Transitioning Without the Tension
MEET THE EXPERTS AND SECURE YOUR STUDENT'S FUTURE - SATURDAY, MAY 30 |
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The in-person event, which is co-hosted with the Autism Society of Maryland (AUSOM), will be held on Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at Montgomery Blair High School, 51 University Blvd E, Silver Spring, MD 20901. The focus of this clinic will be helping you and your young adult understand and apply for appropriate state and federal disability benefits.
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Spaces are filling up fast! We only have a few 1-to-1 professional consultation slots remaining. To secure your free, private guidance session, simply
fill out this intake form.
If your preferred time is already taken, we strongly encourage you to join the waitlist and attend in person; we prioritize
waitlisted families on-site, as 'no-show'
spots frequently open up during the event. |
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Meet the experts who are demystifying the transition to adulthood process! We are thrilled to announce our 2026 volunteer roster of consultants, featuring a powerhouse collection of leaders from across the Maryland disability community:
Consultants:
- Loleta Dixon, Coalition of Families
- Veronica Lawrence, SEEC
- Marlo Lemon, Parents Place of Maryland
- Lisa Lorraine, Jubilee
- David Mervis, Esq., Kennedy Krieger (Project HEAL)
- Sharon Nickolaus, Ivymount
- Meghan Smallwood, HCPSS
- Carly Fratangelo, Celebrate Ability
- Patricia Cochrane, MCPS Transitions
- Dianne Flood, MCPS
- Margie Parrott, MCPS
- Javier Andrés Colón Volgamore, Montgomery Disability Advocates
- Sherwood Schaffernoth, Optimal Case Management (DDA provider)
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Eric Jorgensen, CFP Disability Planning Expert |
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Even if you aren’t doing a consultation, attend the clinic to hear the advice of our keynote speaker Eric Jorgensen, CFP, disability planning expert and founder of Special Needs Navigator, an AI-powered disability planning tool. Eric will be giving two presentations: one at 10:15 a.m. on DORS/DDA and the other at 11:45 a.m. on SSI. Both will include time for Q&A. |
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Stop putting it off — get it all done on Saturday, May 30! New this year, xMinds and AUSOM are debuting a dedicated Application Workroom designed to help you power through the paperwork you’ve been avoiding. Whether you’re stuck on a DDA application or navigating complex SSI forms, our trained staff will be on hand to provide real-time guidance and moral support. But to take advantage of this opportunity you must bring your forms — either printed out or on your laptop.
As a bonus for your hard work, everyone who visits the workroom will receive a FREE trial and exclusive access to Special Needs Navigator. If you haven't seen it yet, this is the revolutionary new AI-powered planning tool — fondly known as "Sage" — created by our keynote speaker, Eric Jorgensen. Eric has spent years as a leading consultant, blogger, and podcaster in the disability space, and he has poured all of that specialized expertise into this one incredible resource. Don’t spend another weekend stressed by deadlines; come use our resources and Eric’s expertise to get those applications across the finish line! In addition to our expert consultants, a wide range of community organizations and professional partners will be on-site to share their resources and provide a wealth of information. Whether you need a helping hand with your paperwork from xMinds and AUSOM staff or just want to browse local support services, you don’t have to do it alone. No matter where you are in the journey — whether you’re just wondering if you should apply, are currently in the thick of the paperwork, or are navigating the stress of an appeal — this clinic is designed for you. We look forward to seeing you on May 30 and helping you take that next confident step toward your child’s future. |
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Special Thanks to our Sponsors:
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Educators, Spring Into Action!
APPLY NOW FOR XMINDS SPRING EDUCATOR GRANTS |
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Whether its curricula, classroom resources, or professional training, xMinds is again offering educator grants to help motivated Montgomery County teachers, paraeducators, administrators, and related service providers purchase materials. Read about some of our past grantees, who have used the funds toward physical items such as "calm-down kits" and adaptive seating, as well as high-impact trainings, including conferences and workshops. The xMinds Educator Support Committee will award individual grants of up to $100 for classroom supplies, such as noise-canceling headphones, pop-it boards and problem-solving puzzles, and up to $250 for trainings or curricular materials on a rolling basis. Apply now by filling out the 2025-2026 educator funding application. |
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Special Sunday Playground Meetups
FUN FOR PRESCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY FAMILIES |
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You plan to join our playground or open gym meetups, but Saturday mornings get too hectic? We get it. You’re in luck, as xMinds is hosting one more special Sunday meetup, June 14, 2-3:30 p.m. at the enclosed playground behind Ivymount School, 11614 Seven Locks Rd., Rockville, MD. |
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xMinds staff and volunteers will be there to answer questions or just compare notes. We will have ice cold water, snacks (of course), and sunscreen.
Everyone is welcome, and there’s no cost to attend! Registration is not required, so feel free to just show up. But if you would like to receive event reminders and an email if we need to postpone due to inclement weather, sign up here.
Mark your calendars for the summer playground meetups:
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Saturday, July 18, 10-11:30 a.m.
Saturday, August 15, 10-11:30 a.m.
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Join xMinds for Bike to the Beach 2026 GET FIT WHILE MAKING A DIFFERENCE
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Raymond Hotz and family/B2B Team, Eileen Dougherty and his daughter Kristin |
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Whether you ride a bike or simply want to help autistic children, we all have our reasons for supporting xMinds’ team for Bike to the Beach.
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xMinds team member Raymond Hotz, who was highlighted on the official Bike to the Beach Facebook page, is gearing up for his fifth straight ride. “As the parent of a child on the autism spectrum, supporting xMinds and Bike to the Beach is a commitment and cause very near to my heart —contributing to making a positive difference in the lives of children diagnosed on the autism spectrum,” he wrote.
Bike to the Beach is a cornerstone of xMinds’ fundraising efforts and it provides a substantial portion of our operating budget — funding vital initiatives such as our speaker series, online resource development, advocacy services, and educator grants.
This year’s Bike to the Beach will be held on Friday, June 19. The whole route runs from Union Station, D.C. to Dewey Beach, Del., but you can choose shorter legs of 25, 50, or 70 miles. To get you ready, Team xMinds will hold a series of optional training rides throughout the spring.
Our next training session is Sunday, May 31, 9 a.m. Shirlington to Herndon and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 40 miles. Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206
Feel free to just drop in and give it a try; no commitment required. If you have any questions, please email our Team Captain Patrick Quigley. Many of our cyclists find that training together offers a fun way to meet other xMinds families.
If riding is not your thing, there are more ways to get involved. Find out more about this fundraiser on the xMinds website, where we spell out all the details about this fun and important event. |
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Last Call: xMinds 2026 Summer Camp Guide
SUMMER IS JUST A MONTH AWAY |
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Summer starts next month, and the season snuck up on you. Again. All is not lost; breathe and look up some last-minute summer camp openings. To help you, we’ve been updating the xMinds Summer 2026 Camp Guide. Our guide features an extensive list of camps and programs that autistic kids and teens have enjoyed in past years – including day and overnight programs. |
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For instance, for those of you whose little ones are signed up for Extended School Year (ESY) but don’t know what to do on Fridays, we’ve just added information for Meaningful Futures Friday camp, which runs from July 10- August 7. Register by June 1. If summer camp’s not in the cards for your family, be sure to check out the xMinds directory to Local Sensory-Friendly Venues and Events for details on sensory-friendly offerings in our area, as well as our guide to recreational activities. |
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Save the Date: Masking Webinar
JOIN XMINDS FOR OUR ANNUAL ADVOCATES WEBINAR JUNE 9 |
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This year’s panel features diverse autistic adults who will share their real-life experience. Panelists include: Avi Krishan, Lead Facilitator, DC PEERS; Ben VanHook, AuDHD speaker/writer/blogger/presenter on disability, equity, and inclusion and Community Support Coordinator for Organization for Autism Research (OAR); and Dr. Zosia Zaks, Zaks Autism Consulting. The panelists won’t hold back on the personal insights, successes, challenges, and lessons they've learned.
Autistic people often use physical techniques to maintain well-being and prevent burnout — yet these strategies, such as stimming, pacing, and other behaviors, are frequently discouraged in public settings, such as classrooms and workplaces. The panelists will explore what outlets reduce the need to mask, which environments and relationships support authentic self-expression, and how empathy can prevent overwhelm and meltdowns. Both parents and young adults will walk away from this panel with a little more compassion, not just for themselves but the greater community. |
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May is Asian American Heritage Month
FIND SOME NEW AUTHORS AND EXPERTS |
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According to CDC data from 2022, autism prevalence is significantly higher among Asian or Pacific Islander children (1 in 26) than among non-Hispanic White children (1 in 36). In honor of Asian American Heritage Month, we’re highlighting some works from our curated list of autistic authors.
Henry: Grounded" is a middle-grade short story featured in You Are Here: Connecting Flights, edited by Ellen Oh, which showcases 12 interwoven stories set in a busy Chicago airport, each focusing on a young Asian American. The stories are written by award-winning and bestselling Asian American authors.
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Middle-grade novel Unidentified Suburban Object author Mike Jung took part in an xMinds panel in June 2023 Autistic Authors Panel: Authors of Children's and Young Adult Literature. The story focuses on Korean American student Chloe Cho who has just about had it with people not knowing the difference between someone who’s Chinese, Japanese, or Korean. Then a new teacher comes to town: Ms. Lee. She’s also Korean American, and for the first time Chloe has a person to talk to who seems to understand completely. |
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Author Mike Jung at an xMinds panel discussion |
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xMinds featured Asian-American autistic professor, researcher and advocate Jenny Mai Phan, PhD in our December 2023 webinar, Stress on the Spectrum, hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Outreach Committee. Phan, who specializes in puberty, hormones and autism, is a second-generation Vietnamese American and the mom of four children, including two autistic boys. One of her sons has an intellectual disability and uses an alternative augmentative communication (AAC) device. |
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In a 2023 interview on Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism,
Phan talked about the intersection of being Asian American and
autistic. “I’m starting to come out of my shell a little more, and speak
more about that intersection and the research behind that. There’s
little research that’s out right now studying Asian Americans in autism
and mental health, especially adolescents. I want to highlight that when
I can,” she said. Find Phan on BlueSky.
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Join Our Monthly Parent Discussion Groups
SHARE STRATEGIES WITH THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN THERE |
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Now is the perfect time to connect with other MoCo families who have similar interests and concerns. Our monthly online discussion groups offer the perfect opportunity to chat, share experiences, and exchange ideas. |
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We’re currently running five groups:
Small Steps Together. Parents/caregivers of an autistic elementary or preschool child. Next meeting will be May 25. Register here.
Let’s Talk Transitions. Parents/caregivers of an autistic child in middle or high school, approaching the transition to adulthood. Next meeting will be May 27. Register here.
People of the Global Majority. Parents/caregivers of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students. Next meeting will be June 1. Register here.
Hablemos Educación Especial. Spanish-speaking parents/caregivers of an autistic child. Next meeting will be June 3. Regístrese aquí.
Lunchtime Reboot: Relax, unwind and learn some methods to beat the stress of parenting. Next meeting will be June 15. Monthly topic: Finding Joy Again: Reconnecting with What Lights You Up Register here. |
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In Case You Missed it: xMinds Event Highlights
AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH |
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Our staff was busy in April celebrating Autism Acceptance Month, spreading the news about xMinds and enjoying all the activities the county has to offer. For one, xMinds staff and volunteers greeted community members at Shine Brighter Together at Wheaton Regional Park. Activities included sensory-friendly story times, exercise demos, arts and crafts, performances and more. Photo: Montgomery Parks |
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The Montgomery County Council honored Autism Acceptance Month with a special proclamation at the Council Office Building in Rockville. Presented by Councilmember At-Large Will Jawando and County Executive Marc Elrich, the event highlighted the vital work being done for the local community.
xMinds was proud to be among four local organizations in the county recognized for their dedicated service. Sue Keisler, xMinds Board President, accepted the proclamation on our behalf. Upon receiving the honor, Sue shared a few words with the Council and attendees, emphasizing the essential services and resources xMinds provides to support families and students throughout Montgomery County.
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APRIL SPEAKER SERIES: FROM WASHINGTON TO MCPS
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On April 23, xMinds hosted our monthly speaker series, From Washington to MCPS: How Special Education Funding Actually Works, to get parents up to speed on how special education funding and services work across federal, state, and local levels. Selene Almazan, Esq., legal director of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), provided her candid analysis and expertise. A critical takeaway from the session was the potential impact of federal restructuring. Almazan noted that that if the administration succeeds in dismantling the Education Department, it would be significantly harder to enforce regulations that guarantee a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for autistic students. As it stands, the federal government falls short of its promised funding levels for special education. “The federal government gives states about 14% of the money they need to educate children with disabilities,” Almazan noted, highlighting the immense pressure placed on local budgets. If you missed the webinar, you can watch the recording on the xMinds YouTube channel:
English: https://youtu.be/u77iauZtvMM
Spanish: https://youtu.be/C2G0PMaB1OQ Read the presentation slides. |
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KENDRA SCOTT GIVES BACK - APRIL FUNDRAISER
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Just in time for Mother’s Day, xMinds partnered with jewelry brand and retail outlet Kendra Scott for a "Gives Back" event. A huge thank you to all our community members who shopped for a cause and made a difference while getting some beautiful jewelry! Between the in-person April 25 event at the retail store and online purchases, xMinds raised an estimated $980. We are so grateful for your generosity, and we look forward to spoiling our moms with more bling in the future! |
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xMinds volunteer Stephanie spreading the word outside Kendra Scott in Bethesda |
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STAR WARS SOCIAL EVENT - MAY 2
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The Force was strong in Gaithersburg! On Saturday, May 2, xMinds and Slush & Krust Productions hosted our third annual Teen Jedi Night welcoming nearly 90 autistic middle and high-school students (and their Padawan-parent chaperones) for a night of intergalactic fun. Whether they were crafting their own lightsaber for Jedi training, crushing the Star Wars Trivia challenge, or simply vibing in the "Cantina" with fellow fans, the energy was out of this world. It was a joy to see so many teens connecting over a shared love of a galaxy far, far away. A massive thank you to our incredible staff and volunteers — the unsung heroes of the Rebellion — who worked tirelessly to make this happen during our busiest month of the year. We hope your teen had a blast — we'll see you next year in May! |
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Ready to Help? BOOKMARK NEW XMINDS VOLUNTEER HUB |
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With a small staff and a big mission, xMinds relies on volunteers to power nearly everything we do — from staffing our IEP Clinic and bringing snacks to the playground, to advising a parent on their child's IEP. Simply put: we could not offer the breadth of services we provide without volunteers.
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Bookmark our new Volunteer Hub and check back often to explore the many ways you can get involved with xMinds as our volunteer community continues to grow.
Whether you have a few hours a month or a specific skill to share, there’s a place for you at xMinds. Together, we can strengthen our community and improve educational outcomes for autistic students in Montgomery County.
For more information or if you have any questions, please contact our Community Engagement Coordinator Suzanne Minatra at sminatra@xminds.org. |
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Thank You, Julie! LONGTIME BOARD MEMBER CALLS IT A WRAP |
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With deepest gratitude and appreciation, the xMinds board bids farewell to Julie Suh, who concluded her board service in April. Over the past two years, Julie has been a powerhouse for our community. As a leader on our Policy Team, she was a fierce advocate for autism services within MCPS. |
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Julie’s
influence touched every part of our mission: she authored compelling
grant narratives that secured vital funding and bolstered our financial
stability, staffed countless resource tables, and even ensured our
families and volunteers were well-fed by managing the food table at our
clinics. While Julie steps down as Treasurer, we are thrilled that she will continue to serve as the host of our Small Steps Together discussion group for parents of elementary and preschool-age children. We also wish to welcome our newest board member, Michael Cordell, who has stepped into the role of Treasurer.
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Monthly Series: Autistic Voices
MAKING THE WORKFORCE SAFE FOR ALL |
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In this month’s Autistic Voices spotlight, we feature Pastiche Graham, a children’s book author who appeared on "Undercover Boss" with Rita's Italian Ice CEO Linda Chadwick in 2022. She subsequently helped create Rita's groundbreaking diversity initiative training program. |
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In a recent podcast, Graham talked about appearing on the CBS show and the inspiration for her 2025 book, Pia Pistachio Gets a Job. Pastiche also discussed the importance of representation: specifically for autistic women and girls in literature, and for autistic adults in the workplace. Find Pastiche online. |
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Professional Member Spotlight
As a benefit to both our families and professional members, xMinds publishes information about our professional members here in the xMindsWire as well as on our website. Inclusion does not constitute our endorsement. This month, xMinds would like to highlight the following new and renewing professional members:
H2D Counseling, Sumaiya Olatunde
301-575-4885; www.h2dcounseling.com
Contact: Sumaiya Olatunde; sumaiya@h2dcounseling.com Services: Academic tutoring/coaching; College assistance; College placement assistance; Educational consulting; Special Education Advocacy H2D Counseling provides educational advocacy and school admissions services for all students (K-12, college and graduate level). We participate in IEP and 504 meetings, connect families and students with resources, provide academic oversight for struggling students, and help identify needed supports in the areas of education, mental health, therapies, and other needs as they arise. Our approach is very individualized and student-centered with a focus on balancing short-term needs with long-term goals. Amy Mounce Educational Consulting
https://amyeducationalconsulting.com/
Contact: abmounce@msn.com; 301-357-0498
Services: Educational consulting; Educational testing
Amy Mounce is an experienced special educator, university instructor and teacher supervisor, educational diagnostician, advocate, and trainer with over 25 years in the field of special education. She is dedicated to empowering students, families, and educators to improve student success across all educational settings. Amy provides expert recommendations, guidance, and advocacy throughout every stage of the special education process—including identification, eligibility, IEP/504 plan development, implementation, instruction, and annual reviews. Amy offers comprehensive consultation, academic assessment, advocacy, training, and expert testimony to support students throughout the special education process. She values data-informed, proactive and collaborative partnerships with all stakeholders to build effective, sustainable supports that address both academic and social-emotional needs of students.
MVS Educational Services & Support, LLC
www.mvsed.com
Contact: meg.shah@mvsed.com; 631-317-9866
Services: Academic tutoring/coaching; Educational consulting
Meg Shah is an educational consultant and former school leader who works with parents navigating the IEP and 504 process. She helps families use evaluations and academic and behavioral data to develop clear, workable plans with their school. At the heart of her work is helping families feel informed, confident, and collaborative, especially in moments that can feel overwhelming and emotional. Additionally, Meg leads a cohort of amazing tutors, providing targeted, high-quality academic support and interventions to help students thrive. |
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Upcoming xMinds Events
XMINDS CORE EVENTS, RESOURCES & SERVICES ARE ALWAYS FREE
Monday, May 25, 7-7:45 p.m.
Small Steps Together
Online discussion group for MoCo parents/guardians of autistic elementary or preschool children. Register here Wednesday, May 27, 7-7:45 p.m.
Let's Talk Transitions
Online discussion group for MoCo parents of autistic students in middle or high school. Register here
Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Transition to Adulthood Clinic
xMinds
and AUSOM event offering free professional guidance on applying for
disability benefits for your autistic teen or young adult. Register here Sunday, May 31, 9 a.m.
Team xMinds Training Ride Join our next Bike to the Beach training ride.Shirlington to Herndon and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 40 miles. All levels welcome! More details here
Monday, June 1, 7-7:45 p.m.
People of the Global Majority
Online discussion group for MoCo parents/guardians of autistic children who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Register here
Wednesday, June 3, 7-7:45 p.m.
Hablemos Educación Especial
El
comité de xMinds sobre el alcance del idioma español está organizando
un grupo de discusión en línea mensual en español para los padres de un
estudiante autista del condado de Montgomery. Regístrese aquí |
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Tuesday, June 9, 7-8:30 p.m.
Autistic Advocates panel
This year’s Annual Self-Advocate Panel will focus on masking, self-regulation, burnout, and the supports that help autistic people thrive authentically. Register here.
SUNDAY, June 14, 2-3:30 p.m.
Playground Meetup
Meet other elementary and preschool families with autistic children. Join us for outdoor play at Ivymount School in Rockville, MD. Register here. Monday, June 15, 12-12:45 p.m.
Lunchtime Reboot
Relax, unwind and learn strategies to beat the stress of parenting. June’s topic: Finding Joy Again: Reconnecting with What Lights You Up Register here.
Community Calendar
Our community calendar is FULL of great offerings not only from xMinds, but from professional service providers located in Montgomery County. Check out the programs and events posted on our Events Calendar.
Note: Our Events Calendar shows events on their start date, but some community programs require you to apply before the start date, so please look ahead! |
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Please consider donating to xMinds. We offer all our resources to families and educators at no cost to ensure they are accessible to everyone who needs them. Your support is essential in helping us continue this work. Every contribution makes a difference!
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