biggest and most exciting events of the year! Join us for a fun, FREE interactive day designed specifically for CARD constituents and their families in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Have you ever wished your child could meet a police officer, firefighter, or first responder before an emergency happens? Safety Day provides a relaxed opportunity for families and first responders to get to know one another, build familiarity, and create positive connections.

Families can explore community resources, learn practical safety strategies, and enjoy hands-on activities for children, teens, and adults. We'll also have local law enforcement on-site for voluntary registration programs, safety devices and resources to give away, information on wandering prevention and water safety, and community agencies ready to answer questions and provide support.

Whether you're looking to increase safety awareness, connect with local resources, or just enjoy a fun day with your family, Safety Day has something for everyone. We hope you'll join us for a day of learning, connection, and fun! 🚓🚒💙✨

✨Saturday, September 26th 2026
💫Check in begins at 10:00AM
🌟Location: Safety Village, 910 Fairvilla Rd, Orlando
⭐Register here: https://safety26.eventbrite.com

17/09/2026

Have a child approaching puberty? Congratulations, you're about to enter a whole new level of parenting! 🎮

Join us on September 28th @ 6:30pm for an overview of puberty and ASD, and fill your toolbox with tips and strategies to help make this developmental milestone a little less confusing for everyone.

To register, scan the QR code or click here>>> https://pasd926.eventbrite.com

17/09/2026

Your child's success in homeschooling could be easy as a lunch break! Throughout September & October, join us for sessions on how to prepare for a successful year in homeschooling -- tailored for students with ASD.

Our second session was yesterday. Join us for our next session on September 30th at 12 PM to learn to effectively motivate your child to complete their schoolwork.

To register, scan the QR code or go to hlb30926.eventbrite.com

17/09/2026

https://cardconference.info ! Early Bird Registration is open! Learn from Parents, Self Advocates, and professionals in the field of Autism at the Annual Statewide CARD conference!

Ready to unlock the power of self-determination and turn your unique strengths into lasting success? 🤔

Join us at the 34th Annual Statewide Autism Conference for an empowering session with Evan Weinstein, M.Ed.!

In The Neurodiversity of Building Self-Determination and Resilience (F2G), discover how self-determination theory—focusing on autonomy, competence, and relatedness—serves as a powerful motivator. Explore current research on recognizing your strengths and areas for growth without judgment, and learn how to use these insights to set, measure, and reach your goals.

This session will explore how to:
• Understand self-determination theory and its three core psychological needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness) in motivation.
• Learn how to build self-awareness around personal strengths and growth areas without judgment to foster resilience.
• Combine psychological needs, strengths, and growth areas to effectively set, measure, and accomplish daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly goals.

📅 January 15, 2027 | ⏰ 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM

Register NOW for Early Bird Rates! Visit https://cardconference.info or click the link in our bio.