Chicago Special Parent Winter 2015

Specıal Parent Chicago FREE

in their corner

How to be your child’s

best advocate

Winter 2015

An empowerment guide from

3 IEP preps

LOCAL RESOURCES YOU NEED

Clinical Trials?

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www.specialrecreation.org

Adaptive Sports Aquatics Cultural Arts Field Trips Inclusion Paralympic Sports Social Clubs

Special Events Special Olympics Summer Camps Unified Sports Vacation Trips Weekly Programs

Providing programs that will enhance socialization skills, improve self-help skills, build self-esteem, and develop fine and gross motor skills.

Special Recreation - your child will explore whole new worlds!

The Special Recreation Network of Illinois (SRANI) provides information on the 33 cooperative agencies throughout Illinois called Special Recreation Associations (SRAs). These SRAs deliver a variety of community-based recreation services to children, teens and adults with disabilities through a cooperative agreement with their member park districts and recreation agencies. For a statewide listing of SRANI agencies, see our display ad in the Resource Directory or visit www.specialrecreation.org.

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| ChicagoParent.com

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“Children with disabilities deserve an education that

Simple and inspiring words. Why Little City

ChildBridge Center for Education – a therapeutic day school – is both applauded and admired. Through transformational design and innovative programming, we provide a distinctive pathway to achieving success and greater independence by uniquely preparing students for lifelong inclusion, at home and in the community.

will best

With our newly expanded facility, we have opened admissions for a limited number of additional students. Avoid getting put on a waiting list. We urge you to act quickly as demand is high.

prepare them

Contact Karrie Dean, Administrator, today to schedule a personal tour at 847.221.7728 or kdean@littlecity.org.

for life outside the classroom.”

littlecity.org/dayschool

ChildBridge Center for Education Little City Campus: 1760 West Algonquin Road, Palatine Conveniently located at the crossroads of Chicago and the Northwest Suburbs ChicagoParent.com |

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Inside

IN OUR SHOES 9 9 So proud to be his mom Carter Johnson doesn’t let anything stop him

11 IEP TIPS

Three reasons the IEP meeting falls apart

12 Day of Play Having fun the

literacy way

RESOURCES RES

FEATURES

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18 When

advocacy is overwhelming

Break efforts down into smaller steps to manage nage

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The Lucky Cast Club Families dealing with infantile scoliosis createe network of support

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The (clinical) trials of special cial needs parenting Should you or shouldn’t you enroll your child in a trial

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Illinois puts more focus on dyslexia Families should find getting services easier

INSP INSPIRATIONS 46 Handicap This! two-man show hopes to ma it to Broadway make

ON THE COVER Cortney Kovack, 19, with mom Michele Kovack, Evergreen Park Photographer: Thomas Kubik, TK Photography Design: Sky Hatter 4

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Cortney’s favorite things Favorite food: Cheese pizza Favorite activities: Cheerleading, choir and modeling. “She’s a busy girl,” says mom, Michele. “She likes to be out and about.”

Favorite playmates: Her two dogs, Myla and Skippers

| ChicagoParent.com

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Our most important customers are children. www.chicagoparkdistrict.com 312.742.PLAY (7529) 312.747.2001 (TTY)

Special Olympics • Adaptive and Paralympic Sports

City of Chicago, Rahm Emanuel, Mayor Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners Chicago Park District, Michael P. Kelly, General Superintendent & CEO

Innovative Programs • Inclusive Recreation

Chicago Park District Events: 15th Annual Chicago Polar Plunge

Deaf and HOH Youth & Teen Club

Metro Series Boccia Cup Competition

Chicago Skyhawks Wheelchair Basketball -youth 6-12 and 13-18 years

Sun. March 1, 10 am-2 pm North Avenue Beach 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago ryan.rogers@chicagoparkdistrict.com Sat. April 4, 9 am-3 pm Marquette Park 6743 S. Kedzie, Chicago daniel.tun@chicagoparkdistrict.com

Special Olympics Chicago 47th Annual Spring Games

May 4-8, Eckersall Stadium 2423 E. 82nd Street, Chicago michael.benavente@chicagoparkdistrict.com

Adaptive Fitness & Swimming

(Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club partnership) Tuesdays 6-8 pm thru June 2 Fosco Park 1312 S. Racine, Chicago daniel.tun@chicagoparkdistrict.com

Fridays 4:30-6:30 pm thru June Gage Park, 2411 W. 55th Street, Chicago sarah.faber@chicagoparkdistrict.com

(Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago partnership) Saturdays 9 am-12:30 pm thru April 11 Rainbow Beach Park 2873 E. 75th Street, Chicago daniel.ferreira@chicagoparkdistrict.com

Junior Cubs Wheelchair Softball

(Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago partnership) Saturdays May thru July California Park Wheelchair Softball Field 3843 N. California, Chicago daniel.ferreira@chicagoparkdistrict.com

Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Program Open House (Burnham Harbor) Sat. May 30, 10 am-4 pm Judd Goldman Sailing Center 1362 S. Linn White Drive, Chicago joseph.harris@chicagoparkdistrict.com

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FROM THE EDITORS

Love them now, love them forever I n 2008, we featured a sweet, happy little boy, Billy Rogers of Downers Grove.

Though he couldn’t tell us he was happy, you could see it in his huge blue eyes.

You could see the love sent his way every time his mom, TAMARA L. Lynn, looked at him, O’SHAUGHNESSY truly grateful for Editor every second she had with him.

Billy suffered a bilateral brain injury in utero from a blood clot that killed his twin brother, Matthew. It caused his cerebral palsy, failure to thrive, epileptic seizures and a host of other issues.

“People think it’s a sad story, but it’s not,” Lynn told us then.

She and husband Jeff couldn’t imagine life without their sweet-natured boy, who, Lynn explained, taught them what really matters in life.

Through Facebook recently, we learned the heart-breaking news that Billy had died. He was just 10.

His parents’ pain is one that no parent should ever know.

As we think back to that day in Billy’s home, we will never forget how much his ELIZABETH DIFFIN parents fought to Editor give him a full and brilliant life. They were his best advocates and never gave up.

Families without special needs may never fully understand how hard advocacy can be, or how incredibly tiring. In this issue, we’ve given you some tips we hope will help, with a gentle reminder that it is all worth it.

Because we love them.

Billy Rogers in 2008 with his mom, Lynn.

OUR ADVISORY BOARD

MARIAN CASEY is the executive director of A.S.K- Answers for Special Kids, a resource and advocacy organization that serves the needs of parents of children with special needs throughout northeastern Illinois. She is an attorney, active on a number of community boards, and the mother of a child with special needs.

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SHEEBA DANIELCROTTY, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist who focuses on child, adolescent and family psychotherapy and evaluation.

She specializes in the assessment and treatment of neurobehavioral disorders, learning disabilities and socialemotional problems.

CARA LONG, a registered nurse and a mom of three, including one born with Down syndrome, is a state-credentialed parent liaison at Easter Seals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region. She has worked with families as a support parent and public awareness speaker for the National Association for Down Syndrome.

AHREN HOFFMAN is manager of Industry Relations & Partnerships at National Lekotek Center. She is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist who has evaluated thousands of toys and play products through the National Parenting Publications Awards, Toys R Us Toy Guide for Differently-abled Kids and AblePlay.org.

LARRY REINER, Ed.D. CPRP, with a doctoral degree in counseling, adult and higher education, is executive director of the Northeast DuPage Special Recreation Association. He is highly regarded for leadership in creating recreation opportunities for kids and adults with special needs.

DR. ALAN ROSENBLATT is a specialist in neurodevelopmental pediatrics who has been involved in medical care, advocacy and education efforts on behalf of children with special needs and their families at the local, state and national levels.

| ChicagoParent.com

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.com community

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Learning for a lifetime

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ELSA Transition Fair Wednesday, February 25, 6:00 p.m.

Frick Center, Elmhurst College

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Learn more and reserve your space.

Call: (630) 617-3752 Email: elsa@elmhurst.edu Visit: www.elmhurst.edu/elsa Follow us on facebook.com/ELSAelmhurst

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PHONE (708) 386-5555 EDITORIAL chiparent@chicagoparent.com

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In Our Shoes ‘So proud to be his mom’ In mom’s O words

Sarah Jastre Photography

ne day.

That’s how long Leslie Johnson gave herself over to depression after her 20-week ultrasound showed Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus and Chiari Malformation. Then she got busy learning what it meant for her baby, Carter, and her Plainfield family, which includes husband, Jeff, and daughters, Hailey, now 5, and Aubrey, now 3.

“We knew that Carter was going to have struggles and we were going to have struggles,” she says.

After taking that one day, she did exactly what her doctor told her not to do. She went to the internet. “I kind of needed someone to tell me it was going to be OK.” And she found hope among strangers who knew exactly what she was going through.

The family never expected Carter’s case to be as severe as it turned out to be. Just 2, he has already had 28 surgeries, with five shunts, a trach and a feeding tube. She especially worries about the number of times Carter has undergone general anaesthesia—now at 50 and counting.

Johnson tries not to dwell on those numbers. Or think much about the future.

“I like to live in the moment,” she says. “I don’t know what Carter’s future is going to be like and I’m hoping I’m making the right choices now to benefit him in the future. He’s had to have some risky surgeries and we’ve done it with the thought that it will give him a better quality of life.”

She and her husband work together to be upbeat to keep the kids upbeat.

This journey has changed her as a mom for the better, she says. “I kind of let life slow down as a whole and appreciate being with my kids and being excited about the little things they do.”

Carter is a pretty typical 2-year-old, she says. He likes books, blocks, cars and his iPad and he loves to dance, sing and give kisses.

“He is the happiest kid ever, always smiling, never in a bad mood. He’s made it easier on us, definitely easier to get through the day,” Johnson says.

He doesn’t let anything stop him.

“He is truly amazing. I am so proud to be his mom,” she says.

The piece of advice that helped you the most early on: Take time to enjoy your kids. They grow up in the blink of an eye.

What advice would you give other parents? As a special needs parent, you have to trust your gut. If you sense something is wrong, you are most likely right.

Your best mom survival strategy? I make time for myself by meeting my girlfriends for dinner once a month. It gives me something to look forward to on the tough days.

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2/5/15 1:43 PM

MY LIFE

‘I wish you did not have Down syndrome’ A heat-of-the-moment remark lingers in mom’s thoughts

BY RANDI GILLESPIE

I

t had been a typical morning in our house—the kids waking up way too early to raid the freezer for frozen chocolate chip waffles before settling down to play Minecraft. I overheard their giggling. As siblings go, they are adversaries one moment and each other’s greatest champions and supporters the next.

During their game, Liam, 7, became upset with Maddy, 9. She was not following his rules and becoming too silly for him. Liam was losing his cool with her. “Just listen to me and do what I say.

Maddy, don’t do that, don’t push that button!” Maddy responded by giggling. All she wanted to do was play, without limits or rules.

All he wanted to do was to have her play by his rules.

Provoked, Liam shouted at Maddy, “I wish you did not have Down syndrome.” He instantly looked up at Maddy, expecting her to respond, but she continued to play, giving no consideration to what was said.

He then looked at me and did what any 7-year-old would do: he ran away to his bedroom. He likely was upset with himself, but mostly he was anticipating the consequences.

Should there have been immediate consequences? The thought

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of one of your own children using such hurtful words, especially when directed at a sibling, is devastating. Admittedly, those words cut right through me because my daughter has a disability. But why? They were his feelings, and I certainly was not going to fault him for feeling what he was feeling in that moment with his sister.

Contrary to what Liam might have thought my reaction was going to be, I understood and empathized with him.

Additionally, I was very proud of him. Do I believe that he wishes that she did not have Down syndrome? Yes, I do, for now. At times, I am certain that he feels a bit slighted.

He does not know it yet, but having a sister with a disability will positively shape him in ways that he cannot possibly imagine.

He is embarrassed at times by his sister’s actions and behaviors. As he matures, this will allow him to grow to accept everything that makes her who she is.

He will have a broader perspective of what “normal” is than most of his peers. Hearing his own sister being referred to as the “R-word” will enable him to teach those around him that it is wrong to dehumanize others with such offensive language. He will remind people that his sister has

the right to be valued, respected and accepted—just like anyone else. He will be courageous and strong and will not allow bullying to be tolerated.

He will recognize that the diagnosis, condition or illness does not define the individual.

It is simply a part of what makes them unique.

He will examine and interpret the world differently. His eyes will see things in a way that others who do not have a sibling with a disability cannot.

He will learn to advocate for himself and stand up for others who he may believe are at a disadvantage. He will understand the difference between thinking about doing the right thing and

actually doing the right thing.

He does not know it yet, but he is the boy others will look up to for his courage and values.

Later that morning, Liam eventually resumed playing Minecraft with Maddy. She welcomed him back saying with a huge grin on her face, “Hi Liam, no rules, OK?” Sibling love: the good, the bad and the ugly. I would not have it any other way.

Randi Gillespie is a Northbrook mom of three and the director of special needs services at Oak Wealth Advisors. She provides disability awareness education to elementary schools and high schools as well as medical staff about Down syndrome.

| ChicagoParent.com

2/5/15 1:44 PM

NEWS YOU CAN USE

IEP tips you can use right now 3 T he key to a successful IEP meeting is being ready. Usually, IEPs fall apart for three main reasons:

1

Emotion before reason: Parents of special needs children are usually aching for their child. So, by the time they get to the IEP meeting, they are already emotionally vulnerable. Try not to let your exhaustion, fears or sadness control your reason, open-mindedness and creative problem-solving capabilities.

2

Ignorant of options: Some IEP teams need to make a decision on the spot.

Therefore, do your best to know what the possible resolutions may include, in advance. Ask around, gather information and request necessary documents ahead of time.

Lack of preparation: If you have a realistic vision about what lies ahead for your child, you will know what questions you need to ask well before the next major decision becomes necessary. Thus, you will want to ask for data collection and responses to your questions or concerns systematically, over the months prior to your meeting, so that you know what to ask for and what to expect when the time comes.

In short, be calm, be informed and be prepared. Maintain your composure, and, armed with data, bring reasonable expectations to the table.

Jennifer Wood

Jennifer Wood is attorney at Wood Law, P.C., who practices school, family and special needs law.

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2/5/15 1:45 PM

DAY OF PLAY

Having fun the literacy way A

BY AHREN HOFFMAN

child’s path to literacy expands from simple sound and letter recognition to the ability to read and write. One of the easiest ways to set your child on a positive path is to make reading fun.

Play is a great way to make literacy come alive for kids. By using books as a vehicle to inspire a day of play, literature leaps off the page. When children act out a story after reading and find things that they can relate to the tale, they experience the written word in a much deeper and more impactful way.

So here are some ideas to bring children’s books off the shelves and into the minds and imaginations for a special day of play.

Book 1: Act out the story

In the morning, read a story about a journey and then set the scene in your home or yard to act out the passage by using items from around the house. If you are crossing a river, you can use Weplay Rainbow River Stones (below) as a path, spread out a blue sheet to symbolize water and pretend to fish with the Melissa & Doug Cat Catch & Count Magnetic Fishing Rod Set. You can use a play tent from Pacific Play Tents (right) or a blanket and cchairs ch airs to create a magical castle, a cabin in the woods and other sscenes cenes from story books.

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Make lunchtime learning time by explaining to your child that a story has three basic parts like a sandwich—introducing the story (once upon a time), presenting a confrontation or problem (lions and tigers and bears, oh my), and then the resolution (happily ever after). Tell them that a sandwich is also made of up three parts.

Bread, a yummy middle and then another piece of bread.

Put out the sandwich fixings and have them help make their threepart story sandwich. Kids can narrate their tale of sandwich-making while they create their lunch.

Book 2: Express the story

In the afternoon, read a book that connects to your child’s personality, then create a craft activity around the theme of the book.

If they like planes, you can create your own with Klutz Straw Shooter Jets (above) or if the story is about a treasure, have the kids create their own jewelry with ALEX jewelry kits like Bling Bangles.

Book 3: Explore the story

At the end of the day, read a book about an interesting character who faces a challenge.

After reading, use a puppet to ask your child questions, not about the facts, but about their thoughts and emotions related to the story.

By using puppets, children are often more revealing about their inner thoughts and more willing to share emotions. This is a great way to help kids learn to express themselves and develop social/emotional skills to understand their feelings as well as others. Folkmanis (right) makes engaging, realistic-looking

puppets that can be incorporated into storytelling.

Let your child take the puppet to bed as a reminder of all the great stories they heard.

Ahren Hoffman is manager of Industry Relations & Partnerships at National Lekotek Center and a member of Chicago Special Parent’s advisory board.

LEARN MORE For more information on products for kids, go to ableplay.org. ablepl AblePlay is a website sponsored sponsor by the National Na Lekotek Leko Center, Cen an authoraut ity on o play and children of o all abilities.

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2/5/15 1:46 PM

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Support for special needs families Developmental Differences Resource Fair better than ever

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ransitions are big when you have a child with special needs, something Ellen Sternweiler and Melanie Schlachter understand very well.

So when organizers met to plan this year’s Neighborhood Parents Network Developmental Differences Resource Fair, of which Chicago Parent is a sponsor, they knew they wanted to help the growing number of parents with older children prepare for those big transitions, rather than just young families.

“This year we’re trying to highlight topics that will help with early, middle and older agerange families,” says Schlachter, NPN’s executive director.

That means parents with children with special needs will walk away from this year’s fair with plenty of tips for managing challenging behavior, handling transitions and insight on collaboration.

In its fourth year, the fair draws nearly 100 exhibitors with information and services parents really need. It is free and open to the public.

“I think we have grown from the early intervention type of atmosphere to more encompassing of the journey. Early intervention is just the start of it all. For parents like us, it’s forever,” says Sternweiler, a Chicago mom and owner of The Sensory Store.

The workshops are always

hugely popular with parents.

“Every time I walk away with a new trick up my sleeve,” Schlachter says about the workshops.

This year’s includes an expert panel discussion on the types of support for families and how to get everyone working together.

A second workshop promises immediate takeaways. A panel of parents will talk about managing challenging behavior with a focus on tools, tactics and practical tips, Schlachter says.

The third workshop focuses on the transitions, encompassing everything from school transitions to social and emotional transitions.

“We want our fair to be relevant,” Sternweiler says.

“The reality is I’m just a mom with kids with developmental differences and I’m looking for answers the same as everyone else.

If they are not there, I’m going to make the fair encompass it.”

NPN Developmental Differences Resource Fair

10 a.m. 2 p.m. March 8 DePaul College Prep, 3633 N. California Ave., Chicago (formerly known as Gordon Tech High School) Free, register at npnpar ents.org/expos/1695 to expedite check in

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As featured on ABC 7, NBC 5, WGN-TV and WCIU-TV The Karate Can-Do! Foundation works hand-in-hand with North Shore Dojo, the area’s premier karate school, to provide personalized training to improve the lives of children who learn differently.

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NEWS YOU CAN USE

Exceptional Wiggleworms

Old Town School of Folk Music offers unique class for kids with special needs

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usic is meant for all, and Old Town School of Fok Music is making that happen for special needs families.

It offers a tweaked version of its popular class for children 2 ½ to 4 years old called Exceptional Wiggleworms, specifically designed to support children with sensitivities and special needs.

“Exceptional Wiggleworms is a safe place for children with a range of sensitivities to explore music and learning in a nurturing community of children, teachers and families,” says Erin Flynn, program manager at Old Town School of Folk Music.

“Parents can feel at ease and loved in their journey with their child.”

The small class size allows for extra attention to each child and even has an occupational therapist that regularly supports

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Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., ., Chicago oldtownschool.org

Sophia McGreal enjoys music at the Old Town School of Folk Music with teacher Diana Laffey.

PHOTO BY FRANK PINC

the class by offering hands-on guidance and feedback to the teachers and parents.

“My role has been to help guide staff in the development of appropriate sensory activities that address each student’s specific needs within

the group atmosphere,” says Elena Garfield, an occupational therapist for Exceptional Wiggleworms. “Staff are very tuned in to the children’s level of alertness and make adjustments throughout the class to help calm or alert them through the

use of rhythm, beats, melodies, or sensory-based tools.”

Says Flynn: “Each child has their own work and sensibilities as they explore their world. Every child has a place and a right to explore in Wiggleworms.”

Megan Murray Elsener

| ChicagoParent.com

2/5/15 1:48 PM

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Women invent standing desk to help kids

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orking with students with special needs in Barrington’s District 220, physical therapists Kathy Spinabella and Robin Singer knew that many struggled to sit still during class.

The two women quickly realized the profound impact that simply letting kids stand had on their learning. Thus they launched Classroom Seating Solutions and created The Standing Desk Conversion Kit and The FootFidget Foot Rest.

The compact, adjustableheight standing desk with foot fidget allows ADHD and

hyperactive kids with extra energy to stretch their legs and fidget while they work quietly.

“It is so powerful to watch the transformation of students who really want to learn, but who just couldn’t focus confined to sitting in a desk,” Singer says.

“Suddenly they are focused and so happy learning.”

Spinabella says the standing desk has the potential to become a fixture in classrooms.

The kit, $104.99, is available at classroom seatingsolutions.com.

Megan Murray Elsener

Best and worst cities for disabilities When looking for a place to call home, people with disabilities often have a different set of search requirements, such as accessibility, employment opportunities and quality of health care.

WalletHub conducted an in-depth analysis of the 150 most populated U.S. cities to determine the best and worst cities for Americans with disabilities. The study looked at many factors, from number of physicians per capita to park accessibility to the rate of employed people with disabilities.

Chicago landed near the bottom of the list for worst cities, along with Los Angeles, Miami, Las Vegas, Fort Lauderdale and Providence.

The study found the best places were generally smaller cities such as Overland Park, Kan., Peoria, Ariz., Scottsdale, Ariz., Lubbock, Texas, and Chandler, Ariz.

Small Class Sizes with Professional Teachers Adapted Aquatics Instruction for Children with Special Needs

chicagobluedolphins.com ChicagoParent.com |

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Students Flourish at Cove

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tudents at The Cove School benefit from our intensive individualized instruction and highly specialized team, while learning in an environment that is specifically designed for children with learning disabilities.

Cove students are fully integrated in their school environment, participating in arts, athletics, college counseling, job training and authentic leadership opportunities.

If you know of a student that could benefit from the exceptional and individualized K-12 program at Cove, contact Dr. Sally Sover, Executive Director, at 847.562.2100 or ssover@coveschool.org.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Hansel & Gretel with a special twist

W

hen it comes to fairy tales, they don’t often include characters with special needs. So author Jewel Kats decided to change that and adapted the classic Grimm’s tale of Hansel and Gretel to include a hero with Down syndrome.

Hansel & Gretel: A Fairy Tale with a Down Syndrome Twist is an enchanting story about how kindness overcomes callousness and leads to a delightful reward. The tale includes the wicked witch and the poor siblings in search of food, but in this version, 5-yearold Hansel is a mischievous boy with Down syndrome.

This tale teaches young readers the importance of not judging appearances and that children with developmental

disabilities are capable of achieving amazing success.

True to the original story, this version shows how an act of kindness can transform the world and the importance of family. Best of all, it teaches that a hero can be hidden within all of us, especially those with special needs.

Parents matter most A new study has found toddlers with autism significantly improve after intensive intervention by their parents, and now researchers hope to show that kids as young as 12 months can be diagnosed and helped through similar efforts.

“We tried to help parents make interactions fun and fruitful learning moments. But we also taught the parents how to push their child—because their child has autism, and we are finding these children at this very critical moment when their brain is more able to learn. If the parent can start early, then we are more likely to change the child’s trajectory of learning for the rest of their life,” says Amy Wetherby, director of the Autism Institute at Florida State University’s College of Medicine in a news release about its study.

Even though the American Academy of Pediatrics wants every child screened for autism at 18 and 24 months, without early intervention, early diagnosis does little good, the study found.

Researchers at Florida State are now working with Emory University to identify autism and begin intervention in children as young as 12 months.

Pets help kids with autism be more assertive A recent study by the University of Missouri found that children with autism have stronger social skills when a pet lives in their home.

“The data revealed that children with any kind of pet in the home reported being more likely to engage in behaviors such as introducing themselves, asking for information or responding to other people’s questions,” says Gretchen Carlisle, research fellow at the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction.

In general, when pets are present, children talk and engage more with one another. This also seems to apply to children with autism, Carlisle says.

—Items compiled by Megan Murray Elsener

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| ChicagoParent.com

2/5/15 1:50 PM

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Group launches pin campaign Organizer wants every school in the Chicago area to join in

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olly Simon, the Chicago mom powerhouse behind the I Am Who I Am not-for-profit organization, hopes no mother will ever hear doctors tell her they are “sorry” her child has special needs.

The organization began with the idea of celebrating kids with special needs, providing blankets to newborns and organizing events for families.

It has now launched a new pin campaign, Get to Know Me, that Simon hopes will spark conversations.

“We are so quick to judge someone just by their looks. ...

Our kids have a voice and as parents we do, too. We want people to ask questions. We all catch the stares and the whispers; we just want to be understood,” says Simon, the mom of a son with Down syndrome, Nate.

She says she knows children with special needs often struggle to make friends. She hopes the pins will help.

“We want to teach acceptance, inclusion and understanding,” Simon says. “... If we teach kids that our kids with different abilities are more alike than different, then maybe, just maybe, we will see a change.”

Simon is now a monthly guest on the Patti Vasquez radio show, which airs on WGN 720 at 11 p.m. weekdays and Sundays. Vasquez is a mom of ttwo, one of whom has special needs. n “We all want the same tthings for our kids, to be undersstood, included and loved.

Sounds simple? Unfortunately we have a long road ahead,” Simon says.

For more info, visit iam-whoiam.com

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When advocacy is overwhelming Break efforts down into smaller steps to keep your sanity

BY GILLIAN MARCHENKO PHOTOS BY THOMAS KUBIK

A

s a parent to two girls with special needs, I find that there are certain areas of their lives I handle better than others.

For example, because of the work I do as a writer and a speaker, I’ve taken both of my kids’ communication goals very seriously throughout the years. I learned basic sign language with gusto, and now enjoy reading to the kids at home and drilling my older daughter on her sight word flash cards.

There are other areas of the special needs life I find ominous and, at times, exhausting. The biggest of these is advocacy.

I’m not alone.

“I will do whatever I need to advocate for Tinley,” Chicago mom Sarah Britton says about her daughter with Apert syndrome. “I am in an appeal right now over dental care. I spent hours researching it all, and I’ll keep going.”

I get it. I really do. If we don’t advocate, who will?

The definition of an advocate is a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy. This is where it gets tricky for me. My kids are simply that, my kids. I don’t think of them as a cause or a policy in need of support. I know advocacy is important, and I know it is one of my responsibilities as a parent.

Have you experienced the tension between wanting to advocate for your child and getting overwhelmed by everything else in your life? If so, here are a few ideas about advocacy that might help us all:

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Cortney Kovack and her mom, Michele, share a happy moment with Myla in Cortney’s bedroom.

1

Remember why you advocate

You love your child. You know he deserves a fulfilling life as a contributor to society at large. He deserves all the freedoms anyone else does, and as much opportunity as he can handle. You are his advocate because you care.

Whatever you do in order to advocate, keep that in mind.

With the proper agenda comes a proper focus on areas that are most important to your family.

2

Be realistic

Advocacy has different forms. There is community and nationwide advocacy, but there is also daily, personal advocacy for your child in the classroom and at the doctor’s office.

You won’t be able to do everything you think you should to advocate for your child.

Check out books like From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide Paperback by Peter W. D. Wright and Pamela Darr Wright. It will

help you figure out important issues and differentiate between ideals you have for your child and what is really needed at this point in her life.

We parents know what is “best” for our children, but sometimes emotions cloud judgment. When it comes to advocacy, you have to be open to compromise with teachers, therapists and medical professionals, and attempt to distance yourself a bit from your parent emotions.

| ChicagoParent.com

2/5/15 1:52 PM

Turning can’t into can

Pediatric Physical, Occupational, Speech & Developmental Therapy Wellness Center classes for children of all ages and abilities

Every time Michele Kovack pulls out her camera, her daughter, Cortney, is smiling and happy.

“People would comment, ‘you can see the joy in her face,’” she says. When Cortney got involved with the Changing the Face of Beauty campaign, which is urging compa nies to include people with special needs in advertising, Kovack started thinking about Cortney’s future.

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“When you ask her what she wants to be, she’ll tell her teachers, she’ll tell everybody, ‘I’m going to be a model.’”

So why not? Kovack wondered.

“So much of her life has been so much negativity, and it’s been a lot of what she can’t do,” Kovack says.

Modeling is something she can do, something she loves and something that allows time for mom and daughter bonding.

The 19 year old from Evergreen Park, who has cerebral palsy, a seizure disorder and visual impairment, has encountered companies and people willing to take a chance on her as their model. She’s also had some closed doors.

“Sometimes I have doubts,” Kovack admits.

Kovack has her sights set on reaching out to Sadie Robertson, who is from the TV shows “Duck Dynasty” and “Dancing with the Stars” and who is coming out with a line of modest prom dresses this year. Kovack says the dresses would be perfect for teens with special needs, and Cortney would be perfect to model them.

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“I think I’ve gotten to the point where I’m looking at the journey more than the end result,” Kovack says.“I think I’ve gotten to a point where I can say, whatever happens, happens. I’m trying to enjoy the journey for what it is and if anything, maybe we’ve touched a few people’s lives.”

large tasks up 3Don’t advocate alone 4Break into small pieces

Susan Badeau, a mom to several children with special needs, says that advocacy is often best accomplished within the context of groups. That way, people can play different roles—one takes notes, one does research, one speaks out. Other parents are some of your best resources. Take another parent with you to an IEP meeting.

Bounce ideas off of each other and compare notes.

None of us have time to reinvent the wheel. And when you get burned out, you have people around you to spur you on.

Adding your advocacy efforts to a large agenda can seem overwhelming. Break it up into small pieces. If you want to help educate people on the recently passed ABLE Act, think of measurable ways you can do that in your life. Can’t take on Congress? No problem. Speak to your child’s class about disability. Share advocacy posts on Facebook. Volunteer for an event that supports your cause.

Anything you do to advocate for your child helps.

Continued on page 20

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ADVOCACY

Continued from page 19

5Take a break

Some days, we’re not thinking about advocacy; we’re thinking about survival. We can’t always advocate for our kids on a larger scale. Give yourself permission to take a break, or to sit out on a cause or a planned activity.

“We all have a responsibility to take our turn at community advocacy, but it is absolutely OK to take a break if you are overwhelmed,” says Anne Grunsted, a Chicago mom to a boy with Down syndrome.

6Choose your battles

Educate yourself to know what battles matter. Prepare to advocate for your child when and if it is needed. Your family is helping to change the world. Remember that advocacy benefits your family, too, by teaching them to advocate for themselves.

7

Just do something

Mother Teresa said, “Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time and always start with the person nearest you.” Perhaps the best way to advocate for our kids is by loving them well and enjoying them immensely.

Cortney Kovack loves being a model “I like you best,” my daughter says to me first thing when she wakes up in the morning.

Advocacy on a larger scale will happen.

And we will join in as best we can, when we can, because we want to see change occur.

We want everyone to see value, purpose and dignity in people who are differently-abled.

But hold this thought close: As frazzled

parents, sometimes the most important advocacy is to simply love our children, showing the world not only that kids with special needs can be valued, respected and loved, but that they are.

Gillian Marchenko is a Chicago mom and freelance writer. She has penned a memoir about special need, Sun Shine Down.

www.upsfordowns.org UPS for DOWNS is a parent directed non-profit organization offering support, education, and encouragement for parents, families, and others who love and care about persons with Down syndrome. We inspire community acceptance by sharing with others the presence, potential and abilities of people with Down syndrome.

Check the website for information, calendar of events, or more ways to get involved. email: info@upsfordowns.org

847-895-2100

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20 Years!

THERAPEUTIC DAY SCHOOL

Celebrates over 20 years of service to our 180 School Districts Partners! www.CamelotEducation.org

| ChicagoParent.com

2/5/15 2:01 PM

The Lucky Cast Club

Families dealing with infantile scoliosis create network of support

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

W

hen a child is given a medical diagnosis, a parent’s life comes to a frightening halt.

For Chrissy Miller, of Avon, Ind., life changed in an instant in September 2009 when her then 18-month-old son Jackson was diagnosed with infantile scoliosis.

“I remember sobbing in the parking lot of the clinic,” says Miller.

“Scoliosis. Rods. Surgery. Brace. Watch and Wait. Curvature. MRI. Options. None of it made any sense and none of it resonated except that my beautiful, vibrant and funny little boy was in trouble.”

Although the diagnosis of scoliosis affects 6-9 million people in the United States, according to American Association of Neurological Science, infantile scoliosis makes up less than 1 percent of these cases. Of that 1 percent, progressive infantile scoliosis accounts for less than 20 percent.

Initially feeling overwhelmed

and confused, Miller and other families dealing with progressive infantile scoliosis came together at Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago to create the Lucky Cast Club in 2010.

The mission of the Lucky Cast Club was simple: to provide support and resources for families dealing with progressive infantile scoliosis using casting as a treatment.

“The primary purpose of the group is to validate each parent’s feelings and provide them unbiased friendship and support through treatment.

We offer encouragement and tips and tricks to help you cope,” says Catie Diefenbaugh, of Evansville, Ind., and one of the founding members of The Lucky Cast Club. Her son, William, was diagnosed at 10 months old.

This group of parents started putting their fear into action and quickly started providing new parents with crucial information and support upon diagnosis.

“We created parent packets for the hospital to give to new families, hosted toy drives and started a private Facebook group to connect families,”

says Diefenbaugh. “As our group has grown across the country, we encourage families to ‘fun’-raise in their area for their local centers.”

Many parents credit the Lucky Cast Club for helping save them as they journeyed through diagnosis and treatments.

“These women I came to know as friends, and now call my sisters, were the threshold that bound us and protected my spirit and my sanity,” says Miller. “They held me, laughed with me, listened, cried, researched, struggled, worried and celebrated with me. There is a lot of darkness in the world of infantile scoliosis, and it’s only these girls Continued on page 22

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2/5/15 1:57 PM

LUCKY CAST CLUB that lit the way so that I could see the glimmer of hope.”

As the club has grown to include families from across the United States and beyond, the connections and support have only increased.

Once a year, there is now a Moms Retreat where moms of cast warriors come together to provide support for one another and relax and reflect on their experiences.

“Having the camaraderie of others who understand your ordeal completely is invaluable,” Miller says.

And along the way, families have found angels amongst their caregivers. One such angel is Linda Cree, a nurse at Shriners Hospital in Chicago, who collaborated with the Lucky Cast Club and started the yearly Scoliosis Awareness Picnic to bring families together to celebrate and share.

“The picnic is just one way to assure families and let them know that others have walked their path,” says Cree. “Even

Continued from page 21

There is a lot of darkness in the world of infantile scoliosis and it’s only these girls that lit the way so that I could see the glimmer of hope.

— Chrissy Miller, mom

better, we are able to connect them with families who are actively in treatment or just completing treatment. Families hear first-hand what will happen both from our experts and from other families.”

Although members might not initially be in the club by choice,

the Lucky Cast Club continues to inspire and connect families with infantile scoliosis.

“When you go through something dark, the only way out is to make something out of it that brings light,” Miller says. “When we began the Lucky Cast Club and started doing for

others what we had wished was present for us, it was cathartic.

It was a healing tool for us to recover from our own fears and crooked paths of scoliosis to guide others and give back.”

Megan Murray Elsener is a freelance writer and mother of three.

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The (clinical) trials of special needs parenting Should you or shouldn’t you enroll your child in a trial?

BY HEATHER EARNHART

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arenting a special needs child comes with many trials, but one trial that I was not planning to face is the clinical trial.

If your life is like mine, then you can easily imagine you’re at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital for a typical day-long visit with multiple doctors and tests, when suddenly you are blindsided with the mention of enrolling your child in a clinical trial.

Your initial reaction might be an emphatic “no” or an enthusiastic “yes,” but most likely it is “I have no idea what to do!”

You think, I want to protect my child, but what if my child could benefit from the research gained from the trial?

You, of course, want a miracle, which seldom happens in a clinical trial.

Parents react differently to their child’s diagnosis. However, one thing most special needs parents have in common is our quest for knowledge and information. Learning as much as humanly possible about our child’s issues can arm us with the power to feel more in control of the situation.

Upon my daughter Gabriella’s diagnosis of Marfan syndrome at age 5, I spent every free moment delving into documents, articles and papers I could find on Google Scholar. I also was lucky to find a great resource in The Marfan Foundation. I immediately joined their community of parents online.

I quickly discovered Marfan syndrome is a life-threatening genetic disorder that affects the body’s connective tissue.

An early, accurate diagnosis is essential.

I was suddenly wishing I had been more successful in the

Gabriella cheers on her team to victory at the Rock’n’Roll Half Marathon genetics unit of biology class.

But it didn’t take long before I was being mistaken for a doctor when visiting the emergency department with my daughter.

When a resident said, “It’s nice you are a doctor,” I smiled and said, “Oh, I’m not a doctor! Just an informed parent.”

The clinical trial decision must be treated in much the same way as the diagnosis, by becoming informed.

Recently, I spoke to Dr. Luciana Young, the cardiologist at Lurie Children’s Hospital, for tips other parents could use when contemplating a clinical trial. Young cares for my daughter and was the site coordinator for the “Atenolol (beta-blocker) vs. Losartan (Angiotensin Receptor Blocker) in Marfan Syndrome” clinical trial that my

daughter Gabriella participated in for three years.

Young’s advice: Be well informed.

“In order to consent, you want to know the positive

outcomes and possibilities as well as any potential negative effects, especially if your child will be starting a new medication,” she says.

Ask questions. Has the medication been tested before?

Is the dosing approved? Is it FDA-approved?

“It’s very important that children enroll in these trials because the research must test what the doctors have learned,” she says.

Consider your child’s opinion.

Young believes the child should be part of the decision about enrolling in the trial or not.

Never underestimate what your child can handle.

In my family this was a big ordeal. Upon diagnosis, we faced the clinical trial question, then found she just missed qualifying.

However, we still had to make an immediate decision about medication. Should we start her on the standard treatment, Atenolol, now or wait for another opportunity to enroll in the trial?

Ultimately we chose to start treatment immediately, and by the time the possibility of enrolling in the trial came to Continued on page 24

Marfan syndrome Every person’s experience with Marfan syndrome is slightly dif ferent. Some features of Marfan syndrome are easier to see than others. These include: Long arms, legs and fingers Tall and thin body type Curved spine Chest sinks in or sticks out Flexible joints Flat feet

Crowded teeth Stretch marks on the skin that are not related to weight gain or loss Harder to detect signs of Marfan syndrome include heart prob lems, especially those related to the aorta. Other signs can include sudden lung collapse and eye problems, including severe nearsightedness, dislocated lens, detached retina, early glaucoma and early cataracts.

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2/5/15 2:03 PM

MARFAN SYNDROME be, we knew we wanted to do it if Gabriella qualified.

Some of the specific questions we wanted answered were about potential side effects of the two medications and what exactly would be required of Gabriella along the three-year journey.

Gabriella was especially interested to know how many blood-draws she would need and how many heart monitors she would have to wear.

She also was very interested to know what the trial really meant.

We discussed what the doctors were trying to learn and how they needed at least 500 children in the trial to give them valid research results.

In the end she said she wanted to help the doctors learn more so they could help kids like her.

Now that she is 10, and I’m looking back on all of this, I am not surprised by my daughter’s maturity.

I attended the press conference for the trial results at the American Heart Association’s Scientific

Continued from page 23 Sessions held in Chicago late last year.

Dr. Ronald Lacro presented the results. The trial was very important on its own merit, but will be even more powerful combined with similar trials, he said.

The results didn’t provide a miracle, but the trial did shed light on valuable information that will help my daughter and other kids like her.

Both doctors agreed that dosing was an unexpected factor learned from the trial. The children were able to tolerate higher dosages without adverse effects, meaning doctors shouldn’t be afraid of higher doses to get desired results.

It was unexpectedly proven that early treatment may be even more beneficial than waiting until the aorta has reached a certain size.

Doctors also now know that both Atenolol and Losartan are effective in treating cardiac issues related to Marfan syndrome.

And Gabriella was a part of that valuable research.

Gabriella and her brother, Nicholas.

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| ChicagoParent.com

MobilityWorks of Chicago

PLAINFIELD — 23855 W Andrew Rd SKOKIE — 5050 Dempster St VILLA PARK — 155 E. North Ave 1/29/15 5:06 PM

2/5/15 2:03 PM

At Shriners Hospitals for Children of Chicago, our mission is simple: deliver world-class care to children who need it most – whether their families can afford it or not.

For nearly 90 years we’ve specialized in helping children affected by orthopaedic conditions, cleft lip and palate, spinal cord injury, and rehabilitation needs. And while expertise, dedication and generosity make it all possible, ultimately we believe our hospital is fueled by love. That love is what helped the Shriners network of 22 locations treat over 124,000 children last year alone, helping them at every step as they made the journey from patients back to kids.

Do You Know a Child Who Needs Expert Specialty Care?

For a consultation or to refer a patient, call:

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facebook.com/shrinerschicago

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2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60707

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Illinois puts more focus on Families should find getting services easier

BY KRISTY MACKABEN n preschool, Lucas Baronello of Antioch had difficulty learning the alphabet despite his mom’s best efforts. In kindergarten, he dreaded going to school and by first grade, he complained of daily headaches and stomach pains.

Lucas, now 10, has dyslexia, but he wasn’t formally diagnosed until the end of first grade—missing out on much-needed services.

About 20 percent of people in the United States have dyslexia, a language processing disorder, but the disability is often misunderstood and services are lacking, his mom, Angela Baronello, says.

Getting help for Lucas from the school system was a battle. She quickly realized she wasn’t alone. “I kept talking with people who had children with dyslexia,” she says “Their kids just weren’t getting the appropriate services in school.”

Baronello and others joined the national movement, Decoding Dyslexia, that aims to raise awareness of the learning disability.

The efforts got a boost in Illinois late last year when dyslexia was finally included in the Illinois education code as a learning disability.

The legislation also establishes an advisory board to develop teacher and school administrator training when money is available.

Parents of children with dyslexia understand how crucial it is for children to be diagnosed as early as possible. If they don’t

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receive services early enough, they can fall behind for the rest of their school career, Angela Baronello says.

Although Lucas was showing signs of dyslexia, the school didn’t test him. The Baronellos sought out their own neuropsychologist. “We were lucky his father and I were persistent. Many don’t find out what is going on until third or fourth grade when they are so far behind the school can’t ignore it anymore, or worse, they never find out,” Baronello says.

Jennifer Fitzer of LaGrange knows all too well the importance of early services.

Two of her children, Haley, 12, and Guy, 11, have dyslexia, but it took years to get help.

“It’s just sad from a parental perspective,” she says.

And for years Kathi Keane of Grayslake fought for help for her daughter Grace.

“It was just horrible kindergarten through third grade,” Keane says. “I suspected it since she was in first grade, but I had pushback from the school. Finally in third grade, she had failed enough that they had decided they would test her.” Grace was placed on an Individualized Education Plan, but Keane insists the interventions weren’t working.

Until now, parents have said the problem in Illinois is that dyslexia was not listed as a learning disability in the education

code, but included as a “specific learning disability” for understanding and using language.

That meant it was difficult to get services for children who are dyslexic but high functioning in other areas.

“These are incredibly bright people who have contributed to society for many, many years, but there is often a delay in their response when it comes to language,” says Lisa Stankus, director of Road to Learning, a Lake Zurich-based tutoring service specializing in helping children with dyslexia.

Stankus, a special education teacher, started the tutoring program in 2005 for students at Quentin Road Christian School.

Because of demand, the program was opened a year later to all children.

“A lot of times students will take tests, and they are 140 in math and 98 in reading, and the schools will say they’re average and that they don’t need to provide anything,” says Ben Shifrin, member of the executive board for the International Dyslexia Association.

Yet, early intervention can make a huge difference because children can be given learning accommodations, often using technology, he says.

Kristy MacKaben is a mom of three.

| ChicagoParent.com

2/5/15 2:05 PM

NEWS YOU CAN USE

A walk on the tech side Gait analysis making strides in mobility treatments

T

he way you walk or run can help health care professionals learn more about how to help people with cerebral palsy and other mobility conditions.

At the Motion Analysis Laboratory at Shriners Hospitals for Children-Chicago, orthopedic surgeon Peter Smith frequently uses gait analysis.

Jaryn Smith, 19, one of Smith’s patients (but no relation to him), has cerebral palsy that affects both of her legs.

She says she thinks gait analysis has helped people at the hospital to know what needs improvement.

“They’re helping me walk better,” she says.

At the Motion Analysis Laboratory, children wearing reflective markers (small Styrofoam balls

covered in tape) walk on a walkway.

Cameras emitting near-infrared light that bounce off the markers record the person’s motion. Force plates measure how much force the person’s body exerts on the ground as he or she walks. Children also wear wireless electrodes on their skin.

Doctors, physical therapists and others at Shriners can then compile the data to prescribe treatment and also see how a patient changes over time. They can look at whether the child is using certain muscles improperly, whether abnormal forces are acting on the joints and how pressure is distributed on the bottom of the foot.

Joseph Krzak, senior motion analysis laboratory physical therapist, conducted research for his Ph.D. in kinesiology, nutrition

and rehabilitation at UIC, studying children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy with equinovarus foot and ankle deformity.

When children are affected by the deformity, they point one foot inward and walk on their toes, resulting in pain and greater risk of falls, Krzak says.

His insight could help doctors, physical therapists and orthotists (who make braces and splints) better decide what kinds of treatments best help individual patients.

Katherine Dempsey

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LC2015_ChParent_2_Layout 1 2/5/2015 4:51 PM Page 1

“From the Simple and inspiring words. Why Little City

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ChildBridge Center for Education Little City Campus: 1760 West Algonquin Road, Palatine Conveniently located at the crossroads of Chicago and the Northwest Suburbs 28

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2/6/15 9:37 AM

T

he resources you will find here are just an excerpt of the hundreds of searchable resources you will find online at ChicagoParent.com.

If you are a resource provider and your services are not listed online, e-mail Elizabeth Diffin at ediffin@ chicagoparent.com with your information or submit your information at www.chicagoparent.com/resources/ resource-submission-form.

ADAPTIVE SERVICES EHLS 210 W. Campus Drive, Suite B, Arlington Heights (847) 215-9490 ehls.com

Provides stair lifts, accessible bathroom remodeling, ramps and wheelchair lifts, ceiling mounted lift systems, home elevators and general remodeling to provide accessibility.

Free in-home consultations plus showroom.

MobilityWorks 23855 W. Andrew Road Plainfield 5050 Dempster St., Skokie 155 E. North Ave. Villa Park (888) 378-9166 mobilityworks.com

Provides wheelchair

vans and adaptive equipment to people with special needs, including sales, mechanical service, rental vans and mobility consulting.

RampNOW 2225 Tanglewood Drive Aurora (630) 892-7267 rampnow.com

Rents, sells and installs lifts and ramps that assist individuals with mobility issues.

ADD/ADHD Cognitive Solutions Learning Center Inc. 2409 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago (773) 755-1775 helpforld.com

Specializes in learning

disabilities and ADHD. Offers educational and psychological testing, one-on-one tutoring, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and executive functions training.

AUTISM SPECTURM DISORDERS Autism Speaks Chicagoland chapter Regency Office Plaza Suite 304 2700 River Road Des Plaines (224) 567-8573 autismspeaks.org/Chicago

Nonprofit organization dedicated to awareness, funding, science, research and advocacy for autism. Also provides free services for families.

2200 S. Main St., Suite 203 Lombard (630) 691-1270 (888) 691-1270 (hotline) autismillinois.org

Information and referral, special education advocacy, first responder training, conference-chapter throughout the state.

Autism Behavioral Therapies Various locations (224) 554-9634 autismbehavioraltherapies. com

ABA therapy provided in homes and pools.

Charlie’s Gift Autism Center Center for Autism, Sensory Processing and Related Disorders 1048 W. Ogden Ave., Suite #200, Downers Grove (630) 810-1200 thecommunityhouse.org

Provides individual and group occupational, speech and mental health/behavioral therapy for children/ families through a family-centered, team-based approach.

Family education/ support activities and sibling activities are

offered throughout the year. Afterschool clubs and summer programs offered. A family lending library is available.

Resources

Find more information online

The Autism Society of Illinois

Chicagoland Autism Connection 1803 W. 95th St., #268 Chicago (773) 329-0375 chicagoautism.org

Meets on the third Saturday of each month September-June, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Easter Seals School and Center for Autism, 1939 W. 13th St., Chicago. Free respite care offered during the meeting for children with autism. Offers the “A Team� social and recreational club for ages 13-young adult with ASD and the “Junior A Team� for ages 5-12.

Chicago Autism & Behavior Specialists 1063 W. Hawthorn Drive Itasca (800) 844-1232 autismbehaviorspecialists.com

Works with children and families living with autism spectrum disorders, communication disorders, behavior disorders and learning

Adaptive Services, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Blind or Visually Impaired. . . . . . . . 31 Camps . . . . . . . . . 32 Deaf or Hearing Impaired, Down Syndrome . . . . . . . 33 Dyslexia . . . . . . . . 34 Education . . . . . . . 35 Epilepsy . . . . . . . . 36 Equine Therapy, General . . . . . . . . 37 Health, Recreation . 39 Support . . . . . . . . 40 Therapy . . . . . . . . 42 Vocational and Training Programs 43

Easter Seals Autism Programs Joliet ChicagoParent.com |

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AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS

@EasterSealsDFVR

Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech-Language Therapy Aquatic Therapy Nutrition Therapy Assistive Technology Autism Diagnostic Clinic Specialized Clinics Community Based Therapy Hearing Services Inclusive Child Care Social Work & More NOW OFFERING TELE-THERAPY!

© Nic o l e Siu da e Le

r bie So

1939 W. 13th St., Suite 300 Chicago (312) 491-4110 eastersealschicago.org or eastersealsandautism.com

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disabilities. The therapeutic approach is based on Applied Behavior Analysis. The team works closely with families to determine socially significant goals to work on within the clinic, home and/or community environments that will best meet their child’s and family’s needs.

Easter Seals Therapeutic School and Center for Autism Research

Villa Park: 630.620.4433 Naperville: 630.357.9699 Elgin: 847.742.3264 30

Pioneer Center

This campus combines educational, therapeutic research, training, school-to-work transition and adult vocational services. Allows Easter Seals to expand its autism program and custom designed facility to meet the special needs of students with autism, emotional/behavior disability, cognitive or developmental delay. Interior

features include special acoustic finishes, lighting fixtures and observation rooms in classrooms rooms to help reduce distractions and promote more effective learning.

Serves clients ages 3 to their 22nd birthday.

Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley: Autism Diagnostic Clinic & Autism Services 830 S. Addison Ave. Villa Park (630) 620-4433 eastersealsdfvr.org

Provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary team evaluation by experienced professionals to determine the presence of an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other developmental disability. The team is composed of a social worker, occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist and psychologist.

This inclusive clinic will assist families in determining their child’s specific needs related to

their diagnosis. Families will leave with a diagnosis, initial treatment guidelines, and resources that best meet the needs of their child. Easter Seals also offers a variety of services that address the specific strengths and challenges of children with autism.

Have Dreams 515 Busse Highway Suite 150, Park Ridge 2020 Dempster St., Evanston (847) 685-0250 (Park Ridge) (847) 905-0702 (Evanston) havedreams.org

Resource organization serving children, teens and young adults with autism. Offers individualized after-school programs, vocational, life skills and transition to employment programs, along with diagnostic and family support services. Have Dreams also provides best-practice autism training for professionals and individual, in-home and school consultative services.

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AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS (847) 814-1096 autismfamilycenter.com

Offers a multidisciplinary approach to helping families live with autism.

Services include applied behavior analysis (ABA); individual, couples and family therapy; as well as art, play and yoga therapies.

Courage to Connect

Behavioral Perspective Inc. 452 N. Eola Road, Aurora (630) 999-0401 behavioralperspectiveaba.com

Offers in-home and clinicbased ABA Therapy, community outings, parent training, consultations and social skills groups for people with autism.

PACTT Learning Center 7101 N. Greenview Ave. Chicago (773) 338-9102 pactt.org

Offers educational,

residential, vocational and consultative services for people with autism and their families. The therapeutic day school focuses on academics, independent living, communication and social interaction for students 3-21 and includes a transition program that serves as a bridge to adult life for older teens.

PACTT also operates two group homes for children and two adult homes that focus on indepen-

dent life skills and community integration.

Therapeutic School & Center for Autism Research 1939 W. 13th St. (13th Street and Damen Avenue), Chicago (312) 432-1751 (school) (312) 491-4110 (central office) eastersealschicago.org

Offers year-round instruction for students 3-21 focusing on academic, social, communication, vocational and functional skill development. AfterSchool Program offers structured program-

ming from 3-6 p.m. for any individuals 3-21 with autism or other developmental disability (participants do not need to attend an ESMC school). Adult Vocational Programs for individuals ages 22+ provide vocational programs focused on the development of work, social and communication skills to meet the individual’s unique needs.

Autism Family Center 560 Green Bay Road, Suite 10, Winnetka

BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED The Illinois Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments P.O. Box 2947, Naperville (815) 355-2098 ipvi.org

Provides support, information and service to parents of visually impaired children. Find them on Facebook.

Autism Home Support Services 85 Revere Drive, Suite AA Northbrook (847) 564-0822 autismhomesupport.com

In-home customized ABA behavior therapy for children with autism and other related disorders.

Smart Love Family Services Chicago, Oak Brook, Oak Park (773) 665-8052 smartlovefamily.com

Offers autism treatment program and other counseling services.

The Chicago Lighthouse for People who are Blind or Visually Impaired 1850 W. Roosevelt Road Chicago (312) 666-1331 chicagolighthouse.org

Provides the highest quality education, clinical, vocational and rehabilitation services for children, youth and adults who are

Charlie’s Gift

Center for Autism, Sensory Processing and Related Disorders www.thecommunityhouse.org 630-810-1200 1048 West Ogden Avenue Suite # 200 Downers Grove, Il 60515

Looking for Childcare Solutions?

You can find great options in our Childcare Services section.

ChicagoParent.com |

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BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED sighted, the Sandy and Rick Forsythe Center for Comprehensive Vision Care, a scholarship program for post-secondary education, and a Tools for Living retail store.

The Chicago Lighthouse Vision Rehabilitation Center 222 Waukegan Road Glenview (847) 510-6200 chicagolighthouse.org/north

Products, services and programs for people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired.

The Hadley School for the Blind 700 Elm St., Winnetka (847) 446-8111 hadley.edu

Association for Individual Development blind or visually impaired, including deaf-blind and multi-disabled. It offers

a nationally acclaimed school for children with multi-disabilities,

a Birth to Three Early Intervention Program, a blended preschool with

children who are blind or visually impaired and those who are

The largest provider of tuition-free distance education for individuals over age 14 who are blind or visually impaired.

Courses offered in four program areas: family education (for parents and grandparents of visually impaired children), high school, adult continuing education and professional studies.

Materials are provided in a student’s medium of choice including large print, braille, audio and online.

CAMPS Keshet 3210 Dundee Road Northbrook (847) 205-0274 Keshet.org

Offers various eightweek, full-day integrated camp options that include day camps, overnight camps and teen camps for participants 3-21 in the Chicago area and surrounding suburbs.

Social Communication Skills Groups: Helping Chicago families meet the challenges of raising a child with special needs.

Special Family Support

Are you concerned about your child’s IEP and progress, about the school’s support for your child, or about identifying good therapy options? We can help.

Special Family Support provides:

Your child gains a mental set for Relationships • small groups of two to four • learn social cues in natural play settings • ages seven years to nine, and ten years to thirteen • adolescents and adults • individual, evidence-based educational therapy Educational Therapy: *Expertise *Experience *Integrity

Development of an Action Plan • Understanding the evaluation process within and outside of school • Interpreting an assessment and moving forward • Identifying a team of qualified professionals to support your child and family Educational Advocacy • Observing your child’s classroom and strategizing with teachers • Crafting strong, meaningful IEPs • Monitoring IEP compliance

Please contact us for a free phone intake consultation: 773.504.3248 www.specialfamilysupport.com 32

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Jean S. Newton, MA 847-901-0909 The Discovery Clinic Glenview

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CAMPS Wisconsin Badger Camp P.O. Box 723 Platteville, Wis. (608) 348-9689 badgercamp.org

Hosts eight one-week sessions and one twoweek session specially tailored to meet the needs of each camper with developmental delays.

Tourette Syndrome Camp Organization Chicago (773) 465-7536 tourettecamp.com

Residential camping program is designed for kids 8-16 with a primary diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and to a lesser degree ADD/ ADHD. For information, email info@tourettecamp.com.

Shady Oaks Camp for People with Disabilities 16300 S. Parker Road Homer Glen (708) 301-0816 shadyoakscamp.org

Residential summer camp for people with disabilities ages 5 and up. Also offers a twoweek day camp program for children with disabilities ages 5-17.

creating a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment for children with autism who enjoy making art. Applications can be found online. Scholarships available. For information, contact redkite@chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call (773) 227-0180.

Camp FRIENDship

Cleveland Elementary 3121 W. Byron St., Chicago chicagochildrenstheatre.org/ red-kite-project

Easter Seals Autism Therapeutic School - Tinley Park (708) 802-9050 Therapeutic School & Center for Autism Research - Chicago (312) 491-4110

Provides a high quality arts experience tailored specifically to the unique interests and needs of children on the autism spectrum. Led by a team of artists, administrators and special needs teachers dedicated to

Camp helps children with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability or other developmental disability enrolled in a public or private school with a diagnosis acquire social skills within a positive, fun and safe learning

Camp Red Kite

environment. Check with each location for specific information on the camp. Peer models are integrated into the camp format encouraging campers with and without disabilities to interact throughout the day.

DEAF OR HEARING IMPAIRED AGBMS-AEHI Alexander Graham Bell Montessori School 9300 Capitol Drive, Wheeling (847) 850-5490 agbms.org

Provides an oral education program for deaf and hardof-hearing children using Cued Speech to enhance their ability to acquire ageappropriate literacy skills.

Children are mainstreamed

with typically developing hearing peers and receive support services from licensed teachers of the deaf and speech and language pathologists.

Project Reach-Illinois

CHOICES for Parents

GiGi’s Playhouse

P.O. Box 806045, Chicago (312) 523-6400 (866) 733-8729 choicesforparents.org

2350 W. Higgins Road Hoffman Estates (847) 885-PLAY (7529) gigisplayhouse.org

Provides parents of children with hearing loss with support, information and resources.

International Down syndrome achievement centers that offer free educational and therapeutic

Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois

Has your child been diagnosed or do you suspect that your child has a learning disability?

For campers with developmental disabilities, ages 13-22

Session I: June 8 - July 2 Session II: July 6 - July 31 Full or half-day options available Call 847.948.7001 today for details and to reserve your spot!

View the Camp Brochure online at www.CenterForEnrichedLiving.org

On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

Save when you register by March 6!

LDA 52nd Annual Conference Chicago Hilton Feb. 18-21, 2015 10101 S. Roberts Rd, Ste 205 Palos Hills, IL 60465 (708) 430-7532 ldaofil@ameritech.net

www.ldail.com Like us at Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois on ChicagoParent.com |

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P.O. Box 831, Tinley Park (708) 614-6118 downinthesouthland.org

Provides technical assistance/consultation, information, training and family support to address the needs of children with deaf-blindness and their families.

Your BEST Summer Yet Awaits At The Center for Enriched Living’s Summer Camp 2015!

Join the Twitter party!

Follow us @ChicagoParent

Down in the Southland

Fosters the development of lifelong educational, social and life skills among individuals with Down syndrome and their families in the southern suburbs of Chicago. Provides educational support and programs, which will help children increase their future skills.

Philip Rock Center 818 DuPage Blvd., Glen Ellyn (630) 790-2474 philiprockcenter.org

is part of your favorite social networks

Find us on Facebook

DOWN SYNDROME

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DOWN SYNDROME programs and support for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community. Other Illinois locations include Chicago, Fox Valley, Tinley Park, McHenry, Rockford and Bradley.

more information, email info@upsfordowns.org.

DYSLEXIA Everyone Reading Illinois 799 Roosevelt Road, Building 4, Suite 314, Glen Ellyn (630) 469-6900 everyonereadingillinois.org

Provides referrals to services for individuals with dyslexia, their families and professionals. Also provides teacher training to help educators learn best practices to help their students who are struggling readers.

National Association for Down Syndrome P.O. Box 206, Wilmette (630) 325-9112 nads.org

Offers information, a parent support program for newly diagnosed children, mentoring program, work experience program and other individualized services. Also has a speaker presentation program to become trained to become a public speaker and go out and talk to doctors and schools and educate them about Down syndrome.

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Chicago Reading and Dyslexia Center Flying High Sports & Rec Center

Ups for Downs Hartford Plaza, 1070 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg (847) 895-2100 upsfordowns.org

A volunteer parent-run

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group for families, professionals and people with Down syndrome.

Meetings are generally held on a Tuesday

evening at Fox Run Golf Links Clubhouse, 333 Plum Grove Road, Elk Grove Village.

Attendance is free for

the meeting. Stipends are available to offset child care costs for parents who wish to attend and must pay a sitter. For

180 N. Michigan Ave. Suite 2411, Chicago (312) 360-0805 dyslexiachicago

Individualized programs to help children and adults overcome the challenges of their dyslexia, ADD and other learning disabilities

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DYSLEXIA while keeping their gifts. Specializes in the Davis Programs: Dyslexia Correction, Attention Mastery, Math Mastery and the Autism Approach.

EDUCATION Alexander Leigh Center for Autism 620 N. Illinois Route 31 Crystal Lake (815) 477-2522 alexanderleighcenterfor autism.com

Nonprofit, full-day, yearround therapeutic day school approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. The school is for children 3-17 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), OHI, multiple disabilities, developmental delay and/or intellectual disability. Students receive 1:1 support in the areas of academics, speech, OT, music therapy, life skills, behavior and community-based instruction. Serves Cook,

DuPage, Lake, Kane and McHenry counties.

dyslexia, Tourette’s, PDD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. An individualized program that uses a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach designed to address each child’s specific deficiencies while combining proper nutritional guidance.

Beacon Therapeutic School 1912 W. 103rd St., Chicago (773) 881-1005 beacon-therapeutic.org

Private special education facility serving children ages 3-21. Offers a multi-site service center for high-risk, multiple problem children, adolescents, teens and families living in the metropolitan Chicago area. Prevention, early intervention, assessment and treatment are integral to the continuum of services provided.

Camelot Therapeutic Day Schools Locations in Bourbonnais, DeKalb, Hoffman Estates, Mount Prospect, Naperville and Oak Park (512) 858-9900 (central office) cameloteducation.org

Serves multi-need students on the autism spectrum or developmentally delayed.

Brain Balance Achievement Center

City Elementary

1101 S. Milwaukee Ave. Suite 105, Vernon Hills (847) 821-1328 brainbalancecenters.com

1100 E. Hyde Park Blvd.

Chicago (847) 282-0450 cityelementary.com

Works with children with developmental and learning disorders such as ADD, ADHD, Asperger’s,

Educational project- and play-based program tailored to kids in kindergarten through second-

NEWS YOU CAN USE

New special needs resource center in Broadview

T

hrough the hard work of The Answer Inc. and The Autism Program of Illinois, there is a new one-stop place for families to gather information about developmental disabilities.

The Autism & Special Needs Resource Center has opened at the Broadview Public Library.

“Resources about special needs were limited in our

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neighborhood and parents didn’t know where to turn,” says Debra Vines, executive director at The Answer Inc. “Now the entire community has access to resources about autism and other developmental disabilities through books, local events and information.”

| ChicagoParent.com

Megan Murray Elsener

Right Fit grade with diverse learning styles and developmental needs. Open enrollment admissions.

Stock School

Keshet

Preschool that offers a play-based curriculum focused on 38 points of development including social/emotional, cognitive, language, literacy, math and physical development.

The Special Education department is made up of 11 teachers, and a full therapy staff including social work and nursing.

617 Landwehr Road Northbrook (847) 205-0274 keshet.org

Provides education, recreation and vocational programs for children and adults with special needs.

Programs are run within the framework of Jewish values and traditions.

LEEP Forward 1280 W. Washington Blvd.

Chicago (312) 624-8750 leepforward.com

Programs encourage regulation, social engagement and peer interactions as well as individual growth.

Safe Haven School 937 Happ Road, Northfield (847) 714-2594 safehavenschool.org

Therapeutic school for students 5-18 with internalized emotional disabilities including depression, bipolar disorder, severe anxiety disorders including social phobia, separation anxiety, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress and obsessive-compulsive disorders, ADHD, LD, NVLD and school refusal.

Additional location at 906 Muir Ave., Lake Bluff, (847) 604-3903.

7507 W. Birchwood Ave. Chicago (773) 534-1215 stock.cps.k12.il.us

Wolcott School 524 N. Wolcott, Chicago (312) 610-4900

Independent college prep high school offering a program for students with learning differences, including dyslexia and executive functioning challenges. Tuition assistance is available. Contact Admissions Director to submit an application or to schedule a tour.

Center for Independence through Conductive Education 100 W. Plainfield Road Countryside (708) 588-0833 center-for-independence.org

Provides intensive motor training programs based on the principles of conductive education, which is an intensive method of teaching motor disabled children to be more funcChicagoParent.com |

tionally independent. The motivating, peer-supported program focuses on functional activities to improve independence and serves children with cerebral palsy ages 2-18. Provides year round and summer programming. Locations also in Lake Zurich and 2434 S. Kildare, Chicago.

Easter Seals Autism Therapeutic School Tinley Park 17300 Ozark Ave., Tinley Park (708) 802-9050 eastersealschicago.org

Easter Seals’ Autism Therapeutic Schools are approved by the Illinois State Board of Education for children 3-22. The goal is to empower each student to achieve peak academic performance, increase social and vocational skills, develop an effective means of communication and foster the acquisition of functional life skills for independence in the community. Easter Seals has schools located in Tinley Park, Chicago and Rockford.

Helping Hand Center 9649 W. 55th St., Countryside (708) 352-3580 hhcenter.org

Therapeutic day school for children with autism, ages 3-21, providing year-round services.

Pediatric outpatient clinic

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EDUCATION for children ages birth21 with a wide array of disabilities and delays, providing occupational, physical, speech and language, and music therapy. Also offers psychotherapy, mental health and diagnostic testing, and behavioral services.

educational and social environment.

The Lily Garden Child Care Center 830 S. Addison Ave. Villa Park (630) 261-6283 lilygarden.org

Soaring Eagle Academy 8330 S. Madison St., Suite 50 Burr Ridge (630) 323-2900 soaringeagleacademy.org

An Illinois State Board of Education-approved therapeutic day school for students 5-21 with autism and related disorders. A one-of-a-kind school philosophy integrates Developmental Language Models and DIR(r) relationship-based principles within an

Provides inclusive child care for children six weeks through 6-yearsold. The Lily Garden is committed to fostering independence, compassion, knowledge and respect for children of all abilities.

LifeStyles Academy 10300 W. 131st St., Palos Park (708) 480-2085 lifestylesacademy.org

Educational and vocational center for adults and young adults with various disabilities who have graduated from high school transition programs.

Easter Seals Autism Therapeutic School

EPILEPSY Danny Did Foundation P.O. Box 46576, Chicago (800) 278-6101 dannydid.org

A non-profit founda-

HERE WE COME

TRANSPORTATION We are the people, for the people providing transportation services for all people. We provide service to and from appointments, school, after-school, day care centers, small group outings and much more!

H E R E

HERE WE

COME

C O M E

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • Car Seats Provided • Safe Drivers Reasonable & Affordable Rates • Available 7 Days a Week Wheelchair Accessible • 12 & 7 Seat Vans Available State of ILL/MBE Certified • Courteous & Professional Drivers

PO Box Matteson, IL 60443 • overcomer2@sbcglobal.net

TRANSPORTATION

773-812-6359 or 708-244-7277

FREE MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION FOR CLIENT WITH MEDICAID.

SIBSENSATIONS PROGRAM FOR SIBS OF KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

SIBSENSATIONS gives siblings (ages 8-13) of children with special needs a chance to meet peers in a fun, friendly setting where they can share common joys and concerns. Through games, activities and discussions, they will form friendships, learn about disabilities and discover how to handle tough situations they all face.

When:

Saturdays: 2/28, 3/21, 4/25

Cost:

$10.00 per session, registration is required.

Where:

acktman Children’s Pavilion Y 1675 Dempster-Park Ridge, IL

Contact:

Kathryn Smart MS RN, 847-723-9484 Kathryn.smart@advocatehealth.com

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tion created by Mike and Mariann Stanton of Chicago to educate other parents about epilepsy and particularly Sudden Unexpected Death in

Epilepsy, which claimed the life of their child, Danny.

The foundation’s website and social media pages offer resources for parents, information on SUDEP

and seizure safety, seizure monitoring devices and awareness-raising events.

Funding goes toward families who cannot afford seizure devices, and research.

Computer based Neurofeedback can help your child with developmental delays in speech/ language, academics, auditory processing and other areas of delay achieve skills that would not have been conceivable before. Remember, the earlier these problems are attacked, the better the outcome.

Call The Discovery Clinic at 847-901-0909 to schedule a consultation or an evaluation. www.thediscoveryclinic.com

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EQUINE THERAPY

Wolcott School

EQUINE THERAPY Horsefeathers Therapeutic Riding 1181 Riverwoods Road Lake Forest (847) 234-2411 horsefeatherscenter.org

Provides horsemanship program directed by PATH-certified riding instructors and a hippotherapy program administered by licensed therapists. Provides life skills through vocational programming that encompass all aspects of agricultural life. It uses rescued horses whose temperament allows them to be included in a meaningful second career.

Equestrian Connection 600 N. Bradley Road, Lake Forest (847) 615-8696 equestrianconnection.org

Improves the physical, cognitive, sensory and emotional well-being of those with disabilities and their families, by providing equine-assisted therapies and a range of holistic therapy interventions including hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, sensory integra-

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tion therapy, art therapy, equine-assisted psychotherapy, job skills training, peer social groups, respite and more.

GENERAL Access Living 115 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago (800) 613-8549 or (312) 640-2100 accessliving.org

Offers peer-oriented independent living services; public education, awareness and development; individualized and systemic advocacy; and enforcement of civil rights on behalf of people with disabilities. All services are provided at no charge.

Association for Individual Development 309 New Indian Trail Court Aurora (630) 966-4000 the-association.org

Nonprofit, communitybased organization serving more than 5,000 individuals throughout Kane, Kendall, DeKalb, DuPage, suburban Cook and Will counties. More than 20 programs are available for individuals with physical or developmental disabilities, and those in need of behav-

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ioral health services or crisis intervention.

The Arc of Illinois 20901 La Grange Road Suite #209, Frankfort (815) 464-1832 thearcofil.org

A clearinghouse of information committed to empowering people with disabilities to achieve full participation in community life through informed choices. Programs include: Illinois Life Span, Family Support Network, Family to Family Health Information Center, Family Transition Project, Ligas Family Advocate Program, Consumer Stipend Program, the Arc Training Department, and the Arc Assistive Technology Program.

Center for Audiology, Speech, Language and Learning Northwestern University 2315 Campus Drive, Evanston (847) 491-3165 CommunicationClinic.north western.edu

A university-based clinic specializing in evaluation and treatment services for infants through adults with speech-language, learning, swallowing and audiology needs.

Photo by Jade Albert

Learn more at

autismspeaks.org/signs Some signs to look for:

No big smiles or other joyful expressions by 6 months

No babbling by 12 months

No words by 16 months

穢 2012 Autism Speaks Inc. "Autism Speaks" and "It's time to listen" & design are trademarks owned by Autism Speaks Inc. All rights reserved. The person depicted is a model and is used for illustrative purposes only.

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GENERAL Easter Seals DuPage & the Fox Valley Region Centers in Villa Park, Naperville and Elgin 830 S. Addison Ave., Villa Park (630) 620-4433 eastersealsdfvr.org

Offers physical, occupational, speech-language, nutrition and assistive technology therapies for children of all abilities.

Also offers audiology services, community outreach programs and specialty clinics. Pediatric medical specialists partner to provide a Respiratory Clinic, Nutrition & Feeding Clinic, Positioning and Mobility Clinic, Casting Clinic, Splinting Clinic, Orthopedic Clinic, Vision Clinic and Dental Clinic.

The organization has a social worker and parent liaison available to help parents. In addition to counseling and resources,

it provides support groups and sibling support groups. Other locations at 1323 Bond St., Suite 119, Naperville, (630) 3579699, and 799 S. McLean Blvd., Suite 103, Elgin, (847) 742-3264.

Easter Seals Autism Programs-Joliet 212 Barney Drive, Joliet (815) 725-2194 joliet.easterseals.com

Offers a wide variety of programming for families that have children with autism spectrum disorders including pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapy. A medical diagnostic clinic, social skills groups, sibling recreational workshops, family special recreation nights, inclusive birth to 4 day care, mental health therapy, educa-

tional materials and a parent support group.

Family Center Chicago Multiple locations, Lakeview neighborhood, Chicago (847) 814-1096 familycenterchicago.com

Family-focused services to encourage positive change for all family members. Individual, family and couples counseling; play therapy, art therapy, vocational counselin, and peer mentor facilitated social skills training.

Jewish Child & Family Services Multiple locations jcfs.org

Helps families with autism, special education, counseling and inclusive summer camps.

Little City ChildBridge Services 700 N. Sacramento Blvd., Suite 201, Chicago

1760 W. Algonquiin Road, Palatine (773) 265-1671 (Chicago) (847) 358-5510 (Palatine) littlecity.org/childbridge

Provides full range of services for children 21 and under with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, including in-home personal and family supports, clinical and behavior intervention, 24/7 residential services, therapeutic art programs and special needs foster care and adoption services. The ChildBridge Center for Education provides progressive services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as students with severe and profound needs on the autism spectrum. Also provides

employment services and training, horticulture, art, recreational opportunities and residential services for young adults.

NF Midwest 473 Dunham Road, Suite 3 St. Charles (630) 945-3562 nfmidwest.org

Its focus is on awareness, research, education and support of people impacted by neurofibromatosis.

MFTD Waiver Families mftdwaiver.org

A support and advocacy group for families of children who are medically fragile and technology dependent, most of whom participate in the MFTD/DSCC Waiver. Dayto-day support is provided through a private online group, charitable events and informal gatherings. Also advo-

cates on the state level for the rights of children and adults who are technology dependent.

Oak Leyden Developmental Services 411 Chicago Ave., Oak Park (708) 524-1050 oak-leyden.org

Individual and group therapy and support services for children birth-5 with developmental delays; community dropin events for families with young children; Music Together classes; day and residential services for adults with developmental disabilities.

Protected Tomorrows Inc. LifeCare Center 103 Schelter Road Lincolnshire (847) 522-8086 protectedtomorrows.com

Advocacy firm focused

Our Family Programs and Pediatric Services Preschool Education and Playgroups Developmental Playgroups Speech & Language Camp for Preschoolers Introduction to Preschool Program Feeding Group Summer Camps

Pediatric Therapy Speech Therapy Developmental Therapy Behavioral Therapy Music / Listening Therapy Occupational Therapy Interactive Metronome Program

Educational and Therapeutic Strategies: Therapy, classes and playgroups for infants and children.

In Learning Through Play our mission is to provide family-friendly services to Chicago families of both typically and atypically developing children.

TM

Family Training and Resources Parent workshops Developmental Assessments Family counseling / Social Work Infant Massage Instruction for Parents

Spanish Interpreters and Onsite/Website resources available 633 W Addison | Chicago | 60613 | Phone: 312 458 9865 | pediatricresources.com | Fax: 312 284 4776 38

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GENERAL on life planning. Staff helps create future care plans, which address the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, mental illness, physical disabilities, or cognitive and neurological diseases in the areas of education, residential, financial, legal, health care, government benefits, employment and recreation.

ances. Treats children, teens and adults with symptoms of behavioral and learning disorders (including ADD/ADHD), autism spectrum disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and anxiety. Uses a multi-disciplinary clinical team involving physicians, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists and other clinical specialists.

RECREATION

Pam Labellarte 231 Bingham Circle Mundelein (847) 401-5053 fromadvocacy2action.com

Special Recreation Associations in Illinois specialrecreation.org

To find your Special Recreation Association or learn more about specialized recreation services, log on to the website.

Special education advocate and parent of two children with a disability who provides advocacy services to families of children with disabilities, during all stages of the educational/transition process. Services including supporting parents by attending school meetings, including Eligibility, IEP, 504 Plan, Manifestation Determination and Mediation. Presents educational programs to parents and community groups.

Chicago Rowing Foundation rowchicago.com

Through Pauly’s Pals, rowers with developmental differences receive oneon-one rowing instruction in indoor tanks.

Dolphin Swim Club

Pioneer Center

Keshet

Administrative Office 4100 Veterans Parkway McHenry (815) 344-1230 pioneercenter.org

18 townships of south and west suburban Cook County.

A non-profit organization that provides adult and youth counseling, intellectual and developmental disability services, traumatic brain injury services and homeless services. Its focus is on assisting individuals in becoming as independent as possible.

Suburban Access Inc. 900 Maple Ave., Homewood (708) 799-9190 suburban-access.org

Non-profit agency handles case management and service coordination to individuals with developmental disabilities in

The Association of Children’s Prosthetic-Orthotic Clinics-ACPOC 9400 W. Higgins Road, Suite 500, Rosemont (847) 698-1637 acpoc.org

An association of professionals involved in clinics providing prostheticorthotic care for children with limb loss or orthopedic disabilities.

V.I.P Service Dog Foundation P.O. Box 851, Oswego vipservicedogfoundation.com

Trains service and companion dogs for the disabled.

Crystal Lake, Skokie - (847) 854-1300 Loves Park, Rockford - (815) 282-3488 dolphinswimclub.com

HEALTH Advocate Children’s Hospital- Oak Lawn 4440 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn (708) 684-8000 advocatechildrenshospital.com

Provides a cleft palate and craniofacial center to care for children with birth defects of the face and skull; a pediatric endocrine program to treat pediatric diabetes, thyroid disorders, parathyroid and calcium metabolic disorders, growth problems, adrenal and pituitary disorders and problems involving puberty; comprehensive pediatric rehabilitation program, caring for children who have cystic fibrosis, spina

bifida and heart problems, who require speech therapy, occupational therapy or treatment of hearing disorders; treatment of sleep disorders in children; and followup clinics for children who required a stay in the neonatal intensive care unit and children who have previously undergone treatment for cancers.

Pfeiffer Medical Center 3 S. 721 West Ave., Suite 300 Warrenville (630) 505-0300 hriptc.org

Medical outpatient facility specializing in the treatment of symptoms from biochemical imbal-

From small-group lessons to private one-on-one lessons, teachers are experienced working with students who have special needs including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and sensory integration disorder.

Hanson Center 15 W. 431 59th St., Burr Ridge (630) 620-2222 raygraham.org

The 12.5-acre facility includes an indoor riding arena, a playground, a petting zoo and an indoor solarium.

Programs include horseback riding, sports, physical fitness, summer camps and a preschool. All programs are designed for differChicagoParent.com |

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ent age groups and can accommodate persons with disabilities.

Karate CAN-DO 770 Lake Cook Road Suite 300, Deerfield

Foundation teaches karate to children and adults with learning differences and physical challenges.

Second City Training Center Chicago secondcity.com/training/ chicago

Offers improv for ASD and anxiety curriculum, offering both teens and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders a unique 12-week mentoring and development experience that includes improv games and exercises to help with the exploration of relationships and social cues.

Rink Side Special Sk8er class Rink Side Ice Arena and Family Entertainment Center at Gurnee Mills Mall, Entrance H, Gurnee (847) 856-1064 ext. 525 rink-side.com

Skating class for ages 3 to adult who have physical and mental challenges. Classes are held Saturday mornings year-round. Cost is $13 pre-registered, $15 at the door. Classes offered during the school year.

Right Fit 7101 S. Adams St., Unit 7 Willowbrook (630) 850-4050 right-fit.com

Right Fit’s Raise the Bar fitness programs and camps are offered year round for youth and adults with autism spectrum disorders and those physically and mentally challenged. Right Fit is a partner with PAK (ProActive Kids) training youths who struggle with obesity and providing support to the families.

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RECREATION Special Olympics Illinois soill.org

The Ultimate Guide to Family Fun!

Provides sports training and competition for children (8 years and older) and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Check website for competition schedule and locations in Chicago area.

Special Olympics Illinois Young Athletes Program (630) 942-5610 or (309) 888-2551 soill.org/young-athletes

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For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

Special Olympics Illinois Young Athletes is a gross motor training program for children with and without intellectual disabilities between the ages of 2 and 7. Young Athletes focuses on motor development and preparation for participation in future sport. Young Athletes trainings and events happen at the local, regional and state level. For information about starting a Young Athletes program in your home, school or community, contact youngathletes@soill.org.

KEEN: Kids Enjoy Exercise Now University of Illinois at Chicago Sport and Fitness Center 828 S. Wolcott Ave., Chicago (312) 876-2536 keenchicago.org

Nonprofit, volunteerled organization that provides free one-to-one recreational opportunities for people ages 5-21 with developmental and physical disabilities. KEEN pairs a trained volunteer “coach” with a young athlete in sports and swim program. A second facility is located at Trinity Methodist Church, 1024 Lake Ave., Wilmette.

Flying High Sports & Rec Center: Superstars Pediatric Therapy Program 5400 East Ave., Countryside

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7711 W. 99th St., Hickory Hills (708) 352-3099 flyinghighgym.com

Indoor sports and rec center. Offer Superstars, a pediatric occupational and physical therapy program.

Therapy Yoga Gymnastics Rocks 2500 W. Bradley Place Chicago (773) 991-7316 therapygymnastics.com

Provides pediatric occupational, physical, and speech therapy through gymnastics and yoga, in gyms throughout the Chicagoland area. Certified therapists create fun individualized sessions that use gymnastics equipment and yoga activities to improve physical, social, cognitive and life skills.

Additional locations at 1845 Raymond Drive, Northbrook; 7779 N. Caldwell Ave, Niles; and 2610 W. Commerce Drive, Libertyville.

Haley’s Playground Inc. 409 New Indian Trail Court Aurora (630) 777-5045 haleysplayground.com

Provides a safe, healthy, sensory motor environment for individuals with physical, cognitive and social disabilities to improve their quality of life through play, exercise, activity, and education while interacting with members of their families, friends and peers.

Available for ages 2-30.

The kids, teens and young adults are mentored by their peers of typical development.

Offers Thursday Teen Night, Saturday morning classes and Sunday open gym. For information, visit facebook.com/ haleysplayground.

Chicago Children’s Museum Navy Pier 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago

(312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org

On the second Saturday of every month, the museum hosts its Play For All program, which provides families with children with special needs a chance to visit the museum early and play in a quiet, more manageable setting.

Opens at 9 a.m. for the event and offers a quiet room with special lighting. Museum opens to the public at 10 a.m.

The first 250 to register receive free admission.

Registration can be done at chicagochildrensmuseum.org/index.php/about/ accessibility-inclusion

Special Gifts Theatre P.O. Box 2231, Northbrook (847) 564-7704 specialgiftstheatre.org

An educational and therapy based drama program for people with special needs. Uses the stage as a platform to develop social skills, increase self-confidence and improve speech communication. Multiple locations and programs are available year round for children and adults.

SUPPORT The Apraxia Connection 401 N. Catherine Ave. La Grange Park theapraxiaconnection.org

Established as a public charity organization by three Chicagoland moms of children with apraxia of speech, global apraxia, and associated disorders.

It strives to connect neighborhood resources and information on apraxia and associated disorders with individuals, families, therapists, educators and other professionals. Serves Chicago-area communities and the Midwest.

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SUPPORT Celebrate Differences 5375 Route 34, Suite 4 Oswego (630) 885-3006 celebratedifferences.org

An all-inclusive community resource center, welcoming all children and their families regardless of age or disability. Offers informative monthly workshops, sibling workshops, a resource library, an annual summer and holiday party, a Next Chapter book club, play groups and more. Connects families through outreach projects, social activities and social networking.

Family Support Network of Illinois 651 E. 159th Place South Holland (708) 331-7370 familysupportnetwork.org

Works to unify individuals with disabilities and their families to advocate

Horsefeathers Therapeutic Riding

Special Recreation Associations in Illinois provide a lifetime of recreation opportunities for children and adults with disabilities.

Please visit www.specialrecreation.org or contact WDSRA at 630-681-0962 to find an agency near you.

Helps network families

Southwestern Illinois Special Recreation Association (SWILSRA) 618-877-3059

Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation (M-NASR) 847-966-5522, www.mnasr.org

Special Recreation Association of Central Lake County (SRACLC) 847-816-4866, www.sraclc.org

McDonough County Special Recreation Association (MCSRA) 309-833-4526, www.mcsra.org

Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County (SRSNLC) Lindenhurst - 847-356-6011, www.lindenhurstparks.org Round Lake - 847-546-8558, www.rlapd.org/programs-specialrecreation.cfm Waukegan - 847-360-4760, www.waukeganparks.org Zion - 847-746-5500, www.zionparkdistrict.com

Northeast DuPage Special Recreation Association (NEDSRA) 630-620-4500, www.nedsra.org

Northlands Association for Special Recreation (NASR) Belvidere 815-547-5711, www.belviderepark.org Freeport 815-235-6114, www.freeportparkdistrict.org Rockford 815-987-1606, www.rockfordparkdistrict.org

Special Recreation of Joliet and Channahon (SRJC) 815-741-7275 x169, www.jolietpark.org/srjc-home Special Recreation Services (SRS) 708-841-1071 x233, www.specialrecservices.org Springfield Park District 217-544-1751, www.springfieldparks.org

Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) 847-392-2848, www.nwsra.org

Tri County Special Recreation Association (Tri County) 815-407-1819, www.tricountysra.org

Oak Lawn Park District/Special Recreation Cooperative 708-857-2200, www.olparks.com

Veterans Park District/Village of River Grove 708-343-5270, www.veteransparkdistrict.org

River Valley Special Recreation Association (RVSRA) 815-933-7336, www.rivervalleysra.com

Warren Special Recreation Association (WSRA) 847-244-6619, www.warrentownship.net/wsra

Special Opportunities Available in Recreation (S.O.A.R.) 309-434-2260, www.bpard.org

Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) 630-681-0962, www.wdsra.com

South East Association for Special Parks & Recreation (SEASPAR) 630-960-7600, www.seaspar.org

West Suburban Special Recreation Association (WSSRA) 847-455-2100, www.wssra.net

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105 Townline Road, Suite 132 Vernon Hills (847) 624-LEXI (5394) helpingfromheaven.org

Lincolnway Special Recreation Association (LWSRA) 815-320-3500, www.lwsra.org

Chicago Park District Special Recreation Dept.

312-742-5798, special.recreation@chicagoparkdistrict.com

Illinois River Valley Special Recreation Association (IRVSRA) East Peoria – 309-699-3923, www.fondulacpark.com Pekin – 309-347-7275, www.pekinparkdistrict.org

Lexi Kazian Foundation-Helping From Heaven

South West Special Recreation Association (SWSRA) 708-389-9423, www.swsra.com

Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association (NSSRA) 847-509-9400, www.nssra.org

Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association (HISRA) 309-691-1929, www.hisra.org

Provides information and support for families, free seminars, Youth Advocacy Project and Parent-ToParent Training Project.

Lily Cache Special Recreation Association (LCSRA) 630-739-1124, www.lilycachesra.org

Champaign-Urbana Special Recreation (CUSR) 217-239-1152, www.cuspecialrecreation.com

Gateway Special Recreation Association (Gateway) 630-325-3857 x110, www.ray-graham.org

11 E. Adams St., Suite 1002 Chicago (312) 939-3513 or (312) 939-3519 TTD frcd.org

South Suburban Special Recreation Association (SSSRA) 815-806-0384, www.sssra.org

Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) 815-459-0737, www.nisra.org

Fox Valley Special Recreation Association (FVSRA) 630-907-1114, www.fvsra.org

Family Resource Center on Disabilities

Kishwaukee Special Recreation Association (KSRA) 815-758-6663 x122, jeggleston@dekalbparkistrict.com

Look for our ad in this magazine.

Decatur Park District Special Recreation Assn.

217-429-7750, www.decatur-parks.org

for funding, services and community resources that strengthen and support the individual and the family directly by responding to their individual needs and empowering them to live in their own homes.

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SUPPORT through fun events for the child with special needs that the whole family will enjoy. Also runs Lexi’s Closet, a place to request therapy equipment parents can’t get from their insurance company, are waiting to get delivered or are not sure might work for their child. Also accepts gently used therapy equipment to share with others.

group therapy, therapeutic preschool program, early intervention services and summer camp programs. Specializes in sensory integration, autism, DIR/Floortime, augmentative communication and stuttering.

Community Therapy Services 40W310 LaFox Road, Suite A1/B1, St. Charles (630) 444-0077 ctspediatrics.com Clinic services: info@ctspediatrics.com Contractual Services: outreach@commtx.com

National Lekotek Center 2001 N. Clybourn Ave., Suite 100, Chicago (773) 528-5766 lekotek.org or ableplay.org

Lekotek offers therapeutic play-based sessions and play groups for children with disabilities (birth-8 years) and their families.

These play sessions are structured to help children with special needs learn, develop and thrive in a world that presents them with many unique and complex challenges. Toys and play are used to help the children at Lekotek relate to the world around them. Families who are members of the Lekotek program are able borrow 5+ toys per month from the toy lending library. Services are provided in English and Spanish.

Supporting Illinois Brothers and Sisters 3800 N. Lake Shore Drive #3E, Chicago (708) 989-3619 sibsnetwork.org

Nonprofit organization providing support to siblings of people with disabilities in Illinois by connecting them with information, networking opportunities and resources to enhance the quality of life for their entire family. For information, e-mail tara@sibsnetwork.org.

Special Parents for Special Kids 212 Barney Drive (inside

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Provides speech, occupational, physical and augmentative communication therapy. Facilitates online support groups for parents and caregivers at facebook.com/groups/ ctscoffeetalktech.

Easter Seals), Joliet specialparentsforspecialkids.com

A parent-led group open to all parents, regardless of their child’s diagnosis.

Monthly meetings to share experiences and support. Guest speakers. Childcare provided on-site.

Tic Together Community Group River Heights Business Center 5375 Highway 34, Suite 4 Oswego

Support Group for people whose lives have been touched by Tourette Syndrome. Meets the second Sunday of every month at 6:30 p.m. and is open to all ages and educators as well. For more information, email tic2gether@gmail.com.

THERAPY BDI Playhouse 11411 W. 183rd St., Suite B Orland Park 1864 High Grove Lane, Suite 104 Naperville (708) 478-1820 bdiplayhouse.com

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Play Works Therapy Inc.

V.I.P. Service Dog Foundation Provides a wide range of therapy services, intensive programming for autism, play groups and parent training.

Courage To Connect Therapeutic Center 2400 Ravine Way, Suite 600 Glenview (847) 730-3042 couragetoconnecttherapy.com

Specializes in treating Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral and anger issues, grief and loss, and trauma.

Monthly social skills groups are available for children, teens, and young adults with Asperger’s and ADHD, including a new group for college students with Asperger’s that meets weekly at Roosevelt University. Offers clinical therapeutic services for individuals of all ages, couples and families.

UIC Child & Family Development Center 1640 W. Roosevelt Road

Room 316, MC628, Chicago (312) 413-1567 uic-cfdc.org

Offers individualized, evidence-based, and family-centered services.

The child’s caregiver is an active participant in therapy sessions where they learn to promote their child’s growth and development. Clinical staff provide evaluation and therapy services through private insurance and/or Illinois’ Early Intervention System.

Pediatric DT, OT, PT, ST and SW services with bilingual Spanish/English providers available.

Kick Start Pediatric Network 1845 Oak St., Suite 15 Northfield (847) 386-6560 kickstartptn.com

Pediatric clinic offering occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, and a variety of groups including social groups and fine motor/handwriting groups. Therapists

specialize in a wide range of approaches including sensory integration, fine and gross motor development, oral motor and DIR. Provides early intervention services through the state and also offers private services for children 0-3 in a clinic setting.

Learning through Play Center for Child Development 633 W. Addison St., Chicago (312) 458-9865 pediatricresources.org

Offers speech therapy, ABA/behavior therapy, occupational therapy, and sensorimotor modalities such as Interactive Metronome. Has a variety of preschool classes, socialization groups and yearly speech camps.

Eyas Landing 1436 W. Randolph St. Suite 204, Chicago (312) 733-0883 eyaslanding.com

Offers occupational therapy, speech therapy,

2155 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (847) 977-3399 playworkschicago.com

Offers home-based and clinic-based developmental therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling/ behavior therapy and playgroup services to children throughout the Chicagoland area.

Mosaic Therapy 801 Skokie Blvd., Suite 106 Northbrook (312) 799-9351 mosaictherapy.org

Offers families counseling, educational therapy and occupational therapy through parent education and direct service.

City Kids 5669 N. Northwest Hwy. Chicago (773) 467-5669 citykidsinc.com

Provides physical, occupational, speech and language, and therapy, plus educational preschool playgroups and a variety of classes and groups for all ages.

| ChicagoParent.com

2/6/15 3:40 PM

THERAPY behavioral and group process. Individualized support and therapy services are also available.

Funtastic Therapies Multiple locations (224) 554-9634 funtasticgymnastic.com

Offers occupational and speech therapy in swimming pool facilities.

Aspire Kids 1815 S. Wolf Road, Hillside (708) 236-0979 aspirechicago.com

Project Reach Illinois

Social Endeavors 1416 Lake St., Suite 1 Evanston (773) 339-7619 socialendeavors.net

Social skills groups for children, ages 2-10,

focusing on the development of age-appropriate social and communication skills. Emphasizes hands-on learning for both parents and chil-

dren, as well as teachers.

Uses a variety of techniques and strategies including social thinking, perspective taking, problem solving, cognitive-

Comprehensive services for children who have developmental delays and disabilities and their families include: developmental, occupational, physical, sensory integration and speech therapies; evaluations; orthopedic and vision clinics; social skills groups for children with social or

sensory challenges or who are on the autism spectrum; Alert Groups for children who need help learning to recognize and regulate their arousal levels; assistive technology and augmentative communication evaluations and support; parent groups; Sibshops; and family programs throughout the year.

arts--dance/movement, drama, music and art.

Serves clients at sites throughout Chicagoland as well as an in-house clinic in Evanston, Chicago, Downers Grove and Lake Forest.

VOCATIONAL AND TRAINING PROGRAMS

Institute for Therapy through the Arts

Center for Independent Futures

1702 Sherman Ave., Evanston (847) 425-9708 itachicago.org

1015 Davis St., Evanston (847) 328-2044 independentfutures.com

Provides individual, group and family therapy services for individuals of all ages who have psychological, physical and developmental challenges, encouraging them to achieve the fullest potential through the

Helps those living in the northern suburbs of Chicago access the skills and opportunities to realize full lives. Offers training/consultation to educators, human service professionals, and family groups.

Call 844-787-6566 to learn more.

Professional live-in childcare PROaupair places professional au pairs who have degrees in Pediatric Nursing, Special Needs Education, Pre-School/ Kindergarten Teaching, Occupational and Physical Therapy and more. A great option for families who have infants, multiples or children with special needs.

View available canidates at

www.proaupair.com ChicagoParent.com |

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Specıal Parent CHICAGO

SERVICE DIRECTORY

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

See our ad on the Inside Front Cover

See our ads on pages 3 and 28

SIBLING SUPPORT

SIBSENSATIONS PROGRAM FOR SIBS OF KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

SIBSENSATIONS gives siblings (ages 8-13) of children with special needs a chance to meet peers in a fun, friendly setting where they can share common joys and concerns. Through games, activities and discussions, they will form friendships, learn about disabilities and discover how to handle tough situations they all face.

When:

Saturdays: 2/28, 3/21, 4/25

Cost:

$10.00 per session, registration is required.

Where:

acktman Children’s Pavilion Y 1675 Dempster-Park Ridge, IL

Contact:

Kathryn Smart MS RN, 847-723-9484 Kathryn.smart@advocatehealth.com

SPECIAL NEEDS TRANSPORTATION SERVICE

HERE WE COME

TRANSPORTATION We are the people, for the people providing transportation services for all people. We provide service to and from appointments, school, after-school, day care centers, small group outings and much more!

H E R E

HERE WE

COME

C O M E TRANSPORTATION

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • Car Seats Provided • Safe Drivers Reasonable & Affordable Rates • Available 7 Days a Week Wheelchair Accessible • 12 & 7 Seat Vans Available State of ILL/MBE Certified • Courteous & Professional Drivers

PO Box Matteson, IL 60443 • overcomer2@sbcglobal.net

773-812-6359 or 708-244-7277

FREE MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION FOR CLIENT WITH MEDICAID. 44

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See our ad on page 5

See our ad on page 25

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

PEDIATRIC THERAPY

At Southwest Dental we take special care of

special needs.

“When Experience Matters” Our long established and well-respected center in Chicago’s southwest suburbs specializes in the treatment of: Torticollis, Autism, Coordination Disorder, Hypotonia, Sensory Processing Disorder, Toe Walking, and other neuro-motor diagnoses.

Celebrating our 26th year of service, we employ only highly experienced therapists who are advanced in their fields. We offer caring and progressive PT, OT and ST to help your child achieve rapid progress in an atmosphere of love and respect from all of us.

4721 W. Midlothian Tpk., Suite 25 Crestwood, IL 60445 (708) 371-7007

Exceptional care and patient comfort go hand in hand at Southwest Dental Group. This gives special needs children and adults an experience they can feel good about - with the option of IV sedation for situational anxiety.

We believe there’s no need too special.

Look for the Summer issue of Chicago Special Parent in July!

(708) 403-3355

16600 South 107th Court, Orland Park, IL

Dr. Tentler holds diplomate status in the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists.

Dr. Robert L. Tentler and Associates, General Dentistry

| ChicagoParent.com

2/5/15 1:38 PM

ChiCago Spec覺al Parent Advertiser Index Ad Name .....................................Page Number(s)

DuPage Children's Museum ........................................... 16

PRO au pair .....................................................................43

Acacia Academy.............................................................. 31

Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley ................................ 30

SEASPAR............................................................................11

Advocate Lutheran General .................................... 36, 44

Learning Through Play ...................................................38

Autism Home Support ................................................... 14

Elmhurst College ...............................................................7

Camelot Education ........................................................ 20

Extended Home Living ....................................................11

The Center for Enriched Living ......................................33

Here We Come Transportation ............................... 36, 44

Charlie's Gift .................................................................... 31

Karate Can-Do! ................................................................ 13

Smart Love Family Services ...........................................22

Cherry Preschool .............................................................34

Kids in Motion ................................................................ 44

Southwest Dental Group ...........................................17, 44

Chicago Blue Dolphins.................................................... 15

Lamb's Farm ....................................................................34

Chicago Children's Museum ...........................................27

Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois ..................33

Chicago Park District.........................................................5

Leep Forward ..................................................................47

Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center.............. 19

Little City......................................................................3, 28

Cove School ..................................................................... 16

Mobility Lifter ....................................................................8

Ultimate Gymnastics ........................................................8

The Discovery Clinic ..................................................32, 36

MobilityWorks .................................................................24

Ups for Downs................................................................ 20

Sensational Support ....................................................... 19 The Sensory Kids Store....................................Back Cover Shriners Hospital for Children........................................25

Special Family Support ..................................................32 SRANI ...........................................................................2, 41 Therapeutic Links ............................................................ 13

ChicagoParent.com |

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INSPIRATIONS

Rolling into the spotlight

BY ELIZABETH DIFFIN

W

hen Mike Berkson was born, doctors said he would never speak. So it’s all the more striking that Berkson, 25, now travels the country, performing in an original two-man show called “Handicap This!” s!

Berkson, who has cerebral palsy, has always relied ed on his voice, especially because he is in a wheelchair and nd has limited use of his arms.

“If I can talk … I can interact with people,” Berkson says. “And once you spend time with me for like 30 seconds, you’ll see that I’m more alike than I am different.”

In junior high, Berkson used his verbal skills and unusual interests to bond with his one-onone aide, Tim Wambach. Their bond inspired Wambach to write a book about their experiences, How We Roll. The book led to speaking engagements.

Then one day, as they were leaving one of their talks, Wambach came up with the idea of creating a show. With the help of a playwright friend, they put together some vignettes of their experiences, took a few acting classes and debuted Handicap This! at Oakton Community College in Des Plaines in 2010.

Since then, the show has been performed from New York

to California, including a recent five-show w run at Stage 773 in Chicago. o.

“We wanted d to take it on the road oad because we wanted t d tto inspire as many people as possible, and we wanted to entertain as many people as possible,” Berkson says.

Berkson, who hopes to direct a movie someday (and write a book, perform stand-up comedy and do other things that “have nothing to do with cerebral palsy”), also personally wanted to introduce people with physical disabilities into mainstream culture and represent their distinct point-of-view.

In fact, his and Wambach’s ultimate goal is to get the show on Broadway.

“Cerebral palsy is not me, but cerebral palsy is definitely part of my daily experience. Let that be part of your life, don’t let that be your child’s entire life.”

Hometown: Glenview On Feb. 12, Handicap This! launched a digital program called “Making Minds Handicap Accessible.” It pro vides high schools with a recording of the Handicap This! show as well as a complemen tary curriculum. Visit handicapthis.com for information. |

015 Specıal Parent Winter 2015 CHICAGO

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had a great impact on able-bodied audience members.

“They feel there’s someone else that’s gone through what they’ve gone through,” Berkson says. “[They] just really enjoy our message of never giving up and that everybody has something to offer.”

That perspective has kept Berkson going for 40-plus shows, even when he’s physically exhausted. They’ve never cancelled a show, because it would go against the show’s message of working through struggles.

And in the end, that’s been the focus of Berkson’s whole life, as he went from being a baby who people thought would never speak, to a young man who uses his words to inspire audiences.

As he says: “Just because something is difficult doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it.”

In his words:

Mike Berkson, 25

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Berkson says the B 71-minute-long show is 71-m infused with one main infu thing: humor. After all, thin the aability to laugh is what allows him to believe “there is no such thing that “the as a b bad day.” And so, whether dd he’s joking about the advantages of using a wheelchair, like getting the best parking places, or recounting the time he and his twin brother tricked a bus driver into thinking he was suddenly able to walk, his focus is on humor.

“As long as I know people are laughing, that’s how I know I’m doing my job,” he says.

Of course, the show isn’t just about laughter. Berkson also talks about some of the struggles he’s faced, including chronic anxiety and depression. And he’s found that being vulnerable about some of his challenges has

“You get the diagnosis of cerebral palsy or what have you; that’s a hard thing to deal with.

But then you look at your child as an individual, and you find what your child is capable of, and that’s the thing that you have to focus on.”

“I think that improvisation is something you need to do when you have a special need or a child with a special need. Being able to improv or roll with the punches is a very important thing to do because, let’s face it, you never know what’s going to happen minute to minute.” | ChicagoParent ChicagoParent.com com

2/5/15 1:36 PM

THERAPEUTIC PRESCHOOL & DEVELOPMENTAL PEDIATRIC CLINIC

Specializing in the treatment of children with Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder and Developmental Delays.

SERVICES & SPECIALTIES Therapeutic Pre-School ∙ Transitional Kindergarten ∙ Birth-to-Three Center Educational Therapy ∙ IEP Support ∙ Classroom Aides ∙ Inclusion Support Parent Coaching & Training ∙ Case Management ∙ Social Groups/Dyads Toddler/Parent Play ∙ Social Thinking Groups ∙ Improv ∙ Teen Groups ∙ Summer Camps Feeding Therapy ∙ Occupational Therapy ∙ Speech Language Pathology ∙ Social Work Individual Developmental Therapy ∙ Therapeutic Intensives ∙ Supportive Birthday Parties Clinic And Home Based ∙ Developmental, Relationship-Based Therapeutic Clinic

ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS: Drama ∙ Gymnastics ∙ Music and Art Therapy ∙ Cooking

For a complete listing of our current schedules and programming please visit our website or call us.

Complimentary Consultation | (312) 624-8750 | leepforward.com

ChicagoParent.com |

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because finding what you need should be easy!

Oral Chews • Chewelry • Speech, Language & Feeding Tools • Adaptive Aids • Low Vision Aids Earmuffs • Musical Instruments • Sensory Clothing • Weighted & Compression Goods • School Supplies • Fidgets • Fine Motor Aids • Sensory Tables • Tactile Mediums • Swings • Therapy Furniture • Scooters • Ride-On Toys • Ball Pits • Obstacle Courses • Developmental Toys • Games Behavioral Systems • Multi-Sensory Rooms • Learning Resources • Registry • Product Consulting our products are available online and by Appointment in your home, clinics and schools. We support Parents, therapists & teachers by providing the right solutions for your sensational kid.

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