Bakersfield.com

On Saturday, October 18, the ASA Chapter-Kern Autism Network will present “Occupational Therapy in the Home,” a workshop led by Debi Hazel.  The workshop will be held at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools office, 1300 - 17^th Street, Room 1A, in Bakersfield, from 8:15 a.m. until noon.

Debi Hazel, M.S., OTR/L, SWC, SIPT #2251, has been an occupational therapist in Bakersfield since 1994.  She received her Bachelor of Science and Masters of Science in occupational therapy at San Jose State University.  Her MS Thesis specialized in the development of a program for school aged students that incorporated an integrated approach with school personnel, family and student involvement.

Prior to working in the public schools full time, Ms. Hazel worked in a variety of settings in the community, including medical and home health settings with both adults and children.

She has worked in pediatrics since 1998 and in Kern County public schools since 2000.  She is certified for the SIPT (Sensory Integration and Praxis) and holds her Advance Practice certification in Feeding and Swallowing.  Ms. Hazel currently works at KCSOS as an occupational therapist.  She is passionate about the work she does and the students she serves.

This workshop is for parents, teachers and those working with autistic individuals.  Topics will include strategies to help your child integrate their sensory needs with functional activities at home or with the family; and ways to modify, enhance or add functional activities routinely done at home to help meet your child’s needs.

Registration begins at 8:15 a.m. and the presentation starts at 9 a.m.  This workshop is free to all families with children on the autism spectrum.  Seating is limited and reservations are required. Refreshments will be served.  To register to attend, contact Ramona Puget at 661-588-4235 or email kernautism@gmail.com.

The Kern Autism Network provides support, awareness, information and education to families, professionals and the public throughout Kern County.  The Kern Autism Network is a chapter of the Autism Society of America.  For more information, visit our website at www.kernautism.org.