The Special Child 2020

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Toilet Training Strategies The Benefits of

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The Academicand andSocial SocialInstructional Instructional Support (OASIS) program The Ongoing Ongoing Academic Support (OASIS) program at Pace offer Pace offers one of the most comprehensive college support programs for differen ngoing at Academic and Social Instructional Support (OASIS) program at Pace offers one of the most comprehensive college support programs for students with learning students with learning differences.

A true college experience is more than most comprehensive college support programs forthe students with learning differences.

A true collegeAcademic experience is Social more than just completion of coursework. a time fo The Ongoing and Instructional Support (OASIS) program It atis Pace offer the completion of coursework.

It is a time for students to grow, make collegejust experience is more than just the completion of coursework.

It is a time for students to grow, make friends, andsupport developprograms skills to succeed not just the workplace, of the most comprehensive college for students withinlearning differen friends, and develop skills to Pace succeed just in the workplace, but in life. nts to grow, make friends, and develop skills to not succeed not just intothe workplace, but in life.

The OASIS program at University is designed do just that.

A true college experience is more than just the completion of coursework. It is a time fo The OASIS program Pace University is designed do just that.

The OASIS program at Paceat University is designed to do justtothat.

students to grow, make friends, and develop skills to succeed not just in the workplace, Designed for students withatAsperger • Campus and social in• life.

The OASIS program Pace University is designed tolife do coordinators just that.

• Campus life coordinators and social • Designed for students with Asperger signed for students with Asperger Campus life coordinators and social syndrome, autism spectrum disorders,•learning coaches help students to integrate coaches help students to integrate into syndrome, autism spectrumlearning disorders, drome, autism spectrum disorders, coaches to integrate challenges, nonverbal learning differences, and help students dormitory and campus life, includin •learning Designed for students withlearning Asperger • into Campus life coordinators dormitory and campus life, including and club social challenges, nonverbal llenges, nonverbal differences, and into dormitory club andactivities, campustrips, life, activities, including trips, and mo related learning challenges. participation, and more. differences, related challenges. syndrome,and autism spectrum disorders, learningparticipation, coaches help students to integrate ted challenges. club participation, activities, trips, and more. challenges, nonverbalmeet learning differences, dormitorywith and Career campusServices life, includin Academic coaches with students and • into Collaboration • Collaboration with Career Services and • •Academic coaches meet with students related challenges. club participation, activities, trips, and mo ademic coaches meet students • Collaboration with Career Services several times a week to assist and outside agencies provide outside agencies provide opportunities foropportun several times awith week to assist withwith eral times assignments, a week to assist with and outside agencies provide opportunities organization, management internships and future employment. internships and future employment. organization, andand management • assignments, Academic coaches meet with students • for Collaboration with Career Services studies. ignments,of organization, for internships and future employment. of studies. and management several times a week to assist with outside agencies provide opportun • and Graduate with a bachelor’s degree in a • Graduate with a bachelor’s degree in any tudies. assignments, organization, and management for internships and future employment. field of study.

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•• Personalized study plans leverage student Students learn alongside peers where • Students learn alongside peers where strengths and address individual challenges. dents learnaccommodations alongside peersinwhere courses are provided, but accommodations in courses are provided, ommodations in courses aremodifi provided, but remains at thework workislearn isnot notmodified edand and remains at the •butthe Students alongside peers where work is not modified and remains at the level. thecollege college level. accommodations in courses are provided, but ege level. the work is not modified and remains at the college level.

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2020 | Special Child

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contents

NewYorkFamily.com Publisher: Hester Aba Executive Editor: Donna Duarte-Ladd Digital Editor: Katarina Avendaño Senior Adviser: Susan Weiss Director, Business Development: Mary Ann Oklesson Partnership Managers: Erik Bliss, Erin Brof, Mary Cassidy, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Nina Spiegelman Ad Ops Coordinator: Raphael Brutus Art Director: Leah Mitch Web Developer: Sylvan Migdal

FEATURES 6 | The Advantages of Camp For children with special needs, camp can have a significant impact 10 | Building Flexible Play Skills Encouraging kids with special needs to explore imaginative play 14 | Going the Extra Mile Museums, theaters, parks and more for kids with special needs 22 | Wolf + Friends App The moms who are changing how parents with Special Needs find support 24 | Toilet Training When the “usual” method isn’t enough — tips on toilet training your child with special needs

Resources 26 | New York Special Needs 34 | Westchester Special Needs 31 | March of Dimes 32 | Developmental Disabilities Service Offices 32 | New York Special Education Parent Centers

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Special Child | 2020

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Opportunities

The Advantages of Camp

For children with special needs, camp can have a significant impact

By Jess Michaels

A

ttending summer camp can be a beneficial experience for any child. For children with special needs, camp can be a reprieve from some of the struggles of home life and can have a significant impact on a child’s life. These camp directors at special needs summer programs share just a few of the many benefits of camp for a child who has special needs.

Feeling of Belonging “We find that what is truly transformative for our campers is that, often for the first time, they feel like they are a part of a larger community and that their voice really matters. That feeling of belonging is key for any child as they develop. Nothing can compare to how a child feels when they know that they are accepted for who they are,” says Debbie Sasson, Director of Camp Akeela, a coed overnight camp in Vermont & Wisconsin that helps children improve their social skills. “Our campers often are a minority at their schools and the peers and adults in their life expect them to be different.

At the right camp, they can be ok just being

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themselves. Once they feel that level of acceptance, they are more open to honest and empathic feedback from trusted adults and peers about how they may find more success in the world outside of camp.”

Build Confidence Jaime Jezek, Director of Camp Sun ‘N Fun, a day and overnight camp for children and adults with special needs in Williamstown, NJ says, “Other camps might have large goals like passing a deep water swim test, but here, a goal might be making just one friend or using a pair of scissors in art.

Every achievement is celebrated as special.”

Make Friends “Most parents come to me and say they want their child to be included and to make good friends,” comments Elyse Miller, Director of the Inclusion Program at Buckley Day Camp in Roslyn, NY. “Parents will tell me that their child doesn’t have friends at home and if they do, they are children like them. At camp, their friends are typical who just want to be their friends. One of my seven year old campers with medical issues invited all

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2020 | Special Child

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Opportunities

“Our campers often are a minority at their schools and the peers and adults in their life expect them to be different. At the right camp, they can be ok just being themselves.”

her camp friends to her birthday and every child came. Her mom couldn’t believe that everyone wanted to be there for her daughter.” Jezek adds, “Peer and social interactions are key things we hope to provide. A lot of our campers don’t make strong connections when at home. There often isn’t time for things like playdates because their regular care and therapy is time consuming and takes precedence. We will tell a parent whose child has autism that their son made a friend and they were holding hands. They can’t believe it and said their child doesn’t hold any ones hand!”

Independence Miller often hears from parents before camp about some of the tasks their child can’t do by themselves.

“During the summer, I’ll call them and say that he can cut his own food and put on his own socks.

There are no issues at all. Camp allows parents to loosen up and allow their children room to grow and to do things on their own.”

Be Themselves “Many of our campers are mainstreamed at school and there might only be one or two other children with special needs who understand their journey,”

states Jezek. “At a school, the wheelchair ramp is often separated from the main entrance but at camp, no accommodations need to be made because the camp environment is ready for them.

Everyone is using chubby brushes and chubby markers. It’s good for our campers to know that no one is looking at them differently and that everyone has a place here.”

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Camp Lee Mar

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• Fun traditional summer camp activities • Academics • Speech and language therapy • Daily living skills • Teenage campers enjoy social dancing every week with an end-of-summer “Prom” • Optional trips during the summer • Exceptional facilities featuring air conditioned bunks and buildings • Junior Olympic heated pool • Caring Nurturing Staff • Lee Mar L.I.F.E. (Living Independently Functional Education) Program. Launched during the summer of 2015, the unique feature of our L.I.F.E. Program incorporates everyday living skills into a personalized daily program. We have a fully functional apartment specifically for this program with a large kitchen, washer and dryer, two bathrooms, a living room and bedroom.

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life skills

Building Flexible Play Skills Allowing children to use creativity while developing their imagination

By Carly Seibald

A

ccording to the American Academy of Pediatrics, play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength.

Play is important for healthy brain development and it is through play that children from a very early age engage and interact in the world around them. However, not all play is created equal and for children with special needs, play can be a daily challenge at home and at school.

It is important for parents of special needs children to understand that like language and motor skills, play skills in all children should progress and reach developmental milestones.

And, just like the common challenges with language and motor skill development, children with special needs often have delays in their play skills. Parents and educators should be aware of play development and support the skill in children who struggle. Play can be challenging for children with special needs in a variety of ways. Some children lack the language skills necessary for complex play, or some lack the intrinsic interest in exploring toys and play materials. Many children with special needs have difficulty joining in and playing with others, while others have a hard time losing games. Some children prefer structured play or play that follows rules with clear expectations, while others prefer pretend and imaginative play.

Regardless of the kind of play a special needs child enjoys and gravitates towards, it is important that they be able to show flexibility during play. A lack of flexibility is known as rigidity (in play or otherwise), and can hinder a child’s ability to reap all the social, cognitive and developmental benefits of play.

Examples of rigid play commonly exhibited by children with special needs: • Always wanting to play with materials in the same way • Excessively repetition of routines within play oftentimes paired with a set verbal script (e.g., building an elevator and announcing every floor that it stops on).

• Using scripts from TV or videos (instead of using original ideas or language) • Frustration when others try and join in and change the game or not wanting their ideas to be interrupted

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• Sticking to game rules unconditionally, and becoming upset if changes occur • Always wanting to select the same color or game pieces • Difficulty losing • Excessive use of sound effects instead of language.

• Abandoning play when it does not go their way • Difficulty choosing new play materials or activities Imagine the scenario: two children are playing with blocks and characters on the rug during free play at pre-school. One child, child A, attempts to share their play idea: “Let’s take the 6 train to a special park that has a huge water slide and ice cream trucks that you don’t need money for. And after ice-cream, you can ride a pony to this special part of the park that has a jumping castle!”. Child A narrates their play, using blocks as the subway car and characters who will visit the park. The second child who has special needs, Child B, listens to these ideas, and maybe even says “Okay!”, but when it’s time to start playing, instead of narrating the journey to the park, they get stuck on acting out the train ride. They move the block subway car slowly, possibly while laying their body down sideways on the rug, and making exaggerated acceleration and deceleration noises. The only language used is a script with an uncanny resemblance to the audio loop on a real train, announcing the next stop and to mind the closing doors.

Child A waits for Child B to join in the pretend park fun, but Child B stays with the subway script.

Accelerating, decelerating and announcing the next stop. And the next. And the next. While both children are enjoying themselves, Child A has invited another friend to join in and share in the fun of the imaginary park, while Child B continues to play alone. You might notice, Child B is not upset that they end up playing alone, but rather, seems most comfortable in the safety and predictability of the repetitive and familiar routine.

At first glance, Child B’s play may go unnoticed by teachers or staff. They’re not causing a problem, not yelling or fighting with other children. But the true concern is that Child B, who has special needs, is not accessing play to its full potential. They’ve missed a chance to play more fully with a friend, to use their imagination and creativity to evolve their ideas, and sadly, they seem content to do what’s

most familiar and predictable, unwilling to take any risks during play.

Why is it important for a child to have flexible play skills?

Flexible play translates to flexible language use, increased flexibility in social interactions and enhancing a child’s resilience when things don’t go as planned. Let’s face it, being flexible is necessary for everyone; kids, adults, neurotypical people or those struggling with developmental delays.

Sometimes your ideas are shut down, sometimes your plans go awry, and sometimes you can’t predict what your friend or partner will do or say.

We all need the ability to react and adjust to the world around us, and practicing through play is a great place to start.

How can parents encourage flexible play?

Helping your special needs child increase their

flexibility during play will depend highly on their level of rigidity and their tolerance for disruption.

It’s important to take it slowly, and always work to keep play fun and motivating. If a child is likely to become very upset by changes in their play agenda, start by introducing some very small ideas that can be seen as expanding instead of changing.

This can simply mean that your character will join theirs on at the airport, or that instead of just building a familiar apartment building, you also build the garage that attaches to it. Try not to change or limit what they’re doing, but rather add your own ideas and model how the play can evolve into something more. Use language such as “I love your idea! It’d be cool if we could add this too!”.

Remember, play can never be wrong, but it can always be expanded.

If your child can tolerate more redirection in play, you can attempt to facilitate more concrete change like suggesting different ideas for building or working to motivate them to play with different 2020 | Special Child

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life skills

toys or selecting a different color game piece during a favorite board game. If your child is unwilling to give up their preferred toy, think about adding a different toy into the mix so they’re encouraged to use both toys in a new, original way. This may require explicit modeling (e.g., you show them how magnatiles and dinosaurs can go together by building a dinosaur museum). If they love toy vehicles, try using a school bus that people and animals can ride on instead of a closed car that cannot accommodate passengers. This will help allow for more play ideas such as taking the bus to school, to a special destination, and creating a dialogue between the riders as opposed to just using the bus as the main object of play.

Toys & Materials that help facilitate flexible play Choosing open-ended pretend toys that can be used in a variety of ways will allow parents to model and explore lots of different play schemes with the same toys. Play food, building materials, dress-up accessories, play-doh and vehicles which can accommodate characters or animals allow for the most language use and options for ideas.

If a child is stuck on playing with toys that appear

Let’s face it, being flexible is necessary for everyone. We all need the ability to react and adjust to the world around us, and practicing through play is a great place to start. only usable in a single way (e.g., train sets), think about adding creative challenges such as a pretend rainstorm which floods the track.

While working to increase your child’s flexible play skills, remember to be flexible yourself. Model a variety of language and scenarios, and above all, make sure you’re having fun and being spontaneous.

That is, after all, what play is all about!

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Special Child | 2020

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2020 | Special Child

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Programs

Going the Extra Mile Local museums, theater, parks and more for kids with special needs

By Mia Salas

W

e know how challenging it can be to accommodate your little one with special needs in the large crowds of museums or the loud sounds of a theater. Luckily, there are plenty of programs catered specifically to kids with special needs so that your kiddos can join in on the all of the excitement that NYC, Westchester and Long Island has to offer.

New York City Brooklyn Sensory Room at Brooklyn Children’s Museum 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11213

The Sensory Room is a permanent exhibit where kids of all abilities can play and explore their senses.

A Museum Educator facilitates a program during part of the session, while the remaining time is for your little ones to make their way through the exciting room on their own! The room was created by an advisory committee with experience serving children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The space is designed to be a welcoming and inclusive environment for all kiddos. Just be sure to let the Museum Educator know your child’s particular needs or sensitivities. Sessions are offered every Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2-2:30pm, 2:45-3:15pm, 3:30-4pm, and 4:15-4:45pm. Space is limited to 10 kids and their caregivers.

Access Programs at New York Transit Museum 99 Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Is your little one interested in trains? Then Subway Sleuths will be right up their alley. Second to 5th grade students on the autism spectrum are welcome to explore the decommissioned subway station, solve transit mysteries, and develop social skills as they interact with their peers. Each class is facilitated by a special education teacher, a speechlanguage pathologist, and a Transit Museum educator. This after-school program requires an application. If you’re looking for less of a commitment, Special Day for Kids is a fun outing for kids 14

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with disabilities and their families. Explore the museum, visit the quiet room, and participate in a variety of activities. The next Special Day for Kids is coming up in March 2020. Be sure to check out the other programs offered for kids and teens with disabilities at the Transit Museum!

Special Aces Junior Development Prospect Park Tennis Alliance Prospect Park Tennis Center, 50 Parkside Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11226

Sign up for Special Aces group tennis instruction for kids with special needs to introduce your little ones to the sport. Tennis professionals and qualified physical and occupational therapists teach tennis fundamentals in a fun way for players ages 6 to 18, grouped by age and ability. Sports wheelchairs are available, but limited, so register early.

The upcoming third session begins on March 1 and ends April 26. Classes are on Sundays.

Inclusive Services at Brooklyn Public Library Multiple locations

Brooklyn Public Library offers a variety of

programs that foster an inclusive environment for kids with and without disabilities. These programs are meant to welcome all kids, accommodating for little ones with special needs. Read and Play for kids up to age 5 and their families is an educational playtime in which kids learn social skills and language development through books and toys. Family LEGO Club invites children of all ages to build, explore, and engage in creative LEGO challenges. We also love Teen Time for All, which is an accessible space for your bigger kids to design, create, and meet new friends. Stay up to date with the Brooklyn Public Library calendar to find specific dates for these programs.

Manhattan Inclusive Weekend Programs at Children’s Museum of the Arts 103 Charlton Street, New York, NY 10014

Kids with disabilities and their families are welcome to take part in structured weekend programs that focus on social skills, manual dexterity, and fine and media arts. Inclusive Saturdays: Workshops for Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder are led

by Museum Teaching Artists. These free sessions

build community for families affected by autism and encourage expression through art. Inclusive Sundays: Workshops for Children with Physical Disabilities are led by Teaching Artists and Evaluators licensed in Occupational Therapy. All activities are modeled and adjusted to fit the individual needs of every child. Saturdays 9:30-10:45am, Sundays 12:30-2:30pm, register in advance.

Access Family Programs at The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Pier 86, West 46th Street, New York, NY 10036

Pop into The Intrepid’s monthly programs for kids ages 5 to 17 with learning and developmental disabilities. Take an interactive tour of the Museum and participate in arts and crafts. Each month focuses on a different theme. February’s theme is Living Pictures on February 2. Explore important moments on board the Intrepid through ship tours, movement activities, and hands-on art. February’s program also offers a session for teens and adults ages 15 and up, which is only offered six times a year. Access Family Programs are on select Sundays, 11am-1pm for 2020 | Special Child

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Programs

kids and 2-4pm for teens and adults when offered.

Create Ability at the Museum of Modern Art 11 West 53rd Street, New York, NY 10019

Bring your little ones with learning and developmental disabilities to the Museum for a Create Ability program. Taking place once a month, families explore a different theme each time, observing artwork in the galleries and creating their own art in the classroom. Create Ability’s February theme on February 9 is Line, Shape and Form. The workshop is for kids ages 5 to 17 at 11am.

Theater Development Fund (TDF) Autism Friendly Performances Various theaters: Wicked at Gershwin Theater, 222 West 51st Street, New York, NY 10019 and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at Lyric Theater, 214 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036

Catch a Broadway show with your family in a supportive environment for your kiddos who are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or other sensitivity issues. Since 2011, TDF has presented more than 15 autism-friendly shows on Broadway. Working closely with professionals in the field and consultants on the autism spectrum, TDF strives to make each show accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The upcoming shows are Wicked on February 2, 1pm, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on March 1, Part One 1pm and Part Two 6:30pm, and Aladdin on May 3, 1pm.

The Discovery Squad at the American Museum of Natural History 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 100245102

This iconic Museum offers special tours designed for families affected by autism spectrum disorders.

The program was developed in collaboration with the Seaver Autism Center at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Discovery Squad tours take place before the Museum is open to the public, so you get the whole museum to yourselves!

Tours are free, but you must register in advance.

Upcoming tours are on February 8 and March 14.

New Victory Theater Sensory-Friendly Shows 209 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036

Sensory-Friendly performances at New Victory Theater adapt the light and sound to accommodate sensitivities, and Autism specialists are on hand to provide assistance if needed. These shows are perfect for families affected by autism to experience the theater in a welcoming environment. The upcoming Sensory-Friendly show is Riddle of the Trilobites on February 9, 12pm, $25 tickets. This original musical, for ages 6 and up, takes the audi16

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ence on an underwater adventure with puppetry and live music. Mark your calendars for Snow White: Sensory-Friendly on April 26.

Relaxed Performances at the Lincoln Center Clark Studio Theater, 165 West 65th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10023

Get the ultimate theater experience with Relaxed Performances. There are no noise or movement restrictions, so your little ones are free to get up and dance or sing. You can leave and re-enter the theater, and adjustments are made to reduce sensory stimuli. Upcoming performances include SUDS

by Bluelaces Theater Company on February 1-9 and Songs from Open Windows by Dan + Claudia Zanes with Yuriana Sobrino on February 15 and 16. Both have viewings at 11am and 2pm and are recommended for ages 5 to 8. MuMu Fresh: An Acoustic Experience by Maimouna Youssef takes the stage on February 22, ages 5 to 11.

Queens ArtAccess Family Programs at Queens Museum Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, NY 11368

Queens Museum welcomes families with kids with special needs through family-friendly ArtAccess Autism Initiatives. ArtAccess therapists lead families through observing and making art together.

Kids are encouraged to socialize and play with each other to create connections to artwork and build literacy. Another resource we love is Room to Grow: A Guide to Arts Programming in Community Spaces for Families Affected by Autism, published by Queens Museum. This guide details recommendations to community spaces, libraries, museums, and other cultural institutions for developing programs for families affected by autism so that your family can have access to even more individualized experiences for enrichment and fun! Third Sunday of each month, 1:30-4:30pm.

Sensory Storytime and Special Needs Reading Group at Queens Library Woodhaven Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven, Queens, NY 11421 (Sensory Storytime) Kew Gardens Hills Library, 72-33 Vleigh Place, Flushing, Queens, NY 11367 (Reading Group)

Little ones ages 2 to 3 are invited to Sensory Storytime, where they’ll partake in creative movement, stories, sensory activities, and finger rhymes.

Preregistration in the children’s room is required and there is limited space. Another fun option is the Special Needs Reading Group, where you’ll get to read books that help with sensory development.

A librarian will read to special needs kids who

Experience The IDEAL Difference On any given day at The IDEAL School of Manhattan, students may give a presentation on a civil rights leader; participate in a musical; enjoy Riverside Park; paint a masterpiece; or visit the Museum of Natural History. IDEAL is New York’s only K-12 independent inclusion school, where we celebrate the tremendous social, emotional, and academic growth born in a diverse and nurturing educational community. #SchoolCanBeIDEAL Sign up for a Tuesday Talk and Tour or an Open House to learn more about IDEAL’s rigorous and differentiated program, innovative social justice curriculum, and uniquely inclusive community.

IDEAL is currently accepting applications in select grades for 2020-21 placement

www.theidealschool.org For further information, contact us at admissions@theidealschool.org or 212-769-1699 LOWER SCHOOL 314 West 91st Street

UPPER SCHOOL 270 West 89th Street

Extended Home Care can help each individual reach their maximum potential You want your family member, young or old, to have the best possible quality of life. But accessing all the right services for people with Developmental Disabilities can be very challenging.

Extended Home Care serves Special Needs patients of all ages: • CHILDREN • ADOLESCENTS • ADULTS

Special Needs diagnoses include: • • • • • • • •

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY AUTISM PDD/AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS MENTAL RETARDATION EPILEPSY / SEIZURE DISORDERS CEREBRAL PALSY ADHD OTHER CONGENITAL DISORDERS and NEUROLOGICAL IMPAIRMENTS

We accept Medicare, Medicaid and a variety of other insurance plans.

Our culturally diverse staff speaks a variety of languages, including: Spanish, Russian, Mandarin, Creole, Korean, French and others.

We offer Home-Based skilled services of • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy

• Speech Therapy • Nursing • Home Health Aides

in all five boroughs of NYC and Nassau County CONTACT US

Lana Matsko, Director of Business Development at 646-751-9300 or 212-356-4200 ext. 3366 360 West 31st Street New York, NY 10001 (212) 356-4200

2617 East 16th Street Brooklyn, NY 11235 (718) 891-0808

www.extendedhc.net 2020 | Special Child

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Programs

have limited verbal abilities. Upcoming Sensory Storytime is on February 13, 6-6:45pm Launch Trampoline Park 163-50 Crossbay Boulevard, Howard Beach, Queens, NY 11414

Every kid needs to release some of their seemingly endless energy, and a trampoline park is the perfect place to do so. Launch Trampoline Park has trampoline courts, dodgeball, basketball, knockout, Launch Pad to practice tricks, Tumble Traks (extra long trampolines), ninja courses, foam pits, virtual reality games, an arcade, and much more. V.I.P Time is open specifically for guests with special needs and their families on the last Tuesday of every month, 4-8pm, $20. Launch wants to be a safe space for jumpers with special needs, so V.I.P. time is a quieter, calmer, more private environment to accommodate everyone.

One parent or guardian also gets to jump for free.

The Bronx Quiet Zones at the Bronx Zoo 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10460

Get ready for an educational and action-packed animal adventure at the Bronx Zoo. While the crowds can be overwhelming, Bronx Zoo aims to make the zoo accessible for kids with sensory processing needs. If you need a place to regroup away from the activity of the zoo, there are Quiet and Calm Zones in the Rhino Garden, Zebra Hill, and the area adjacent to Bears. You can also check out a Sensory Bag for no cost with an ID, which contains fidget tools, headphones, and other resources to make sure that your whole family has an enjoyable experience.

Swim Academy for Special Needs at the Bronx House 990 Pelham Parkway South, Bronx, NY 10461

Learn to swim at the Bronx House! Speciallytrained instructors work one-on-one with your little one to foster a love for swimming and build their confidence. Join an inclusive and nurturing environment at the Bronx House through this program that stresses water safety and is tailored to your child’s likes and dislikes, keeping in mind their special needs. Special Needs Swim takes place on Fridays, 3-7pm.

All Around the City Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese Multiple locations in Brooklyn, Queens, and Bronx

One the first Sunday of every month, head to Chuck E. Cheese two hours before it opens for a fun experience catered towards families who have children with autism and other special needs.

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Chuck E. Cheese wants all kids to be a kid, so they partnered with the Center for Autism and Related Disorders in 2016 to develop the program.

There’s less crowding, dimmed lighting, music turned down or off entirely, limited Chuck E. appearances, and no admission fees! Order off the full-menu and play arcade games with adjusted sound effects.

AMC Sensory Friendly Films Participating AMC Theaters: Bay Plaza Cinema 13, DINE-IN Levittown 10, Magic Johnson Harlem 9, Shore 8, Stony Brook 17

AMC Partners with the Autism Society to produce Sensory Friendly Films for families impacted by autism. The lights are up, sound is down, and your little ones can get up, dance, walk, shout, or sing!

Current sensory friendly films include Frozen II and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. The familyfriendly showings are on the second and fourth Saturday of every month. Check one of the NYC AMC theaters above for specific showtimes.

Karma Kids Special Needs Yoga Multiple locations

Experienced and trained teachers support each child’s unique physical, mental, and emotional development through yoga poses and games at Special Needs Yoga. Your little ones will practice breathing exercises and interact with other kids in a safe and welcoming environment. Each class ends with relaxation time and foot rubs! Class size is limited to 8 kids and is 30 minutes long. Be sure to check the Karma Kids schedule, which is subject to change.

Long Island Friendly Hours, Sensory Friendly Theater, and Sensory Room at Long Island Children’s Museum 11 Davis Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

This fun-filled museum has a lot to offer for families with kids who have special needs through their LICM4all programming and resources. Each month, the Museum hosts Friendly Hours with adjusted lighting and sound, exclusively for kids with disabilities. There’s also Sensory Friendly Theater and ASL Interpreted Performances if you’re looking to catch a show. And finally, we love the Sensory Room, an inclusive space where kids who are feeling anxious or overwhelmed can experience a quieter and calmer environment. Check out the heat wall, glitter rods, bubble wall, gears wall, image projection, bean bags, and much more in the Sensory Room!

Haypath Road Park Inclusive Playground 243 Haypath Road, Old Bethpage, NY 11804

With some of the best sensory-friendly playground

A program for young adults of all abilities moving from school towards work and independence.

For information, please contact: Paul McCourt 212-810-4120 x 5320 pmccourt@littransitions.org www.littransitions.org

Has Your Child Been Diagnosed With Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Call Proud Moments ABA to inquire about services.

You could be eligible for ABA services covered by your private insurance.

Proud Moments ABA provides ABA services at home, after school, or in school or the community.

Scheduling is based on your need and convenience.

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Programs

equipment in Long Island, Haypath Road Park Inclusive Playground is perfect for a day of play.

There are buttons to play musical instruments and make rain fall, wheels and gears to turn, and a Fibar surface on the play area to cushion any falls. Most of the equipment is also low enough for kids in wheelchairs to reach, and there’s even picnic tables for when the weather gets a little warmer.

Let All the Children Play Accessible Playground Eisenhower Park, 1899 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY 11554

This very accessible park was made specifically for families who have kids with special needs. Kids in wheelchairs can hop on the accessible merry-goround, there are adaptive swings, ground-level play features, and musical areas. Long Island parents, you’ll love that there are plenty of benches with clear views of the play area so you can keep a close eye on your kiddos. Bookmark this playground for the first signs of spring, or bundle up for some winter playground fun!

Sensory Friendly Mornings at the Children’s Museum East End 376 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton, NY 11932

The Children’s Museum East End teams up with Flying Point Foundation for Autism on the first Saturday of each month to offer Sensory Friendly Mornings, 8-10am. There’s light and sound reduction, quiet rooms, and less of a crowd.

Families with kids on the autism spectrum or children with sensory processing disorders are welcomed to the Museum for free fun, but space is limited, so register in advance.

Sensory Friendly Jump at Flight Fit N Fun 1850 Lakeland Avenue, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779

Get active at Flight Fit N Fun with Sensory Friendly Jump. On the first and third Sunday of every month, the trampoline park is open exclusively to jumpers with special needs, 9-10am.

In a more private and quieter environment, little ones with special needs and their families are welcome to explore the bouncing adventures.

There’s a foam pit, walking sticks, battle beam, slam dunk basketball, laser maze, and lots and lots of trampolines.

AMC Sensory Friendly Films Participating AMC Theaters: DINE-IN Levittown 10, Shore 8, Stony Brook 17

AMC Partners with the Autism Society to produce Sensory Friendly Films for families impacted by autism. The lights are up, sound is down, and your 20

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little ones can get up, dance, walk, shout, or sing!

The family-friendly showings are on the second and fourth Saturday of every month. Check one of the Long Island AMC theaters above for specific showtimes.

Sky Zone Cares at Sky Zone Deer Park 111 Rodeo Drive, Deer Park, NY 11717

Bring your family to Sky Zone on the first Monday of every month, 3-6pm, for exclusive jumping time for kids with special needs. There will be less noise, an increased staff ratio, limited capacity, and lots of jumping! Explore the venue in a sensoryfriendly, safe environment. One parent or guardian participates for free with their paying jumper. $20 for 60 minutes, $26 for 90 minutes, and $29 for 120 minutes.

Special Needs Yoga at Om Sweet Om Yoga 12 Irma Avenue, Port Washington, NY 11050

Bringing yoga therapy to those with special needs, including ADD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Down Syndrome, developmentally delayed, and Cerebral Palsy, as well as physical challenges, Roopali Gupta teaches Special Needs Yoga classes for kids at Om Sweet Om Yoga. Your little ones will work on their developmental and self-awareness skills as they get in touch with their mind and body. The studio even holds Yoga for the Special Child 95H Certification Program sessions, taught by Gupta, for yoga teachers to get certified in Special Needs Yoga for Kids.

Safari Adventure 1074 Pulaski Street, Riverhead, NY 11901

This indoor theme park is a must-visit for Long Island families. But the crowds and activity of Safari Adventure can be overwhelming.

Thankfully, there are two areas that are sensoryfriendly for kids with special needs or kids who just need a quieter space to gather themselves. The Hands-On Sensory Area has lots of activities for little ones, including a sandbox, train set, toys, and hands-on games. For a really quiet scene, head to the Sensory Calming Spa for dimmer lights, calming colors, and soothing images. We love this resource, because you can spend time in some of the more active and adventurous parts of Safari Adventure, and then when you notice your kids needing some space to calm down, rotate in sessions of the Sensory Calming Spa. Sensory-Friendly Performances at Theatre Three 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, NY 11777

Bring your family to the theater for sensoryfriendly performances. A Social Story will be posted on Theatre Three’s website at least one week prior to the performance so that you can

prepare your little ones with special needs for the experience. House lights will remain on, flashing lights and strobe lights will be removed, and sound levels will be lowered. Kids are free to move around the theater and clean blankets and stuffed animals are available in the lobby during the performance for families who need a break.

Meet and greet the actors and actresses after the performance! Upcoming sensory-friendly performances include Hansel and Gretel on March 8, Peter Rabbit on April 19, and Snow White on May 31, all at 11am.

westchester Sensory Bounce at Bounce U 150 Clearbrook Road, Elmsford, NY 10523

Bounce the evening away at Bounce U on Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30pm. Kids who have autism or autism spectrum disorders, social skill difficulties, gross motor or balance difficulties, sensory processing dysfunction, ADHD, or low muscle tone will benefit from this fun and safe open play. While your little ones are bouncing at the session led by an occupational therapist, you can join the parent support group, run by a social worker, to find your community of parents and caregivers!

Social Story and Sensory Family Backpack at Katonah Museum of Art 134 Jay Street, Route 22, Katonah, NY 10536

A family-favorite, the Katonah Museum of Art makes sure that kids with special needs and their families have the very best experience. Before you visit the Museum, download Katonah Museum of Art’s Social Story, which helps kids with special needs prepare for their time in the Museum. It is also available at the front desk. The social story is great for first-time visitors who want to feel safe and secure in navigating a new environment. For families with kids on the autism spectrum or who have sensory processing differences, grab your Sensory Family Backpack at the front desk. Inside, you’ll find noise-reducing headphones, fidget toys, an art activity, and special books.

Special Needs Enrichment at the JCC of Mid-Westchester 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583

The JCC of Mid-Westchester has a variety of programs and opportunities for enrichment and fun for your kiddos with special needs. All classes are personalized to support each child’s individual needs in a small, nurturing class environment. There are both after school and weekend programs, so you can choose what fits into your schedule. There’s group swim, ballet, gymnastics, karate, tai chi, and STEM classes. We especially love Saturday Night Social and Sunday/Funday! Prices vary per program, and there

are even options for your real little preschoolers.

Saturday Program at Westchester Creative Arts Therapy Services 16 Villard Avenue, Hastings, NY 10706

This Saturday program is the perfect way to kick off your family weekend. Kids with special needs and their families are invited to music and art sessions at Westchester Creative Arts Therapy Services. Board Certified creative arts therapists, licensed by the State of New York, work together to devise an effective approach to working with each family. Kids will develop their socialization skills, self-expression, communication, and more as they make masks and puppets or play music together with other kids.

Music Therapy Institute at The Music Conservatory of Westchester 216 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606

Offering both individual and group music therapy for people of all ages with special needs, the Music Therapy Institute is the perfect place for your kids to have musical experiences with piano, guitar, percussion, and voice. Individual sessions can be 30 or 45 minutes. In Group Music Therapy, kids will sing, play instruments, and move to the music in groups of up to four and parents/caregivers may be asked to join in as well.

Saxon Woods Park 1800 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY 10605

The first accessible playground for kids in Westchester, Saxon Woods Park is a fun time for families who have kids with special needs. The park has an 18-hole miniature golf course, the country’s largest swimming pool, picnic areas, an aquatic playground, and hiking trails, so get ready for the summer! Kids with disabilities can get active at Saxon Woods Park as they make their way through this exciting play space.

Farm Skills Week at Muscoot Farm 51 NY-100, Katonah, NY 10536

Muscoot Farm is an iconic Westchester farm for families, especially in the warmer months. But there’s still plenty to do in the winter as well, like Farm Skills Week held in February. This is an inclusive opportunity for kids in grades 4-6, welcoming students of all learning abilities. Your kids will participate in hands-on activities and farm chores as they learn about agriculture and nature with Muscoot teachers. There will be hiking, cooking, animal time, nature observation, maple sugaring, and more! $300 for the week, register in advance. Be sure to stay up to date with the upcoming events at Muscoot Farm, which are often inclusive for children with all learning abilities.

2020 | Special Child

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Community

Game-Changing Moms The Wolf + Friends app helps parents find their community and tribe

By Donna Ladd

T

he app Wolf + Friends was co-founded by Carissa Tozzi and Gena Mann, long-time friends, who wanted to change how parents of special needs kids connect. The app was originally conceived of as an online shopping platform featuring curated tools and toys for kids with developmental challenges. Wolf + Friends now provides a judgment-free online space for members to create their own support systems, something special needs moms crave.

We caught up with Carissa and Gena to learn more about how they’re bringing the special needs community together online.

What prompted you to create the Wolf & Friends app?

There are 60+ million moms worldwide raising children with special needs such as autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental delays, behavioral challenges, mental health issues, sensory processing disorders, and Down syndrome. And yet, moms raising children with special needs are often so isolated! We found that while many platforms were addressing new moms, nobody was explicitly speaking to special needs moms. We wanted to help these moms find their pack because having friends who “get it” can make all the difference.

What can a parent expect from the app?

When you download the Wolf + Friends app, you build a profile that incorporates your interests and strengths as well as what makes your child special. The app then provides you with all of the other moms in your area, raising children with different needs so that you can friend them, message them, and, ideally, connect in real life. The app has a rich content feed featuring interviews with special needs moms and tips from all kinds of experts. Think speech pathologists, occupational therapists, behaviorists, etc. There is also shopping advice for developmentally appropriate toys, tools, furniture, and clothing, all with clickable links to our amazon shop.

Special needs parents all know that there can be moments of feeling quite isolated. Do Wolf and Friends have these parents in mind?

These are our people! Not every mom is ready to dive in and make new friends. Some want a place to know they are not alone, some come

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“This app makes me feel less alone.

It encourages me to make playdate invitations, to get our special needs child out in the community more, to actively promote inclusion.”

Aurora Aquino, Upper West Side Mom for resources or inspiration, some follow our Instagram feed so they can laugh (instead of cry).

We are a judgment-free space for everyone whose parenting journey is a little different.

You have something called a SPECIAList Directory, how does this work?

The SPECIAList Directory is where moms can find local providers for their children. The directory is designed for special needs families to connect with developmental pediatricians, occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, behaviorists, psychiatrists, psychologists, art therapists, feeding therapists, social skills therapists, telehealth therapists, specialized schools, classes, camps, non-profit organizations all serving the special needs community. The listings are arranged by location across the United States.

What types of special needs does the app cover?

We have a long list of differences, including everything from ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Down syndrome, Sensory Processing Disorders, Speech and Language delays, etc. We also, of course, have an “Other” tab as there are many less common disorders that present with similar delays.

Download the Wolf + Friends app at the Apple App Store and Google Play

2020 | Special Child

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Advice

Toilet Training

When the “Usual” Isn’t Enough What to know when your child with special needs begins the process

By Michelle Daum

F

or parents with typically developing children, the path to potty training often looks something like this: Buy some storybooks for the child in order to familiarize the concept of using the toilet, explore wearing underwear sometimes, encourage curiosity around using the potty, and then hunker down for 3-5 days of committed “toilet training”. At the end of those 3-5 days, more often than not, some semblance of toilet training has been achieved. This could mean urine training, training for urine and bowel movements, day training, or training for both day and night.

It’s important to recognize that toilet training issues are common among all children, not just children with special needs. In fact, toilet training challenges represent approximately 1/3 of all pediatric gastroenterology consultations. So, what does the path to potty training for parents of children with special needs look and feel like?

For starters, the questions around toilet training go beyond simply “is my child ready?”.

Parents wonder “Is my child capable”, “Does my child have the cognitive, language and motor skills necessary to achieve success?” “When should I start?”.

Well, according to Fredric Daum, MD, a pediatric gastroenterologist and co-founder of Doctordaum.com, any child or adolescent with receptive language skills can be toilet trained.

This includes children with genetic disorders, cerebral palsy, autism, developmental delays, and sensory processing disorders. So, if your child can understand basic directions, then they’re a candidate for toilet training, despite what you may have been told. That said, parents should be mindful that children with special needs may be more likely to show opposition or resistance to toilet training due to anxiety, behavioral challenges, language impairment, sensory processing disorders, etc. This resistance is not due to malice of course, but can result in significant stress for parents and caregivers.

As for figuring out when a child with special needs is ready to start the process, the signs are much the same in any child; pulling at a wet diaper, interest in the toilet, having long stretches of a dry diaper, or telling you when they need to go or have gone. Depending on each child, these signs may

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Tips and Tricks for Toilet Training Success • Put your child in a long shirt without clothing underneath. Most children will not urinate or stool on the floor • Make the bathroom a rewarding, fun place with toys and games • Be consistent in your approach at all times • Let your child know your expectations. Your child may try to manipulate or negotiate with you.

Don’t waver • Toilet train over a vacation period to allow for ample time.

• Avoid distractions with siblings or other family members. Try to find coverage for other children in the household. Your toilet training child will love the one on one time with you • Allow your child to follow a regular diet appropriate for age • Toilet training children with special needs may take longer than usual and collaboration with behavioral therapies can be very helpful

arise at different ages. Some special needs children may show interest in their two’s and three’s just like a typically developing peer, while others may never truly show signs of readiness. If the latter is the case, then parents may be compelled to start the process without these signs so that their child can continue to participate in activities, attend schooling or child care programs and to reduce the social stigma of wearing diapers as they get older.

Where to Start As it’s hard to know exactly how your child may react to the toilet training process, it’s a great idea to at least attempt the standard 3-5 day approach which includes removing diapers, spending lots of time in the bathroom, and flooding with liquids if urine training is the focus. Working to “catch” your child as they’re about to go and offering lots of positive reinforcement for success are the foundations of finding teachable moments and pairing them with social and sometimes tangible rewards

(e.g., stickers or a small edible treat). According to Dr. Daum, as you begin your toilet training process for a child with special needs, there are a variety of additional tips and tricks which may prove beneficial for a child with special needs.

What to do if the typical approach is not enough Some children, especially those with special needs, may require more intensive support and intervention when it comes to toilet training, especially for bowel movements. Stool withholding is common in children with behavioral issues, developmental delays, and anxiety, and the standard positive reinforcement and training approaches may not be adequate.

In such cases, the use of a short or longer-term laxative protocol can physically compel children to use the bathroom, which creates a teachable and positive moment for both child and parents. Without laxatives, it may be significantly more challenging to achieve that initial successful event upon which the remainder of toilet training can build. Laxative therapy along with behavior training is an effective approach for children very resistant to toilet training.

While a diet full of fiber and adequate hydration is of course beneficial for children, Dr. Daum, who specializes in treating children who withhold stool and soil stool (also known as encopresis), believes water and fiber are not adequate treatment for withholders. Limiting foods such as dairy is also ineffective and not recommended.

While many parents are wary of the use of laxatives, under the guidance of a medical professional, their ability to override a child’s desire to withhold stool is often the key component missing from standard toilet training

practices. If your child is withholding stool, a laxative protocol may be the key to success.

Signs your child is withholding stool: • A distended or swollen belly • Frequent flatulence or foul-smelling gas • Small amounts of bright red blood on toilet paper or in toilet water. (This is not serious and usually the result of a cut or fissure in the anal area due to hard or large stools) • Stool that is surprisingly large in diameter • Rapid fullness while eating meals • Reflux symptoms: nausea, burping, and regurgitation — caused by delayed emptying of the stomach when the bowel is filled with stool, gas, and liquid • Crying and demanding a disposable diaper for pooping. This child is withholding and holding out for the diaper • Doing the ‘doody dance’ A child gets up on toes and dances around in obvious discomfort to avoid having a painful bowel movement • Posturing that includes straightening or crossing of legs, holding onto furniture with buttocks squeezed or holding onto a parent’s leg while crying and agitated No matter which route a parent chooses to follow when toilet training their children, it’s important to remember to maintain a positive attitude, consistent language around expectations and praise a child’s efforts towards success.

There is no doubt that toilet training children with special needs can pose a significant challenge for parents and caregivers, but the possible future rewards for these children are immeasurable.

2020 | Special Child

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Special Needs

Resource Guide New York City ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER The Child Mind Institute 101 E 56 St. New York, NY 10022 (212) 308–3118 www.childmind.org Services Provided: Education, workshops and support groups for those with ADD, OCD and ADHD

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorders New York City P.O. Box 133, Manhattan (212) 721–0007 www.chadd.org parent2parent@chadd.net new–york–city@chadd.net Services Provided: Educating and support groups.

Child Study Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone 1 Park Ave. New York, New York 10016 (646) 754–5000 nyulangone.org bit.ly/NYU-ADHD Services Provided: Free education, seminars and webinars for parents of children with ADHD and ADD. No-cost empirically supported treatment on organizational skills as part of research participation.

HJD-NYU ADD Center 301 E. 17th St. New York, NY 10003 (212) 598–6000 www.nyulangone.org/locations/nyu-langoneorthopedic-hospital Services Provided: Diagnostics and Treatment, and Parenting Skills Training

AUTISM AHA–Asperger Syndrome and HighFunctioning Autism Association 303 Fifth Ave., Manhattan (888) 918–9198 www.ahany.org info@ahany.org Services Provided: educating parents of special needs children, support group.

Atlas Foundation for Autism 252 W 29th St. 3rd Floor New York, NY 10001 (212) 256-0846 26

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www.atlasforautism.org contact info@atlaforautism.org Services Provided: A school and community organization for children and young adults with Autism, ADHD, LD and other learning differences. Programs include school, afterschool, weekends and other community based events!

Autism Science Foundation 106 W. 32nd Street, Suite #182 New York, NY 10001 (914) 810-9100 www.autismsciencefoundation.org contactus@autismsciencefoundation.org Services Provided: Information and Provides Founding for Medical Research

Autism Society of America 1 Surrey Lane East Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 (845) 331-2626 Services Provided: Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Legal Advocacy Downtown Spectrum Parents, Parents of Individuals with Autism Support Group lynn_decker@me.com

Eden II Programs 15 Beach St. Staten Island, NY 10304 (718) 816–1422 www.eden2.org Services Provided: Education, Adult day programs, Family Support and Residential Care

New York Families for Autistic Children, Inc. 164-14 Cross Bay Blvd.

Howard Beach, NY 11414 (347) 566-3122 www.nyfac.org Services Provided: NYFAC serves any family within New York that has a child with a developmental disability. Their doors are open to any family member, friend, professional, or student who wants to learn, to develop and to grow. Their motto: “Helping Parents … Help their children … One family at a time.”

North Central Bronx Hospital 3424 Kossuth Ave. FSPDD at North Central Bronx Hospital (718) 519–5000 NY–Bronx@autismsocietyofamerica.org www.nychealthandhospitals.org Services Provided: Autism support group, provides information and support.

The McCarton Foundation and School 350 E. 82nd St. New York, NY 10001 (212) 715-8763 www.mccartonfoundation.org sdaum@mccartoncenter.com Services Provided: Education for children and Research Center

QSAC, Quality of Life & Services for the Autistic Community 253 W. 35th St. New York, NY 10001 (212)-244-5560 www.QSAC.COM info@qsac.com Services Provided: Case Management, Community Education, Information and Referral, Residential Other: After school programs, behavior management, Day Habilitation, Family reimbursement, In–house/overnight respite, parent support group, Parent training, pre–school, Residential Habilitation, Special education itinerant Teacher

BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED Helen Keller Service of the Blind 180 Livingston St. Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 522–2122 www.helenkeller.org info@helenkeller.org Services Provided: Free workshops, all ages for visually impaired.

Jewish Guild for the Blind 15 W. 65th St. New York, NY 10023 (212) 769–6200, (800) 284–4422 Services Provided: Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy

Services Provided: Community Education, Information and Referral.

Other: Vision rehabilitation, low vision services, professional, Continuing education

CEREBRAL PALSY United Cerebral Palsy of New York City 80 Maiden Ln. #8 New York, NY 10038 (212) 683–6700 www.ucpnyc.org Services Provided: Assistive Tech Equipment, Case Management, Community Education, Information and Referral, Residential, Treatment, Vocational/Employment Other: Day Treatment, Day Habilitation, Early Intervention

DISABILITY GROUPS Adults and Children with Learning & Developmental Disabilities, Inc. 807 South Oyster Bay Rd. Bethpage, NY 11714 (516) 822–0028 www.acld.org Services Provided: Educational Services, Family Support Services, Day Services, Homes and Independent Living and Health Care Providers.

Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled (BCID) 27 Smith St. #200 Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 998–3000 www.bcid.org Services Provided: Community Education, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Vocational Employment

Catholic Charities Office for the Handicapped

15 W. 65th St. New York, NY 10023 (212) 769–6318 Services Provided: online forum, support group for parents with visually impaired children.

191 Joralemon St. Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 722–60001 www.ccbq.org Services Provided: Case Management, Community Education, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Legal Advocacy

Parents of Blind Children (National Federation of the Blind)

Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York

National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (NAPVI)

471 63rd St. Brooklyn, NY 11220 (718) 567–7821, (212) 222–1705 Individuals Served: Visual Impairments Services Provided: Community Education, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Legal Advocacy

841 Broadway #301 New York, NY 10003 (212) 674–2300 www.cidny.org Services Provided: Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Legal Advocacy

The Lighthouse National Center for Vision and Child Development

150 E. 45th St. New York, NY 10017 (212) 949–4800 Services Provided: serves New York’s neediest children and their families at more than 45 locations in the 5 boroughs and Westchester County. Provides comprehensive support for children in need, from birth to young adulthood, and for their families, to

250 W 64th St. New York, NY 10023 (800) 284-4422 TTY/TDD: (212) 821–9713 www.lighthouse.org E-mail: info@lighthouse.org

Children’s Aid Society

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Resource Guide fill the gaps between what children have and what they need to thrive.

Community Service Society 633 Third Ave, 10th Fl New York, NY 10017 (212) 254-8900 www.cssny.org Services Provided: Case Management, Information and Referral

Disabled and Alone/Life Services for the Handicapped 1440 Broadway, 23rd Floor PMB#6135 New York, NY 10018 (212) 532-6740 www.disabledandalone.org Services Provided: Assistive Tech Equipment, Future Planning, Information and Referral, Individual Case Advocacy, Legal Advocacy

Rose F. Kennedy Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center

Bronx, NY 10461 (718) 430–8500 www.einstein.yu.edu/cerc Services Provided: Health, Education and Vocational Rehabilitation

Heartshare Human Services 12 MetroTech Center, 29th floor Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 422–4200 www.heartshare.org Services Provided: Case Management, Community Education, Future Planning, Information and Referral, Residential, Treatment

IAC–Interagency Council of Developmental Disabilities Agencies, Inc. 150 W. 30th St. New York, NY 10001 (212) 645–6360 www.iacny.org

1225 Morris Park Ave. Bronx, NY 10461 (718) 430–8500 cerc@mntefiore.org Services Provided: Treatment Other: Parent Support Groups Early Childhood Direction Center

International Center for the Disabled

New York Presbyterian Hospital

Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services, Inc.

435 E. 70th St. New York, NY 10021 (212) 746–6175 Services Provided: Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy Other: Preschool programs, transportation, medical, educational and Social services, evaluation and assessment services, parent education programs and resources.

Easter Seals New York 42 Broadway #1801 New York, NY 10004 (212) 943-4364

Easter Seals in the Bronx 2433 E. Tremont Ave. Bronx, NY 10461 (718) 409-4227 www.eastersealsny.org Service Provided: Medical Rehabilitation, Inclusive Child Care, Camping and Recreational, Education and Recreational Services.

EIHAB Human Services

340 E. 24th St. New York, NY 10010 (212) 585–6110 https://www.nycservice.org/organizations/791 Service Provided: Medical, Rehabilitation and Mental.

135 W. 50th St. New York, NY 10020 (212) 582–9100 www.jbfcs.org Services Provided: Community Education, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Legal Advocacy

Korean–American Association for Rehabilitation of the Disabled 35–20 147th St., Annex 2F Flushing, NY 11354 (718) 445–3929 Individuals Served: All Developmental Disabilities

Learning Disabilities Association of New York State 2555 Elmwood Ave. Kenmore, NY 14217 (716) 874-7200 www.ldanyc.org Services Provided: Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy

168-18 S Conduit Ave. Springfield Gardens, NY 11358 (718) 276-6101 Services Provided: Connects disabled children To service providers, advocates, helps with entitlements, Medicaid wavers, financial assistance, care coordination.

Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities

Fisher Landau Center for the Treatment of Learning Disabilities

Metro New York Developmental Disabilities Services Office

Rousso Building, Second Floor 1165 Morris Park Ave. 28

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100 Gold St. New York, NY 10038 (212) NEW-YORK www.nyc.gov/mopd Services Provided: Community Education, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy

2400 Halsey St. Bronx, NY 10461

(718) 430-0700 https://opwdd.ny.gov/opwdd_services_ supports/service_providers/early_alert/ MetroDDSOEA-letter3_16_15 Services Provided: Case Management, Community Education, Individual/Case Advocacy, Residential, Treatment, Vocational Employment Services provided: Support group for parents of special needs children.

National Center for Learning Disabilities 32 Laight St. New York, NY 10013 (888) 575-7373 Service Provided: Information and Promotes Research and Programs.

New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene 42-09 28th St. Long Island City, NY 11101 (212) 639-9675 www.nyc.gv/health

New York City Department of Social Services 150 Greenwich St. New York, NY 10038 (212) 331-6000 Services Provided: Information and Referral Other: Services vary by county

Partnership with Children 299 Broadway #1300 New York, NY 10007 (212) 689-9500 www.partnershipwithchildren.org/ Services Provided: Partnership with Children is a not–for–profit organization that provides emotional and social support to at–risk children so that they can succeed in school, in society and in their lives.

Staten Island Mental Health Society, Inc. 669 Castleton Ave. Staten Island, NY 10301 (718) 981-7288 www.nycservice.org/organizations Service Provided: Clinical and Education

YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities 220 E. 42nd St., 11th floor New York, NY 10017 (212) 273–6100 www.yai.org link@yai.org Services Provided: Assistive Tech Equipment, Case Management, information and Referral, Residential Treatment, Vocational/ Employment.

Other: Early Intervention, preschool, health care, Crisis intervention family services, clinical services. Day programs, recreation and camping.

DOWN SYNDROME Bronx and Manhattan Parents of Down Syndrome 1045 Hall Pl., No. 3 Bronx, NY 10459 (917) 834–0713

Down Syndrome Amongst Us 32 Rutledge St. Brooklyn, NY 11249 www.dsau.org downsyndrome@earthlink.net

Manhattan Down Syndrome Society 124 W. 121st St. New York, NY 10027 (646) 261–5334 manhattandowns@gmail.com

National Down Syndrome Society 8 E. 41st St., 8th floor New York, NY 10017 (800) 221–4602 www.ndss.org info@ndss.org Counties Served: Nassau, Suffolk, Kings, Queens Services Provided: Case management, community education, future planning, information and referral, Individual/Case advocacy, treatment.

EPILEPSY ANIBIC (Association for Neurologically Impaired Brain Injured Children) 6135 220th St. Oakland Gardens, NY 11364 (718) 423–9550 www.anibic.org Services Provided: Physical activities for mentally disabled children.

Epilepsy Foundation of Metropolitan New York 65 Broadway Suite 505 New York, NY 10006 (212) 677–8550 www.efmny.org Services Provided: The Epilepsy Foundation of Metropolitan New York is a non–profit social service organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of people with Epilepsy and their families.

GENERAL – MULTIPLE SERVICES PROVIDED Adoption Crossroads 74 Lakewood Dr. Congers, NY 10920 (845) 268-0283 Services Provided: Educate parents on handling adopted children.

Advocates for Children of New York 151 W. 30th St., Fifth floor New York, NY 10001 (212) 947–9779 www.advocatesforchildren.org Other: Advocate for educational rights in the 2020 | Special Child

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Resource Guide public school

Board of Visitors, Staten Island Developmental Center 1150 Forest Hill Rd. Staten Island, NY 10314 (718) 983–5321 Services Provided: Community Education, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy

(914) 593 0593 Service Provided: Provides licensed therapist with services for children 5 years old and under with development delays or disorders such as autism, pervasive developmental delay, speech delays/disorders, motor delays/ disorders, cognitive and overall delays, adaptive delays in the home, day care, centerbased or community settings.

Maidstone Foundation Brooklyn Bureau of Community Services 151 Lawrence St. Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 310–5600 www.bbcs.org Services Provided: Case Management, Community Education, Future Planning, Treatment, Vocational Employment Other: Job training and placement services, Home and Community Based Waiver Services, Comprehensive Medical Case Management, Parent Support Group

Brooklyn Children’s Center 1819 Bergen St. Brooklyn, NY 11233 (718) 221–4500 Services Provided: Inpatient Hospital Day, Day Treatment Program, Parent Advocate Services, Family Support Group. The Brooklyn Children’s (BCC) Mission is to promote an environment for the Development of healthy children and adolescents.

JCCA Parent Advocate Program 858 E. 29th St. Brooklyn, NY 11210 (917) 808-4800 Services Provided: Assistive Tech/Equipment, Case Management, Community Education, Future Planning, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Legal Advocacy, Residential, Vocational/Employment Other: HIV-AIDS, homeless housing, food program, respite, after school and day care.

Bronx Children’s Psychiatric Center 1300 Waters Pl. Bronx, NY 10461 (718) 239–3600 Services Provided: Community Day Treatment, Intensive Case Management, Crisis Intervention Greater New York Chapter of the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation

Institute for Community Living Brooklyn Family Resource Center 417 State St. Brooklyn, NY 11217 (917) 473-2660 Services Provided: Clinical consultation, counseling, workshops, and after-school programs for special needs children.

Los Ninos Services 535 Eighth Ave, 2nd floor (212) 787 9700 503 Grasslands Road, Valhalla 30

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31 W. 34th St. New York, NY 10001 (646) 668–5580 Services Provided: Case Management, Community Education, Information and Referral, Vocational Employment Other: Help people with unusual problems seek the proper help that is needed for that problem and also provide education and training.

March of Dimes www.marchofdimes.com Services Provided: Community Education, Information and Referral.

New Alternatives for Children 37 W. 26th St. New York, NY 10010 (212) 696–1550 www.nackidscan.org Services Provided: NAC provides real help and real hope to thousands of children with disabilities and chronic illnesses and their families throughout NYC. Through an integrated continuum of health and social services, NAC keeps children safe from abuse or neglect and works with birth, foster and adoptive families to keep children out of institutions and in nurturing, loving homes.

Queens Children’s Psychiatric Center 7403 Commonwealth Blvd.

Jamaica, NY 11426 (718) 264–4500 Services Provided: QCPC serves seriously emotionally disturbed children and adolescents from ages 5–18 in a range of programs including inpatient, hospitalization, day treatment, intensive case management.

includeNYC 116 E. 16th St #5 New York, NY 10003 (212) 677–4650 infor@resourcesnyc.org www.includenyc.org Services Provided: Case Management, Community Education, Information and Referral Case Advocacy Other: Free workshop series with a focus in issues related to early intervention, preschool, school–age special education, transition to adulthood and community resources.

Also publishes several directories.

Services for the Underserved 463 Seventh Ave., 17th floor New York, NY 10018 (212) 633–6900

Services Provided: SUS is a non–profit organization that provides housing, services and support for individuals with special needs to live with dignity in the community, direct their own lives and attain personal fulfillment.

Sinergia, Inc. 2082 Lexington Ave. #4 New York, NY 10035 (212) 643–2840 www.sinergiany.org Services Provided: Case Management, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Legal Advocacy, Residential, Vocational/Employment

Staten Island Mental Health Society, Inc. 669 Castleton Ave. Staten Island, NY 10301 (718) 981–7288 Service Provided: Offers mental health and related services to children and adolescents and their families.

St. Mary’s Hospital for Children 29-01 216th St. Bayside, NY 11360 (718) 281-8800 Services Provided: Medical services, psychological services, education, rehabilitation, home care, and community programs for children and young adults.

Respite and car seat inspections.

HEARING IMPAIRED Center for Hearing and Communications 50 Broadway New York, NY 10004 (917) 305–7700 Services Provided: Case Management, Community Education, Information and referral, Individual case Advocacy

Lexington School for the Deaf Center for the Deaf 26–26 75th St. East Elmhurst, NY 11370 (718) 350–3300 TTY/TDD: (718) 350–3056

www.lexnyc.org generalinfo@lexnyc.org Services Provided: Assistive Tech/Equipment, Case Management, Information and Referral, Individual/Case Advocacy, Vocational/ Employment.

Other: Mental Health Services including early intervention program, hearing and speech services and a school for the deaf.

The Children’s Hearing Institute 363 Seventh Ave., 10th floor New York, NY 10001 (212) 257-6138 www.childrenshearing.org Services Provided: The institute provides funding for research, educational support, and other programs relating to the restoration of hearing for infants and children with hearing loss or profound deafness. While CHI currently focuses much of their efforts on children who are deaf and can be helped with cochlear implant technology, they conduct research related to causes of deafness that ultimately can benefit people of all ages.

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY Muscular Dystrophy Association 11 E. 44th St., 17th floor New York, NY 10017 (212) 682–5272 www.mda.org Services Provided: MDA is the gateway to information, resources and specialized health care for individuals and families coping with muscle disease. MDA’s offices serve every community through a vast program of clinics, support groups, summer camps, equipment loans and much more.

TOURETTE SYNDROME National Tourette Syndrome Association 42–40 Bell Blvd., #205 Queens, NY 11361–2820 (718) 224-2999 www.tourette.org Services Provided: Community education, information and referral.

March of Dimes New York Chapter (same as National)

Staten Island Division

www.marchofdimes.org 212-353-8353

110 McClean Ave. Staten Island, NY 10305 (718) 981–3000

Long Island Division 325 Crossways Park Dr. Woodbury, NY 11797 (516) 496–2100

March of Dimes National Office Arlington, VA (202) 659-1800

Northern Metro Division 580 White Plains Rd. Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 407–5000 2020 | Special Child

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Resource Guide

New York Special Education Parent Centers There are Special Education Parent Centers across New York State. These centers will provide parents of children with disabilities with information, resources, trainings and strategies.

Long Island Parent Center 887 Kellum St. Lindenhurst, NY 11757 (516) 589–4562 Covers the following BOCES: Suffolk; Nassau

Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled 27 Smith St., Suite 200 Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 998–3000 www.bcid.org/ Region served: NYC – Brooklyn

includeNYC 116 E. 16th St., Fifth floor New York, NY 10003 (212) 677–4650 www.resourcesnyc.org/content/manhattan Region served: NYC – Manhattan

Parent to Parent NY, Inc. 75 Morton St. New York, NY 10014 (212) 741–5545

www.parenttoparentnys.org/Regional/ statenisland.htm Region served: NYC – Staten Island

United We Stand of New York, LTD 91 Harrison Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11206 (718) 302–4313 Region served: NYC – Queens

The Westchester Institute for Human Development 20 Hospital Oval West Valhalla, NY 10595 (914) 493–8150 www.wihd.org Covers the following BOCES: Dutchess; Orange-Ulster; Putnam-Northern Westchester; Rockland; Southern Westchester; Sullivan; Ulster and Yonkers City School District See more at: www.parenttoparentnys.org/ education/#sthash.Gm8DbPrl.dpuf

Developmental Disabilities Service Offices The State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) provides services through the following Developmentally Disabled Service Offices (DDSO) of each borough.

Services include group home placement, advocacy, respite care, financial planning, estate planning, education, day treatment, children’s services, and discharge planning.

Metro NY Developmental Disabilities Service Office — Bronx

Queens Developmental Disabilities Service Office

2400 Halsey St. Bronx, NY 10461 Voice: (718) 430-0757 Fax: (718) 430–0866

P.O. Box: 280507 80–45 Winchester Blvd.

Hillside Complex, Bldg. 12 Queens Village, NY 11427 Voice: (718) 217–6485

Metro NY Developmental Disabilities Service Office — Manhattan 25 Beaver St. New York, NY 10014 Voice: (646) 766-3220 Fax: (212) 924–0580

Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Service Office 1150 Forest Hill Rd. Staten Island, NY 10314 Voice: (718) 983–5321

Brooklyn Developmental Disabilities Service Office

Long Island Developmental Disabilities Service Office

888 Fountain Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11208 Voice: (718) 642–6000

45 Mall Dr. Commack, NY 11725 Voice: (631) 425-3500 Fax: (631) 493–1803

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Providing specialized pediatric homecare services to those in need Special services for special people With offices in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Rockland, & Westchester Counties, we are as local as home!

1.855.426.2774 www.hamaspikcare.org

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Resource Guide

Westchester AUTISM Arc Health Resources of Rockland, Inc.

developmental disabilities and their families.

HEARING IMPAIRED Jawonio, Inc.

25 Hemlock Dr. Congers, NY 10920 (845) 267–0110 Services Provided: Physical health care, mental health services, and speech, physical, and occupational therapy for people with autism, down syndrome, and other developmental disabilities.

260 North Little Tor Rd. New City, NY 10956 (845) 708-2000 Services Provided: Hearing evaluations for children and adults. Hearing aids. Education about hearing loss and hearing aids.

Community Based Services, Inc.

Special Care for Families & Children Svc.

3 Fields Lane #1A North Salem, NY 10560 (914) 277–4771 Services Provided: Residential and nonresidential services for people with autism.

Hawthorne Foundation 5 Bradhurst Ave. Hawthorne, NY 10532 (914) 592–8526 Services Provided: Recreational activities and crisis intervention for children and adults with autism. Parent training.

Arc of Westchester 265 Saw Mill River Rd. Hawthorne, NY 10532 (914) 949-9300 Services Provided: Family support groups and outreach, transition planning, counseling, recreation, employment services, daily living skills services, residential services, respite.

Classes for children with autism.

BRAIN INJURIES Westchester Jewish Community Services 845 N. Broadway White Plains, NY 10603 (914) 761-0600 Services Provided: Community living, family support, respite, baseball program. Traumatic brain injury services, mental health services.

Supper club for people with Asperger’s.

CEREBRAL PALSY

SOCIAL SERVICES 1421 E. Second St. Brooklyn, NY 11230 (718) 252–3365 Services Provided: Child and individual counselors, community organizations, and social services.

TRUST SERVICES Community Living Corporation 135 Radio Cir Dr. Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 (914) 241-0581 Services Provided: Pooled trust services for individuals to put money in. Arts instruction program.

Putnam ARC Terravest Corporate Park 31 International Blvd.

Brewster, NY 10509 (845) 278–7272 Services Provided: Trust services, community and day habilitation, employment services, residential services, preschool, Medicaid Service Coordination, recreation, and respite for people with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities.

Dutchess Co. Nysarc, Inc. 84 Patrick Ln. Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 (845) 635–8084 Services Provided: Trust services.

Employment and living services for adults.

Schooling for children ages three to five.

Cerebral Palsy of Westchester, Inc.

Rockland Co. Nysarc, Inc.

1186 King St. Rye Brook, NY 10573 (914) 937–3800 Services Provided: Residency and vocational services for adults. School, animal therapy, wheel chair basketball, teen social club, and boy scouts programs for children.

25 Hemlock Dr. Congers, NY 10920 (845) 267–2500 Services Provided: Trust services, guardianship services designed to help people make life decisions, community and day habilitation, preschool, recreation, respite, and prevocational and employment services.

EPILEPSY Epilepsy Society-Southern NY 450 W. Nyack Rd., Suite #9 West Nyack, NY 10994 (845) 627–0627 Services Provided: Education and training, advocacy, vocational services, service coordination, and community independence training for individuals with epilepsy and other neurological, physical, and 34

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GENERAL – MULTIPLE SERVICES PROVIDED Abbott House 100 N. Broadway Irvington, NY 10533 (914) 591–7300 Services Provided: Self-advocacy program, day habilitation, and service projects.

Recreational and social activities.

Ability Beyond Disability, Inc. 480 Bedford Rd. Chappaqua, NY 10514 (888)-832-8247 Services Provided: Aging specialties, psychological and behavioral support, social and community integration, vocational services, school to community transitional services for youth, transportation services, service coordination.

waivers. Case management services to children with disabilities.

Children’s Rehabilitation Center 317 North Ave. White Plains, NY 10605 (914) 597–4106 Services Provided: Physical, occupational, and speech and language therapy.

Alliance Program Services, Inc.

Community Programs of Westchester Jewish Community Services

62 Pratt St. New Rochelle, NY 10801 (914) 355–2313 Services Provided: Medicaid service coordination, housing, employment, skill training, transportation, and recreation.

845 North Broadway, Suite 2 White Plains, NY 10603 (914) 761–0600 Services Provided: Service coordination, therapeutic social skills, recreational and support groups, clinical services.

Green Chimneys School

Community Resource Center for the Developmentally Disabled

Summer Clearpool Program Carmel Campus 33 Clearpool Road, Carmel (845) 225-8226 Green Chimneys’ Extended School Year offers a unique summer experience for students with special needs. A structured six-week program for ages 6-21 provides strong academic and social support in the fun atmosphere of summer camp. For more info go to Greenchimneys.org/clearpool-esy.

Hudson Valley Behavioral Solutions of NY, Inc. 25 Route 376 Hopewell Junction, NY 12533 (845) 897-1788 Services Provided: In-home services including Medicaid Service Coordination and HCBS waiver services. Strives to support individuals by decreasing social stereotypes.

Careers for People with Disabilities 102 Gleneida Ave. Carmel, NY 10512 (845) 225-8007 Services Provided: Ability assessment, vocational services, transportation, and counseling.

1776 Eastchester Rd., Ste 225 Bronx, NY 10461 (718) 292–1705 Services Provided: Case management, 24hour habilitation services, and residential care.

Compass Case Management 77 Chris Sundrop Court Riverhead, NY 11901 (631) 886–2331 Services Provided: Assists families through the application process of the Care at Home Program.

Devereux Foundation 40 Devereux Way Red Hook, NY 12571 (845) 758–1899 Services Provided: Family education and professional training, transition to independent life training.

Easter Seals Westchester Project Explore 70 Columbus Ave. Valhalla, NY 10595 (914) 328-1578

Child Care Resources of Rockland

Ferncliff Manor for the Retarded

235 N. Main St., Suite 11 Spring Valley, NY 10977 (845) 425–0009 Services Provided: Support parents in searching for child care. Provide development services for families.

1154 Saw Mill River Rd. Yonkers, NY 10710 (914) 968–4854 Services Provided: Education program teaches children skills to prepare them for societal living.

Children of Promise Stable, Inc.

Hamaspik of Rockland County, Inc

135 Convent Rd. Nanuet, NY 10954 (845) 623-2677 Services Provided: Horse-riding activities and therapies for children and adults.

2 Wannamaker Court Monsey, NY 10952 (845) 425–1106 Services Provided: Service coordination, parental retreats, family support for people of Rockland.

Children’s Health Network 99 Washington Ave., Suite 1 Suffern, NY 10901 (845) 369–4058 Services Provided: Care at Home Medicaid

Handicapped Children’s Assn.

18 Broad St. Johnson City, NY 13790 (607) 798-7117

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Resource Guide Services Provided: Children’s services, residential services, family support groups, therapy.

Hudson Valley DDSO Westchester Office 220 White Plains Rd. Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 332-8989 Services Provided: State-operated homes with health speech therapy, vocational services, day programs, health speech therapy, and vocational services.

Institute of Applied Human Dynamics 54 Warren Ave. Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 220–4300 Services Provided: Employment resources, Medicaid Service Coordination, parent training, family services, outdoor activities, and residential services,

Jewish Community Center 371 S. Broadway Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 366–7898 Services Provided: Preschool, camp, arts and cultural events, and health and fitness centers.

Kulanu Hebrew School at Scarsdale Synagogue 2 Ogden Road Scarsdale, NY (914) 725-5175 Inclusion program serving students Grades Pre-K-Grade 12 and accommodating a range of learning and social challenges including language-based learning disabilities and ADHD. For more info: bit.ly/kulanufamilychild

The Keon Center, Inc. 2 John Walsh Blvd.

Peekskill, NY 10566 (914) 737–6980 Services Provided: Supported employment, group day habilitation, Medicaid Service Coordination, and vocational services.

Keli House Community Services, Inc. 184 Route 216 Stormville, NY 12582 (845) 226–1246 Services Provided: Medicaid Service Coordination, community habilitation, group day habilitation, respite, family education and training, transportation training, and money management skills.

Los Ninos Services 535 Eighth Ave, 2nd floor (212) 787 9700 503 Grasslands Road, Valhalla (914) 593 0593 Service Provided: Provides licensed therapist with services for children 5 years old and under with development delays or disorders such as autism, pervasive developmental delay, speech delays/disorders, motor delays/ disorders, cognitive and overall delays, adaptive delays in the home, day care, center36

Special Child | 2020

based or community settings.

Mount Vernon Recreation Dept.

1 Roosevelt Sq. North, #3 Mount Vernon, NY 10550 (914) 665–2420 Services Provided: City parks, juvenile delinquency prevention, and developmental youth programs.

New Rochelle Parks & Recreation 515 North Ave. New Rochelle, NY 10801 (914) 654–2087 Services Provided: Community gardens and athletic fields. Housing, support groups, transportation, and trips for the aging.

North East Westchester Special Recreation Dept.

63 Bradhurst Ave. Hawthorne, NY 10532 (914) 347–4409 Services Provided: Aquatics, Special Olympics training, social activities, weekend trips, and daily outings.

Other: Summer camps, winter group and community programs.

Opengate, Inc. 357 Main St. Armonk, NY 10504 (914) 277-5350 Services Provided: Day habilitation programs including computer time and hiking. Medicaid Service Coordination.

Putnam Recreation for Handicapped 161 E. Lake Blvd.

Mahopac, NY 10541 (845) 621–5594 Services Provided: Recreational opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities who reside in Putnam County.

Rayim Of Hudson Valley, Inc. 6 Schunnemunk St. Monroe, NY 10950 (845) 782–5531 Services Provided: Community, residential, and day habilitation. Community transition services, family care, and housing subsidy assistance.

Richmond Children’s Center 272 N. Bedford Rd. Mt. Kisco, NY 10549-1103 (914) 471–4100 Services Provided: Community and day habilitation, hourly respite, Medicaid Service Coordination, education and training, selfadvocacy, help redesigning homes.

SE Consortium for Special Services 740 W. Boston Post Rd., Suite 316 Mamaroneck, NY 10543 (914) 698–5232 Services Provided: Physical recreation and sports such as karate or a fit club, expressive and fine arts activities, and daily living

A Visionary Approach to Autism Education

Shrub Oak International School is a therapeutic day and boarding " ! ! school equipped to serve children, ! "! &

adolescents, # ( and young adults on the " ! ! ( autism spectrum ! "! who face complex & " " ! ! " challenges and have high personal $ % #

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2040 ! & ! ! â?? ( 0/435 " ) â?? 703)664)0774 2020 | Special Child

37

Resource Guide experiences such as lunch and a movie or a Friday travel club.

Select Human Services, Inc. 17 Marble Ave. Pleasantville, NY 10570 (914) 741–6300 Services Provided: Medicaid Service Coordination, community habilitation, waiverrespite, self-direction, and family support,

Sparc, Inc. 40 Triangle Center, Suite 205 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 (914) 243–0583 Services Provided: School for children and young adults. Therapy, recreation, drama, and music.

Other: Summer programs and family events.

Special Olympics of NY 211 E. 43rd St., #802 New York, NY 10017 (212) 661–3963 Services Provided: Year-round sports training and athletic competition in Olympic-style sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

St. Agnes Hospital-Bristal Assisted Living 305 North St. White Plains, NY 10605 (914) 681–1800 Services Provided: Hospital, clinic, and emergency treatment facilities. Occupational and speech therapy.

St. Christopher’s, Inc. 71 S. Broadway Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 693–3030 Services Provided: Residential, educational, therapeutic, recreational, and social services for teens with emotional, behavioral, and learning disabilities.

Student Advocacy 3 W. Main St., Suite 212 Elmsford, NY 10523 (914) 347–3313 Services Provided: Educational services for children at risk of dropping out of school, children of immigrant families, and children with disabilities.

The Friends Network, Inc. 8 Peach Lake Rd. Brewster, NY 10509 (845) 278–0820 Services Provided: Social and recreational activities, life skills classes, and day habilitation for adults. Seminars in trust planning, housing, and Social Security benefits.

Vincent Incognoli, MA, OTR/L Sarah Schaller, Speech-Language Pathologist Cheryl Small Jackson, MSCCC-SLP, PROMPT (646) 210-3508 sensoryworksot@optonline.net 38

Special Child | 2020

Services Provided: Provide private consultative, evaluation and therapy services in occupational therapy, feeding therapy and speech/language therapy for babies through young adulthood.

Westchester County Mental Health Association Inc. 29 Sterling Ave. White Plains, NY 10606 (914) 949–1212 Services Provided: Community day services, recreational transportation, and educational and housing support. Legal, medical, and vocational services. Therapy and sexuality awareness counseling.

Westchester Inst for Human Development 20 Hospital Oval West Valhalla, NY 10595 (914) 493–8150 Services Provided: Assistive technology, child welfare, community support network.

Speech, hearing, and dental services.

Behavior psychology and health and wellness programs.

Westco Productions, Inc. 9 Romar Ave. White Plains, NY 10605 (914) 761–7463 Services Provided: Musical adaptations of children’s fairy tales, folktales, and legends, and of Broadway musicals, comedies, and dramas, for children aged two years and older. Cast meetings available after shows.

Also available for birthday parties and afterschool activities.

White Plains Recreation 85 Gedney Way White Plains, NY 10601 (914) 422–1336 Services Provided: Recreational, cultural, and sports programs and activities. Parks, playgrounds, gardens, malls, and a senior center.

Yedei Chesed 48 Scotland Hill Rd. Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977 (845) 425–0887 Services Provided: Residential opportunities, day programs, early intervention, respite, behavior management, family support.

Yonkers Parks Department 285 Nepperhan Ave. Yonkers, NY 10701 (914) 377–6450 Services Provided: Day camp for developmentally disabled children, adolescents, and adults. Special Olympics activities, Girl Scouts, bowling, young adult club, art therapy, pet therapy, dance therapy, and theater workshop.

FLI P

Our responsive web-based application helps individuals with special needs (age 13+) ďŹ nd friends at home or on the go, based off of their geolocation, diagnosis, age and interests. It works like a game, is interactive, fun and user friendly. It’s easy to sign-up and use. It is called Making Authentic Friendships, MAF, which are also my brothers initials. My brother is 21 and has autism and ADHD and inspired this initiative.

www.makingauthenticfriendships.com

2020 | Special Child

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Helping to protect your family’s future I provide financial planning services and I am specially trained in the unique planning needs of families and individuals with disabilities. I work to help you identify goals and develop a holistic plan to reach them. Since a person’s needs can change over the course of their life, I seek to build long-term relationships and adjust plans as needed along the way. Having a plan is the first step when it comes to protecting your child’s and families’ future.

Christina M. Maurillo LUTCF, CLU®, ChFC®, MBA

Financial Planner

(914) 372-2981

cmaurillo@barnumfg.com

www.christinamaurillo.com

Offices in NY, CT, & NJ

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member 40 Special Child | 2020 SIPC.6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000. CRN202202-259658.