MetroKids SpecialKids 2019 by MetroKids

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2019

Camps for Specific Health Needs Medical Marijuana Options More Shows Go Sensory Friendly

75 700+ Care + •Autism •Learning Differences

SCHOOLS

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A MetroKids Publication MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

Joy and laughter are part of our curriculum.

Private Special Education … an Option You Should Know About! Sometimes, it starts with a twinkle in the eye. Just a little spark of curiosity that soon blossoms into a journey of discovery, learning and achievement. That’s because at our private special education schools, we see beyond a child’s disability, and awaken the joy and creative expression within. Our schools are welcoming places where students feel at home and are able to enjoy a rich and rewarding social life. Our students feel cherished, well cared for and respected for a very good reason—it is part of our mission and our commitment. Students at our special education schools experience a school day as it should be—filled with discovery, achievement, learning and friendship. Here, they have people they know they can count on—outstanding teachers, therapists, counselors, psychologists and job coaches who constantly encourage and support them.

With individualized attention, on-site therapies and vocational training, our schools deliver unparalleled services for students with special needs. Our New Jersey Department of Education certified special education teachers, licensed therapists and counselors provide expert, advanced instruction and support … along with plenty of smiles.

These unique services are provided at NO COST for families. Find out if private special education is the right fit for your child. Our staff can help answer your questions. To find out more about what programs may be right for your child, call us at 1-800-697-8555 or visit SpecialEducationSchools.org

1412-1414 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19102 215-291-5560; 856-667-3555; 302-224-3020 Toll Free: 888-890-4668 Fax: 215-291-5565

THE RESOURCE FOR FAMILIES WITH SPECIAL NEEDS 2019

Visit us online at MetroKids.com/specialkids President: Nancy Lisagor, PhD, ext. 109 nlisagor@metrokids.com Publisher: Darlene Weinmann, ext. 108 dweinmann@metrokids.com Managing Editor: Dave Gilmartin,, ext. 102 editor@metrokids.com Resource Editor: Cheyenne Shaffer, ext. 101 calendar@metrokids.com Contributing Writers: Terri Akman, Suzanne Koup-Larsen, Frank Lipsius, Kathy O’Connell, Ann L. Rappoport, PhD Production Manager: Veronica Hanna, ext. 103 production@metrokids.com Finance: Marcella Reis, ext. 104 finance@metrokids.com Marketing/Circulation: Susan Braverman, ext. 100 info@metrokids.com Interns: Matthew Brooks

ADVERTISING SALES 888-890-4668 Jeanie Mudgett-McGeoch Pam Kuperschmidt Emily Ondik Samantha Tuttle Classified Sales

ext. 111 ext. 120 ext. 105 ext. 106 ext. 100

This is the 25th edition of SpecialKids®, the most thorough, up-to-date resource for parents of children with special needs in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Even if you have not been involved in raising or helping children with special needs for more than two decades, we don’t have to tell you how medical advancements, educational philosophies and even labels have changed. Just look at the number of local organizations that provide services and advocate for children with autism (p. 42). Consider the growing number of entertainment venues that go out of their way to make families of children with special needs feel welcome (p. 49). Flip through the list of camps created so kids with specific medical conditions can enjoy a summer adventure with others who share their hopes and concerns (p.10). While it is wonderful to have so many agencies and schools that can evaluate and educate your child (p. 14,19,33), the variety of options can make it difficult to decide which is best for your family. That’s where this guide can help. While we list hundreds of places to find services, support and fun for your family, we have organized them in a way that makes it easy to navigate to the ones of interest to you. The Special Needs School Survey (p. 24), for example, covers more than 75 schools, divided into sections for autism spectrum disorders, learning differences or those with complex needs. Our extensive resource lists are broken into topics and, in most cases, further divided by state or specialties. We’ve also included stories that reflect recent trends, including the use of medical marijuana in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware to treat children with certain conditions (p. 39); the rise in sensory-friendly performances available in our area (p. 48), and the variety of health specialty camps (p.8). SpecialKids is published by MetroKids, a monthly parenting publication with a SpecialKids section in each issue. We strive to make it better each year, so send suggestions or feedback on any errors or omissions to editor@metrokids.com.

Special thanks to our sponsors for their generous support: GOLD

We welcome your ideas and feedback. Write us at editor@metrokids.com or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google Plus and Instagram.

MetroKids® is published monthly by KidStuff Publications, Inc. © 2019 MetroKids® Magazine. All rights reserved by KidStuff Publications, Inc. ISSN 1094-8503. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material. MetroKids® or KidStuff Publications do not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. MetroKids® and SpecialKids® are trademarks of KidStuff Publications, Inc. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Advertisers indemnify and hold harmless the publisher from any claim and all loss, expense, or liability arising out of the publication of any advertisement. SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.A. $36, one year; $72, two years. Single copies free.

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SpecialKids 2019

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2019

Table of Contents Introduction.............................................. 3 ADVOCACY Advocacy Guide ................................................................ 6

ASSISTIVE TECH Assistive Tech ....................................................................... 7

DAYCARE Daycare Guide ................................................................. 13

EARLY INTERVENTION & PRESCHOOL Early Intervention & Preschool Guide.............................. 14

EDUCATION Charter Schools and LD Students ..........18 Education Guide ............................................................... 19 Special Needs School Survey.......................................... 24

EVALUATION Evaluation Guide .............................................................. 33

CAMP Health-specialty Camps.......................... 8 Camp Guide ..................................................................... 10 All/Multiple Disabilities ................................................... 10 Autism................................................................................. 10 Developmental Disabilities ................................................11 Equestrian ...........................................................................11 Grief/Respite .....................................................................11 Other Conditions.................................................................11

CARE Care Guide.........................................................................12 4 =MetroKids.com/SpecialKids Bilingual Service = Evaluations

= Support

FUNDING Secure Your Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Financial Future..... 34 Funding Guide ..................................................................36

GOVERNMENT Government Guide ........................................................... 37

LEGAL Caught Up in Zero Tolerance ............... 38 Legal Guide .......................................................................38

= Vocational Training

SpecialKids 2019 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 4

MEDICAL Can Medical Marijuana Help Your Child .................... 39 Medical Guide ................................................................................................... 40

ORGANIZATIONS Organizations Guide .........................................................................................42 All/multiple disabilities........................................................................................42 Asperger syndrome/autism............................................................................... 43 Cancer................................................................................................................. 44 Cerebral palsy.................................................................................................... 44 Communication/hearing impairments/social disorders................................. 44 Developmental disabilities/Down syndrome................................................... 44 Emotional/behavioral disorders....................................................................... 45 Epilepsy/seizure disorders................................................................................ 45 HIV....................................................................................................................... 45 Learning disabilities/ADHD............................................................................... 45 Multiple sclerosis................................................................................................. 45 Physical disabilities............................................................................................. 45 Tourette syndrome............................................................................................... 46 Visual impairments/blind................................................................................... 46

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Professional Services.......................................................................................... 47

RECREATION Friendly Theater ............................................................ 48 Recreational Guide ............................................................................................ 49

RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTERS Residential Treatment Center Guide ..................................................................52

TRANSPORTATION Transportation Guide ..........................................................................................51

VOCATIONAL Vocational Guide ................................................................................................52

Advertiser Index ........................................................... 54

ON THE COVER: A camper rides the zip line at Camp Oasis, held each summer for children with Crohn’s and colitis, at Camp Nock-A-Mixon in Bucks County, PA. SpecialKids 2019

How to Use the 2019 Guide We’ve made it easier for you to get the information you need!

To find services and providers by category: The Table of Contents is arranged by topic in alphabetical order. These topics are also color-coded. Look for the colored bars on each page.

If you know the name of the resource: Look it up in the Advertiser Index (p. 54). Within listings, advertisers are broken out separately with the page numbers where you can find more information. Listings for Assistive Technology and Professional Services, along with expanded listings for every category in the guide, are available on our searchable website: MetroKids.com/ specialkids The listings include location, phone, website and brief description. Many are now organized by state or speciality. For some longer web addresses, we’ve included a term to use in a site’s search box to get you to the right page faster.

Even more information! Sign up for our biweekly SpecialKids e-blasts for local, custom-tailored special needs coverage plus fantastic area events. Just visit MetroKids.com/ enews and select Special Needs Update. Also join our SpecialKids Social Media page to connect with other parents in the community. Facebook.com/SpecialKids

Connect with Us

.com MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 5

ADVOCACY Agencies that provide educational and legal information about rights and entitlements. Autism Delaware

Delaware Family Voices

Newark, DE; 302-224-6020; Autismdelaware.org

Provides support, advocacy (state and local levels), recreational and social opportunies, adult vocation and clinical services for DE residents affected by autism spectrum disorders. Ofﬁces in Dover and Lewes too.

See our ad, below

Wilmington, DE; 302 669-3030; 302 669-3033 (Eng/Spanish); 877-235-3588; defv.org

Parent-run network providing information, advocacy, emotional support and much more for families of children with ANY type of special heath care needs or disabilities. Our services are free to families.

See our ad, p. 43

PENNSYLVANIA Cap4Kids•Cap4kids.org/philadelphia•Advocacy resource

for children who need social services in the Philadelphia area. $ Freedom Valley Disability Center•Newtown Sq., PA; 610-353-6640; freedomvalleyenablement.org • Peer counseling, support & advocacy. >$%* Mental Health Assoc. of SE PA•Phila. 19107; 800-688-4226; Mhasp.org•Parent-run assistance network. >%*

Parents Exchange•Phila. 19118; 610-962-0337; Pex.tripod.com

Information, referral & advocacy for parents & caregivers of children with disabilities. Public Citizens for Children & Youth•Phila. 19103; 215-563-5848; Pccy.org•Advocates for children with disabilities, low incomes & other special needs. > Tri-State Advocacy Project•Collegeville, PA; 877-774-6380; Tristateadvocacy.com•Free service helps patients navigate the healthcare system, ﬁle appeals. > Vision for Equality•Phila. 19106; 215-923-3349; Visionforequality.org Advocates and helps solve healthcare issues for those with disabilities. >%

Helping People and Families affected by autism throughout Delaware

· Parent mentoring and support · Recreational and social opportunities · Adult vocational services

302-224-6020

Online resources for DE’s school-age children with disabilities. Mental Health Association in Delaware•Wilmington, DE; 302-654-6833; Mhainde.org •Focuses on mental health, depression, anxiety, education, advocacy and suicide prevention. >%* Parent Information Center of Delaware•Wilmington, DE; 302-999-7394 Picofdel.org•Information, assistance, seminars & education rights resources. >

NATIONAL Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law Washington, DC; 202-467-5730; Bazelon.org•Technical assistance to legal advocates on disability rights.

National Association for Education of Young Children Washington, DC; 800-424-2460; Naeyc.org•Promotes Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights (PACER Center, Inc.)•Bloomington, MN; 800-537-2237; Pacer.org Provides disability awareness puppet program & parent workshops. >

Lewes office:

302-644-3410

Visit us online!

www.autismdelaware.org 6 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

DELAWARE Autism Delaware•See listing above Delaware Family Voices•See listing above Deldhub.com•Dover, DE; 302-739-4553; Deldhub.com

excellence in early childhood education.

· Statewide advocacy

Newark office:

NEW JERSEY Advancing Opportunities•Ewing, NJ; 888-322-1918; Advopps.org•Family support, recreation, assistive technology, augmentative communication evaluations & residential programs. >$* Cherry Hill Township Ombudsman for Disabled Citizens Cherry Hill, NJ; 856-488-4279; Cherryhill-nj.com and search “Disabled Citizens”•Information, referrals & advocacy assistance for the disabled. Family Support Organizations, NJ Dept. of Child Behavioral Services Burlington Co.; Lumberton, NJ; 609-265-8838; Fsoburlco.org % Camden Co.; Merchantville, NJ; 856-662-2600; Camdenfso.org > Cumberland, Gloucester & Salem Cos.; Vineland, NJ;856-507-9400; Cgsfso.org % Peer support, education and advocacy. Ofﬁce of Advocacy, NJ Dept. of Children & Families Trenton, NJ; 877-543-7864; State.nj.us/dcf/about/divisions/oa Works to improve services to children and families. Statewide Parent Advocacy Network, Inc.•Newark, NJ; 973-642-8100; Spanadvocacy.org•Advocates on behalf of NJ children with needs due to disability, poverty or discrimination.>%

BE IN THE KNOW! Sign up for our biweekly e-blasts for local special needs coverage and fantastic area events.

Go to MetroKids.com/enews and select Special Needs Update under Email Lists.

= Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

= Vocational Training

ASSISTIVE TECH Cutting edge technology helps your child with Learning Differences Wherever you are, local Autism Friendly services and places are only a tap away. How does an autism family leave their house? It’s great that we’re all becoming more aware of autism this April, but how does an autism family find a good place to go, be it a restaurant, school, doctor, therapist, or ...? The most common discussion among autism parents is now embodied in an app that helps us help each other. By sharing ratings and reviews of places for their level of autism friendliness, the Autism Village app eases the process of selecting places that will be safe, welcoming, and understanding toward people on the autism spectrum. Like Yelp, but just for autism, Autism Village allows users to contribute their favorite –or not– places and to search by location or category. View ratings and reviews to make educated decisions about where to go that will be most accepting of autism. Download the app for iPhone or Android today and help one another to make the world a little easier to navigate for everyone with autism!

A U T I S M V I L L AG E

We’re here to help. Offering over 25,000 combinations of safety beds for those with Special Needs addressing physical and cognitive disabilities.

SleepSafe® - Low Bed in Maple Safety Rail Down

SleepSafe® Beds is a domestic USA manufacturer of adaptable safety beds, featuring removable safety side rails, designed to address the issues of entrapment and falls for those with special needs. The SleepSafe® bed line includes SleepSafe®, SleepSafe® II, and SleepSafer® models, each offering more safety rail to mattress height.

SleepSafer®- Tall Bed In Cherry Shown with Extensions.

SleepSafe II® - Medium Bed in Oak Padding in Cream, IV Pole and Tubing Channel Access Cut Out

SleepSafe® Beds are built to order, offered in twin, full and queen. Foundations include fixed, articulating, and HiLo; offered in manual or electric combos. Finishes available in wood, solid color or multi color options. Optional accessories include, padding, mesh windows, IV pole, and tubing channel access cut outs. Call us for DME provider information.

Bassett, Virginia · 866-852-2337 · SleepSafeBed.com SpecialKids 2019

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Camp

Care Camps Camps for kids with Crohn’s, diabetes and other conditions

How to choose a camp

8 =MetroKids.com/SpecialKids Bilingual Service = Evaluations

= Support

Trained staﬀ

At Camp Oasis, about 30 volunteer counselors and a medical staff are specifically trained to support the campers who have Crohn’s disease or colitis. About 115 campers, between 4th and 12th grades, come to the camp for a week each August to enjoy typical camp activities, such as archery and arts and crafts. “Camp Oasis is an opportunity for these kids to still experience the magic of camp and also be able to connect with other kids who have the disease,” says Caneka McNeil, of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, the camp’s sponsor.

Camp Lee Mar

“A Special Camp for Special Kids”

In 2018 Camp Lee Mar celebrated its 66th season – a real milestone! Camp Lee Mar actually celebrated a number of milestones in 2018. Ari Segal, the camp’s owner/director, celebrated his 26th season. Academic coordinator Laura Leibowitz celebrated her 36th and assistant director Lynsey Trohoske celebrated her 21st. Wow! Camp Lee Mar’s unique program combines all the fun traditional camp activities – basketball, kickball, boating & fishing, soccer, arts & crafts – with academics, speech & daily living skills. Camp Lee Mar also has a therapeutic horseback riding program, a Zip Line and overnight trips. The facilities are exceptional, highlighted by the super-popular Junior Olympic heated pool and air-conditioned buildings (including cabins). Camp Lee Mar holds many special events each summer: the 4th of July celebration, Western Night, Hawaiian Night, Carnival Day and Olympics, to name just a few. The senior division campers talk all year about Social Dance, which we have every weekend, followed by the Senior Fling (Prom), which takes place in early August. 4 years ago, we launched the Lee Mar L.I.F.E. Program (Living Independently Functional Education). It was a huge success and we again expect a waiting list in 2019. The hallmark of Lee Mar’s program is an incredible, nurturing staff, all dedicated to working with children with special needs. Camp Lee Mar is truly “A special camp for special kids.”

= Vocational Training

LEE M MP

• AR

There are questions families should ask as they research any camp, but for a child with special needs, safety and healthcare top the list. “Talk to the camp to make sure what the camp offers in a facility and schedule is in line with your child’s functionality,” says Tracey Gaslin, executive director of the Association of Camp Nursing. “What should that camper be able to do to adequately navigate the camp experience?”

Ask the camp what a typical day looks like — what time campers get up, what they eat, how they get from one activity to the next, what the property’s landscape is like and how self-sufficient the child must be. Must they bathe or dress themselves? Ask about their healthcare — who is on site every day? Is there a prescriber available? A nurse on-site? How far away is the nearest hospital?

• CA

By Terri Akman For a child with special needs, summer camp can be especially challenging. Specialized camps geared toward kids with specific health issues can provide a safe environment where kids with special needs can thrive among others who share their conditions. When Kennedy H. was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease when she was 9, her doctor encouraged her parents to send her to a camp dedicated to kids with inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s, so she would become more educated about it. At first, her mother was hesitant, worried about sending her only child away for a week to Camp Oasis at Camp Nock-A-Mixon in Bucks County, an hour away from their Landsdale home, where she didn’t know anyone. But Kennedy had a blast, not only because she swam and rode jet skis, but because she got to commiserate with her new friends about how they handle the effects of Crohn’s. “We’d stay up late and talk about what we’d been through, and it’s really good to know that other people your age are going through the same thing,” says Kennedy, 12. Now she can’t wait for camp to begin each summer. And her mom is happy too. “The camp taught Kennedy how to identify with her disease better, how to accept it and control it better,” she says. “And because they helped Kennedy, she came home and helped her dad and I.”

Camp Lee Mar 215-658-1708; Like us on facebook

www.leemar.com

SpecialKids 2019 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 8

Camp Fun and therapy

Shaheim E., 15, loves swimming and playing basketball with friends at Camp Manito. It’s also a place where he can get the therapies he needs for his cerebral palsy. “It’s like a family there,” says his mom, Nikole Everett, from Middletown, DE. “He looks forward to going to camp.” The camp has a copy of his school individualized education program and incorporates those therapies into his daily activities. For example, swimming is important to help him strengthen weakened limbs, and the camp makes sure he has plenty of time to swim. Beyond his CP, Shaheim learns to socialize and become more independent. Children with specific health challenges may feel isolated and think they are alone. When they attend a camp dedicated to kids just like them, it can be eye opening.

Camp Lee Mar 2017 Dates:

June 24-August 11

th 7 6 ason! Se

Terri Akman is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

See a list of more than 50 health specialty camps, organized by conditions served, starting on p.10

2019 Dates: June 22 - August 9

Winter Office: Camp Lee Mar Ph: 215-658-1708 Fax: 215-658-1710 Please visit us on

On YouTube you can view parents and campers talking about their experiences at Lee Mar.

Est.

1961

Limited spots

available for Summer 2019

Sleepaway! Developmental, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities

Social & Life Skills Program • 1-week Sessions • Ages 6+ 90 Minutes

855-707-2267

North of NYC

CampHuntington.com SpecialKids 2019

MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 9

CAMPS Day and overnight camps for special needs.

Section sponsored by: Camp Huntington

High Falls, NY; 855-707-2267;

Camphuntington.com

Camp Huntington offers therapeutic recreation summer programs for individuals with developmental disabilities. We provide a safe and fun environment for our campers and work on skill acquisition and goal achievement that will increase independence upon returning to their community. Uniquely designed programs center on three speciﬁc goals; participation, recreation and independence. Trained staff introduce new skills and activities in a precise and consistent manner.

See our ad, p. 9

First Children Services

NJ: Cherry Hill, NJ; PA: Colmar, PA; 888-966-0746

Firstchildrenservices.com

First Children offers diagnostic and treatment services specializing in autism, ADHD, and anxiety including ABA therapy, outpatient counseling, therapeutic groups, and a special needs camp.

See our ad, back cover

Summer Matters (VFES)

Malvern, PA; 610-296-6725

Summermatters.org

Summer learning and recreational programing for ages 4-24 with special needs and learning challenges.

See our ad, p. 21

Children’s Beach House

Lewes, DE; 302-645-9184; Cbhinc.org Summer residential & day camps for children with special needs ages 7-15.

ALL/MULTIPLE DISABILITIES Aaron’s Acres•Lancaster, PA; 717-917-6101; Aaronsacres.org Day camp for children with special needs & their families. Bournelyf Special Camp•West Chester, PA; 610-692-9027; Bscwc.org Educational day camp & life skills for ages 18-25 with intellectual disabilities. Camp Connection•Floral Park, NY; 800-834-2267; Thecampconnection.com Camp consultant finds summer programs for children. Camp Greentop•Baltimore, MD; 410-323-0500; Leagueforpeople.org Traditional sleep-away summer camp for youth & adults with disabilities. Camp Merry Heart•Hackettstown, NJ; 908-852-3896; Eastersealsnj.org Easter Seals day & overnight camp for all levels of abilities. > Camp Moore•Woodbridge, NJ; 732-326-1300; Njelks.org•NJ State Elks camp for kids with special needs; campers must be sponsored by their local Elks Lodge. Camp Oakhurst•Oakhurst, NJ; 732-531-0215; Campoakhurst.com Camp for children age 8 and up with physical and intellectual disabilities. Camp Sunny Side•Cherry Hill, NJ; 856-216-212; Camdencounty.com 5-week special needs summer program for ages 13-adult. Camp Sunrise•Warwick, NY; 845-986-1164; Campwarwick.org/camp-sunrise 5-day, 5-night Christian camp for campers age 8-adult with special needs. > Camp Victory•Millville, PA; 570-458-6530; Campvictory.org Site for 20+ overnight camps for kids with chronic illness, physical & mental challenges. Carousel Farm Educational Center•Ivyland, PA; 215-355-6498; Carouselfarmcenter.com Teens with mild developmental disorders participate in social, recreational and educational activities. Carousel House•Phila. 19131; 215-685-0160; Carouselhousepa.com Dept. of Recreation’s year-round special needs programs & summer day camp. Children’s Beach House•See listing at left Dragonfly Forest•Dingmans Ferry, PA; 570-828-2329; Dragonflyforest.org Camp for kids with autism, sickle-cell, hematology, asthma & chromosome deletion. First Children Services• See listing at left Handi*Camp•Akron, PA; 717-859-4777; Hvmi.org/handi-camp A Christian overnight camp for people of all ages with special needs. >% Pennsylvania Lions Beacon Lodge Camp•Mt. Union, PA; 814-542-2511 Beaconlodge.com• For children with special needs including blindness, deafness, and other physical and mental challenges. Special Olympics New Jersey Camp Shriver•Lawrenceville, NJ; 609-896-8000; Sonj.org•Free weekly sports camp for Special Olympics New Jersey athletes. Summer Matters (VFES)•See listing at left Variety Club Camp•See listing at left AUTISM

Variety Club Camp

Worcester, PA; 610-584-4366;

Varietyphila.org

Amica Camp•Newton, PA; Amica4autism.com•Camp for children & teens with autism. Easter Seals Camp Fairlee•See listing at left Camp Kinney•Phila., 19131; 610-660-2171; Kinneyautism.sju.ed

Overnight and day camps for children up to 21 years old with temporary or permanent disabilities from injury, illness or congenital conditions. %*

Traditional day camp experience for children with autism.

Easter Seals Camp Fairlee

Summit Camp and Travel•Honesdale, PA; 570-253-4381; Summitcamp.com

De.easterseals.com/fairlee

Teamwork Wins, Ltd.•Red Hill, PA; 215-680-2351; Teamworkwins.org•Two-week

Chestertown, MD; 410-778-0566; Week-long residential summer camps for children with autism.

Camp Ramapo•Rhinebeck, NY; 845-876-8403; Ramapoforchildren.org Residential summer camp serves children ages 6-16 who are affected by autism and other social, emotional or learning challenges. Camp WISP•Sewickley, PA; 412-741-1800; Thewatsoninstitute.org Therapeutic summer programs for children with autism & related disorders. % Residential camp and teen travel program with autism ADD and LDs.

summer program for teens with Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism.

SpecialKidsMagazine 10 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

= Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

= Vocational Training

CAMPS Day and overnight camps for special needs. Camp Lee Mar Lackawaxen, PA; 570-685-7188; Leemar.com

Camp for kids & teens with mild to moderate developmental challenges offers traditional camp activities plus academics, speech, language, music & art therapy, and daily living skills in a structured enviroment with individual attention & guidance. Therapeutic horseback riding & overnight trips, heated pool, modern facilities & air-conditioned buildings & bunks also available. ACA-accredited. *

See our ads, pp. 8,9

Camp Pegasus Haverford, PA; 610-649-1080; Camppegasus.com

Camp Pegasus is a therapeutic day camp for children 6-19 with social skills challenges (Asperger’s, PDD, ADHD and learning differences). Campers improve social competence and conﬁdence through social-thinking lessons, coaching and rewards in sports, art, music, improv-comedy, computers and play.

See our ad, p. 47

UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY’S Camp Manito (New Castle County) Wilmington DE; 302-764-2400 Camp Lenape (Kent & Sussex Cos.) Felton, DE; 302-764-2400 Ucpde.org

Camp Sun ‘N Fun Deptford, NJ; 856-848-8648; Thearcgloucester.org

Overnight camp for kids with developmental disabilities. Adapted typical camp activities.

metrokids.com/specialkids = Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

EQUESTRIAN Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy, Inc.•Chester Springs, PA; 610-827-093; Hope-springs.org/camps •Week-long summer camps for school-age children with disabilities. Sebastian Riding Associates•Collegeville, PA; 610-489-3741; Sebastianriding.org Three camp sessions of therapeutic riding. Special Equestrians•Warrington, PA; 215-918-1001; Specialequestrians.org Therapeutic riding camp for kids ages 5-16 with physical, cognitive & emotional disabilities. GRIEF/RESPITE Camp Fireﬂy•Medford, NJ; 856-552-1300; Moorestownvna.org Free camp for grieving children from Burlington, Camden and Gloucester counties. Comfort Zone Camp•Richmond VA; 866-488-5679; Comfortzonecamp.org Playful and athletic diversions in a safe atmosphere for grieving children ages 7-17. %

UCP’s camps serve children ages 3–21 with Cerebral Palsy and a spectrum of other disabilities, including Muscular Dystrophy, Spina Biﬁda, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD as well as children with mental health and behavior issues. Both camps are open to children ages 5–13 without disabilities and offer a fun, inclusive summer recreation program committed to acceptance, tolerance and fostering self-esteem.

Special Needs Schools, Services & Resources

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES Camp Fisher•Vineland, NJ; 856-691-9138;arccumberland.org/support/camp_ ﬁsher.php•NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities free 3-week day camp in August. Camp Huntington• See listing p. 10 Camp Lee Mar• See listing at left Camp PEP•Phila. 19146; 215-952-4260; Pepservices.org Day camp for children & adults with intellectual disabilities. * Camp Sun ‘N Fun•See listing at left Sensational Kids•Marlton, NJ; 856-589-4224; Iamasensationalkid.com•Therapy, social skills & camp for children with sensory & motor development disabilities. Camp Achieve•Phila. 19107; 215-629-5003; Campachieve.org•Week-long camp for kids with epilepsy/seizure disorder. % Camp Nova•Sussex and Monmouth counties, NJ; 800-336-5843 Familyresourcenetwork.org/campnova •Week-long overnight camp for kids with epilepsy & developmental disabilities.

OTHER CONDITIONS American Lung Association Asthma Camp•Lewis, DE; 302-737-6414; Asthmacamps.org For DE children with moderate to severe asthma ages 7-11. Camp Freedom•Schwenksville, PA; 610-828-5003; Diabetes.org and search “Camp Freedom” •Overnight camp for ages 7-16 with diabetes. Camp Good Days & Special Times, Inc.•Mendon, NY; 585-624-5555; Campgooddays.org•For kids who have cancer, sickle cell anemia, or have lost a parent or sibling with cancer. Camp JRA•Millville, PA; 267-238-9724; Campvictory.org Residential camp for ages 8-18 with arthritis or rheumatic diseases. Camp Nejeda•Stillwater, NJ; 973-383-2611; Campnejeda.org Residential camp for children ages 7-16 with Type 1 diabetes. Camp Oasis /Camp Nock-a-Mixon•Kintnersville, PA; 800-932-2423; Ccfa.org/get-involved/camp-oasis•For ages 8-16 with Crohn’s and other IBD. Camp Pegasus• See listing at left Camp Overbrook: In Sign•Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Phila. 19131; 215-587-3913; Deafcatholicphilly.org/summer-camp/•Two-week summer day camp for deaf & hard of hearing. Uses ASL. > Gallaudet Univ. Young Scholars Program•Washington, DC; 202-651-5000; Gallaudet.edu/about/youth-programs-and-resources•Sports and empowerment programs for deaf, hard of hearing students up to age 19. Ronald McDonald Camp•Phila. 19104; 215-387-8406; Philarmh.org/camp• Poconos junior & teen camps for ages 7-17 who have or had cancer; siblings welcome. Round Lake Camp•Milford, PA; 570-296-8596; Roundlakecamp.org•Residential sessions for children with learning differences & social issues. TechGirlz•Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY; 585-475-7695; Rit.edu/ntid/techgirlz•Week-long STEM session for girls with hearing loss. > United Cerebral Palsy’s Camp Lenape /Camp Manito• See listing at left

= Support

= Vocational Training

MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 11

CARE CAMP Respite, foster and professional care, in-home or out. EBS Children’s Therapy

First Children Services

West Chester, PA; 610-455-4040

Cherry Hill, NJ; Colmar, PA; 888-966-0746

For Parents/Families: We empower children to grow and evolve by taking a multidisciplinary, approach to consultation, direct intervention, therapy, and collaboration with school and home teams. For Professionals: Our team will work with you and families to provide the highest level of services for children to master skills needed in every daily life. >$ See our ads, pp. 32,47

First Children offers diagnostic and treatment services specializing in autism, ADHD, and anxiety including ABA therapy, outpatient counseling, therapeutic groups, and a special needs camp.$

info@ebschildrenstherapy.com•www.ebschildrenstherapy.com

PENNSYLVANIA Access Services’ Children’s Crisis Support Program Washington, PA; 800-793-2150 Accessservices.org• Provides community-based specialized services & respite.

Baring House Crisis Nursery, Youth Service, Inc.•Phila. 19104; 215-386-0251; Ysiphila.org• 24-hour emergency care for kids

birth to age 5 at risk for abuse or neglect. Child & Family Focus, Inc. Audubon, PA; 610-650-7750; Childandfamilyfocus.org•Respite provider for families in Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Montgomery Cos. EBS Children’s Therapy• See listing above Epic Health Services•Bala Cynwyd, PA; 215-884-3737; Epichealthservices.com/location/bala-cynwyd-branch Custom home healthcare services. >% Episcopal Community Services•Phila. 19106; 215-351-1400; Ecsphilly.org •Safe homes for kids with special needs through foster & kinship care programs. Firely Pediatric Services•Harleysville, PA 19438; 215-513-7455; Firelypediatric.org•Home, medical & residential home care for medically fragile children.

Firstchildrenservices.com See our ad, back cover

Temple University, Family Friends•Phila. 19122; 215-204-8011; Education.temple.edu/igc/programs/family-friends •In-home companionship & respite provided by adult volunteers age 50+. >% theVillage•Rosemont, PA; 610-525-5400; Village1877.org After-school and summer programs for children at risk. Visiting Nurse Group, Inc.•Phila. 19123; 215-829-8888, ext. 106; Visitingnursegroup.com•Home care services for medically complex children. > NEW JERSEY Archway Programs•Atco, NJ; 856-767-5757; Archwayprograms.org•Supports for people with developmental

Friends Assoc. for the Care & Protection of Children West Chester, PA; 610-431-3598; Friendsassoc.org• Provides

disabilities & respite for their families. >* BAYADA Pediatrics•Mt. Laurel, NJ; 856-722-9900; Bayada.com/pediatrics•Experienced pediatric nurses and home health aides available 24/7. >$% Capitol County Children’s Collaborative•Hamilton, NJ; 609-584-0888; Capitolkids.org•Care coordination for education, evaluation, services & support.> Epic Health Services•Mt. Laurel, NJ; 856-780-1090; Epichealthservices.com/location/mount-laurel•Custom home healthcare services. First Children Services• See listing above

Home Health Specialists•Media, PA; 610-566-2700; Hhsrn.com

Githens Center, Burlington Co. Cerebral Palsy Assoc. Mt. Holly, NJ; 609-261-1667; Githenscenter.org•Day programs

emergency family shelter.

24/7 home care by RNs, LPNs, or home health aides. Horsham Clinic•Ambler, PA; 215-643-7800; Horshamclinic.com Treats severe emotional or behavioral problems, ages 4-18. Life Path/Ridge Crest•Sellersville, PA; 215-257-0471; Drexel Hill, PA; 610-566-5029; Lifepath.org•24-hour nursing care for medically fragile children. Pediatria Healthcare for Kids•Wyncote, PA; 215-376-6801; Pediatriakids.com•Center-based day health services & home nursing for medically complex & fragile kids. Pediatric Health Choice at Lauren’s House•Boothwyn, PA; 888-340-9420; Coatesville, PA; 877-589-0854; Phila. 19132; 888-340-9430; Laurenshouse.com•Nursing care for medically dependent children. > Pennsylvania Mentor•Broomall, PA; 610-353-5332; Phila. 19154; 215-612-8200; Thementornetwork.com• Home services for kids with developmental disabilities. Ronald McDonald House — Pennsylvania•Phila. 19104; 215-387-8406; Philarmh.org•Home away from home for families of children being treated for illness & injuries. > Sally Watson Center — Youth Service, Inc.•Phila. 19144; 215-844-6931; Ysiphila.org•Free crisis respite care for children with moderate disabilities. > Supportive Concepts for Families, Inc.•Reading, PA; 888-686-7233; Supportiveconcepts.org•Support for individuals with disabilities. >

12 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

for individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. >%* Jefferson Home Care•Voorhees, NJ; 856-809-4300; Kennedyhealth.org•State-approved home care. > Newborn Nurses•Cherry Hill, NJ; 856-669-0211; Newbornnurses.com •Highly skilled, 24-hr home nursing care. > Ronald McDonald House — Southern New Jersey Camden, NJ 08103; 856-966-4663; Ronaldhouse-snj.org Home away from home for families of children being treated for illness & injuries. >

State of NJ Dept. of Human Services /Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services•Trenton, NJ; 800-356-1561; Nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/home•Private duty nursing for children up to age 21 provided by Medicaid. >

DELAWARE Pediatric Health Choice at The Children’s Secret Garden

Dover, DE; 302-730-1717; Pediatrichc.com/childrens-secret-garden Inclusive child care center offers prescribed pediatric extended care. Ronald McDonald House — Delaware•Wilmington, DE; 302-656-4847; Rmhde.org •Home away from home for families of children being treated for illness & injuries. >

SpecialKidsMagazine

= Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

= Vocational Training

DAYCARE Facilities providing child care, including after-school care. SPIN

10501 Drummond Rd., Phila 19154 Parkwood – 12640 Dunks Ferry Rd., Phila. 19154 Frankford – 1616 Orthodox St., Phila., 19124 844-SPIN-CAN; Spininc.org Early Intervention and Early Childhood Education services for children from birth to Kindergarten, child care from age 1-school age, PreK Counts, PHLpreK and Head Start for preschoolers.

See our ad, p. 16

Weisman Children’s Medical Day Care Centers Multiple locations; 877-543-8774

Weismanchildrens.com

See our ad, below

4nannies.com, Inc.•888-744-9914; 4nannies.com•Matching services for families & nannies. Caring Center, The•Phila. 19104; 215-386-8245; Thecaringcenter.org Early learning center for ages 6 wks.- K, after-school program to age 8. Frankie’s World•Phila. 19123; 215-763-0151; Frankiesworlddaycare.com Daycare center for children ages birth to 12 years who need skilled nursing care. > KenCrest Development Centers Ambler, PA; 215-646-1166; KencrestChildcare.org Classroom & therapeutic support.

Montgomery Early Learning Centers Narberth, PA; 610-617-4550; Melc.org Provides high-quality early care & education services. >

Providence Pediatric Medical Daycare West Berlin, NJ; 856-753-7763; Providencepediatric.com •For children with special medical needs 0-5. > SPIN• See listing above

Voorhees Pediatric Medical Day Care Voorhees, NJ; 888-873-5437; Forkidcare.com•For kids birth-age 5 who are medically fragile & require skilled nursing care. >

Weisman Children’s Medical Day Care Centers• See listing above

WEISMAN CHILDREN’S is the only pediatric rehabilitation hospital in South Jersey serving children from birth through age 20. We also offer outpatient rehab and medical day care centers throughout South Jersey. = Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

92 Brick Road, Marlton, NJ 08053 • (877) 543-8774

www.weismanchildrens.com

= Vocational Training

MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 13

EARLY INTERVENTION & PRESCHOOL Programs providing services for children 0-3 and preschool services for children ages 3-5

The Bancroft School Early Education Program Cherry Hill, NJ; 800-774-5516

Bancroft.org

Bancroft is one of the largest providers in the region for supports and education for those with Autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Bancroft School Early Education Program, located in Cherry Hill, NJ, provides education and support to children ages 3-10 the foundation for success. Expert staff employ highly effective instructional strategies, rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis as well as other behavioral supports to create personal instruction plans for each student with unique goals and benchmarks to measure progress. As important, we focus on the socialization and recreation opportunities for each child to grow and experience joy in friendship and family. >%

PENNSYLVANIA BARC•Holicong, PA; 215-794-0800; Barcprograms.org•Therapies & support for infants-age 5. > Bright Horizons /Temple Beth Hillel Beth-El• See listing on p. 15 Center for Autism•Phila. 19131; 215-878-3400; Thecenterforautism.org

Treatment & evaluation center offers PreK, therapy & social programs. >$ ChildLink: Public Health Management Corp.•Phila. 19102; 215-985-2500; Phmc.org and search “Children with special needs” • EI system entry point for Phila. children under 3 yrs. with developmental delays or disabilities. >$ Children’s Developmental Program•Quakertown, PA; 215-536-7800; Cdpchildren.org Extended care & therapy for children ages 6 wks.-5 yrs. Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech•Phila. 19144; 267-385-3436; Clarkeschools.org Therapy, EI, preschool, cochlear implants and mainstream services for children who are deaf and hard of hearing. %

Comprehensive Autism Center at Delaware Valley Children’s Center Newtown, PA; 215-598-0223; pmhccares.org•Autism evaluation, treatment and therapy for ages 1-18. >$%

Chester County Intermediate Unit #24 Downingtown, PA; 484-237-5000; Cciu.org >

The Chester County Intermediate Unit is a dynamic educational service agency providing quality, innovative and cost-effective programs to enhance the lives of community members. Services include online therapy, evaluations, preschool and childcare services, and community-based instruction, including transitional living and work programs.

See our ad, p. 17

First Children Services

Cherry Hill, NJ; Colmar, PA; 888-966-0746;

ﬁrstchildrenservices.com

First Children offers diagnostic and treatment services specializing in autism, ADHD, and anxiety including ABA therapy, outpatient counseling, therapeutic groups, and a special needs camp.$

See our ad, back cover

Here We Grow Learning Center at St. John of God Community Services Westville Grove, NJ; 856-848-4700

sjogcs.org

For children 6 weeks to 5 years of age, Here We Grow Learning Center offers a warm, caring and safe environment. Our experienced staff is invested in the growth and development of each child enrolled. In addition to childcare, we provide an inclusive preschool. Designed for typically and atypically developing children, Here We Grow Learning Center allows families to explore options for full-time or part-time enrollment. >$%

See our ads, pp. 2,22 HollyDELL

Sewell, NJ; 856-582-5151

Hollydell.org

For more than 65 years, HollyDELL has served students and adults with physical and medical challenges associated with multiple disabilities by focusing on each child’s ability not their disability. A collaborative team approach is used, ensuring treatment of the whole child and family as the student strives for levels of independence, all within a safe and nurturing environment. We focus on our students’ abilities through a wide array of individualized services including speech/ language/feeding therapy, augmentative communication, physical therapy, sensory integration, mobility training, aquatic therapy, occupational therapy, pottery and music instruction, swimming, vocational training, community-based instruction, behavioral intervention, specialized nursing services and an extended school year program. >*

See our ads, pp. 2,22

14 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

CONNECT Helpline•800-692-7288; Dhs.pa.gov and search “Connect helpline”

Nationwide EI referral helpline. Consortium, The•Phila. 19153; 215-596-8100; Consortium-inc.org Specialized instruction & therapeutic intervention for children up to age 18. > Early Autism Project•King of Prussia, PA; 610-831-1865; Ed-Alt.com Early Intervention Ofﬁce, Children’s Outreach Services Program•Phila. 19144; 215-951-0327; Rhd.org/ei•Services for infants & toddlers with lags in physical, cognitive & speech development. >$ Easterseals Disability Services•Chicago, IL; 800-221-6827; Easterseals.com Provides services and support for people with special needs. > Southeastern PA•Sepa.easterseals.com >% Bucks Co. Division - Levittown; 215-945-7200 Early Intervention Center - Phila. 19131; 215-879-5010 Delaware and Chester Co. Division - Media; 610-565-2353 Philadelphia Division and Main Ofﬁce - Phila. 19131; 215-879-1000 Montgomery Co. Division - Kulpsville; 215-368-7000 Education and Behavior Consulting — EdBeCo, Inc.•Blue Bell, PA; 267-465-7515 Edbeco.com•Intervention for kids with developmental & behavioral challenges. $ Elwyn•Media, PA; 610-891-2000; Elwyn.org Home-based EI services for infants & toddlers plus preschool & child care.

Elwyn SEEDS (Special Education for Early Developmental Success)

Phila. 19104; 215-222-8054 •Chester/Upland; 610-872-4590; Elwyn.org Provides special education services for eligible preschool-age children living in Philadelphia & Chester/Upland area. >$ Family Friends of Bucks County•Doylestown, PA; 215-348-2940; Bucksiu.org/page/1221 Matches volunteers (50+) with school-age children who have special needs. > Head Start•Washington, DC; 866-763-6481; Acf.hhs.gov/programs/ohs > Educational, health, social & other services for enrolled children & families. PA Head Start Association - Harrisburg; 717-526-4646; Paheadstart.org >% Chester Co. Head Start - 610-383-6800; Cciu.org and search “Head Start” > Delaware County Head Start - Morton; 610-583-7620; Dciu.org/domain/63 >% Learning Tree/Presbytery of Phila. Head Start - Phila.; 215-748-2422 Norris Square Community Alliance, Children Center - Phila. 19122; 215-634-2251; Nscaonline.org and search “Early Head Start” >%* School District of Phila. Pre-K Head Start - Phila. 19130; 215-400-4270; Philasd.org/earlychildhood

Intermediate Units

Formulates and manages education plans for PA children with special needs, ages 3-5. Services vary but can include evaluations, instruction, OT, PT & ST. Berks County Intermediate Unit #14 - Reading, PA; 610-987-2248; Berksiu.org Bucks County Intermediate Unit #22 - Doylestown, PA; 215-348-2940; Bucksiu.org Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21 - Schnecksville, PA; 610-769-4111; Cliu.org > Chester County Intermediate Unit #24 - Downingtown, PA; 484-237-5000; Cciu.org > See listing at left Colonial Intermediate Unit #20 - Easton, PA; 610-252-5550; Ciu20.org > Delaware County Intermediate Unit #25 - Morton, PA; 610-938-9000; Dciu.org Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit #13 - Lancaster, PA; 717-606-1600; Iu13.org >% Montgomery County Intermediate Unit #23 - Norristown, PA; 610-755-9400; Mciu.org >% PA Association of Intermediate Units - Enola, PA; 717-732-8464; Paiu.org >$% Phila. School District, Ofﬁce of Special Education Services, Intermediate Unit #26 - Phila. 19130 215-400-4170; Philasd.org/specializedservices >% = Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

= Vocational Training

EARLY INTERVENTION & PRESCHOOL Programs providing services for children 0-3 and preschool services for children ages 3-5

Bright Horizons /Temple Beth Hillel Beth-El Wynnewood, PA; 610-649-5300

Intellectual disAbility Services•Phila, PA; 215-685-4646; Dbhids.org/my-city-my-place/childrens-services •Free EI program for families of

Tbhbe.org/specialneedsprograms

infants and toddlers. >%

See our ad, p. 16

developmental disabilities and early intervention assessment & therapies. Overbrook School for the Blind•Phila. 19151; 215-877-0313; Obs.org Early intervention for children birth to age 3 & educational programs for children ages 3-21 who are deaf, have hearing imparments, are blind or visually impaired. * Phebe Anna Thorne School, The•Bryn Mawr, PA; 610-645-0244; Brynmawr.edu/thorne/early-intervention•Early-intervention program for speech & language difﬁculties. Philadelphia Interagency Coordinating Council•Phila. 19102; 267-294-6065; Philadelphiaicc.org•Training for Philadelphia early intervention parents & providers. % Quest Therapeutic Services, Inc.•West Chester, PA; 610-692-6362; QuestTherapeutic.com Family-centered early intervention supports and services for ages birth-3. Samuel Paley Early Learning Center•Phila. 19152; 215-725-8930; Felskids.org/center/paley•Federation Early Learning Services program accommodates learning disabilities. SPIN • See listing at left SPIN – Autism Center for Excellence• See listing at left. SPIN Children’s Services• See listing at left Theraplay•Various locations in PA and DE; 484-787-2266; Theraplayinc.com Physical, occupational, speech & feeding therapies and special instruction services. Via of the Lehigh Valley•Bethlehem, PA; 610-317-8000; Vianet.org Identiﬁes & addresses delays from birth-age 3. >$*

Social language class for children ages 3-5 with developmental delays in speech, language, motor skills & attention. Meets Mon-Fri, 9am-12noon. Music, movements, Shabbat & holiday events.

Let’s Play / Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El• See listing at left Montgomery County’s Early Intervention Ofﬁce•Norristown, PA; 610-277-7176; Montcopa.org/745/Early-Intervention•Mental health counseling & support services;

Let’s Play / Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El Wynnewood, PA; 610-649-5300

Tbhbe.org/specialneedsprograms

Let’s Play is a comprehensive three-afternoon social skills class designed for children ages 3-5 with functional language. The M/W/F program meets from 12noon-3pm. The program features taking turns & sharing, play dates, conversations, expressing feelings & using appropriate manners.

See our ad, p. 16 SPIN

10501 Drummond Rd., Phila. 19154; Parkwood – Phila. 19154 Frankford – Phila., 19124 844-SPIN-CAN; Spininc.org

Early Intervention and Early Childhood Education services for children from birth to Kindergarten, child care from age 1-school age, PreK Counts, PHLpreK and Head Start for preschoolers. >$%

WIC (Women,Infants & Children) Division, Pennsylvania Dept. of Health

SPIN – Autism Center for Excellence

10541 Drummond Rd., Phila. 19154; 844-SPIN-CAN; Spininc.org

Comprehensive behavioral health services for children ages 2-21 who are at risk for or have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.

SPIN – Children’s Services

Special needs formulas & nutrition for ages birth-5. Harrisburg, PA; 1-800-WIC-WINS; Health.pa.gov/pawic Bucks: 215-345-3494; Doylestown, Levittown, Quakertown; Buckscounty.org and search “WIC” Chester: 610-344-6240; Coatesville, Oxford, Phoenixville, Spring City, Toughkenamon, West Chester; Chesco.org/367/WIC Delaware: 484-471-3320; Chester, Springﬁeld, Upper Darby; Delcofoundation.org and search “WIC” Montgomery: 800-FOR-MFHS; Lansdale, Norristown, Pottstown; Mfhs.org/Montgomery-county-locations/ Phila: 215-978-6100; Aramingo, Germantown, Kensington-Allegheny, Lehigh, North Phila., Northeast, Olney-Logan, Overbrook, South Philadelphia, St. Christopher, Woodland; Northwic.org

10501 Drummond Rd., Phila. 19154; Frankford – Phila., 19124 844-SPIN-CAN; Spininc.org

NEW JERSEY Archway Programs: Step By Step•Atco, NJ; 856-767-4180; Archwayprograms.org

See our ad, p. 16

The Bancroft School Early Education Program• See listing on p. 14 Barclay Early Childhood Center•Cherry Hill, NJ; 856-429-7283; Barclay.chclc.org

Evaluations & program for birth-3 years. >$

Early intervention, Early Childhood Education and Childcare for ages 1-5. Head Start ages 3-5, Pre-K Counts and PHLpreK for ages 3-5.

Cherry Hill School District preschool for ages 3-5 of all abilities.

Cherrywood Academy & Private Preschool / Country Acres Private Preschool

St. John of God Community Services, Archbishop Damiano School (ADS) Westville Grove, NJ; 856-848-4700

adsschool.org

Archbishop Damiano School is a non-sectarian, New Jersey State Department of Education approved private school for students with severe to moderate developmental disabilities, including intellectual, physical and complex medical conditions, ranging in age from three to twenty-one. ADS provides a dynamic educational program, which starts with the development of communication skills, social interactions, functional academic, work-related skills, ﬁne and gross motor skills, specialized daily living skills and transitional programming. >*

See our ads, pp. 2,22

= Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

Clementon, NJ; 856-566-1004; Williamstown, NJ; 856-881-0400; Partnersinlearningnj.org Inclusive preschools offer home/school ABA services; integrated speech & occupational therapy. Early Intervention System •888-653-4463; Nj.gov/health/fhs/eis Implements NJ services for birth-age 3 with developmental delays or disabilities. Easterseals Disability Services•East Brunswick, NJ; 732-257-6662; nj.easterseals.com Provides services and support for people with special needs. > Eden Autism Services•Princeton, NJ; 609-987-0099; Edenautism.org School, vocational training and residential services for ages 3-21 First Children Services • See listing on p. 14.

Head Start

Burlington County - Mt. Holly, NJ; 609-261-2323; Bccap.org and search “Head Start” Camden CDI - Camden, NJ; 856-964-2100; Centerffs.org and search “Head Start” >% Central South Head Start Administration - Bridgeton NJ; 856-453-0803; Gatewaycap.org under “Our Programs” > HollyDELL• See listing on p. 14

= Support

= Vocational Training

MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 15

EARLY INTERVENTION & PRESCHOOL Programs providing services for children 0-3 and preschool services for children ages 3-5

St. John of God Community Services (EIP) Westville Grove, NJ; 856-848-4700

Sjogcs.org

As part of the New Jersey Early Intervention System, St. John of God Community Services provides a full range of services for children of with various developmental delays. Serving the birth to three populations, St. John of God Community Services currently holds the contract to provide all assessments and evaluations in Gloucester County, as well as providing direct services in Salem and Cumberland counties. As part of their early intervention services, case-workers can evaluate a child’s development; provide an individualized development plan for that child, and any related services as directed. See our ads, pp. 2,22

NJ Dept. of Health & Senior Services, Special Child Health & Early Intervention Services •Trenton, NJ; 800-367-6543;

Burlington Co.: 609-267-1950, ext. 42882 •Camden Co.: 800-999-9045 Cumberland Co.: 856-453-2154•Gloucester Co.: 856-681-6497 Mercer Co.: 609-588-8460•Salem Co.: 856-935-7510, ext. 8479•Nj.gov/health/fhs/sch Point of entry into early intervention. Assists with access to services for children. >

St. John of God Community Services, Archbishop Damiano School (ADS) See listing on p. 15

St. John of God Community Services (EIP)• See listing at left. St. John of God Community Services, Here We Grow Learning Center See listing on p. 14.

Virtua Early Intervention Program•Mt. Laurel, NJ; 856-581-7380

Virtua.org/services/early-intervention-program • Therapy and support services. Weisman Children’s• See listing at left

Weisman Children’s

Various locations in New Jersey 877-543-8774; Weismanchildrens.com

Weisman Children’s is a community-based pediatric specialty organization consisting of an acute rehabilitation hospital, outpatient rehabilitation centers and medical day care centers; focused solely on the needs of infants, children, teens and young adults in South Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia area. The rehabilitation hospital located in Marlton, New Jersey, is an 18-bed facility with a focus on eight core programs: traumatic brain injury, infant feeding, pulmonary, burn, diabetes management, neonatal abstinence syndrome, amplified musculoskeletal pain syndrome and pediatric rehab. Our five outpatient clinics located in Marlton, Pennsauken, Vineland, Northfield, and Washington Township, New Jersey, provide physical, occupational, speech, and feeding therapy.

DELAWARE Bush Early Education Center•Chalfonte, DE; 302-479-2600

Brandywineschools.org/Page/1428•Preschool for ages 3-4 with special needs. >

Delaware Division of Public Health, Child Development Watch

Milford, DE; 800-752-9393; Dhss.delaware.gov and search “Child Development Watch”•Delaware EI program for children with disabilities or delays from birth-3 yrs. >$%

Division of Developmental Disabilities Services, Delaware Dept. of Health and Social Services•Dover, DE; 302-744-9600;

Dhss.delaware.gov/ddds/•Point of entry for EI & social services for DE children with developmental disabilities. Provides referrals to appropriate state agencies.

Easterseals Disability Services

DE & MD’s Eastern Shore Children’s Therapy Svcs.•New Castle, DE; 302-324-4444; De.easter-seals.org•Provides services and support for people with special needs. >% Head Start•New Directions Early Head Start•University of DE, Newark, DE; 302-831-0584; Ndehs.udel.edu/home >% Theraplay•Various locations in Pennsylvania and Delaware; 484-787-2266; Theraplayinc.com•Physical, occupational, speech 1001 Remington Rd., Wynnewood, PA 19096 & feeding therapies and special instruction services.

See our ad, p. 13

TEMPLE BETH HILLEL - BETH EL Early Childhood Center Now in Our 25th Year of Special Education

SpecialKidsMagazine

“Yes, we have a place for your child.”

Autism Center for Excellence

Bright Horizons, a social language class for ages 3-5 with developmental delays in speech, language, motor skills and attention. Music, creative movement, Weekdays Shabbat and holiday events, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm blended with regular school programming.

“Every child has the right to enjoy the benefits of having and being a friend.” Children ages 3-6 benefit from a comprehensive 5 DAY a week program. H H H H

Taking Turns & Sharing Play Dates Talking with Friends Good Sportsmanship

H Feelings H Manners

12:00 - 3:00 pm

SPIN Provides comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and Center treatment servicesAutism for children and for Excellence youth at risk for or diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Contact Judith Mont Scarani, School Director 610-649-2277 ext. 110 or jscarani@tbhbe.org 16 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

= Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

= Vocational Training

SSVC0316007

Education

Charter Schools and LD Students All are required to provide special-needs services, but approaches vary By Terri Akman If your child has a learning difference, a charter school, like a traditional public school, is required to offer special-education services. However, each charter school also has its own learning methods and specialties, which might make it an ideal choice. “Charter schools have the exact same rules as any public school district and are not allowed to ask for information around special-education status prior to admission,” says Harry Lee, interim president at the NJ Charter School Association. In New Jersey, students apply through a lottery system and only after a student is enrolled does the family share the child’s special-education status. The same is true in 21 of Delaware’s 23 charter schools. The Gateway Lab School and Positive Outcomes schools are geared toward and give preference to children with learning differences. Some of Pennsylvania’s 87 charter schools use a lottery; others are first come, first served.

that specialize in art or science. Beyond the individual school’s focus, it’s also important to recognize how your child learns best. For example, some students with learning differences find success when they are blended with the overall population, while others are more comfortable in specialized one-on-one or small-group education.

“Choice should be running to something. When you’re running away from something you’re looking for ‘anything but.’” After admission, staff reviews the student’s Special Education Evaluation Report and Individualized Education Program (IEP), says Rae Oglesby, deputy chief of communications of the 24 Mastery charter schools in Philadelphia and Camden, NJ, which serve about 14,000 K-12 students. “We partner with parents to review the child’s academic and social, emotional functioning, IEP goals and special education services in order to ensure a smooth transition into our schools.”

Pick the best educational model

Every charter school has its own learning model, from Montessori — which includes multi-aged classrooms — to language-immersion programs, and schools

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Mastery schools, for example, include students with disabilities in the overall population to the greatest extent possible, says Oglesby. “Parents should ask questions about the method because not every school is right for every child,” says Kendall Massett, executive director of Delaware Charter Schools Network.

Choose ‘to’ not ‘from’

Be careful not to choose a new school because you were unhappy with something your child’s old school did. “Choice should be running to something,” Massett says. “When you’re running away from something you’re looking for ‘anything but.”

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Questions to Ask • Does the school’s teaching philosophy match how your child learns? • On a school visit, does it seem like an environment where your child will succeed? If your child likes to be around a lot of people, a larger school may be a better fit. • Are there other students who have the same kind of learning differences as your child? • How well does your child adapt to change? If a move to a new building might be difficult, choose a school that can serve him from Kindergarten through 8th grade, or 6th through 12th grade. • Find out who is responsible for services to students with special needs and who leads the evaluation process. Sometimes that’s the school, but not always. Regardless, the financial responsibility falls to the school, not the family. • What is the school’s track record? • How does the school handle behavior issues? “You should say, ‘This is good for my child because of ‘X’ and that’s with every child, learning differences or not.”

Follow the (IEP) plan

Once parents find the best school for their child, the school will review the student’s IEP to create the most successful path. “Each student’s plan is designed to meet his individual needs, so if a student’s needs become increasingly complex, we may use supports outside of the general classroom. IEP implementation looks different for each student,” she says. Your child’s IEP specifies the services she is entitled to, “but if you want a whole bunch more that the IEP doesn’t think is necessary, you aren’t going to get it for free,” says Massett. “You can pay for that on your own, but the services listed in your IEP would be free as part of your public education.”

Terri Akman is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

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EDUCATION Sponsors’ day, residential, private and public schools and education resources.

Also see the Special Needs School Survey chart, p. 24 and Early Intervention & Preschool, p. 14.

Agora Cyber Charter School King of Prussia, PA; 844-462-4672 Agora.org

The Camphill School Glenmoore, PA; 610-469-9236 Camphillschool.org

See our ad, p. 23

See our ad, p. 30

Discover how Agora, a Pennsylvania public cyber school, can deliver a personalized learning experience, facilitated by highly-qualiﬁed certiﬁed teachers and specialists, in the comfort of your home. Agora creates a learning environment where everyone is included, valued, and receives the support they need to grow.

Center School Abington, PA; 215-657-2200 Centerschoolpa.org

AIM Academy Conshohocken, PA; 215-483-2461; Aimpa.org

An evidence-based, 1st-12th grade college-prep school for bright children with language- based learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia. A national leader in applying research-based best practices, AIM helps students discover the gift of fearless learning. See our ad, p. 21

The Bancroft School Mount Laurel, NJ; 800-774-5516 Bancroft.org/mount-laurel/

The Bancroft School, located in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey on the brand-new, 80-acre transformative Raymond & Joanne Welsh Campus for children’s programs, is the leading regional provider of special education programs for children and youth with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, ages 8 to 21. The campus is one of the ﬁrst in the nation designed and inspired by the challenges of today’s children with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

See our ad, p. 23

COMPASS, Garﬁeld Park Academy Willingboro, NJ; 609-877-4111 Garﬁeldparkacademy.org

Provides a supportive link between hospitalization or rehabilitation and a return to school for students with a brain injury. Offers day school, assessment & evaluation, transition services and school consultation & support. See our ads, pp. 2,22

First Children Services Cherry Hill, NJ; Colmar, PA; 888-966-0746; ﬁrstchildrenservices.com

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Serves chronically ill children who require continuous, skilled, high-level nursing care.

Garﬁeld Park Academy

Willingboro, NJ; 609-877-4111

Garﬁeldparkacademy.org

Benchmark School Media, PA; 610-565-374 Benchmarkschool.org

Garﬁeld uses an evidence-based, trauma-informed program and serves students ages 5-21 who are emotionally and/or learning challenged and may have multiple disabilities. An extensive state approved vocational program as well as work study is offered, with programs in culinary arts, retail trades, cosmetology, automotive technology, carpentry & horticulture. The School-to-Career program has a work-study component. Social workers reside in the classrooms and intensive group & individual counseling, speech & language therapy, art therapy, music therapy and family counseling are provided. Parent education classes & an extended school year are also available. Garﬁeld is Middle States Accredited. >*

Creates lifelong learners, thinkers & problem solvers among bright children who may exhibit dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, auditory processing difﬁculty or other learning differences. Benchmark’s mission is to prepare its students for success in high school, college and beyond.$

See our ad, p. 23

See our ads, pp. 2,22

Brookfield Schools provides a trauma-sensitive approach to educational and therapeutic services for students with special behavioral needs. Three independent sites for classified students, ages 5 - 21, who require intensive behavioral/therapeutic interventions: Brookfield Elementary (K - 8th Grades); Brookfield Academy (9th - 12th Grades); Transition to College (11th & 12th Grades). Brookfield Schools also provides the educational component for a number of area programs throughout South Jersey and Philadelphia. Classes focus on the Common Core State Standards, and all schools provide the required state testing. Approved by the New Jersey Department of Education as private schools serving students with disabilities and accredited by NCASES.

See our ads, pp. 2,22

Center School provides children who learn differently with a personalized education to realize their potential and reshape the way they view themselves and their future.

First Children offers diagnostic and treatment services specializing in autism, ADHD, and anxiety including ABA therapy, outpatient counseling, therapeutic groups, and a special needs camp.$

The Bancroft School at Voorhees Pediatric Facility Mount Laurel, NJ; 800-774-5516; Bancroft.org/childrens-services/ school-voorhees-pediatric-facility/

BROOKFIELD SCHOOLS Brookfield Elementary Haddon Heights; 856-546-1388 Brookfield Academy Cherry Hill; 856-795-8228 Brookfieldschools.org

Boarding & day programs in grades K-12 for children with special needs. Curriculum rich in music, art & drama; variety of therapies offered. Transition program through age 21. Financial aid. PA-approved Private School. Fully accredited by MSA-CESS & AWSNA.

Gateway Lab School Wilmington, DE; 302-633-4091; gatewaylabschool.org

Charter school that employs rigorous curriculum emphasizing the arts and hands-on experiential learning. Wilson Reading System targets struggling readers; social skills/character-development curriculum within classroom helps students build relationships and self-conﬁdence. See our ad, p. 31

HMS School Phila., PA 19104; 215-222-2566 Hmsschool.org

Boarding school for students living with complex physical disabilities. Offers short-term services for evaluation and intensive skill-building. Areas of focus include: adapted technology and physical, speech and occupational therapy. Short term services are particularly helpful for students approaching transition.

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HollyDELL; Sewell, NJ; 856-582-5151 Hollydell.org

For more than 65 years, HollyDELL has served students and adults with physical and medical challenges associated with multiple disabilities by focusing on each child’s ability not their disability. A collaborative team approach is used, ensuring treatment of the whole child and family as the student strives for levels of independence, all within a safe and nurturing environment. We focus on our students’ abilities through a wide array of individualized services including speech/language/feeding therapy, augmentative communication, physical therapy, sensory integration, mobility training, aquatic therapy, occupational therapy, pottery and music instruction, swimming, vocational training, community-based instruction, behavioral intervention, specialized nursing services and an extended school year program. >*

See our ads, pp. 2,22

Journey Christian Academy Elkton, MD; 410-441-3196 Reachschools.online

JCA provides a Christ-centered, individualized education for students in grades K-12. Instruction is personalized to meet diverse learning and developmental needs that are not easily met in a typical classroom setting. Students can take classes in a larger academic setting, and have options to participate in various extracurricular activities. This allows many opportunities for friendships and social interaction.

See our ad, p. 31

Larc School Bellmawr, NJ 08031; 856-933-3725; Larcschool.org

Larc School is a non-proﬁt, private special education school created with the sole purpose of providing for the specialized needs of children with disabilities. Renowned for our warm, family-like atmosphere, we strive to meet the needs of all students (ages 3-21 years) and adults (21 years and older) with dignity and respect, and provide opportunities for growth, development, and independence. Located in Bellmawr, New Jersey, we provide services to individuals throughout the South Jersey region at no cost to the families. Let us share with you our 50 years of experience, excellence, and determination. Our educational programming provides appropriate challenges focusing on our students’ abilities, not their disabilities. Our teachers utilize research-based teaching techniques and individualized, multi-sensory curriculums that follow all the guidelines of the New Jersey Department of Education. Our Secondary Program provides opportunities for growth and independence in activities of daily living, work readiness skills, and community outings.

See our ads, pp. 2,22

Pathway School Norristown, PA; 610-277-0660 Pathwayschool.org

The Pathway School is an approved private school that utilizes research-based interventions to support learning in students with signiﬁcant learning, executive functioning and mental health needs.

See our ad, p. 30

Royer-Greaves School for Blind Paoli, PA; 610-644-1810 Royer-Greaves.org

Royer-Greaves School for Blind provides a nurturing and supportive learning environment for children with complex educational needs related to low-incidence disabilities, including blind/visual impairment, intellectual disability, and multiple disabilities. Our highly trained staff provides specialized individualized instruction, therapies, and attention to maximize students’ functional independence at home, school, and in the community. Students and their families are understood and valued. * See our ad, p. 21

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EDUCATION Sponsors’ day, residential, private and public schools and education resources.

Also see the Special Needs School Survey chart, p. 24 and Early Intervention & Preschool, p. 14.

St. John of God Community Services (ADS) Westville Grove, NJ; 856-848-4700

Adsschool.org

See our ads, pp. 2,13,22

Talk School

Newtown Sq., PA; 610-356-5566

Talkinc.org

Talk School, a speech/language school in Newtown Square, offers a full-day therapeutic and academic program. Talk, using a multisensory language curriculum, teaches students speech, language, literacy and academics. This, combined with intensive speech/ language & occupational therapies, comprehensively addresses students’ needs.

See our ad, p. 21

PENNSYLVANIA Auerbach Central Agency for Jewish Education/Jewish Outreach Partnership, Special Needs Dept.•Jenkintown, PA; 215-320-0360; Jewishlearningventure.org

Jewish religious education & Hebrew lessons for kids with moderate to severe special needs. Horizon House Inc., Education Plus Youth•Phila. 19104; 215-386-3838; Hhinc.org Education, career exploration & life skills for youth with emotional or learning disabilities. Institute on Disabilities at Temple U.•Phila. 19122; 215-204-1356; Temple.edu/instituteondisabilities•Training, services, research & advocacy. >

Pennsylvania Assoc. of Independent Schools (PAIS); Pennsylvania Assoc. of Private Academic Schools, Inc. (PAPAS)•Plymouth Mtg, PA; 610-567-2960; Paispa.org•Offers listing of independent schools throughout PA.

Pennsylvania Dept. of Education, Bureau of Special Ed. Consult Line

Harrisburg, PA; 800-879-2301; Education.pa.gov and search “Special Education” Info on special ed regulations & policies, school concerns & procedural safeguards. > Pennsylvania Training & Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN)•Malvern, PA; 800-441-3215; Pattan.net•Database of PA resources, programs & training. * Temple University Disability Resources & Services•Phila. 19122; 215-204-1280; Temple.edu/disability•Provides support to Temple students with disabilities.

NEW JERSEY NJ Assoc. of Independent Schools•Morristown, NJ; 888-472-3491; Njais.org

Association of private schools.

NJ Dept. of Ed., Ofﬁce of Special Ed.•Trenton, NJ; 609-376-9084; State.nj.us/njded/ specialed•Monitors school district special education programs for age 3+. Provides mediation, arranges hearings & investigate complaints.

Valley Forge Educational Services Malvern, PA; 610-296-6725; Vfes.net

Valley Forge Educational Services (VFES) offers a continuum of educational, summer and employment-related programs for people with disabilities. The hallmark of our programs is our collaborative and holistic approach to each child, adolescent and adult, recognizing his or her unique abilities and needs through team efforts. Individuals of all ages come to learn, share, appreciate and respect one another while developing skills necessary for success. We are committed to helping students and participants develop a strong sense of self-worth to realize their value as contributing members of their communities.

See our ad, p. 21

The Vanguard School

Malvern, PA; 610-296-6700;

Vfes.net/vanguard

The Vanguard School provides comprehensive special education and related clinical services with a unique focus on the individual student and his or her readiness for life. The school offers an integrated academic, social and daily living skills approach within a supportive environment where the goal is for each student to become a contributing member of the community. The school is a Pennsylvania Approved Private School serving students, 4–21 years of age, with exceptionalities including autism, emotional disturbance, speech-language impairment, speciﬁc learning disability and other health impairment. > See our ad, p. 21

Project Child Find, Ofﬁce of Special Education, NJ Dept. of Education•Trenton, NJ;

800-322-8174; State.nj.us/education/specialed/childﬁnd•Free referral service assists in identifying children ages birth-21 with a delay or disability. >

DELAWARE AND NATIONAL Exceptional Children Group, Delaware Dept. of Education•Dover, DE; 302-735-4210;

Doe.k12.de.us/domain/78•Coordinates public education programs for speciﬁc disabilities that supplement education provided within school districts. > National Assoc. of Private Special Education Center•Washington, DC; 202-434-8225; Napsec.org•Advocates access to appropriate private special education programs & services. SAT Services for Students with Disabilities•London, KY; 212-713-8333 Collegeboard.com/ssd•Testing service & SAT services for students with disabilities.

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Woodlynde School

Wayne, PA; 610-687-9660

woodlynde.org

Woodlynde School is one of the nation’s leading independent college prep schools serving students with learning differences. At Woodlynde, students beneﬁt from academic richness and extracurricular activities, are inspired by our expert and caring teachers, and emerge with the tools to be well prepared for college and for life. See our ad, p. 31

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Fostering thePotential Within… Imagine a school where children with vision impairment and developmental disabilities grow academically, physically and emotionally… Imagine a nurturing educational staff committed to supporting the unique needs of students ages 4.5 – 21 years in a welcoming, homelike setting… Imagine a highly individualized delivery of services including a deaf/blind program, orientation and mobility, occupational therapy, life skills, specialized academics, aquatics and music therapy… Imagine no further. Royer-Greaves School for Blind is right here, in your community, and has been supporting the unique needs of children with vision impairments and disabilities since 1921. At Royer-Greaves, the potential within every individual is fostered daily, enabling students to enjoy a quality of life not otherwise available to them. Contact us for a tour today. info@royer-greaves.org 610-644-1810 www.royer-greaves.org

118 South Valley Road Paoli, PA 19301

GIVING EVERY CHILD THE CHANCE TO SHINE.

AIM Academy maximizes student potential allowing children with learning differences to become children with learning eagerness. Learn more: www.aimpa.org

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Given the tools they need,

students thrive.

Pennsylvania’s only full-day speech/language school for those with severe speech/language disorders, including autism.

inclusive. insightful. information.

SpecialKidsMagazine SpecialKids 2019

Call 610-356-5566 to register for monthly open houses!

Talk School 395H BISHOP HOLLOW RD., NEWTOWN SQUARE, PA

TALKINC.ORG | 610-356-5566

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Sponsored

EBS Children’s Therapy Provides Advanced Therapies to Support Children with Autism A strong body of research indicates early diagnosis and intervention is key to helping your child succeed. The EBS Children’s Therapy team can help! At EBS Children’s Therapy, we have a team of Autism Specialists consisting of BCBAs, RBTs, SLPs, OTs and Child Psychologists. The multidisciplinary team works collaboratively using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to guide individualized treatment and programming to help your child succeed. With all services under one roof, families feel comfort in knowing the team is communicating daily and working together to meet their child’s needs. We offer diagnostic services and therapy in clinic, community, home and schoolbased settings.

Our ABA Therapy services include: • • • •

Natural Environment Teaching Social Skills and Communication Discrete Teaching Functional Behavior Assessment and Behavior • Behavior Intervention Plan Development • Home and Community Support • Incidental Teaching • Parent Training and Family Involvement • Preventative and Reactive Strategies • School Shadowing • Special Education and Skill Development EBS Children’s Therapy is a part of the EBS Children’s Institute, which is the research and treatment division of EBS Healthcare, the largest school-based consulting, management and training practice, and the global leader in providing pediatric therapy and special-edu-

cation services. EBS is headquartered in West Chester, PA and regularly conducts research and training that advances the field of pediatric therapy and special education. EBS’s research and evidence-based practices are taught in universities and modeled all across the country in our partnering school districts. While students in other areas of the country have to wait to access EBS’s expertise, families in Chester and Delaware counties, and the Philadelphia region can benefit from this groundbreaking research — right here, right now! EBS Children’s Therapy features a sensory gym, including a rock-climbing wall, therapeutic swing, and crash pit, as well as a fully functioning, wheelchair-accessible kitchen to work on Activities of Daily Living (ADL). Parents and teachers are invited to be a part of therapy, as well as watch from observation rooms, so they can learn how to incorporate therapy goals into their home and school routines. We also offer Bluetooth coaching in parent-coaching sessions to encourage a highly interactive, hands-on experience with our therapists. EBS Children’s Therapy accepts most insurance and offers group programs, so that families have options. Whether you are a parent looking for innovative treatment for your child, a district administrator looking to balance your district’s needs, or a therapist or special educator looking to grow within your field, EBS has multiple divisions to support education, outpatient-clinics nationwide, and a network of top specialists around the country to serve you.

Services: • • • • • • • • •

ABA Therapy Child Psychology Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy AAC Therapy Feeding and Swallowing Therapy Early Intervention Transition to Adulthood

Mission Statement:

We believe everyone has a super power. We don’t see disabilities. We only see abilities. We are a collection of professionals compassionate about making a difference in the lives we touch. We empower children and families to grow and evolve by taking a multi-disciplinary approach to consultation, direct intervention, and collaboration with school and home teams.

200 Skiles Boulevard, West Chester, PA 19382 610-455-4040 info@ebschildrenstherapy.com www.ebschildrenstherapy.com

EBS is Lighting it up Blue for Autism Awareness Month!

In honor of World Autism Day and to celebrate Autism Awareness Month, EBS will be Lighting it up Blue! Light it up Blue is a unique global initiative that kicks off Autism Awareness Month and helps raise awareness about autism. Thousands of iconic landmarks and buildings join the hundreds of thousands of homes and communities around the world to “light blue” in support of people living with autism. EBS Children’s Therapy is proud to be among the many showing support for Autism Awareness!

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EVALUATION Diagnosis and assessment of motor, educational and behavioral development. Also see Medical, Professional Services and Education.

Autism Delaware

Newark, DE; 302-224-6020;

Autismdelaware.org

See our ad, p. 6

First Children Services

Colmar, PA; Cherry Hill, NJ: 888-966-0746;

Firstchildrenservices.com

First Children Services offers behavioral health diagnostic and treatment services for children and adolescents throughout NJ and Southeastern PA. We provide in-home and center-based applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism as well as outpatient counseling and therapeutic groups.

See our ad, back cover

PENNSYLVANIA Albert Einstein Medical Center•See Medical Arc Alliance, The•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Arc of Chester County, The•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Arc of Delaware County, The•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Arc of Pennsylvania, The•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Arc of Philadelphia•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Center for Autism•See Early Intervention & Preschool Child Guidance Resource Center•See listing at left ChildLink: Public Health Mgmt. Corp.•See Early Intervention & Preschool Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia•See Medical Comprehensive Autism Center at Delaware Valley Children’s Center See Early Intervention & Preschool

Crozer-Chester Medical Center•See Medical Early Intervention Ofﬁce, Children’s Outreach Services Program See Early Intervention & Preschool

cgrc.org See our ad, p. 47

Education and Behavior Consulting – EdBeCo, Inc.•See Early Intervention & Preschool Elwyn SEEDS•See Early Intervention & Preschool First Children Services•See listing at left Freedom Valley Disability Center•See Advocacy Friends Hospital•See Medical Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy•See Recreation Main Line Health, Bryn Mawr Hospital/DuPont Children’s Health Program

Next Steps Developmental and Neuropsychological Services Center

Melmark School, The•See Residential Next Steps Developmental and Neuropsychological Services Center•See listing at left Pennsylvania Association of Intermediate Units•See Early Intervention & Preschool SPIN Inc.•See Early Intervention & Preschool Via of the Lehigh Valley•See Early Intervention & Preschool

Child Guidance Resource Center

Delaware Co. - Havertown, PA; 484-454-8700 Chester Co. - Coatesville, PA; 610-383-5635 Philadelphia - Philadelphia Autism Center for Excellence; Phila. 19153; 267-713-4100

See Medical

Havertown, PA;484-454-8787;

nextstepscenter.com

Autism assessments, diagnostic services across the lifespan, independent educational evaluations, and general psychological assessments info@nextstepscenter.com (a division of Child Guidance Resource Centers)

See our ad, p. 47

NEW JERSEY Advancing Opportunities•See Advocacy Archway Programs: Step By Step•See Early Intervention & Preschool Bayada Pediatrics•See Care Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital See Medical

Weisman Children’s

Multiple locations, NJ; 877-543-8774;

Weismanchildrens.com

Children’s Specialized Hospital•See Medical Deborah Heart & Lung Center•See Medical Division of Developmental Disabilities, NJ Dept. of Human Services•See Government First Children Services•See listing at left Weisman Children’s•See listing at left DELAWARE AND MARYLAND Autism Delaware•See listing at left Delaware Division of Public Health, Child Development Watch•See Early Intervention & Preschool

Kennedy Krieger Institute•See Medical Mid-Atlantic Behavioral Health Children’s Services•See Medical National Federation of the Blind•See Organizations: Visual Impairments

See our ad, p. 13

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Funding

Secure Your Child’s Financial Future “You are planning for the retirement of three — mom, dad and the lifetime of the adult child with special needs,” says a financial planner.

By Debra Wallace When it comes to the financial future of their child with autism, many parents and caregivers are so daunted, overwhelmed, or fearful of making the wrong decisions, they put off the first step. Steve G., of Yardley, PA admits that the financial security of his son, Simon, 17, who has autism, seemed like something to handle in the distant future, not while he and his wife, TeriLyn, were embroiled in Simon’s day-to-day personal and educational issues. But a trip to China in 2007 to complete the adoption of their now-12-year-old daughter led to questions about guardianship, life insurance and how to pay for their son’s education and other needs. Five years later, a plan for Simon was put in motion with the help of Pat Bergmaier, a special needs financial planner. “What has always given us enough energy to push forward with these issues is realizing that you need professional help with every facet of raising a child with special needs,” Steve says.

“You are planning for the retirement of three — mom, dad and the lifetime of the adult child with special needs — so how to invest and the types of investments that are made are based on planning for income for the rest of all of their lives,” he says Bergmaier, whose office is in Conshohocken, PA, says families often think that the creation of a trust with an attorney is enough. “They think once they have created their special-needs trust, they are done,” he says. “But the legal documents need adequate financial resources — assets, money and/or real estate — to flow into it.” A special-needs trust is a legal arrangement and fiduciary relationship that allows a person with physical or mental disabilities, or a chronically ill person, to receive income without reducing their eligibility for the public assistance disability benefits provided by Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, Medicare, or Medicaid. It is a popular strategy for someone who wants to help a family member in need, but not make them

ineligible for programs that have income or asset limits.

Lay the groundwork early

Bergmaier wishes more parents started financial planning when their child is between 3–10 years old. “Don’t wait to see if your child is going to be higher functioning,” he says. Bucks County, PA attorney David T. Siegel, who is licensed in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, says that every family has its own dynamic so its financial and healthcare needs will be unique. “I start by learning about the person’s life, the benefits he currently receives and the benefits he is trying to receive for the future,” he says. One constant, however, is that parents need to name a power of attorney or guardian for an adult child with autism. Siegel has had guardians appointed for adults with special needs from ages 18 to 60. Siegel says the team of an attorney and a financial planner can handle 99 percent of the legal, trust and financial concerns.

More than a trust

Bergmaier, a local certified financial planner for 13 years, says financial planning for a typical child is much different from planning for a child or adult with special needs. Investment decisions, he notes, must be made based on the life expectancy of the child.

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Funding

The hardest part for most parents is making that first phone call, says an attorney. “It’s not as hard as parents think it is,” he says. “It is a complicated procedure where a process has to be followed. But like anything else, people can build things up in their head to make it harder than it really is. “The hardest part for most of my clients is making that initial phone call.”

If not you, who?

Bruce Sham was one of the first financial planners in the nation to receive the Special Care Planner designation 14 years ago from The American College of Financial Services in Bryn Mawr,PA. During his frequent presentations for parents, Sham focuses on how they can protect their family members’ Social Security and other government benefits as well as their education/training, employment, religious/ social life, safety and medical care. Sham, with MassMutual of Greater Philadelphia, which has offices in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, also emphasizes “the earlier the better” to start financial planning for a child with special needs. “It can be too late if the special needs individual becomes age 65 and a special needs trust was never set up.” He knows that parents who fear making financial-planning decisions for their child with special needs often take a waitand-see attitude. “If you don’t do it, nobody else is going to,” Sham says. “The local schools are responsible for the child until age 21. The government is concerned that the child has food and housing. “All other quality-of-life issues must be addressed by the family through the establishment of a special-needs trust.” Sham urges families to “please take that responsibility and do this for your child or adult with special needs. “We get to be the voice for someone who may never have a voice on these vital decisions that are made on their behalf.”

Debra Wallace is a Huntingdon Valley, PAbased freelance writer.

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Special needs require SpecialCare. When you’re ready, we’re here to help. MassMutual’s SpecialCare program provides access to information, specialists and financial products and services to help families facing the financial responsibilities of raising a child with a disability or other special needs. To learn more about how a financial professional with the Chartered Special Needs Consultant designation can help your family, contact us today.

Joseph P. Mallee III jmallee@financialguide.com 610-686-6998

Bruce Sham, CLF bsham@financialguide.com 610-557-0063

Insurance Representatives of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Springfield, MA 01111-0001, and its affiliated US insurance companies. Insurance products issued by MassMutual, Springfield, MA 01111, and its subsidiaries, C.M. Life Insurance Co. and MML Bay State Life Insurance Co., Enfield, CT 06082. Joseph P. Mallee III and Bruce Sham are Registered Representatives of and securities offered through MML Investors Services, LLC, Member SIPC and a MassMutual subsidiary. Supervisory Offices: 220 Gibraltar Road, Suite 350, Horsham, PA 19044, 215-441-8200. 2 Bala Plaza, Suite 901, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004. 610-660-9922. CRN202012-222355

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MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 35

FUNDING Organizations providing financial assistance or information. Also see Government. Mass Mutual• Bruce Sham, CLF, Bala Cynwyd, PA; 610-557-0063; bsham@financialguide.com Joseph P. Mallee III, Horsham, PA; 610-686-6998; jmallee@financialguide.com massmutual.com MassMutual’s SpecialCare program provides access to information, specialists and financial products and services to help families facing the financial responsibilities of raising a child with a disability or other special needs. To learn more about how a financial professional with the Chartered Special Needs Consultant designation can help your family, contact Bruce or Joseph today. See our ad, p. 35 Angel Fund, The•301-834-7252; Theangelfund.net Helps fund families of special needs children.

Anne & Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarships•Washington, DC;

Ncld.org/scholarships-and-awards College scholarships for students with LD. Athletes Helping Athletes•888-566-5221; Roadrunnersports.com and search “Athletes Helping Athletes” Provides hand cycles to kids with disabilities. ATI Foundation•Bolingbrook, IL; 630-296-2222; Atipt.com/ati-foundation•Offers medical resources and funding for DE and PA kids with physical disabilities. Autism Care & Treatment Today•Thousand Oaks, CA; 818-340-4010; Act-today.org Gives grants that help support kids on the spectrum. Capital Venture•888-556-2863; Cvfundraising.com Full-service fundraising consulting ﬁrm offering development services to nonproﬁts. >

Johnny’s Rainbow Foundation•Springﬁeld, PA;

Facebook.com/JohnnysRainbowFoundation Therapy, aid for Delaware Co. families with special needs. The Kiddie Pool•Dolgeville, NY; 800-371-2778; Adaptivemall.com/kiddiepool1.html Helps families raise funds for adaptive equipment. Lindsay Foundation•Huffman, TX; 281-399-2937; Facebook.com/TheLindsayFoundation/ Assists families with funds for medical treatment, therapies and equipment. Mass Mutual•See listing above M.O.R.G.A.N. Project, The •Melbourne, FL; 321-506-2707; Themorganproject.org•Volunteers support parents caring for children with Leukodystrophy. New Jersey FamilyCare•Hamilton, NJ; 800-701-0710; Njfamilycare.org•Federal & state-funded health insurance program for kids & low-income families. >

Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund Comm., NJ Dept. of Human Svcs.•Trenton, NJ; 609-292-0600;

P. Buckley Moss Foundation Scholarships & Awards

Central Illinois Special Needs Assistance Program•Morton IL; 309-235-2385; Cisnap.org/about-us.html Funds educational equipment for kids ages 3-21. First Hand Foundation•Kansas City, MO; 816-201-1569; Firsthandfoundation.org•Nonproﬁt that funds medical costs not covered by insurance or healthcare.

Shireadhdscholarship.com/

Nj.gov/humanservices/cicrf/home Helps NJ families fund medical expenses for children.

Fred J. Epstein Youth Achievement Award

Smartkidswithld.org and search “Fred Epstein” $1,000 scholarship for students with learning disability or ADHD. Friends of Man•Littleton, CO; 303-798-2342; Friendsofman.org Funding for equipment or medical procedures. Fund It Forward•Wexford, PA; 914-357-5437; Funditfwd.org Provide kids with adaptive equipment. Giving Angels Foundation•Dresher, PA; 267-332-1320; Givingangelsfoundation.org•Buys families adaptive equipment. Help a Little One Foundation•Chestnut Hill, MA; Halo.org Purchases equipment for children with neurological impairments.

Independence Blue Cross Caring Foundation, CHIP Program

Phila. 19103; 800-464-5437; ibx.com and search “CHIP” Insurance for children who do not have Medicaid or private coverage. > Jack’s Place for Autism Foundation•Southﬁeld, MI; 248-443-7427; Jacksplaceforautism.org •Provides services, grants and scholarships for families with kids on the autism spectrum.

Matthews, VA; 800-430-1320; Mosssociety.org Scholarships for students pursuing a degree in special ed. & a senior with a language-related learning difference. Shire ADHD Scholarship Program• 888-815-8720; $2,000 scholarships for college-bound residents with ADHD.

Social Security, Supplemental Security Income Program

Phila. 19134; 800-772-1213; Ssa.gov/beneﬁts/disability/apply-child.html Monthly payments based on disability, income & resources. > Special Kids Fund•Lakewood, NJ; 732-397-5056; Specialkidsfund.org•Helps families get adapted vehicles. Travis Roy Foundation•Boston, MA; Travisroyfoundation.org Provides equipment to kids with spinal cord injuries. United Health Care Children’s Foundation •855-698-4223; Uhccf.org•Provides funding for medical costs that are not covered by health insurance. United Healthcare Community Plan•Hot Springs, AR; 844-813-7805; Uhccomunityplan.com Coordinates special needs health services for medical assistance & CHIP recipients. > Wheelchairs 4 Kids•Tarpon Springs, FL; 727-946-0963; Wheelchairs4kids.org•Provides wheelchairs & assistive devices. Wheel to Walk Foundation•Portland, OR; 503-257-1401; Wheeltowalk.com•Helps children obtain medical equipment or services not covered by insurance. Zane’s Foundation Inc.•Stow, OH; 330-677-9263; Zanesfoundation.org•Funding assistance.

SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOOLS, SERVICES AND RESOURCES

metrokids.com/specialkids

36 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

SpecialKids 2019

GOVERNMENT Federal, state and county agencies, including the entry points to receive many government-funded special needs services. PENNSYLVANIA Child Care Information Service•Phila. 19147

Dhs.pa.gov and search “Early Learning Resource Center”

PA agency administers child care subsidies for qualifying families and maintains a database of providers. >

Bucks Co.: 1-833-229-6928 Chester Co.: 1-833-262-8565 Delaware Co.: 610-713-2115 Montgomery Co.: 610-278-3707 Phila. (Ctr. City & South): 215-271-0433 Phila. (North): 215-763-0100 Phila. (Northeast): 215-333-1560 Phila. (Northwest): 215-842-4820 Phila. (South & West): 215-382-4762

Dept. of Behavioral Health & Intellectual Disability Services

Phila, PA 19106; 215-685-5400; Dbhids.org Behavioral health, intellectual disability services, support. >%

Dept. of Mental Health / Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities•Harrisburg, PA; 888-565-9435;

Dhs.pa.gov and search “Intellectual Disabilities Services” Chester Co. - West Chester, P; 610-344-6000; Chesco.org and search “Intellectual Disability” > Delaware Co. - Upper Darby, PA; 610-713-2400; Delcohsa.org and search “OIDD” >% Penn Foundation for Intellectual Disabilities•Sellersville, PA; 215-257-6551; Pennfoundation.org/services/intellectual-disabilities/ Contact for PA support system for intellectual disabilities.

Montgomery County Behavioral Health /Developmental Disabilities Dept.•Norristown, PA; 610-278-3642; Mhmrda.montcopa.org•Mental health counseling & support

services and developmental disabilities training. >*

Ofﬁce of Child Development and Early Learning,

Harrisburg, PA; 800-692-7462; Dhs.pa.gov and search “Early Learning”•PA licensing ofﬁce for child day care in homes & centers. Ofﬁce of Vocational Rehabilitation•Phila.; 215-560-5700; Dli.state.pa.us•Helps Philadelphians with disabilities prepare for, obtain & maintain employment. *

Phila. Commission on Human Relations and the Fair Housing Commission•Phila. 19106; 215-686-4670; Phila.gov/humanrelations•Enforces prohibition of discrimina-

tion in jobs, housing, public accommodations & services. Special Kids Network•800-986-4550; Toll-free call center provides info & referrals

Become an

NEW JERSEY Department of Health Early Intervention System

Trenton, NJ; 888-653-4463; Nj.gov and search NJEIS Assists families with complex, long-term medical & developmental disabilities. Primarily serves children 0-3 years old. > Division of Developmental Disabilities•Trenton, NJ; 800-832-9173; State.nj.us/humanservices/ddd Coordinates & provides services for autism, intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, spina biﬁda, brain injuries. > Division of the Deaf & Hard of Hearing•Trenton, NJ; 800-792-8339; State.nj.us/humanservices/ddhh Information, referral & interpretive referral service. > Division of Disability Services•Mercerville, NJ; 888-285-3036; State.nj.us/humanservices/dds•Downloadable, indexed guide of resources for those with disabilities. >

New Jersey Commission for the Blind & Visually Impaired

Newark, NJ; 973-648-3333; State.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi Services in education, employment, independence & eye health. >*

New Jersey State Library: Talking Books and Braille Center Trenton, NJ; 800-792-8322; Njstatelib.org/talking-book-braille-center Lends recorded books, Braille & large print, tape players at no cost to eligible NJ residents. >

DELAWARE Delaware Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health Services•Wilmington, DE; 302-633-2600; Kids.delaware.gov

Early invention, effective treatments & support for families. Division for the Visually Impaired•New Castle, DE; 302-255-9800; Dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dvi Education programs for the blind & visually impaired.

NATIONAL National Institute on Disability, Independent Living & Rehabilitation Research•Washington, DC; 202-401-4634; Acl.gov and search “NIDILRR” Generates & promotes improved options for disabled persons.

Ofﬁce of Special Education & Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) Wash., DC; 202-245-7468; Ed.gov and search “OSERS” Promotes inclusion, employment & independent living. >*

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MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

Resources • Advice • Community

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Legal

N I P TU

LEGAL Federal, state and county legal agencies, advocating for special needs services.

H E G C U N CA LERA O T O ZER

Get-tough policies meant to prevent violence often unecessarily ensnare students with special needs. By Lisa Lightner A few years ago in suburban Baltimore, a 7-year-old was suspended from school. His offense? He chewed a Pop-Tart into the shape of a gun and pointed it at his classmates. His parents fought the punishment, but a judge and the Maryland Department of Education backed the school since it had a zero-tolerance policy on weapons. Zero-tolerance policies in schools were created out of the tragedy at Columbine in the form of the Guns Free School Act of 1994. Initially created to address guns and other weapons, in many districts it expanded to include non-weapon, non-drug and non-physical offenses. While students in special education can make up 15 percent of a school’s population, they represent approximately 75 percent of the students who get suspended and zero-tolerance policies can contribute to that, according to a report from the Center for American Progress. If students with special needs are suspended for behaviors that are a manifestation of their disabilities, there are two important consequences: 1. They aren’t learning the appropriate replacement behaviors. Since the punishment isn’t always immediate (often the suspension starts the next day), it is hard for students to tie the punishment to the actual offense. 2. Some students who are sent home see it as a reward. If school is difficult, this is a way out. Maybe a child prefers to be with a parent who is home during the school day. The result is positive reinforcement of a negative behavior. In addition, some studies suggest zero-tolerance policies do not decrease the severity or frequency of incidents and may even contribute to an increase. All parents, but especially those who have children in special education, should be aware of their school district’s zero-tolerance policy and contact school board members if they believe a change is needed. Parents can also ask to have items put in the child’s IEP or Behavior Plan to alert staff of behaviors that could be considered dangerous, but are not. For example, some kids really enjoy drawing elaborate pictures of weapons and wars. In some schools, that can be considered a threat and get a student expelled under a zero-tolerance policy. States, such as Delaware, have passed legislation that limits zero-tolerance policies to weapons. Pennsylvania is considering similar legislation with the addition that it also limits enforcement to students over the age of 10. New Jersey is not considering any similar legislation.

American Bar Association, Commission on Mental and Physical Disability Law Washington, DC; 202-662-1000; Abanet.org/disability •Promotes justice &

the rule of law for persons with mental, physical & sensory disabilities and their full & equal participation in the legal profession.

Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. Wilmington, DE; 302-575-0660; Declasi.org Kent Co. - Dover, DE; 302-674-8500; 302-674-8503 (disabilities program) Sussex Co. - Georgetown, DE; 302-856-0038; 302-856-3742 (disabilities program) Free legal services for persons with disabilities. > Community Legal Services of Philadelphia Phila. 19102; 215-981-3700; Clsphila.org Free legal advocacy for low-income families

with seriously disabled children. Ofﬁces in North Phila. & Center City. >

Disability Rights Network of PA Harrisburg, PA; 800-692-7443; Phila. 19107; 215-238-8070; Drnpa.org•Free legal services to people facing disability-based discrimination. >

Disability Rights NJ•Trenton, NJ; 800922-7233; Drnj.org•Advocates civil & legal rights of NJ citizens with disabilities. > Education Law Center, NJ•Newark, NJ; 973-624-1815; Edlawcenter.org•Statebased advocate for access to equal public education under state & federal laws. >

Education Law Center, PA•Phila. 19107; 215-238-6970; Elc-pa.org•Seeks to ensure that all PA children have access to a quality public education. > Legal Clinic for the Disabled, Inc.•Phila. 19102; 215-587-3350; Legalclinicforthedisabled.org Free legal services & referrals for low-income individuals with physical disabilities. >

Pennsylvania Client Assistance Program Phila. 19102; 888-745-2357; Equalemployment.org•Advocacy for peo-

ple with disabilities who have employmentbased issues. >

Pennsylvania Health Law Project• Phila. 19106; 215-625-3990; Phlp.org

Help line for individuals who are uninsured & qualify for public medical assistance. >

Public Interest Law Center of Phila. Phila. 19103; 215-627-7100; Pilcop.org

Non-governmental agency. Disabilities Project specializes in class-action suits. >

Wrightslaw•Wrightslaw.com

Information about special education law & advocacy.

We’ve Got What You’re

KING for

.com

Lisa Lightner is a West Chester, PA special-education advocate who blogs at ADayinOurShoes.com and is a contributor to MetroKids.com’s MomSpeak.

38 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

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Medical

Can Medical Marijuana Help Your Child? By Peg Quann Kiera, an 11-year-old Glenside, PA girl who suffers from seizures, is sleeping much better now. So too is Grace, an eight-yearold with autism, from Harleysville, PA. Both children are using medical marijuana for their medical conditions. After three weeks, their parents believe the treatment is helping. “The biggest change is she sleeps through the night. She used to get up at 3 or 4 in the morning,” says Grace’s mom, Kim. “She’s also putting sentences together better.” Kiera’s mom, Vicki, says her daughter, in addition to sleeping more soundly, has improved focus. Best of all, a recent electroencephalography (EEG) showed Kiera hadn’t had any seizures, where she previously had up to 30 a day, even when taking other medications. “It was huge,” Vicki says of the EEG result for Kiera, who has a rare genetic condition that can cause a host of developmental problems, including seizures. “I was very hesitant about it,” Vicki says of medical marijuana, but she researched and decided to try it because other medications didn’t offer much relief and had potentially serious side effects, including one with a black-box warning that it could cause death. “The side effects were worse than the seizures,” she says.

PA, NJ and DE allow medical marijuana

Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware have all started medical-marijuana programs for people, including children, with certain medical conditions. While the list varies slightly from state to state, all three allow it to be used to treat seizures. In Pennsylvania, autism is one of the covered conditions. In New Jersey, autism must be accompanied by anxiety, while in Delaware, a child with autism needs to exhibit aggressive behavior to qualify. The National Institute on Drug Abuse, a federal agency, says that marijuana contains chemicals that appear to reduce inflammation and have other medicinal properties, but it also warns that it carries the risk of addiction, particularly in children.

Marijuana dispensaries open for business

In order to buy medical marijuana for a child in Pennsylvania, the patient must first visit a doctor who has been certified by the state as a participant in the program. If the doctor confirms that the child has one of 21 medical conditions approved for the drug, a parent, guardian or designated caregiver, after a criminal background check, gets a card that can be taken to a marijuana dispensary. The dispensaries, the first of which opened in Pennsylvania in February 2018, are required to have a doctor or pharmacist on duty to consult with customers. If they have multiple locations, they can have a physician’s assistant or registered nurse practitioner at the additional locations. “The dispensaries are much like pharmacies, a doctor will certify the patient for medical marijuana, and the patient goes to the dispensary and gets the product they think will work the best for their medical condition,” said Nate Wardle, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Health. “Parents/caregivers should consult with their practitioner about the form of medical marijuana that would be best for their child. Parents/caregivers can also consult with the medical professional at the dispensary.” There are two forms of medical marijuana: the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) form, which can cause a “high” and the CBD (cannabinoid) form, which does not. They come in pills, oils, topical forms, such as patches or ointments, vapors and liquids designed to treat various serious illnesses, according to the state’s Office of Medical Marijuana. In Southeastern Pennsylvania, TerraVida Holistic Centers has

SpecialKids 2019

dispensaries in Abington, Malvern and Sellersville. Chris Visco, TerraVida president and COO, says she started to research the use of medical marijuana after seeing members of her family suffer from cancer. “I just stayed on top of it,” she says. Helping people relieve their pain, especially children, has been “so rewarding, more than I can ever imagine.” With her business partner, Deena Birnbaum, she opened the centers as soon as state law allowed. Business has been brisk, she says, and she foresees the need for about 15 centers in the region to accommodate customers. There were 46 statewide as of March 2019. In New Jersey, there are Alternative Treatment Centers in Bellmawr, Cranbury, Egg Harbor, Montclair, Secaucus and Woodbridge. A physician registered with the program most certify that the patient has one of the qualified conditions. In Delaware, there are dispensaries, called Compassion Centers, in Lewes, Newark, Smyrna and Wilmington. Doctors must also certify that the patient has one of the qualified medical conditions.

Number of children in program is small

Pennsylvania Department of Health spokesperson April Hutcheson said that approximately 300 children were approved to receive medical marijuana out of the 7,200 cards that had been issued as of March 2018. Approximately 26,000 people had applied to the program at that time. TerraVida centers have provided medical marijuana products for about 1,850 people, 10 percent of whom have been children under 18. “We see more autistic children than any other reason for children,” Visco said. According to the New Jersey Department of Health, in 2018 half of 1 percent of the 18,700 patients using medical marijuana in the state were minors. The top conditions for which they were using it were seizures, post-traumatic stress disorder and inflammatory bowel disease. In Delaware, 21 juveniles’ caregivers had signed up to receive medical marijuana as of March 2018. There are 4,546 adult patients on the registry at that time. The most common reason for which caregivers sought treatment for juveniles is seizures.

Concern for dependency risk

While marijuana is a natural substance, it still poses risks for dependency, the NIDA cautions. It says that “people who begin using marijuana before the age of 18 are four to seven times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder than adults,” which is a dependency on the drug that can lead to addiction in some people. Visco disputes that marijuana could be addictive, saying most children take the CBD version of medical marijuana “which has zero psychoactive properties.” School districts continue to warn students about the dangers of dependency-forming drugs, including marijuana, but some students are now going to class while taking medical marijuana. A parent considering medical marijuana for a child needs to weigh the risks versus the benefits in, Hutcheson said. “It’s a tool but not the only tool.” For Vicki, whose daughter Kiera has developmental delays and suffered from seizures for years, the benefits outweigh the risk. “If her being addicted to marijuana was the worst thing I had to worry about, it would be a blessing,” she says. Peg Quann is a freelance writer.

To see a full list of conditions that qualify for medical marijuana in PA, NJ and DE, go to Metrokids.com/medicalmarijuana MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 39

MEDICAL Hospitals and rehabilitation centers that treat children with special needs. Pediatric Specialty Care

Weisman Children’s

Pediatricspecialty.com

Weismanchildrens.com

Multiple locations, NJ; 877-543-8774;

Phila. 19129; 877-291-6535;

Inpatient program for medically fragile children birth to 21 years. Six locations throughout PA. See our ad, p. 52

Shriners Hospital for Children Phila. 19140; 215-430-4000;

Shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/philadelphia

Shriners Hospital provides diagnosis, evaluation and treatment for a wide range of orthopaedic problems in infants, children and teens, as well as specialty care treating sports injuries, fractures, scoliosis and other spinal conditions.

See our ad, p. 13

See our ad, p. 41

PENNSYLVANIA Albert Einstein Medical Center•Phila.; 800-346-7834;

Pediatric Specialty Care• See listing above. Saint Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Section of Developmental Pediatrics•Phila. 19134; 215-427-5531;

Einstein.edu/locations•Serves individuals with developmental disabilities, ADHD & learning disabilities. >$ Belmont Behavioral Hospital•Phila. 19131; 855-659-9972; Belmontbehavioral.com•Psychiatric hospital that treats mental health & addiction. >% Brooke Glen Behavioral Hospital•Ft. Washington, PA; 215-641-5404; Brookeglenhospital.com•Provides services for adolescents. >% Center for Autism Research at CHOP•Phila., 19146; 267-426-7540; Centerforautismresearch.org•Children with and without autism needed for research studies. % Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia•Phila. 19104; 800-8792467; Chop.edu•One of the world’s leading pediatric hospitals & research facilities. >$%

Stchristophershospital.com and search “Developmental Pediatrics”•Serves children with developmental issues such as spina biﬁda, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, autism and ADHD. Saint Mary Children’s Health Center•Bensalem, PA; 215-245-8873; Stmaryhealthcare.org•Provides pediatric care to Bucks Co. children, including low-income residents. > Shriners Hospital for Children• See listing above.

NEW JERSEY Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital•New Brunswick, NJ;

Children’s Rehabilitation Thomas Jefferson University Hospital•Phila., 19107; 800-JEFF-NOW;

Hospitals.jefferson.edu and search “pediatric rehabilitation” For children birth-age 1 with congenital or acquired illnesses or disabilities. ChildWay•Lansdale, PA; 215-362-4950; Childway.org Home-like setting with individualized care for medical needs.

Crozer-Chester Pediatric Specialty Care, Brinton Lake

Glen Mills, PA; crozerkeystone.org/services/pediatrics/ developmental-behavioral/•Hospital with developmental pediatrics services. $

Devereux PA — Devereux Children’s Behavioral Health Center•Malvern, PA; 800-935-6789; Devereuxpa.org

Inpatient acute psychiatric hospital serving ages 6-18. Moss Rehab, Einstein Healthcare Network•Phila., 19141; 215-456-9800; Mossrehab.com/pediatric-services•Pediatric rehabilitation includes speech, occupational & physical therapy.>% Friends Hospital•Phila. 19124; 800-889-0548; Friendshospital.com•Programs & services for people with behavioral & emotional health problems. >$

Holy Redeemer Hospital & Medical Center, Pediatric Rehabilitation•Meadowbrook, PA; 215-947-3000;

Holyredeemer.com• Therapy & rehabilitation services. > Horsham Clinic, The Children’s Unit•Ambler, PA; 800-237-4447; Horshamclinic.com•Psychiatric hospital for children 4-18 with severe behavioral problems. >% Keystone Mercy Health Plan•Phila. 19113; 800-521-6860; Keystoneﬁrstpa.com•Services for children with special needs or developmental delays. > KidsPeace Hospital, Orchard Hills•Oreﬁeld, PA; 800-854-3123; Kidspeace.org/pa-psychiatric-hospital•Short-term stabilization program for children & adolescents.

Mainline Health, Pediatric Unit and Emergency Medicine at Bryn Mawr Hospital•Bryn Mawr, PA ; 866-225-5654;

Mainlinehealth.org/specialities/pediatrics Pediatric specialists, neonatal ICU & follow-up program. >$%

40 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

732-828-3000; Bmsch.org•ADD & neurology programs; assessment for autism, intellectual & learning disabilities. >$% Children’s Specialized Hospital•Mountainside, NJ; 888-244-5373; Childrens-specialized.org Therapy, evaluation, fragile medical day care, psychological & rehabilitative services. >$% The Children’s Heart Center at Deborah•Browns Mills, NJ; 609-735-2923; demanddeborah.org/medical-services/ pediatric-cardiology/•Outpatient pediatric–cardiology services. Hampton Behavioral Health Center•Westampton Twp., NJ; 800-603-6767; Hamptonhospital.com•A private behavioral health care & counseling center. >% JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute•Edison, NJ; 732-321-7050; JFKjohnson.org•Therapy for many types of developmental & physical disabilities. >% Matheny Medical & Educational Center•Peapack, NJ; 908-234-0011; Matheny.org•Hospital for children with medically complex developmental disabilities. *

Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center / Child Development Services•Camden, NJ; 856-869-3030; Lourdesnet.org/programs-and-services/child-development Early intervention for infants-age 3 with developmental needs. >

Pediatric Autism Program, Cooper University Hospital

Camden, NJ; 800-826-6737; Cooperhealth.org/services/ pediatric-autism-program•Treatment & research center for diagnosis & treatment of autism spectrum disorders. Weisman Children’s• See listing above.

DELAWARE AND MARYLAND Kennedy Krieger Institute•Baltimore, MD; 888-554-2080;

Treatment, services and research for children with developmental concerns. $

Mid-Atlantic Behavioral Health Children’s Services

Wilmington, DE; 302-224-1400; Midatlanticbh.com Outpatient behavioral health services to children as young as 3. $

Nemours / Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children

Wilmington, DE; 800-651-4000; Nemours.org•Ranked among the nation’s best for pediatric specialty care by U.S. News & World Report. >

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Specialized Medical and Psychiatric Care for Children and Adults The team at Marcroft provides a multidisciplinary approach to treating children, adolescents and adults with neurological, psychiatric and behavioral needs throughout their life span. We specialize in: • Autism Spectrum Disorders • Headaches/Migraines • Intellectual/Developmental Disability • Concussion/Post-concussion Syndrome • Traumatic Brain Injury • Balance Disorders and Gait Abnormality • ADHD/ADD • Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders • Cerebral Palsy • Tic Disorders and Tourette Syndrome

Olga Goldfarb, MD • Pediatric Neurologist

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Call 856-524-7243 to schedule an appointment 1000 White Horse Rd, Suite 802 • Voorhees, NJ 08043 marcroftmedical.com

Trusted leaders in pediatric orthopaedic care

www.shrinersphilly.org • 215-430-4000 • SpecialKids 2019

MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 41

ORGANIZATIONS Groups that offer information, referral services, research and/or support to parents, professionals and the public. Also see Advocacy

Autism Delaware

Newark, DE; 302-224-6020; Lewes, DE; 302-644-3410;

Delautism.org

Wide range of services for state residents, including vocational, clinical, family supports, social and recreational opportunities and advocacy. Ofﬁces in Newark, Dover and Milton. See our ad, p. 6

Autism Society Greater Philadelphia King of Prussia, PA; 610-358-5256;

Asaphilly.org

ASA Philly promotes lifelong access and opportunities for persons within the autism spectrum & their families, to be fully included, participating members of their communities through advocacy, awareness, education and reach.

See our ad, p. 44 and inside back cover

Delaware Family Voices

Wilmington, DE; 302 669-3030; 302 669-3033 (Eng/Spanish); 877-235-3588; defv.org

See our ad, p. 43

Valley Forge Educational Services Malvern, PA; 610-296-6725;

Vfes.net

ALL/MULTIPLE DISABILITIES Alliance for the Betterment of Citizens with Disabilities•Hamilton, NJ; 609-581-8375; Abcdnj.org•Serves people with multiple physical & developmental disabilities.

Allies, Inc.•Hamilton, NJ; 609-689-0136; Alliesnj.org

Provides housing, healthcare, employment & recreation for NJ residents. *

American Medical Association•Chicago, IL; 800-621-8335; Ama-assn.org

Researches select mental & physical disabilities. American Occupational Therapy Assoc.•Bethesda, MD; 301-652-6611; Aota.org Professional association. Arc, The•Washington DC; 800-433-5255; Thearc.org Advocacy for individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities & their families. Local ARCs may provide referrals, EI, education, support groups, recreation & training.>* DELAWARE: Wilmington, DE; 302-996-9400; Thearcofdelaware.org * NEW JERSEY Burlington: Burlington, NJ; 609-531-0211; Arcofburlington.org Camden: Berlin, NJ; 856-767-3650; Arccamden.org * Cumberland: Vineland, NJ; 856-691-9138; Arccumberland.org Gloucester: W. Deptford, NJ; 856-848-8648; Thearcgloucester.org Mercer: Ewing, NJ; 609-406-0181; Arcmercer.org %* Middlesex: N. Brunswick, NJ; 732-246-2525; Arcnj.org Salem: Salem, NJ; 856-935-3600; Arcsalem.com %* PENNSYLVANIA Alliance: Serving Berks, Bucks, Chester, Philadelphia and Montgomery counties. Eagleville, PA; 610-265-4700; Thearcalliance.org $% Chester County: West Chester, PA; 610-696-8090; Arcofchestercounty.org >$% Delaware County: Swarthmore, PA; 610-544-6600; Thearcofdelco.org >$* Harrisburg: Harrisburg, PA; 717-234-2621; Thearcpa.org $% Phila.: Phila. 19140; 215-229-4550; Arcpddc.org >$* ASAH•Hamilton Square, NJ; 609-890-1400; Asah.org Advocacy for NJ private schools & agencies serving special needs community. ASPIRA, Inc. of Pennsylvania•Phila. 19140; 215-455-1300; Aspirapa.org Hispanic education org. >% Childhood Education International•Washington, DC; 800-423-3563; Acei.org Supports education & development from birth through early adolescence. Best Buddies•Provides 1-on-1 friendship for children. Pennsylvania: King of Prussia, PA; 888-604-7376; Bestbuddies.org/Pennsylvania Delaware: Wilmington, DE; 302-691-3187; Bestbuddies.org/Delaware New Jersey: Flemington, NJ; 973-903-7837; Bestbuddies.org/newjersey Birth Defect Research for Children, Inc.•Orlando, FL; 407-895-0802; Birthdefects.org.•Provides free info about birth defects & a parent registry. % Bucks County LIFE Program•Ivyland, PA; 888-442-1590; Lifeinbucks.org Helps families navigate the mental health & ed system of Bucks Co. Caregiver Action Network•Washington, DC; 202-454-3970; Caregiveraction.org Supports caregivers. > Casa del Carmen Family Service Center•Phila. 19140; 215-329-5660; Cssphiladelphia.org/familyservicecenters/casa•Child care division of the Archdiocese of Phila. >%

Center for Independent Living of North Central PA, Roads to Freedom

We’ve Got What You’re

KING for

.com 42 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

Williamsport, PA; 570-327-9070; Cilncp.org• Resources for Americans with Disabilities Act rights. Center for Independent Living of South Central Pennsylvania•Altoona, PA; 800-237-9009; Cilscpa.org•Services & program for all disabilities. Center for Parent Information and Resources•Newark, NJ; 973-642-8100; Parentcenterhub.org•Information & referral center on special education law & disabilities. > Children & Families First•Wilmington, DE; 302-658-5177; cffde.org Child & respite referrals, resources & training for providers. > Children’s Defense Fund•Washington, DC; 202-628-8787; Childrensdefense.org Programs on healthcare, education, poverty, abuse & neglect. Children’s Wish Foundation Int.•Atlanta, GA; 800-323-9474; Childrenswish.org Grants wishes of children under 18 who suffer from life-threatening illnesses. >

= Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

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ORGANIZATIONS Groups that offer information, referral services, research and/or support to parents, professionals and the public. Also see Advocacy

Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council•Dover, DE; 302-739-3333; Ddc.delaware.gov•State agency provides services to people with disabilities to improve their quality of life. Delaware Family Voices• See listing p. 42. Easterseals•Chicago, IL; 800-221-6827; Easterseals.com Provides services & support for people with special needs. Eastern PA: Allentown, PA; 610-289-0114; Esep.easterseals.com > Southeastern PA: Phila. 19131; 215-879-1000; Easterseals.com/sepa Delaware: New Castle, DE; 302-324-4444; easterseals.com/de Exceptional Parent•Los Angeles, CA; 201-515-6130; Eparent.com Monthly magazine provides special needs information. Family Hope Center, The•Norristown, PA; 610-397-1737; Familyhopecenter.com•Helps families of children diagnosed with special needs. Friendship Circle of Philadelphia Region•Phila., 19147; 215-574-1765; phillyfriendship.com•Connects teens and young adults to youth with special needs. Jewish Learning Venture•Jenkintown, PA; 215-320-0360; Jewishlearningventure.org•Inclusive program connects families through rec. activities. Kids Together, Inc.•Quakertown, PA; Kidstogether.org Resources & information for children & adults with disabilities. Liberty Resources, Inc.•Phila. 19107; 215-634-2000; Libertyresources.org•Supports independent living, offers referrals & skills training. >%* Make-A-Wish Foundation of America•Phoenix, AZ; 800-722-9474; Wish.org•Grants the wishes of terminally ill children. Mid-Atlantic: Bethesda, MD; 301-962-9474; Midatlantic.wish.org New Jersey: Monroe Twp., NJ; 800-252-9474; Nj.wish.org Phila. & Susquehanna Valley: Blue Bell, PA; 215-654-9355; Philasv.wish.org March of Dimes•Arlington, VA; 888-663-4637; Marchofdimes.org•Research & advocacy to prevent birth defects, premature birth & infant mortality. Mayor’s Commission on People with Disabilities

Phila. 19102; 215-686-2798; Phila.gov/mcpd Seeks to bring positive visibility to people with disabilities. Mid-Atlantic ADA Center•Rockville, MD; 800-949-4232; Adainfo.org•Awareness, info of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Networks for Training and Development•Valley Forge, PA; 610-935-6624; Networksfortraining.org•Training, technical assistance for those with special needs. * New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education•Newark, NJ; 732-613-0400; NJCIE.net•Dedicated to expanding inclusive educational opportunities for students with disabilities. New Jersey Self-Help Group Clearinghouse•Springﬁeld, NJ; 800-367-6274; Njgroups.org•Help people ﬁnd & form all types of mutual aid self-help groups. Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania•Harrisburg, PA; 717-947-2298; Parenttoparent.org•Matching parents to others whose children have similar diagnoses. >%

Are you confused about where to start and what to ask? Our services are both necesssary and free.

Philadelphia HUNE, Inc.•Phila. 19133; 215-425-6203; Huneinc.org•Training, individual tech. assist. & advocacy to parents of Phila. children. > Philadelphia Independence Network•Phila. 19114; 215-854-1800 Jevshumanservices.org/programs/independence-network Support for young adults seeking independence. %* Planned Parenthood SE PA•Phila. 19107; 215-351-5500; Ppsp.org•Sex education for children with special needs. > Special Needs Project /America’s Disability Bookstore Santa Barbara, CA; 805-962-8087; Specialneedsproject.com Specializes in books on autism, Asperger syndrome & other disabilities Center for Disability Studies, University of Delaware Newark, DE; 302-831-6974; Udel.edu/cds Service, research related to disabilities for DE residents. Valley Forge Educational Services• See listing p. 42. Variety – The Children’s Charity of Greater Philadelphia Worcester, PA; 610-584-4366; Varietyphila.org Serves youth with physical, developmental disabilities. VSA•The John F. Kennedy Center; Washington, DC; 800-444-1324; Education.kennedy-center.org/education/vsa Creates learning opportunities through the arts. >* Delaware: Dover; 302-857-6699; Vsadelaware.org Zero to Three•Washington, DC; 202-638-1144; Zerotothree.org Supports professionals, parents working with infants, toddlers. > ASPERGER SYNDROME / AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER ASCEND Group: The Asperger and Autism Alliance for Greater Philadelphia•Media, PA; 610-449-6776; Ascendgroup.org•Support, advocacy & info. % ASPEN: Asperger Syndrome Ed. Network•Edison, NJ; 732-321-0880; Aspennj.org•Serves families affected by ASDs & non-verbal learning disabilities. % Autism Cares Foundation•Southampton, PA; 215-942-2273; Autismcaresfoundation.org Autism Delaware• See listing p. 42. Autism New Jersey•Robbinsville, NJ; 609-588-8200; Autismnj.org•Information & advocacy for NJ residents. Autism Research Institute•San Diego, CA; 833-281-7165; Autism.com•Info on treatment, schools, residential facilities. > Autism Services Center•Huntington, WV; 304-525-8014; Autismservicescenter.org•Connects parents with local support. Autism Society of America•Bethesda, MD; 800-328-8476; Autism-society.org•Provides info, referrals, education. >% Autism Society Greater Philadelphia• See listing p. 42. Autism Speaks•Westmont, NJ; 856-858-5400; Autismspeaks.org•Promotes research with direct clinical implications for treatment of autism. > Autism Watch•Autism-watch.org Website validates autism info & links. Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism•Framingham, MA; 508-270-8855; Flutiefoundation.org•Provides support & education.

We are parents with children with special needs. We use our experience to guide you to what you need to know for your child's health care, insurance and other available resources.

www.defv.org (302) 669-3030 | 222 Philadelphia Pike, Suite 11, Wilmington, DE 19809 = Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

= Vocational Training

MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 43

ORGANIZATIONS Groups that offer information, referral services, research and/or support to parents, professionals and the public. Also see Advocacy

FACES 4 Autism•Egg Harbor, NJ; 609-380-4251; Faces4autism.org Nonprofit provides support & ed. to people affected by autism. Jewish Association for Developmental Disabilities Paramus, NJ; 201-457-0058; J-add.org Provides information, resources & support for people with ASDs. Autism Society of SW NJ•856-278-0798, solvingthepuzzle.com Parent-run support group for families with autism. % Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support St. Joseph’s University, Phila., 19131; 610-660-2170; Kinneyautism.sju.edu•Skills programs, athletic and social activities and summer camp for individuals affected by autism. %* Pennsylvania Advocacy and Resources for Autism & Intellectual Disabilities•Lemoyne, PA; 717-236-2374; Par.net Association of Pennsylvania autism service providers. CANCER American Cancer Society•Atlanta, GA; 800-227-2345; Cancer.org•Services & information, financial assistance & programs for all age groups. > Delaware: New Castle; 302-324-4227 > Maryland: Salisbury; 410-749-1624 New Jersey: Cherry Hill; 856-616-1650 > Pennsylvania: Phila. 19103; 215-985-5400 > American Childhood Cancer Org.•Beltsville, MD; 855-858-2226; Acco.org•Supports, serves & educates families that have children with cancer. >% Children’s Tumor Foundation•New York, NY; 800-323-7938; Ctf.org•Improves well-being of those affected by the neurofibromatoses. % CureSearch for Children’s Cancer•Bethesda, MD; 800-458-6223; Curesearch.org•International consortium of pediatric cancer centers. > Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Rye Brook, NY; 888-557-7177; Lls.org > Financial assistance for outpatient services for individuals with leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma or multiple myeloma Delaware: Wilmington; 302-661-7300; Lls.org/delaware >% New Jersey: Cranford; 908-956-6600; Lls.org/new-jersey Pennsylvania: Camp Hill; 717-652-6520; Lls.org/central-Pennsylvania•Phila 19103; 610-238-0360; Lls.org/eastern-Pennsylvania National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service Bethesda, MD; 800-422-6237; Cancer.gov•Answers cancerrelated questions. >

to families of children from birth-age 3 with cerebral palsy. %

Provides resources for families & children with hearing loss. American Academy of Audiology•Reston, VA; 703-790-8631; Audiology.org•Professional organization. American Society for Deaf Children•Woodbine, MD; 800-942-2732; Deafchildren.org•Informational, support & referral services for families of deaf & hard-of-hearing children. Delaware Families for Hands & Voices•Newark, DE; 302-383-9890; Delawarehandsandvoices.org Information & support services for deafness & hearing loss. Everas Community Services•Somerset, NJ; 732-805-1912; Everas.org•Provides respite workers, recreational activities, classes & care provider training. >%

Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youth & Adults Laurel, MD; 240-786-6534; Hknc.org•Works to enable the

deaf-blind to live, work & thrive in the community of their choice. * Montgomery County Assoc. for the Blind•Norristown, PA; 215-661-9800; Mcab.org•Rehabilitation, education, support & advocacy for people with blindness & vision impairment. Stuttering Foundation of America•Memphis, TN; 800-992-9392; Stutteringhelp.org•Resources, research, services & support for those who stutter & their families. >

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES / DOWN SYNDROME American Assoc. on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities•Silver Spring, MD; 202-387-1968; Aaidd.org

Offers info on developmental disabilities & advancements in treatments. Band of Angels Foundation•Rochester Hills, MI; 248-480-6010; Bandofangels.com•Therapist referral network, annual events that focus on children and young adults with special needs. %

Barber National Institute, Delaware Valley Ofﬁce

Chester County Down Syndrome Interest Group

for individuals with cerebral palsy or other developmental disabilities.

SpecialKidsMagazine

COMMUNICATION / HEARING IMPAIRMENTS / SOCIAL DISORDERS Alexander Graham Bell Assoc. for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing•Washington, DC; 202-337-5220; Agbell.org

Phila. 19129; 215-871-0731; Barberinstitute.org Services, support for developmental disabilities. % BUDS: Bringing Up Down Syndrome•Voorhees, NJ; 856-985-5885; Bringingupdownsyndrome.org Services for South Jersey families of children with Down syndrome. %

CEREBRAL PALSY Cerebral Palsy Assoc. of Chester County, Inc.•Exton, PA; 800-559-CCDS; Ccdisability.org•Offers support & assistance Children and Adult Disability and Educational Services Swarthmore, PA; 610-328-5955; Cades.org•Provides programs

United Cerebral Palsy•Washington, DC; Ucp.org Raises public awareness of CP and provides programs and services to people with all types of orthopedic disabilities, including spina biﬁda & muscular dystrophy. %* Delaware: Wilmington; 302-764-2400; Ucpde.org >% New Jersey: Bayonne; 201-436-2200; Ucpofhudsoncounty.org Pennsylvania: Blossom Philadelphia; Phila. 19118; 215-242-4200; Blossomphiladelphia.org >%

West Chester, PA; 610-889-0291; Ccdsig.org Provides support, community-based activities & advocacy. Cornelia De Lange Syndrome Foundation•Avon, CT; 860-676-8166; Cdlsusa.org•Services for families. >%

Autism Society Greater Philadelphia promotes lifelong access and opportunities for persons within the autism spectrum and their families, to be fully included, participating members of their communities through advocacy, awareness, education and research.

610-358-5256 www.Asaphilly.org

44 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

The Autism Society’s Greater Philadelphia chapter offers: • Conference and lecture series • Yahoo Listserve groups • Support group mini grants • Puzzle Ribbon Campaign • Autism Awareness Day at the Zoo • Sensory-friendly movie series

= Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

= Vocational Training

ORGANIZATIONS Groups that offer information, referral services, research and/or support to parents, professionals and the public. Also see Advocacy

Developmental Delay Resources•Pittsburgh, PA; 800-497-0944; Devdelay.org•Educates the public about causes of developmental delays.

Down Syndrome Association of DE•Middletown, DE; 302-995-1004; Dsadelaware.org•Nonprofit Down syndrome organization provides research, education & advocacy. % Delaware County Down Syndrome Interest Group Springfield, PA; 610-544-4025; Delcodsig.org•Nonprofit Down syndrome organization provides research, education & advocacy.

Eastern Pennsylvania Down Syndrome Center Trexlertown, PA; 610-402-0184; Epdsc.net•Lehigh Valley Down syndrome organization. %

Hopes and Dreams Foundation•Southampton, PA; 215-264-2859; Hopesanddreamsfoundation.org•Provides

dance, music & theater for kids & young adults with Down syndrome.

KIIDS: Knowledge & Information about Individuals with Down Syndrome•Southern New Jersey; Kiids.info Supports new parents of babies with Down syndrome with info, support & group activities. %

Montgomery County Down Syndrome Interest Group of Pennsylvania•Blue Bell, PA; 484-808-2160; Mcdsig.org

Support and guidance for families with Down syndrome. >% National Down Syndrome Society•New York, NY; 800-221-4602; Ndss.org•Nonproﬁt Down syndrome organization provides research, education & advocacy. >% National Tay-Sachs & Allied Diseases Assoc. of Delaware Valley•Jenkintown, PA; 215-887-0877; Tay-sachs.org Testing and education for Tay-Sachs and Canavan diseases. % New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities Trenton, NJ; 609-292-3745; Njcdd.org•Advocacy & research for NJ residents with developmental & other disabilities. > Penn Foundation•Sellersville, PA; 215-257-6551; Pennfoundation.org•Nonproﬁt that offers early intervention and other services for SE PA. Resources for Human Development, Inc.•Phila. 19144; 215-951-0300; Rhd.org•Serves individuals living with developmental disabilities, mental illness & addictions. Support Organization For Trisomy 18, 13 & Related Disorders Trisomy.org•Support & education for chromosome disorders.

EMOTIONAL / BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS Diversiﬁed Community Services•Phila. 19146; 215-336-5505; Dcsphila.org•Services for Point Breeze area on behalf of children, youth and families. >* International OCD Foundation•Boston, MA; 617-973-5801; Iocdf.org•Supports research & education and assists individuals with OCD. >%* KidsPeace•Schnecksville, PA; 800-257-3223; Kidspeace.org Serves the critical behavioral & mental health needs of children. > NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness•Arlington, VA; 703-524-7600; Nami.org •Improves the lives of individuals & families affected by mental illness through education, support & advocacy. >% NAMI Delaware•Georgetown, DE; 302-427-0787; Namide.org >% NAMI New Jersey•North Brunswick, NJ; 732-940-0991; Naminj.org >% NAMI Pennsylvania•Pittsburgh, PA; 888-264-7972; Namikeystonepa.org >% New Jersey Parents’ Caucus, Inc.•Elizabeth, NJ; 908-994-7471; Newjerseyparentscaucus.org•Training, support & referrals for kids with behavioral challenges. >% PLAN of Pennsylvania•Wayne, PA; 610-687-4036; Planofpa.org•Planning for families with an adult relative with mental illness or other lifelong disabilities. = Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

EPILEPSY / SEIZURE DISORDERS Epilepsy Foundation•Landover, MD; 800-332-1000; Epilepsy.com •Support for families impacted by epilepsy; education programs to eliminate stigma. >% Delaware: Newport; 877-369-2266; Epilepsy.com/delaware % New Jersey: NJ Family Resource Network•Trenton; 800-336-5843; Efnj.com >% NJ Family Support Center•Trenton; 800-372-6510; Fscnj.org Southern NJ Office•Trenton; 800-376-2345; Efnj.com Pennsylvania: Eastern PA•Phila 19107; 215-629-5003; Efepa.org >%* Western/Central PA•Camp Hill; 800-336-0301; Efwp.org % HIV Action Wellness•Phila. 19107; 215-981-0088; Actionwellness.org Enhances quality of life for people affected by HIV/AIDS. >% American Sexual Health Association•Research Triangle Pk, NC; 919-361-8400; Ashasexualhealth.org•Hotline for info & help in dealing with sexually transmitted diseases. > LEARNING DISABILITIES / ADHD Academic Language Therapy Assoc.•Dallas, TX; 972-233-9107; Altaread.org•Info & treatment of developmental disorders such as dyslexia. CHADD: Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder•Lanham, MD; 301-306-7070; Chadd.org•Provides research, education, support & advocacy for individuals with ADHD. >% Mercer Co.; Princeton, NJ; 609-731-7556 chadd.net/153 >% Chester & Main Line Cos.: West Chester, PA; 610-429-4060; ccmlchadd.com >% BuxMont: Elkins Park, PA; 267-326-7760; Chadd.net/249 >% International Dyslexia Assoc.•PA & DE Branch; Rosemont, PA; 855-220-8885; Pbida.org•Information, support, resources, hotline, teacher training & meetings. > Learning Ally•Princeton, NJ; 800-221-4792; Learningally.org Serves those who can’t read print because of a disability. > Learning Disabilities Assoc. of America•Pittsburgh, PA; 412-341-1515; Ldaamerica.org•Support for children with learning disabilities. % National Center for Learning Disabilities•Washington DC; 212-454-7510; Ncld.org•Provides resources, information. > MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Multiple Sclerosis Assoc. of America•Cherry Hill, NJ; 800-532-7667; Mymsaa.org•Information and support for people affected by multiple sclerosis. >% National Multiple Sclerosis Society•New York, NY; 800-344-4867; Nationalmssociety.org >$* Programs that help people with MS. Greater Delaware Valley Chapter: Phila. 19103; 215-271-2400; Nationalmssociety.org/chapters/pae >% PHYSICAL DISABILITIES American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Milwaukee, WI; 414-272-6071; Aaaai.org Information on symptoms, treatments of allegies. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Arlington Hts., IL; 847-427-1200; Acaai.org Resources and interactive tool for allergies and asthma. American Heart Association•Dallas, TX; 800-242-8721; Americanheart.org• Local offices often offer support groups. >% Delaware: Newark, DE; 302-454-0613 >% New Jersey: Robbinsville, NJ; 609-208-0020 >% Southeastern PA: Phila. 19103; 215-575-5200 >

= Vocational Training

MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 45

ORGANIZATIONS Groups that offer information, referral services, research and/or support to parents, professionals and the public. Also see Advocacy

American Lung Assoc. in Pennsylvania•Plymouth Mtg., PA ; 610-268-9785; Lunginfo.org•Fights lung disease through ed., service, advocacy & research.

Arthritis Foundation, Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter

Phila. 19106; 215-574-3060; Arthritis.org/eastern-pennsylvania Provides programs, advocacy, public education & fundraising. Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America•Landover, MD; 800-727-8462; Aafa.org•Info, services & support for people with asthma & allergies. >% Brain Injury Association of Delaware•Dover, DE; 800-411-0505; Biaofde.org•Brain injury prevention, research, education & advocacy. Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation•Short Hills, NJ; 800-225-0292; Christopherreeve.org•Promotes the well-being of people living with paralysis. > Cleft Palate Foundation•Chapel Hill, NC; 800-242-5338; Cleftline.org•Counseling support, referrals & information on aspects of cleft lip/palate. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation•Bethesda, MD; 800-344-4823; Cff.org•Information & referrals. Can assist with insurance issues. Dwarf Athletic Assoc. of America•Kentfield, CA; 415-915-9572; Daaa.org•Creates sports opportunities. FARE: Food Allergy Research & Education•McLean, VA; 800-929-4040; Foodallergy.org•Resources for people with food allergies, including those at risk for anaphylaxis. Food Allergy Support Team of Delaware•302-737-5316; krobell@verizon.net•Support group for families & caregivers of children with severe food allergies. % Human Growth Foundation•Glenhead, NY; 800-451-6434; Hgfound.org•Help for growth or hormone disorders. >% Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Int.•New York, NY; 800-533-2873; Jdrf.org•Resources and support for Type 1 diabetes. Delaware: Wilmington; 302-888-1117; Jdrf.org/Delaware % Eastern PA: King of Prussia; 610-664-9255; Jdrfeasternpa.com % South Jersey: Cherry Hill; 856-429-1101; Jdrf.org/southjersey% Muscular Dystrophy Assoc.•Chicago, IL ; 800-572-1717; Mdausa.org• Info and resources for neuromuscular diseases. Philly/Delaware Office: Broomall, PA; 610-325-5758; Mda.org/office/philly-de Narcolepsy Network•Lynnwood, WA; 888-292-6522; Narcolepsynetwork.org•Support, research, education. % National Jewish Health•Denver, CO; 877-225-5654; Nationaljewish.org•Provides treatment for patients with respiratory, immune & allergic disorders. >%

National Kidney Foundation of Philadelphia & Delaware Valley•Phila. 19102; 215-923-8611; Nkfdv.org Seeks to increase the availability of organs for transplantation. Resources for patients. > National Fragile X Foundation, Southeast PA Community Support Network•Berwyn, PA; 610-212-2337; Fragilex.org/fragile-x-southeast-pennsylvania Education, support & advocacy. % National Reye’s Syndrome Foundation•Bryan, OH; 800-233-7393; Reyessyndrome.org•Awareness, research & support to those with Reye’s Syndrome. Neuroﬁbromatosis Network•Wheaton, IL; 630-510-1115; Nfnetwork.org•Support & services for families. % New Jersey Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Association Florham Park, NJ; Njcfsa.org•Nonproﬁt provides services & information, promotes research, sponsors support groups. % Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation•Gaithersburg, MD; 844-889-7579; Oif.org•Research, education, support. >%

Like 46 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

Paraplegia News Magazine•Phoenix, AZ; 888-888-2201; Pn-magazine.com•Covers spinal-related disability news, advocacy, sports & children’s activities. Pathways•Chicago, IL; 800-955-2445; Pathways.org Provides education for & about children with movement & physical challenges. > Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, Inc.•Grand Rapids, MI; 800-888-2876; Phoenix-society.org•Helps individuals affected by a burn injury with peer support, education & collaboration. Setebaid Services, Inc.•Winfield, PA; 570-524-9090; Setebaidservices.org•Nonprofit provides diabetes education, camps & social support programs. Spina Bifida Association of the Delaware Valley Havertown, PA; 800-223-0222; Sbadv.org•Public awareness, services, prevention. Spina Bifida Resource Network•Flemington, NJ; 908-782-7475; Thesbrn.org• Provides support and promotes prevention. United Spinal Association•Kew Gardens, NY; 718-803-3782; Unitedspinal.org•Support for care providers, professionals. >% TOURETTE SYNDROME NJ Center for Tourette Syndrome•Somerville, NJ; 908-575-7350; Njcts.org•Supports education and advocacy to the NJ Tourette syndrome population. % PA Tourette Syndrome Alliance•McSherrystown, PA; 800-990-3300; Patsainc.org•Info, advocacy, support, training, family camp & referral services. Tourette Syndrome Assoc.•Bayside, NY; 888-486-8738; Tsa-usa.org•Tools, information, support and advocacy. >% Delaware: Wilmington; 610-227-5266; tourettedelaware.org VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS / BLIND American Foundation for the Blind•Arlington, VA; 212-502-7600; Afb.org•Assists visually impaired individuals. Braille Institute Youth Center•Los Angeles, CA; 800-272-4553; Brailleinstitute.org•Resources for those with blindness & severe sight loss. > Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) Chester, PA; 610-874-1476; Cbvi.net•Services for those who are blind or visually impaired. * Foundation Fighting Blindness•Columbia, MD; 800-683-5555; Blindness.org•Research on preventions, treatments and cures for those affected by vision loss. Guiding Eyes for the Blind•Yorktown Heights, NY; 800-942-0149; Guidingeyes.org•Nonprofit provides Guiding Eyes & Heeling Autism dogs, training & support services. Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped Various locations in Phila.; 215-683-3217; Freelibrary.org/lbph Braille, large-print, and audio books available on site and through the mail to Pennsylvania residents. > Lighthouse Guild Vision & Health•New York, NY; 800-284-4422; Lighthouse.org•Nonprofit provides support to parents of children with visual impairments. >% National Federation of the Blind•Baltimore, MD; 410-659-9314; Nfb.org•Resources, programs and services for the blind and visually impaired. >$% National Library Service for Blind & Physically Handicapped Washington, DC; 800-424-8567; Loc.gov/nls A free national library of Braille & recorded materials. Pennsylvania Council of the Blind•Harrisburg, PA; 877-617-7407; Pcb1.org•A peer network for those with vision loss.

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Auditory Processing Disorder & Reading Disability

The Main Line's home for traditional day camp fun with social skills support, training and therapy built-in. For kids with or without diagnoses of HFA, Aspergers, ADHD & learning differences. For ages 6-16.

Our ability to understand and discriminate auditory information is directly linked to our listening, comprehension and learning ability. When auditory processing is impaired, acoustic signals are misrepresented in the auditory cortex and misinterpreted by the brain, resulting in an Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). Inaccurate processing results in weak phonological awareness, a skill fundamental to learning to read, clearly shown in research. Poor readers are often poor listeners. Here are some of the characteristics observed in children with APD: Trouble learning to rhyme • Struggles learning to read Mishears sounds in words (cat/cap) • Problems learning phonics (decoding) Slow reading once decoding is mastered • Poor listening skills when it is noisy • Needs repetitions • Hypersensitive to sounds • Distracted by sounds Slow to respond • Trouble finding words to say or write History of middle ear infections • History of dyslexia in family So what can be done to help the child? Seek a comprehensive Auditory Processing evaluation. How can an Auditory Processing Evaluation help? Specific auditory trainings and therapies can be implemented, an appropriate reading program can be determined, accommodations can be made for use in the classroom and for help with social interactions. If you are not sure your child has APD, schedule an appointment for an auditory processing screening. Early identification is crucial to a child’s’ success!

Maxine L. Young, Au.D., LLC Relocating to Ardmore

Innovative social skills therapy with heART Mike

Fogel's highly effective "Art of Friendship" social skills therapy program provides weekly peer-group therapy and individual/ family counseling. Offices in Haverford, Plymouth Meeting, Paoli and Center City for ages 4-19.

artoffriendshipsocialskills.com DIVISIONS OF CFATC

Administrative Offices: 600 Haverford Road, Suite G101 • Haverford, PA 19041 610-649-1080 • fax: 610-649-0503

610 353-6008 • www.maxineyoungcentral.com

CHILD GUIDANCE RESOURCE CENTERS provides high quality community-based behavioral healthcare services for children, adolescents, and families with mental health, developmental disability, and residential needs across Southeastern Pennsylvania. CGRC offers more than 20 different treatment services, many evidence-based including ABA, Trauma focused CBT, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, and Pivotal Response Therapy and CREATE, a socialization/communication group. Next Steps Center offers comprehensive neuropsychological and developmental assessments without delays; a complete autism evaluation can be completed in as little six weeks. For more info contact 484-454-8700 info@cgrc.org EBS CHILDREN’S THERAPY

is a multidisciplinary pediatric clinic comprised of Behavioral, Feeding, Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapists, in addition to a team of Child Psychologists, who are compassionate about making a difference in the lives we touch. Children, adolescents, and young adults who struggle with communication, feeding, movement, self-help, learning, behavior, anxiety and more trust EBS Children’s Therapy to help them improve upon the skills they need to make life more meaningful. Through consultation, direct intervention, and collaboration with families and school teams, our goal is to help our clients become as independent as possible.

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SpecialKids 2019

4200 Skiles Blvd., West Chester, PA 19382 610-455-4040 • info@ebschildrenstherapy.com

www.ebschildrenstherapy.com

Evidence-based practices in education are critical to the design of effective interventions. We help support REAL (observable and countable) progress in all aspects of education. We have assisted educational professionals and organizations on an outreach and consultative basis, providing training and support for staff and personnel in a variety of ways. #Education #Growth #Development

833-588-5483

info@educationdesigners.org www.EducationDesigners.org

Educational Outreach Services: Consultation•In-Services•Workshops• Professional Development•Research and Data Collection•Support For Staff & Personnel•Parent Training •Parent Counseling Legal Support & Expert Testimony•Evaluations & Assessments

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Recreation

Friendly Theater Special performances for those with special needs

By Debra Wallace For parents of a child with autism, a visit to a theater, museum or other cultural venue was once a stressful experience. Everyone involved in what was supposed to be a happy family outing was worried about glances or comments from those around them; parents were concerned about the need to constantly monitor their child’s behavior. They feared their child would make noises, fidget excessively and not “behave properly” and the family would be embarrassed or asked to leave.

Pennsylvania Ballet and it was such a positive and comfortable experience that it completely changed the way that we approached future arts and cultural offerings,” says Lynn Schneider, a single mother from Huntingdon Valley, PA. Now that Schneider and her son feel comfortable, they have attended sensory-friendly programs for dance, music and theater. “With an inviting environment and trained staff, we felt more than welcome.”

The road to inclusion

Fortunately, the cultural landscape has become more adaptive and inclusive. Within the last five years, arts and cultural organizations in Pennsylvania, South Jersey and Delaware started to offer a number of sensory-friendly or “relaxed” performances. Today, nearly half of local arts and cultural venues provide adaptive performances, programs and events that are modified for children with special needs and their families.

Grateful parents

Roger Ideishi, who plans adaptive arts and sensory-friendly programs around the country, has watched them thrive. A Temple University professor and director of occupational therapy, Ideishi says the trend to teach artists and venues how to adapt programs for special needs audiences began around 2000. “I first became involved with museum and community outreach programs that didn’t have experience with children who possess diverse abilities,” Ideishi says. “Now, we make sure that area artists and museum educators are trained and well able to address diverse learners. “This has opened the floodgates to new opportunities for families who stayed away for fear of disrupting anyone else’s experience.” Feedback from parents is positive. “A few years ago, I took my 10-year-old son with autism to the sensory-friendly performance of The Nutcracker at the

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Val Murphy, of Southampton, PA and Erin, her 22-year-old daughter with autism, have taken advantage of the times set aside by local museums and theaters for people with special needs, when there aren’t long lines or large crowds. She also appreciates other modifications, which include quieter music and brighter lights during performances. “We have benefited from a lot of these changes and I see more opportunities for Erin and her friends to enjoy community events.” Ideishi knows why parents are so grateful. “These are the few experiences that the parents, siblings and the child with the disability can do as an entire family,” he says. “Most often one family member is so focused on the child with the disability that he or she can’t enjoy the experience.”

Local venues step up

The venues have responded, in part, to the fact that 1 out of 59 children in the US is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, according to the Centers for

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Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Among the local groups with adaptive programs are: Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts; Pennsylvania Ballet; Philadelphia Orchestra; Philadelphia Theatre Company; Philly POPS; Walnut Street Theatre, all in Philadelphia; Montgomery Theater in Souderton, PA; People’s Light in Malvern, PA, and Theater Horizon in Norristown, PA. Through the New York-based Theater Development Fund’s Accessibility Program, Broadway has adapted select performances of hit musicals such as Alladin, Frozen, The Lion King, and Wicked. The “nonjudgmental” shows, complete with whimsical fidget toys and compassionate staff, are so popular that tickets sell out in less than two hours. The Kimmel Center offered its first sensory-friendly production in its Broadway Philadelphia series with a special performance of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, in December at the Merriam Theater. It included relaxed house rules, designated quiet areas, trained staff and Art-Reach volunteers, noise-cancelling headphones, weighted bean bags, and fidget toys. Audience members could bring stress-relief devices and move around the theater. Delaware Theater Company will offer a sensory performance of Honk, The Ugly Duckling Musical on April 30.

Last piece of the puzzle

Ideishi says the last piece of the puzzle, especially for programs that mix typical and special needs audiences, is to educate the public so that there is a welcome social environment. “We have more to do to educate the public about tolerance, acceptance and inclusion,” he says. “We have to help the public understand that community experiences should be for everybody.”

Debra Wallace is a Huntingdon Valley, PA-based freelance writer.

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RECREATION Artistic, athletic, therapeutic and other extracurricular activities and cultural experiences. Kaleidoscope Adaptive Art Studio

YMCA of Greater Brandywine

STEPS, Garﬁeld Park Academy

nccde.org/artstudio

Adaptive programs in ﬁtness, sports and swimming.

After-hours program for young adults and adults with disabilities. %* See our ads, pp. 2,22

Wilmington, DE; 302-995-7661;

In a professional studio, art therapist, Lisa Bartoli, provides art instruction, adapted devices, and support increasing creativity, self-esteem, and self-expression. Now offering monthly Caregiver Art Classes.

Various Locations; 610-380-9622; ymcagbw.org/special-needs-programs

See our ad, p. 50

Willingboro, NJ; 609-877-4111; Steps4living.org

See our ad, p. 51 PENNSYLVANIA

Academy of Natural Sciences, The•Phila. 19103; 215-299-1000;

Ansp.org•Multisensory displays, events & materials help kids navigate the museum. Acting Antics•Broomall, PA; 610-924-4219; Actingantics.org Theater programs and classes for children on the autism spectrum. Acting Without Boundaries•Bryn Mawr, PA; 610-922-8240; Actingwithoutboundaries.org•Theatre programs for people with physical disabilities. All Riders Up•Garnet Valley, PA; 610-459-0879; Allridersup.org Equine-assisted activities. Ambler Music Academy•Ambler, PA; 267-460-5224; Amblermusicacademy.com•Music therapy for students with disabilities. American DanceWheels Foundation•Bala Cynwyd, PA; 215-588-6671; Americandancewheels.org•Visiting wheelchair ballroom dance programs.

American Helicopter Museum & Education Center.

West Chester, PA; 610-436-9600; Americanhelicopter.museum Wheelchair-accessible helicopter exhibits. Arden Theatre Company•Phila. 19106; 215-922-1122 Ardentheatre.org•ASL-interpreted performances & captioning. Art-Reach•Phila. 19102; 267-515-6720; Art-reach.org Creates and advocates for accessible arts programs.

Autism Society of America Sensory-Friendly Films

Locations in PA and SJ; Amctheatres.com/SFF•Monthly kids film screenings in a comfortable setting. Autistic Support Playground at Primos•Primos, PA; 610-622-6755; Facebook.com/primosplayground/•Playground for kids with ADS open to the public after school hours. Barn at Spring Brook Farm, The•West Chester, PA; 610-793-1037; Springbrook-farm.org•Animal-assisted after school programs, camp, events & field trips. Blind Sports Organization•Springfield, PA; 302-836-5784; Blindsports.org•Organizes recreation, fitness, & sports for the blind & visually impaired. Bouncing Off the Walls•Levittown, PA; 215-946-3432; Bouncingoffthewalls.com•Monthly sensory-friendly night with imaginative play and moon bounces. Bucks County Children’s Museum•New Hope, PA; 215-693-1290; Buckskids.org•Autism Support Guide PDF details exhibits in a storybook format. Center on Central, The•Paoli, PA; 610-710-1487; Thecenteroncentral.com•Special needs & social skills groups art & music programs. Central Bucks Family YMCA•Doylestown, PA; 215-348-8131; Cbfymca.org•Offers adapted activities. Doylestown Rock Gym•Doylestown, PA; 215-230-9085; Doylestownrockgym.com•Adaptive climbing. Everybody’s Playground• Lukens Park, Horsham, PA; 215-643-3131; Horshamrec.com•Features an extensive ramping system & glider.

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Freedom Playground•Haverford, PA; 610-446-9397; Haverfordtownship.org•Community playground features sensory activities & treehouse with rocking deck. Garden of 5 Senses •Lancaster, PA; 717-299-8215; Lancastercountyparks.org•Wheelchair-accessible garden accommodates the visually impaired. Guided Tour, Inc., The•Elkins Park, PA; 215-782-1370; Guidedtour.com•Supervised vacations for those 17 and up with special needs. Hillside Park•South Abington Twp., PA; Hillsidepark.net All-abilities equipment & proximity to two all-access ﬁshing piers. Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy, Inc.•Chester Springs, PA; 610-827-0931; Hope-springs.org• For children with disabilities. Ivy Hill Therapeutic Equestrian Center•Perkasie, PA; 215-822-2515; Ivyhillequestrian.org•Therapeutic riding, hippotherapy summer camps and competitive riding programs. ICanShine•Paoli, PA; Icanshine.org•Teaches people with disabilities to ride bikes. Kids at Play PA•Phila. 19129; 610-628-0005; Kidsatplaypa.com A sensory gym for toddlers to age 12 as well as therapy services. KidZooU / Philadelphia Zoo•Phila. 19104; 215-243-1100; Kidzoou.org•Offers signage with pictures, braille & ASL; social stories; visual schedules and quiet spaces NEW Lions Pride Park•Expected to open summer 2019 Chalfont, PA; 267-488-9989; Lionspridepark.org•Inclusive, allages playground with features to engage children with visual impairments. One Step at a Time•Sugar Bottom Farm, Furlong, PA; 267-994-7191; Osatriding.org/home.html Therapeutic horse riding facility. Parkwood Therapeutic Riding Center•Phila. 19154; 215-715-6123; ParkwoodTRC.com•Provides therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults with disabilities as well as able-bodied riding. Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy, Inc.•Phila. 19152; 215-742-1500; Pegasusridingacademy.com•Year-round therapeutic program with indoor arena and autism program. Pennsylvania Center for Adapted Sports•Phila. 19130; 215-765-5118; Centeronline.com•Skiing, sled hockey, cycling, indoor-climbing programs for children with disabilities. Please Touch Museum•Phila.19131; 215-581-3181; Pleasetouchmuseum.org/visit/accessibility Play Without Boundaries provides early admission and programs for children with learning disabilities and autism. Sesame Place•Langhorne, PA; 215-702-ELMO; Sesameplace.com/Philadelphia/help/autism-resources Certiﬁed autism center with low-sensory areas, quiet rooms. Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse•Phila. 19121; 215-765-4325; Smithplayground.org•Playground accommodates special needs with equipment designed for wheelchairs. Special Olympics•Washington, DC; 202-628-3630; Specialolympics.org• Sports training & athletic competition for children & adults with intellectual disabilities. Pennsylvania: Norristown; 610-630-9450; Specialolympicspa.org

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RECREATION Artistic, athletic, therapeutic and other extracurricular activities and cultural experiences. Special Teens Project•Facebook.com/SpecialTeensPA Social activities for Bucks County residents with special needs. Tempo! Music Therapy Services•Locations in PA and NJ; 610-344-7030; Tempotherapy.com•Music therapy, adapted music lessons, and adapted Zumba. Theatre Horizon•Norristown, PA; 610-283-2230; Theatrehorizon.org and search “Autism”•Autism Drama Program. Thorncroft Therapeutic Horseback Riding•Malvern, PA; 610-644-1963; Thorncroft.org•Therapeutic lessons & camp. YMCA Ability Program•Various Locations; 215-963-3700; Philaymca.org/programs/ability-programs Swim lessons and other activities for children with disabilities. YMCA of Greater Brandywine•See listing on p. 49 NEW JERSEY Beyond Balance•Mt. Holly, NJ; 609-969-8899; Beyondbalance.org•Equine therapy & riding. Burlington County YMCA Swim Program Burlington, NJ; 856-231-9622 Philaymca.org/locations/burlington-riverfront-ymca/swimming/ Offers swim lessons for children with disabilities. Compassionate Friends TRC•Medford, NJ; 609-320-5363; Cftrc.org •Equine therapy. Dream Park•Logan Twp., NJ; 856-241-1415; Dreamparknj.com Equine therapy program for kids 4+ with disabilities. Bob Meyer Memorial Park•Medford, NJ; 609-654-2608; Medfordtownship.com•Features ramps, a sway boat, roller slide & accessible picnic tables. Garden State Discovery Museum•Cherry Hill, NJ; 856-424-1233; Discoverymuseum.com•Programs for children with autism offer free admission & sensory activities. Handicapped Scuba Assoc. of NJ•Jackson, NJ; 732-928-0461; Hsanjscuba.com•Recreational diving & free weekly classes for people with disabilities. Imagination Kingdom Playground•Pemberton, NJ; Castle play area with ground-level activities. Jake’s Place•Cherry Hill, NJ; 856-662-4418; Buildjakesplace.org Boundless playground adjacent to all-abilities baseball complex. Kaleidoscope Therapeutic Riding Program•Medford, NJ; 609-923-7847; Kaleidoscopetr.com•Equine-assisted activities. Katz JCC•Cherry Hill, NJ; 856-424-4444; Katzjcc.org/about-achad•Provides a variety of special needs recreational and social events.

Markeim Arts Center•Haddonﬁeld, NJ; 856-429-8585; Markeimartscenter.org•Wheelchair-accessible theater with special needs classes. Mount Laurel United Soccer Assoc.•Mt. Laurel, NJ; 856-336-5415; Mlusoccer.org•TOPSoccer program for ages 5-13 with disabilities. Riding High Farm•Allentown, NJ; 609-259-3884; Ridinghighfarm.org•Provides recreational & therapeutic horse back riding for those with special needs. SHADOW Equestrian•Monroeville, NJ; 856-649-4034; Shadowequestrian.org•Therapeutic riding instruction by appointment. Special Olympics•Lawrenceville, NJ; 609-896-8000; Sonj.org Sports training & athletic competition for children & adults with intellectual disabilities. STEPS, Garﬁeld Park Academy•See listing on p. 49 Sunnyside Equestrian Center, Special People United to Ride Inc. (SPUR)•Lincroft, NJ; 732-224-1367; Spuronline.org Therapeutic riding lessons for people with developmental disabilities age 4+. Wheelchair Sports Program•Mountainside, NJ; 908-301-5424; Childrens-specialized.org and search “Lightning Wheels” Sponsors Lightning Wheels, a paralympic sports club with a variety of sports for ages 5-22. > DELAWARE AND MARYLAND Alapocas Run State Park•Wilmington, DE; 302-577-1164; Destateparks.com/FieldsStreams/Alapocas All-abilities programs & adaptive playground. Center for Therapeutic & Educational Riding•Townsend, DE; 302-376-9594; Thecenterfortherapeuticriding.com Therapeutic equine & animal activities. Delaware Children’s Museum•Wilmington, DE; 302-654-2340; Delawarechildrensmuseum.org•Features a wheelchair-accessible climbing structure. Delaware Theatre Company•Wilmington, DE; 302-594-1104; Delawaretheatre.org•People with intellectual disabilities put on plays as part of the Totally Awesome Players. Disabled Sports USA•Rockville, MD; 301-217-0960; Disabledsportsusa.org•Sponsors adaptive sports & opportunities throughout the country via local chapters. Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay•Newark, DE; 302-456-7150; Gscb.org•Welcomes girls with special needs. Kaleidoscope Adapted Art Studio• See listing on p. 49

THE Y OPENS DOORS FOR ALL The YMCA of Greater Brandywine partners with individuals and families with unique abilities and provides programming to meet their needs. We offer the support needed to find success, joy and friendships. A wide variety of diversability programs are available at each of our Chester County locations: • Gymnastics • Fitness • Swimming (beginner, intermediate and advanced) • Fun, social activities and events at the Y and in the community • So much more! The YMCA is a cause-driven charitable organization that provides financial assistance for programs. Ask us for details.

BRANDYWINE YMCA • JENNERSVILLE YMCA • KENNETT AREA YMCA LIONVILLE COMMUNITY YMCA • OSCAR LASKO YMCA AND CHILDCARE CENTER UPPER MAIN LINE YMCA • WEST CHESTER AREA YMCA

www.ymcagbw.org Proud partner of the

branches of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine

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RECREATION Artistic, athletic, therapeutic and other extracurricular activities and cultural experiences. Kaleidoscope Adapted Art Studio• See listing p. 49. Mary Campbell Center•Wilmington, DE; 302-762-6025;

Marycampbellcenter.org•Recreation & social programs for ages 3-21. PAWS for People•Newark, DE; 302-351-5622; Pawsforpeople.org Animal therapy org. recruits, trains, certiﬁes & places teams. Southern Delaware T.R.H.R.•Milton, DE; 302-644-1920; Sdtrhr.com•Therapeutic & recreational horse back riding. Special Olympics•Newark, DE; 302-831-4653; Sode.org Sports training & athletic competition for children & adults with intellectual disabilities.

ADAPTIVE ART STUDIO Bridging Capabilities & Imagination

NATIONAL AND OTHER STATES American Wheelchair Bowling Assoc.•Houston, TX; 713-849-9052; Awba.org•Holds tournaments throughout the country.

Little League Challenger Division

Littleleague.org/play-little-league/challenger•County chapters let kids ages 4-18 with disabilities play adaptive team baseball. Morgan’s Wonderland•San Antonio, TX; 210-495-5888; Morganswonderland.com•All-abilities theme park designed for people with special needs. PATH International•Denver, CO; 800-369-7433; Pathintl.org Locates local centers with equine-assisted activities for the disabled. Ski For Light•Minneapolis, MN; 612-827-3232; Sﬂ.org Cross-country skiing for blind, visually & mobility-impaired people. Sports n’ Spokes•Phoenix, AZ; 602-224-0500; Sportsnspokes.com Magazine about wheelchair athletics. Wilderness on Wheels Foundation Grant, CO; 303-403-1110; Wildernessonwheels.org•A wilderness-access park with hiking, ﬁshing and camping.

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TRANSPORTATION Transportation services for the special needs community. Advanced Wheels•Brimﬁeld, MA; 877-943-3573;

Advancedwheels.com•Sales, service of mobility vehicles. AMTRAK Northeast Corridor•Phila. 19104; 800-872-7245; Amtrak.com•For wheelchair assistance, transfer-accessible seating and rooms, call 72 hours prior to departure. > Angel Flight East•Blue Bell, PA; 215-358-1900; Angelflighteast.org•Nonprofit provides free flights to medical facilities with volunteer pilots. > Brunswick Mobility Professionals•North Brunswick, NJ; 732-545-6300; Brunswickmobility.com•Wheelchair-accessible vans, adaptive driving equipment, service, repair & modification. Bucks County Transport, Inc.•Holicong, PA; 888-795-0740; Bctransport.org•Free shared-ride transportation for residents on medical assistance and discounted rides for those with disabilities. > GM Mobility Program•Troy, MI; 800-323-9935; Gmmobility.com•Offers up to $1,000 reimbursement for adaptive mobility equipment with purchase of new GM vehicle. > Greyhound•Dallas, TX ; 800-752-4841; Greyhound.com For wheelchair assistance on Greyhound service, call 48 hours prior to departure. >

Medical Assistance Transportation Program, Community Transit of Delaware Co.•Crum Lynne, PA; 610-490-3975;

Ctdelco.org•Provides non-emergency medical transportation and travel reimbursement for Delaware Co. ACCESS cardholders. Miracle Flights for Kids•Las Vegas, NV; 800-359-1711; Miracleﬂights.org•Free air transportation to specialized treatment centers for lower income, seriously ill children. > = Bilingual Service

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Mobility Independent Transportation System•Glen Rock, PA;

717-235-5899; Mitscorp.com•Offers accessible vehicles, scooters & other mobility products. Mobility Works•Bear, DE; Cinnaminson, NJ; Norristown, PA Woodbury NJ; 877-275-4907; Mobilityworks.com National chain that sells, repairs & outﬁts accessible vehicles. SEPTA CCT Connect•Phila.19107; 215-580-7145; Septa.org/service/cct•ADA-compliant paratransit services. Disability must prevent usage of a regular bus service. > Suburban Transit Network, Inc.•Blue Bell, PA; 215-542-7433; Suburbantransit.org•Community transportation in Montgomery Co. that accommodates special transit needs. > U.S. Access Board, The•Washington, DC; 800-872-2253; Access-board.gov•Independent federal agency devoted to accessibility in communications, transportation & infrastructure. > U.S. Dept. of Transportation•Washington, DC; 855-368-4200; Transportation.gov•Provides transportation information, programs & services. Vantage Mobility International•Phoenix, AZ; 855-864-8267; Vantagemobility.com•Outﬁts accessible vans & sells mobility equipment. Wheelchair Getaways•Mukilteo, WA; 800-856-5518; Wheelchairgetaways.com•Provides wheelchair-accessible van rentals. Philadelphia location also services South NJ and DE.

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VOCATIONAL Assessment, transitional training and support for older children and young adults.

RESIDENTIAL Long-term care in both medical and non-medical living environments, including pediatric nursing facilities.

PENNSYLVANIA AHEDD•Jenkintown, PA; 215-885-2060; Ahedd.org

Pediatric Specialty Care

Six locations in PA; 877-291-6535;

Pediatricspecialty.com

24-hour subacute care for children with severe pulmonary impairments, physical disabilities & special needs. See our ad, below

Bellwether Behavioral Health•Swedesboro, NJ; 856-2413320; Bellbh.com•A residential, special education program for individuals with exceptional behavioral & developmental challenges. * ChildWay•Lansdale, PA; 215-362-4950; Childway.org Home-like settings for children’s medical needs. Exceptional Care for Children•Newark, DE; 302-894-1001; Exceptionalcare.org•A pediatric, skilled nursing facility. Melmark School, The•Berwyn, PA; 610-325-2937; Melmark.org Cares for children with autism, intellectual disabilities, brain injuries and other neurological and genetic diagnoses. $%* Pediatric Specialty Care•See listing above Philadelphia Independence Network•Phila., 19114; 267-350-8600 Jevshumanservices.org/program/independence-network Support for young adults with disabilities. >* St. Edmond’s Home for Children•Rosemont, PA; 610-5258800; Stedmondshome.org 24-hour nursing services for medically fragile children with intellectual disabilities. > theVillage•Rosemont, PA; 610-519-1493; Village1877.org Residential care, including intensive treatment for adolescent females. Voorhees Pediatric Facility•Voorhees, NJ; 888-873-5437; Forkidcare.com•Offers a range of medical residential services. Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation•Haskell, NJ; 973-839-2119; Wanaquerehab.com•Skilled nursing facility specializing in sub-acute & long-term care.

Helps people with disabilities secure employment and provides professional development. > Camp Lee Mar•See listing on p. 53 Camp PEP•See Camps. Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI)•See Organizations: Visual Impairments / Blind Chester County Intermediate Unit #24•See listing on p. 53 Diversiﬁed Community Services•See Organizations: Emotional / Behavioral Disorders Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern PA•See Organizations: Epilepsy / Seizure Disorders Freedom Valley Disability Center•See Advocacy Horizon House Inc., Education Plus Youth•See Education

Jewish Employment & Vocational Service (JEVS Human Services)•Phila. 19103; 215-854-1800; Jevs.org

Offers education, training, health & rehabilitation programs. Liberty Resources, Inc.•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Mental Health Assoc. of SE PA •See Advocacy

Montgomery County Behavioral Health/Developmental Disabilities Dept. See Government

Networks for Training and Development, Inc.•See Organizations:

All/Multiple Disabilities

Norris Square Community Alliance, Children Center See Early Intervention & Preschool

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VOCATIONAL Assessment, transitional training and support for older children and young adults. Autism Delaware

Newark, DE; 302-224-6020;

Autismdelaware.org

See our ad, p. 6

See Organizations: Developmental Disabilities / Down Syndrome Variety Club Camp & Developmental Center•See Camps Via of the Lehigh Valley•See Early Intervention & Preschool

Camp Lee Mar

Lackawaxen, PA; 570-685-7188;

Leemar.com

See our ads, pp. 8,9

Chester County Intermediate Unit #24 Downingtown, PA; 484-237-5000; Cciu.org >

See our ad, p. 17 HollyDELL

Hollydell.org

A collaborative team approach is used, ensuring treatment of the whole child and family as the student strives for levels of independence, all within a safe and nurturing environment. We focus on our students’ abilities through a wide array of individualized services including occupational therapy, vocational training and community-based instruction >*

See our ads, pp. 2,22

St. John of God Community Services, Archbishop Damiano School (ADS) Westville Grove, NJ; 856-848-4700

See our ads, pp. 2,13,22

NEW JERSEY Advancing Opportunities•See Advocacy Allies, Inc.•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Division of Developmental Disabilities, New Jersey Dept. of Human Services See Government

Githens Center, Burlington Co. Cerebral Palsy Assoc.•See Care HollyDELL, Inc.•See listing at left and in Early Intervention & Preschool NBN Medical Boutique, The•See Medical: Hospitals, Rehabilitation & Medical Centers New Jersey Commission for the Blind & Visually Impaired See Government

St. John of God Community Services, Archbishop Damiano School (ADS) See listing at left and Early Intervention & Preschool, Education STEPS, Garﬁeld Park Academy•See listing at left and in Recreation

DELAWARE Autism Delaware•See listing at left and Advocacy, Evaluation, Organizations. Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

Wilmington, DE; Dvr.delawareworks.com•Assists DE residents with physical, mental disabilities ﬁnd, retain employment. >

Sewell, NJ; 856-582-5151

adsschool.org

Overbrook School for the Blind•See Early Intervention & Preschool Parkwood Therapeutic Riding Center•See Recreational Pennsylvania Training & Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN)•See Education Philadelphia Independence Network•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Resources for Human Development, Inc.

Division for the Visually Impaired, DE Dept. of Health and Social Services•See Government

New Directions Early Head Start•See Early Intervention & Preschool ServiceSource•Wilmington, DE; 302-762-0300; Servicesource.org•Career assessment, vocational training, job placement & retention support.

NATIONAL AND OTHER STATES Arc, The•See organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities Chronicle Guidance Publications, Inc.•Moravia, NY; 800-622-7284;

Chronicleguidance.com•Publishes educational, ﬁnancial aid & life skills materials.

Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youth & Adults

See Organizations: Communication / Hearing Impairments / Social Disorders International OCD Foundation•See Organizations: Emotional /Behavioral Disorders National Multiple Sclerosis Society•See Organizations: Multiple Sclerosis

Ofﬁce of Special Education & Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), U.S. Dept. of Education•See Government Ofﬁce of Vocational Rehabilitation, Pennsylvania Dept. of Labor & Industry• See Government

United Cerebral Palsy•See Organizations: Cerebral Palsy VSA•See Organizations: All/Multiple Disabilities

STEPS, Garﬁeld Park Academy Willingboro, NJ; 609-877-4111; Steps4living.org

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

After-hours program for young adults and adults with disabilities. %* See our ads, pp. 2,22

SpecialKidsMagazine = Bilingual Service

= Evaluations

= Support

= Vocational Training

MetroKids.com/SpecialKids 53

Advertiser Index Agora Cyber Charter School ................................. 19,23

Delaware Family Voices .......................................6,42,43

AIM Academy.................................................... 19,21,26

Dr. Maxine Young, Audiologist .......................................47

Autism Delaware........................................... 6,33,42,53

EBS Children’s Therapy...................................... 12,32,47

Autism Society Greater Philadelphia .......... 3,42,44,55

Education Designers .......................................................47

Autism Village ................................................................... 7

First Children’s Services ..................... 10,12,14,19,33,56

Bancroft

Gateway Lab School ........................................ 19,26,31

The Bancroft School .......................................... 19,28

HMS School for Children .................................. 19,29,30

The Bancroft School Early Education Program 14,28

Journey Christian Academy ......................................19,31

The Bancroft School Voorhees ......................... 19,28

Kaleidoscope Adaptive Art Studio (NCCDE) ....... 49,51

Marcroft ....................................................................41

Mass Mutual .........................................................3,35,36

Benchmark School .............................................19,23,26

Pathway School ................................................. 19,29,30

Camp Huntington .....................................................3,9,10

Pediatric Specialty Care.......................................... 40,52

Camp Lee Mar ...................................................8,9,11,53

Royer-Greaves School for Blind ....................... 19,21,29

Camphill School, The ..........................................19,28,30

Shriners Hospital for Children ................................. 40,41

Center School, The ............................................. 19,23,26

SleepSafe Beds ................................................................. 7

Chester County Intermediate Unit ..................... 14,17,53

Special People in Northeast, Inc./ SPIN

Child and Family Art Therapy Center ............................47

SPIN ............................................................... 13,15,16

Camp Pegasus .................................................... 11,47

SPIN – Autism .................................................... 15,16

Child Guidance Resource Centers ......................... 33,47

SPIN – Children’s Services .....................................15

Next Steps .......................................................... 33,47

Talk School .......................................................... 20,21,27

Clarke Health Care Products ........................................... 7

Temple Beth Hillel - Beth El

Coalition of Special Education Schools of

Bright Horizons ................................................... 15,16

Southern NJ, The .................................................... 2,3,22

Let’s Play .............................................................. 15,16

Brookﬁeld Schools ............................................ 19,28

United Cerebral Palsy Camps ........................................ 11

Garﬁeld Park Academy ................................... 19,28

Valley Forge Educational Services (VFES) .......20,21,42

Garﬁeld Park – COMPASS .................................... 19

Summer Matters.................................................10,21

HollyDELL .............................................. 14,19,29,53

Vanguard School, The ......................... 20,21,25,42

Larc .................................................................... 19,29

Weisman Children’s .................................... 13,16,33,40

St. John of God Community Services – Archbishop

Woodlynde School ........................................... 20,27,31

Damiano ..........................................13,15,20,30,53

YMCA of Greater Brandywine ............................... 49,50

St. John of God Community Services (EIP) ............16 St. John of God Community Services –

Here We Grow ........................................................14 Steps, Garﬁeld Park Academy ........................ 49,53

e-blasts for local special needs coverage and fantastic area events. Go to MetroKids.com/enews and select Special Needs Update under Email Lists.

Thanks to our advertisers for their support. Their directory listings are prominently displayed within their categories.

54 MetroKids.com/SpecialKids

SpecialKids 2019

Our Mission is to promote lifelong access and opportunities for persons within the autism spectrum and their families, to be fully included, participating members of their communities through advocacy, public awareness, education and research related to autism.

ASAPHILLY offers!

Conferences • Information and Referral Line • Mini Grants • Sensory Friendly Movies • Weighted Blanket Classes • Autism Awareness Day at the Philadelphia Zoo • Puzzle Ribbon Campaign • Yahoo! Listservs • Adult Services Committee • MORE!

Diagnosis and Treatment Services

Specializing in diagnosis and treatment of autism, ADHD, anxiety, and behavioral disorders.  Home

and Community Based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy  Camp Discovery Special Needs Camp*  Therapeutic Groups  Outpatient Counseling** *Cherry Hill location only **Colmar location only

First Children Services (888) 966-0746

1256 Marlkress Road Cherry Hill, NJ 08003

Bethlehem Pike Suite 105 Colmar, PA 18915

www.firstchildrenservices.com

Strive Autism Center

Assessments and therapy for toddler and young children with autism spectrum disorder in a fun and enriching environment!  Center-Based

ABA Therapy  Behavior Assessments  Learning Through Play  Social Skills Development  Potty Training  Parent and Family Training Private healthcare insurance and state funding accepted.