Recommendations based on individual learning style
Recommendations to medical specialists (i.e. speech or physical therapy)
Psychotherapy
Consultation with prescribing provider
Contact
or to schedule an appointment.
Mini Golf is for Everyone!
At Monster Mini Golf®, our product is Guest Experience. Miniature Golf just happens to be the vehicle used to deliver it! The sole goal of Monster Mini Golf is to provide a wide variety of affordable experiences in a fun, family-friendly, alcohol-free atmosphere. Ageappropriate Guest Experience is our product and memorable family entertainment are our top priorities.
Whether it be a rainy-day activity or you are looking to pre-plan all of your group activities, Monster Mini Golf is the perfect venue for your next fun adventure! We are wheelchair accessible, climate controlled, all on one level and our interactive team members will cater to your group and help fill your day with adventure, games, prizes, smiles and loads of laughs! Monster Mini Golf provides a physically and mentally stimulating experience for any individual of any age.
The little book with the SPECIAL resources is brought to you by:
NJ Special Needs Guide is published by NJ Kids Media Group, Inc., PO Box 542, Roseland, NJ 07068 We assume no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions, nor do we recommend programs, nor do we warrant the accuracy or reliability of any of the information contained in this book. Nothing herein contained may be reproduced in any manner without written permission of NJ Kids Media Group, Inc. Copyright 2024
Locations in Union, NJ and Montclair, NJ
Serving students ages 3-21 with multiple disabilities including autism spectrum disorder
Deron offers each student a customized curriculum, with the right combination of services, in the right frequency, to ensure they reach their greatest potential. Accredited
Extended school year/summer programs
Transition services ages 18-21
Monthly Open Houses
We can help you access information regarding:
Developmental Disabilities Resources
Transition Planning
Recreational Programs / Summer Camps
Mental Health Services
plus we offer a variety of webinars on topics related to disabilities, as well as sponsor monthly Parent Support Groups
For a complete list of current workshop offerings visit www.bergen.org/cape
Our Goal is to connect you!
Welcome and thanks for picking up this latest Special Needs edition. We recognize the daily hurdles of raising a child with special needs. This handy digest guide is chock full of valuable resources, programs and activities to help support your family and your child. Inside, you will be connected to professionals with expert advice, therapeutic programs, summer camps, schools, and enrichment programs.
For the upcoming holidays, we’ve compiled a list of sensory friendly performances and venues that are accessible. You’ll find many attractions that welcome the special needs community and have set up opportunities for all to experience. From things to do at the museums, planetariums, zoos, to the farm and more. Plan ahead and check our online resources regularly. Search our calendars for more activities that may be suitable. Enjoy!
Sandra Leu & the NJ KIDS Team www.njkidsonline.com
WHY NOT ADVERTISE? next closing: Spring / Summer Issue March 10, 2025
Got Kids? What To Do! SENSORY FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO AROUND NJ
Many attractions welcome the special needs community and have set up special opportunities. Here are some ideas. Be sure to plan early and register online. Also, log on to njkidsonline.com and search our calendars for more activities that may be suitable.
VISIT A MUSEUM AND LEARN ABOUT ART & SCIENCE
Montclair Art Museum Access Program - An art museum showcasing American artwork. Sensory Sunday Studio is designed for families with neurodivergent members, whether you’re on the autism spectrum or have other sensory sensitivities. Each month features a different project designed by MAM Teaching Artists that is accessible to artists of all ages and abilities. Drop-in is held the first Sunday of the month from noon to 1pm. montclairartmuseum.org
Morris Museum - A museum with collections on art, the earth, mechanics, model trains, and more! Provides a welcoming and inclusive environment. Hand-on Spark! Lab for kids. morrismuseum.org
Liberty Science Museum - A science and STEM music designed with fun and hands on activities. This is an ADA compliant museum. View the sensory map beforehand for lighting, sound, smell, and other features. lsc.org
Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC - The Met offers workshops for individuals with Autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Learn about art and make art. Sensory tips and maps are available online. Upcoming FREE events, register: metmuseum.org
Museum of Modern Art - An art museum with a focus on modern art collections and displays. MoMA’s Monthly Create Ability Program provides creative art experiences for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental disabilities, and other special needs. Upcoming: Create Ability (FREE, Registration required): Paper Play on Sun, Nov 10, 11AM & 2PM, Making a Museum on Sun Dec 8,11AM & 2PM. moma.org
Museum of Natural History - A natural history museum with collections and exhibits on animals, rocks, oceans, earth, people and more! Discovery Squad Tours are offered to children ages 5-14 years old who are affected by Autism. Led by trained tour guides, kids get to explore museum activities before it opens to the public. Registration required for upcoming Sunday tours: Nov 17, 2024, Dec 15. amnh.org
Intrepid Museum - A museum aboard a WWII aircraft, featuring science, history, innovation, and STEM exhibits and experiences. Sensory friendly early morning openings (ages 3-18) and evenings (14+) for participants and family their members on select dates. Upcoming special access programs: Oct 27, Nov 16, and Dec 8. Advance registration for free tickets. intrepidmuseum.org
The Franklin Institute - A science museum with exhibits and experiences on space, sports, the brain, machinery, astronomy and more! Sensory Guide lets you know which experiences may have high levels of stimulation and offers helpful tips. Sensory Backpacks available. fi.edu
VISIT AN AQUARIUM TO SEE MARINE LIFE
Adventure Aquarium in partnership with Kulture City offers accessible amenities for guests with sensory needs - sensory bags, weighted lap pad, headphone zones, quiet areas. A behind the scenes accessible Shark Shack tour offered. Sensory Sundays on the third Sunday of each month, 9:30AM-10:30AM. Upcoming: Nov 17, and Dec 15. Explore ocean life, touch exhibits, see fish. adventureaquarium.com
New York Aquarium accommodates guests with sensory needs. Quiet zones, sensory bags, and headphones are available. This aquarium partners with KultureCity. Come to Coney Island to see penguins, sea otters, jellyfish, and other marine life. nyaquarium.com
ANIMALS AT THE ZOO
The Bronx Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals. Explore animal exhibits and wildlife. The Zoo has quiet and headphone zones and offer sensory bags and accessibly map. Special Holiday Lights Sensory-Friendly Night: Thurs, Dec 5, 2024 and Fri, Jan 3, 2025. Experience holiday lights throughout the zoo with sensory inclusive modifications. Reduced capacity, quieter music, adjusted lighting, quiet ice carving, illuminated performers on Astor Court, KultureCity sensory bag loan available. bronxzoo.com
The Central Park Zoo offers quiet zones, sensory bags, and headphones. Open year round featuring a Tropic Zone, Temperate Territory, the Polar Circle, and a children’s zoo. See snow leopards, sea lions, red pandas and more! Upcoming: FaBOOlous Access Morning at Tisch Children’s Zoo on Oct 27, 9:30AM-10:30AM. Purchase tickets at centralparkzoo.com
Philadelphia Zoo has sensory friendly morning resources online to help your family have a great animal adventure. Learn where quiet areas are located, what to expect with a Giraffe Experience, what goes on seeing birds up close at the Wings of the World, riding the SEPTA PZ Express Train, and hopping aboard the Amazon Rainforest Carousel. Over 1,900 animals and opportunities to connect with animals. philadelphiazoo.org
BE AN ATHLETE AND TRAIN
Special Olympics NJ offers various opportunities for kids with disabilities to get involved in a sports program. Children ages 2-7 participate in Young Athletes program. Children ages 8+ are called athletes in training. Pick what sport you would like to play. Sports include golf, soccer, skiing, volleyball, basketball, swimming and more! sonj.org
GET WET AT A WATERPARK
Big Kahuna’s Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark - Enjoy water park rides and water fun at this Certified Autism Center. Check website to view sensory guide and accessible events. West Berlin, NJ. bigkahunas.com/nj
GO TO A FARM
Alstede Farms is a welcoming, family-friendly destination that prioritizes inclusivity for all visitors. Offers ADA-accessible wagon rides, ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility needs, can fully enjoy the farm experience. Chester, NJ. alstedefarms.com
GO ON RIDES AT A THEME PARK
Storybook Land offers an Assisted Access Pass to guests with special abilities, this allows them to ride an attraction at the next cycle. Sensory friendly designated quiet zones are available. Family friendly rides and attractions are suitable for all. Egg Harbor Township, storybookland.com
PLANETARIUM FUN
The Raritan Valley College Planetarium offers sensory friendly astronomy and music shows where doors are open, lights are dimmed, and audio is lowered. Branchburg. raritanval.edu.
LISTEN TO A SYMPHONY
The New Jersey Symphony offers relaxed performances to accommodate patrons of all abilities. Resources available include sensory guide, relaxation room, seating guide, and trained staff. The New Jersey Symphony and Autism Community Program brings the musical magic of the orchestra to children and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Specially trained musicians create singular opportunities to interact with their world through the experience of live music. njsymphony.org
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When you join our self-directed respite program you can say hello to feeling your BEST SELF again. Let us help you tackle your to-do list and recharge by having a trusted family member or friend step in to take care of your child. TeamCare’s respite program can make this dream possible; all at no cost to you
It's that easy
Contact us to confirm your eligibility and apply
Choose a respite provider you’re comfortable with. It can be anyone who is over 18, but not a parent/guardian
We’ll get your chosen provider approved
Receive a monthly reimbursement check for the hours logged
“The best medicine!”
I was very overwhelmed, anxious and depressed. My reserves were low. Then I heard about TeamCare’s respite program. It gave me the time and the space to just be. That’s really the best medicine for me.
Debra DeOliveira Mom and TeamCare NJ client
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY
(advertising section)
Banyan School
Elementary: 12 Hollywood Avenue, Fairfield High School: 471 Main St, Little Falls LIFE Academy (18-21 yrs) 973.439.1919 | www.BanyanSchool.org
Banyan School is a private, non-profit, NJ Department of Education Approved School for students with significant language-based learning disabilities. Over the past 31 years, our primary focus has been the development and reinforcement of reading, language & communication skills necessary for academic success. Our faculty is trained in a variety of research-based, multi-sensory teaching techniques and strategies, including the Wilson Reading System®, Lindamood Bell® Programs, Multisensory Math®, and TouchMath® plus small classes, individualized attention, and integrated assistive technology. The HS curriculum continues to reinforce reading, language and communication skills, while preparing students for the next phase of their education and life. The LIFE (Learning Independence. Fostering Empowerment.) Academy emphasizes life and work skills in a supportive environment that builds confidence and success.
The Calais School is a state-approved, private special education school in North Jersey serving students in grades K – 12+ with multiple learning disabilities as well as anxiety, mood, behavior and autism spectrum disorders. We believe every child has the ability to exceed their possibilities and are committed to cultivating this potential in all of our students.
We provide innovative programs and a flexible curriculum.
Celebrate the Children
230 Diamond Spring Rd, Denville 973.989.4033 | celebratethechildren.org
A non-profit, state-approved private school, which serves a diverse range of students ages 3-21 with autism and other challenges in relating and communicating. Our focus is tailoring a program to meet the needs of the individual and their learning style v. a label. We are committed to using respect and relationships to support a student’s ability to become an engaged and active learner. We are proudly celebrating 20 years of special education!
Chapel Hill Academy
31 Chapel Hill Rd., Lincoln Park 973.686.0004 | www.chapelhillacademy.net
Chapel Hill Academy is a New Jersey Approved Private School for students with learning, social, emotional and behavioral issues in Kindergarten through 12th grade. We have a flexible and comprehensive curriculum tailored to meet the needs of, and focus the strengths of each student.
CTC Academy is enhancing the lives of children and young adults with special needs, and their families, by providing an enriched educational, therapeutic and supportive environment. NJ State approved pre-school through 12th grade. The Fair Lawn campus serves children ages 18 months through 7 years and offers an Early Enrichment Program (EEP) designed to enhance and build upon early Intervention services received in the home for ages 18 months - 3 years (open enrollment). The Oakland campus serves 1st through 12th Grade (ages 7–18), and STEP Program, ages 18 – 21 years (including children who are medically fragile). Support groups are available for families and siblings of children at both locations.
Sage Alliance Schools
Boonton (Grades 9-12) 973.402.0600
Mahwah (Grades 4-8) 201.818.8873
Paramus (Grades 8-12) 201.225.0046
Rochelle Park (Grades 9-12) 201.843.3800 www.sagealliance.com
Our schools support students within an integrated academic and therapeutic environment, providing a mix of scholastic engagement, emotional support and medical consultation. Education is a partnership that involves student and family. Psychiatrists, therapists, learning strategists and certified educational staff, the student’s school district and our community partnerships, surround the student in an ongoing, student-centered process. Accredited by The Middle States Association, all campuses offer unique, personalized scheduling to accommodate student needs, a competitive academic program which includes elective classes, extra-curricular clubs and activities, continuous social opportunities, and post-secondary planning. We teach valuable life skills that foster confidence and independence, which is a reason 100% of our students have a specific plan after graduation, and 80% choose to attend a 2- or 4-year college.
Windsor Bergen Academy (WBA) is a state approved non-profit, private school. We provide a quality education for children from Pre-K through 8th grade allowing students to overcome academic and social/emotional challenges through innovative programs focusing on academic success and high school readiness.
CAMPS
Camp Kipanga
Ramapo College Campus Mahwah, NJ (summer)
RJFS, 450 W Nyack Rd, W Nyack, NY (winter) 845.354.2121 x141 | cwww.ampkipanga.com
Camp Kipanga is a six week summer day camp for children and teens who want to improve their social skills and interpersonal connections, regardless of diagnosis or background. Whether
facing social skills deficits, ADHD, ASD, or simply not yet successful in other summer programs, campers will find activities to choose from that are open-ended, non-competitive, and full of variety. Camp counselors and vendors are experienced and trained in working with diverse and exceptional learners, and they will provide a safe and supportive environment for campers ages 5 to 18. Come and join us for a fun summer that celebrates your camper’s uniqueness and potential!
Camp Lee Mar
450 Route 590, Lackawaxen, PA 215.658.1708 | www.leemar.com
Camp Lee Mar is a special needs camp that offers a traditional overnight camp experience. This allows our campers with special needs to enjoy all the fun and social experiences of a summer camp and gain valuable life skills. Our goal is the development of the whole child. Our campers, ages 7-21, develop skills in the areas of independent living, social and communication skills, self-advocacy, and academics. Through a variety of recreational activities and classic camp culture, campers are supported and encouraged to meet their full potential. Not only do we strive to give campers these skills during their weeks at camp, but we also grow their confidence and knowledge to carry these invaluable skills into their school year.
RECREATION
Alstede Farms
1 Alstede Farms Lane, Chester 908.879.7189
info@alstedefarms.com | www.alstedefarms.com
Alstede Farms is a welcoming, family-friendly destination that prioritizes inclusivity for all visitors. We are proud to offer ADA-accessible wagon rides, ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility needs, can fully enjoy the farm experience. Our accessible wagons provide a comfortable and safe way to explore the farm’s orchards, fields, and attractions. At Alstede Farms, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature, participate in seasonal activities, and create cherished memories with loved ones, making our farm a truly inclusive space for all.
MarbleJam Kids
214 State St., Suite 204, Hackensack 201.497.6512 | www.marblejam.org
Authorized NJ DDD and NJ DCF Provider
MarbleJam Center is a fully compliant ADA facility that provides creative arts therapies and adaptive social learning programs for children, teens, and adults with autism, ADHD, and mental health challenges. The year-round programs and services explore the person’s creative expression and potential while building social skills and a support network.
Special Dragons Karate
Locations: Union, Bellevue, Jersey City, Paterson
Info@SpecialDragonsKarate.org
973.667.8525 | www.SpecialDragonsKarate.org
A karate program for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. We have exclusively taught special needs students for over 12 years. Basic karate techniques are used to address eye/ hand coordination, motor control, conditioning, balance, sensory integration, time on task and focus as well as cognitive processing speed and encourages neuroplasticity. Parents are allowed to participate together with their children. We come to you too!
DENTISTRY
Carter Smile
180 Main Street, Madison
973.540.1666 | www.cartersmilellc.com
Committed to providing comprehensive dental care and orthodontics for infants through teens, including those with special needs, striving to create a fun-filled environment where children feel at home! Early dental care can promote a lifetime of healthy smiles for your child. Dr. Carter and her nurturing team will help equip your child with the knowledge necessary for good oral hygiene. Finding new ways to provide exceptional pediatric and orthodontic dental care is their priority.
RESOURCES
CAPE Resource Center
Bergen County Special Services
Paramus
201.343.6000 ext. 4067 | www. bergen.org/cape
The CAPE Resource Center provides information, referrals and assistance for individuals, families and professionals in the disability community. We help access information regarding developmental disability resources, transition planning, recreation programs/summer camps and mental health services. We offer a variety of webinars on topics related to disabilities and sponsor monthly parent support groups.
SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICES
LEGAL SERVICES
Karen Edler, Jackie Lasher & Michelle Krone Education Law Group
Our attorneys have personal experience with special needs family members and friends. They provide parents with tools to be effective advocates and to obtain a free, appropriate public education. Services include: reviewing Individualized Education Plans, Section 504 Plans, Health Care Plans, and Intervention & Referral Service Plans; explaining evaluations; attending IEP & 504 meetings; negotiating resolutions of programming and placement disputes; filing mediation and due process petitions; handling school disciplinary charges, hearings & appeals; providing guidance to college students regarding rights under Section 504; and assisting with applications for public benefits.
Our compassionate and experienced attorneys offer comprehensive legal services to help families protect the rights and secure the future of individuals with special needs. Our Special Needs Department provides guidance on matters such as Special Education, Special Needs Trusts, Guardianships, Disability Benefits, Estate Planning, and Elder Law, ensuring that families can navigate the legal system and maximize the rights and benefits available to their loved ones.
Recognized as one of New Jersey’s top law firms in both special education and estate planning. Having helped thousands of families secure their futures and access vital educational opportunities for their children with special needs, our work has set legal precedents in both NJ and Federal Courts. SGW brings a comprehensive approach to our clients’ legal needs, adeptly handling IEP
meetings, courtroom litigation, and estate planning to achieve the best outcomes for families. With our deep understanding of the complexities involved, we’re ready to assist you.
THERAPY SERVICES
Neurobehavioral Wellness Center
Woolwich Township
856.975.6279
www.neurobehavioralwellnesscenter.com
We provide evaluation and treatment services for children beginning at 3 years. Our doctors specialize in neuropsychological conditions in children and adolescents. We work with children and parents to understand the challenges they face and how these affect them in their day-to-day lives. Using neuropsychological evaluation and input from teachers, parents and medical professionals, we make a diagnosis and provide personal and comprehensive treatment plans. We also develop an IEP or 504 Plan and collaborate with school districts and if necessary, we help parents access services outside the school district.
True Abilities, LLC
862.223.8076 | www.trueabilities.com
True Abilities provides exceptional occupational therapy services in your home, school or daycare, We focus on individualized goals, building a solid foundation for new skills & higher levels of achievement. We also provide tips, strategies and techniques to improve everyday skills in a variety of settings. With 15+ years of pediatric OT experience in NJ schools, we help people of all ages achieve their full potential.
The little book with the SPECIAL resources!
advertise@njkidsonline.com or call 973.303.3027
Fall and Spring e-books and online next closing: March 10, 2025
PLAY INDOORS
Monster Mini Golf lets you be among monsters as you glow in the dark. Play the arcade, laser tag, mini golf, games and prizes. Welcoming special needs families at Edison, Paramus, and Fairfield. monsterminigolf.com
Crayola Experience has dozens of hands-on, creative activities. They serve guests with special needs and is designed for everyone to enjoy. Easton, PA. crayolaexperience.com
RIDE THERAPY HORSES
Seaton Hackney Stables in Morristown NJ provides therapeutic horseback riding lessons to children of all abilities. seatonhackney.com
Pony Power Therapies in Mahwah NJ connects people with disabilities with the wonders of horses. ponypowernj.org
PRACTICE MARTIAL ARTS
Special Dragons Karate provides fun classes and programs for the special needs community. Sign up for a free trial for your child. NJ locations in Belleville, Jersey City, Paterson, and Union. specialdragonskarate.org
SEE SENSORY FRIENDLY FILMS
AMC Theatres in partnership with the Autism Society offer sensory friendly movies scheduled on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays and on Wednesday evenings for mature films. Audience members can feel free to be you while house lights are up and the sound is down. amctheatres.com
HUNT DOWN A NATURE TRAIL
Nature trails are full of sensory activities. Check your local county and state parks to enjoy nature. nj.gov/dep/parksandforests
EXPLORE UNIVERSAL PLAYGROUNDS
Barrier free playgrounds or all access playgrounds. Central Park of Morris County in Parsippany, Jake’s Place in Cherry Hill, Challenger Place in Colts Neck, Votee Park in Teaneck.
GO TO A SENSORY FRIENDLY OR AUTISM FRIENDLY SHOW
Where venue lights are up, sound adjusted, and guests can move about.
• The New Victory Theater NYC: The Princess and the Pea, Oct 27, 2024, 3PM and Yuletide Factory Circus Mechanics, Dec 7, 2024, 5PM; MOYA Zip Zap Circus from Cape Town South Africa, Sun, Apr 27, 2025, 4PM
• State Theatre NJ: Milk & Cookies series: Oct 19, Nov 2, and Dec 7, 2024 @ 12PM
• UCPAC Main Stage: Haunted Hollow - Halloween Magic & Illusion, Sun, Nov 3, 2024 @ 2PM; NJ Ballet: The Nutcracker, Sun, Dec 1, 2024, 2PM
• Radio City Music Hall, NYC: Christmas Spectacular TDF Autism Friendly Performance, Sun, Nov 17, 2024 @ 9AM
• NYC Ballet: The Nutcracker, Sun, Jan 5, 2025, 1PM (ages 5+); Ballo della Regina, Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux, Scotch Symphony, Sun, May 18, 2025, 11AM (ages 5+)
• Mayo PAC: Pinkalicious The Musical, Sun, Jan 26, 2025, 4:30PM; A Year with Frog and Toad, Sun, Mar 9, 2025, 4:30PM; Sesame Street Live! Say Hello, Sat, Mar 22, 2025, 6PM; Dr. Temple Grandin: The Way I See It: A Personal Look at Autism and Asperger’s, Wed, Apr 9, 2025, 7:30PM; Pete The Cat, Sun, May 4, 2025, 4:30PM; Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical, Tues, May 13, 2025
• Winter Garden Theatre: Back to the Future: The Musical, Sun, Jan 26, 2025 @ 1PM. (tdf.org)
• Neil Simon Theatre NYC: MJ The Musical, Sun, Mar 2, 2025 @ 1PM (tdf.org)
• Stephen Sondheim Theatre, NYC: Romeo & Juliet, Sun, May 4, 2025 Stephen Sondheim Theatre, NYC @ 1PM (tdf.org)
• Papermill Playhouse: Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Autism Friendly Show, June 21, 2025
• Richard Rogers Theatre NYC: Hamilton, Sun, June 29, 2025 @ 1PM (tdf.org)
NJ CAMP FAIRS
Sat, Mar 1: Menlo Park Mall, Edison 55 Parsonage Rd, Edison connecting great kids with great camps meet camp directors from all kinds of summer camps and programs www.njkidsonline.com/camp-fairs Traditional Day Camps • Sleepaway • Sports Academic • Performing Arts • STEM • Adventure CIT program (hiring event too!) ... ages 3 - 17
Sat, Jan 25: Education Center, Turtle Back Zoo 560 Northfield Ave, W Orange
Sun, Jan 26: Oak Knoll School, Summit 83 Ashland Rd, Summit
Sat, Feb 1: Bergen Town Center, Paramus Route 4 East & Forest Ave
Sun, Feb 2: Montclair Art Museum, Montclair 3 S Mountain Ave, Montclair Sat, Feb 8: Village of Ridgewood 131 N Maple Ave, Ridgewood (next to Library) Sat, Feb 22: Morris Museum, Morristown 6 Normandy Heights Rd, Morristown
