Good parenting takes practice and patience especially with a special needs child at home. Children with a disability(ies) often require greater personal care and perhaps a team of caregivers or professionals. Therefore having accessible resources at hand and being well prepared helps one to be a more effective parent.
Thank you for picking up the latest Special Needs edition. This handy digest guide is chock full of valuable resources, programs and activities to help support your family and your child. Inside, we connect you to professionals who can provide expert advice, therapeutic programs, appropriate summer camps, schools, and enrichment programs. Plus we have more online resources, so please check regularly.
In addition, we’ve gathered sensory fun things to do with your child as well as family friendly venues. From theaters, museums, planetariums, zoos, to the farm and more, you’ll find wonderful ways for socialization. Encourage your child’s participation in extracurricular activities and social events. These are great opportunities for peer to peer interaction and learning. Search our online calendars for more activities that may be suitable. Everyone needs multiple fun outlets.
Sandra Leu & the NJ KIDS Team
The little book with the SPECIAL resources!
Come ride with us at Seaton Hackney Stables!
Are you ready to experience the joy and freedom of horseback riding?
Horseback riding is a great way to build physical strength and dexterity while also forming a bond with your horse and discovering effective ways to communicate. The team at Seaton Hackney Stables works with riders of all abilities and we have all types of horses to accommodate our riders’ needs. Our program offers individuals of all abilities to participate in mounted and unmounted therapeutic lessons.
Safe, Progressive Learning
Our team of instructors believe that success comes from consistent learning that works toward a specific, achievable goal. We work to build on what we teach in each lesson to
safely progress riders in their horsemanship knowledge, physical strength, and communication skills.
All equine-assisted services are planned for safety and therapeutic benefit with the individual’s educational, physical, social, emotional and/or recreational goals in mind. Participants with similar goals may be grouped together.
Lessons may include warm-up exercises, skill development, activities or games to reinforce goals, and trail rides.
We can’t wait to meet you! If you would like more information about whether therapeutic riding is right for you or your loved one, please feel free to reach call 973.644.3355 or email seatonh@verizon.net.
SENSORY FUN THINGS TO DO
1. GO TO A SENSORY OR AUTISM FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE
Buy your tickets in advance. Upcoming sensory friendly shows include:
• New Jersey Ballet Once Upon a TimeSun, Mar 30th, 2pm @ UCPAC, ucpac.org
• Michael & The Rockness Monsters - Sat, Apr 5th, 12pm @ State Theatre, stnj.org
• Gazillion Bubble Show Sensory Performance - Sat, Apr 26th, 4:30pm New World Stages, NYC
• Jeff Boyer’s Big Bubble Bonanza 2025Sun, Apr 27th, 2pm @ UCPAC. ucpac.org
• Milk & Cookies: Julie Pasqual - Sat, May 3rd, 12pm @ State Theatre NJ (stnj.org)
• Pete the Cat - Sun, May 4th, 4:30pm @ Mayo PAC (mayoarts.org)
• & Juliet - Sun, May 4th, 1pm @ Stephen Sondheim Theatre in NYC (tdf.org)
• Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical - Tues, May 13, 4pm @ Mayo PAC. mayoarts.org
• Ballo della Regina, Tschaikovsky Pas de Deux, and Scotch Symphony - Sun, May 18th, 11am, for audience ages 5+ @ New York City Ballet (nycballet.com)
• Disney’s The Little Mermaid - Sat, June 21st, 1:30pm @ Papermill Playhouse
(papermill.org)
• Hamilton - Sun, June 29th, 1pm @ Richard Rodgers Theatre in NYC (tdf.org)
2. PLANETARIUM FUN
The Raritan Valley College Planetarium features “The Sky Above”, a sensory-friendly show about planets, moon, and constellations synced to music and laser lights. Doors are open, lights are dimmed, and audio is lowered. Saturday April 5 and May 3, 2025 at 5PM. Branchburg, NJ, raritanval.edu/planetarium
3. EXPLORE AQUATIC LIFE
Adventure Aquarium in partnership with KultureCity offers marine life accessible viewing areas, sensory bags, weighted lap pad, headphone zones, and designated quiet areas. Take your time to enjoy sea life, fish, and more!
Sensory Sundays take place on the third Sunday of every month from 9:30am-10:30am. Upcoming dates: Apr 20, May 18, June 15, July 20, Aug 17, Sept 21, Oct 19, Nov 16, Dec 21.
During F.I.S.H. (Family Inclusive Sensory Hours) events, the music is low and crowds are reduced. Upcoming F.I.S.H. Night dates: July 19, 5:30pm-7:30pm; Sept 26, 5pm-7pm. Buy tickets in advance. Camden, NJ, adventureaquarium.com
Jenkinson’s Aquarium offers Sensory Saturdays for guests with autism, sensory processing, and other cognitive challenges to have fun and explore the aquarium before its open to the public, with less crowds, less noise and less stimulation. Upcoming dates: Apr 19 and May 31, 9am-10am. Point Pleasant Beach, NJ. jenkinsons.com/aquarium
4. SPEND A DAY AT THE ZOO
The Bronx Zoo is home to an incredible 4,000 animals. It is certified sensory inclusive for visitors. Register for Sensory Sensitive Mornings: Children’s Zoo, explore and visit farm animals before the zoo opens to the public. The zoo’s Accessibility Map contains information on zoo exhibits and grounds. The Zoo has quiet zones and headphone zones to help visitors with sensory processing needs. Sensory bags available to guests. bronxzoo.com
Turtle Back Zoo is designated certified Sensory Inclusive by KultureCity. Explore animals and zoo attractions on your own schedule. Sensory bags, accessibility map, quiet zones and headphone zones help guests with special needs. turtlebackzoo.com
Other zoos to visit: Bergen County Zoo, Cape May County Zoo, Central Park Zoo
5. VISIT A MUSEUM
Museums are open and welcoming to the special needs community.
Intrepid Museum in NYC - visit and see ships, planes, space shuttle and more! The Intrepid offers access family programs on select mornings for children and afternoons for teens and adults. Participants can experience the Museum in a sensory-friendly environment. Upcoming special access programs on Apr 6, May 3, July 12, Aug 3. intrepidmuseum.org
The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia - enjoy hands on science exhibits and experiences. The museum Sensory Guide provides guidance and helpful tips on certain experiences that may have high levels of stimulation. Sensory backpacks are stocked with helpful tools like noise-reducing headphones, sunglasses, fidgets, and sensory guide alerts to help reduce sensory stimulation. fi.edu
Liberty Science Center - learn about science and STEM with interactive activities. LSC’s comprehensive sensory map lets you plan your experience accordingly. lsc.org
Museum of Natural History in New York City
- Discovery Squad events are for children ages 5-12 with Autism and developmental disabilities. Held the third Saturday of each month. Includes tour of select halls before opening to the public, followed by free play in the Discovery Room. Free, advanced registration required. amnh.org, 212.769.5200
6. GET CREATIVE WITH ART & PERFORMING ARTS
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC offers workshops for individuals with Autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Check website for access events and registration information. Upcoming FREE Discoveries art workshops for children: Apr 27, May 18. metmuseum.org or 212.650.2010
Museum of Modern Art Monthly Create Ability Program
MoMA provides Create Ability and Access Programs for creative art experiences for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities. Upcoming Create Ability events (preregistration required): Big Painting Apr 6th, Woven Together May 4th, Nature Studies June 22nd. moma.org or 212.408.6447
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Autism Spectrum Disorder
Asperger’s Syndrome
ADHD
Allergies
Auditory Processing Disorder
Behavioral Disorders
Cognitive Impairment
Developmental Delays
Diabetes
Emotional Regulation Imparment
General and Special Education HIB Matters
Hearing Impairment
Orthopedic Impairment
Sensory Integration Dysfunction
Specific Learning Disabilities
Speech and Language Impairment
Tramatic Brain Injury
Visual Impairment
Special Needs Trust Trusts
Will Guardianship
Estate Planning
Probate Special Education Guardianship Trusts (609) 409-3500 www.sgwlawfirm.com
When it comes to serving the needs of your special needs child, Sussan, Greenwald and Wesler are the attorneys you can trust. Over 40 years, SGW has earned its reputation as a leading special education, law firm in New Jersey, dedicated to serving you in all aspects of special education, guardianship and trusts matters. Our attorneys all have professional and personal ties to this essential area of law, which means they are invested in securing the best present and future protections for you and your family. Contact us today!
CAPE Center
Information and Referrals for Individuals, Families and Professionals regarding Disability Services
We can help you access information regarding:
Developmental Disabilities Resources
Transition Planning
Recreational Programs / Summer Camps
Mental Health Services
plus we offer a variety of webinars on topics related to disabilities, as well as sponsor monthly Parent Support Groups
For a complete list of current workshop offerings visit www.bergen.org/cape
Sensory Fun Things To Do ...continued from page 13
Crayola Experience has dozens of hands-on creative art activities. They serve guests with special needs and is designed for everyone to enjoy. Upcoming Sensory Night on April 4, 2025 from 5pm-8pm. Visitors can enjoy all the attractions in a sensory friendly environment where lights are dimmed, music will be off, quiet rooms available, make your own tie dye flowers, and a special character appearance at 6pm. Easton, PA. crayolaexperience.com
New York City Ballet Autism Friendly Access Workshops are for children ages 4-12 with Autism and other sensory needs. NYC Ballet dance instructors will guide children in ballet movement warm up and choreography. No dance experience necessary. Buy tickets online. Upcoming dates: Sat, Apr 26th at 1pm and May 3rd at 1pm. nycballet.com
7. EXPERIENCE A THEME PARK
Storybook Land offers family friendly park rides and attractions for young children. The Assisted Access Pass is for guests who have difficulty waiting and can ride the next ride cycle. Sensory friendly designated quiet zones available. Egg Harbor Township, NJ. storybookland.com
Sesame Place is the first theme park designated as a Certified Autism Center. Family friendly rides and attractions based on Sesame Street themes and characters. Extensive sensory guide of services, rides, shows, low sensory area, low sensory parade viewing, noise canceling headphones, quiet dining and
more! Meet & take photo with Julia, a 4 year old muppet with Autism. Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a wristband is provided for guests with non-visible disabilities who require a little extra time and patience. Langhorne, PA, sesameplace.com
Six Flags Great Adventure is designated a Certified Autism Center. Experience family rides, thrill rides, and more! The Attraction Access Program is designed to accommodate guests with disabilities and matches the individual abilities to the ride criteria for each attraction. Individuals can apply for IBCCES Individual Accessibility Card for accommodations. Jackson, NJ, sixflags.com/greatadventure
8. GO TO THE MOVIES
AMC Theaters in partnership with the Autism Society offer sensory friendly movies every month, scheduled on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays for family friendly films and on Wednesday evenings for mature films. The lights are up and the sound is down. Audience members can get up, dance, walk, or sing. Check your local NJ theatre. amctheatres.com
9. THERAPEUTIC HORSEBACK RIDING
Therapeutic horseback riding are offered at Seaton Hackney Stables in Morristown and Pony Power Therapies in Mahwah, NJ.
10. LEARN MARTIAL ARTS
Special Dragons Karate provides fun classes and programs for the special needs population. Taught by certified special education instructors. Sign up for a free trial. Locations in Bergenfield, Belleville, Jersey City, Paterson, Union. specialdragonskarate.org
11. DISCOVER NATURE AND PARKS
Nature trails are full of sensory activities. Check out local county parks and New Jersey state parks to enjoy nature. www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests.
continued on page 22
The Sensory Garden at Laurelwood Arboretum in Wayne NJ is a barrier free garden where all visitors can enjoy nature. It has wide pathways, raised flower beds, and colorful blooms. laurelwoodarboretum.org
The Watchung Reservation Sensory Friendly Trail is located within the park’s Trailside Nature and Science Center in Union County. The walking path has a gazebo, talking stations, hands-on sensory play, raised floral beds, and more! It’s accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities and special needs. ucnj.org/trailsidenature-and-science-center
12. PARTICIPATE IN SPORTS
Special Olympics NJ offers many opportunities for kids and young athletes to get involved in a sports play program. Walking, running, jumping, throwing, kicking, striking and competition! Check website to find a local program near you. sonj.org
13. EXPLORE UNIVERSAL PLAYGROUNDS
Also known as playgrounds for everyone, barrier free playgrounds, all access playgrounds, or sensory friendly playgrounds for those with Autism and special needs. Central Park of Morris County in Parsippany, Jake’s Place in Cherry Hill, Ridgewood Park in Newark, Challenger Place in Colts Neck, Votee Park in Teaneck, NJ.
14.
ENJOY WATER FUN
Big Kahuna’s Indoor & Outdoor Waterparkwater park rides and water fun. Check website to view sensory guide and accessible events. West Berlin, NJ. bigkahunas.com/nj
Mountain Creek Waterpark in nearby Vernon, New Jersey offers seasonal outdoor water rides, slides, pools, and sprayground. mountaincreek.com/waterpark
15. GO PLAY!
Imagine That!!! offers fun indoor play for preschoolers and young children. Go see their brand new exhibits. Kids get to play, touch, and just hop from station to station imagining. Located in Florham Park, NJ. imaginethatmuseum.com
Monster Mini Golf lets you be among monsters as you glow in the dark. Play the arcade, laser tag, mini golf, games and prizes. Welcoming families in Edison, Paramus, and Fairfield. monsterminigolf.com
16. GO TO THE BEACH
So many nature-based activities that you can leverage off NJ’s environment. At the beach, there’s sensory play with sand castle building, ocean water play, sea shell sorting and more.
17. SEE LIST OF SENSORY ACTIVIITES online at www.njkidsonline.com
njkidsonline.com/special-needs-guide
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY
EDUCATION
Banyan School
Elementary: 12 Hollywood Avenue, Fairfield High School: 471 Main St, Little Falls LIFE Academy (18-21 yrs)
973.439.1919 | www.BanyanSchool.org
Banyan School is a private, non-profit, NJ Department of Education Approved School for students with significant language-based learning disabilities. Over the past 31 years, our primary focus has been the development and reinforcement of reading, language & communication skills necessary for academic success. Our faculty is trained in a variety of research-based, multi-sensory teaching techniques and strategies, including the Wilson Reading System®, Lindamood Bell® Programs, Multisensory Math®, and TouchMath® plus small classes, individualized attention, and integrated assistive technology. The HS curriculum continues to reinforce reading, language and communication skills, while preparing students for the next phase of their education and life. The LIFE (Learning Independence. Fostering Empowerment.) Academy emphasizes life and work skills in a supportive environment that builds confidence and success.
Celebrate the Children
230 Diamond Spring Rd, Denville 973.989.4033 | celebratethechildren.org
A non-profit, state-approved private school, which serves a diverse range of students ages 3-21 with autism and other challenges in relating and communicating. Our focus is tailoring a program to meet the needs of the individual and their learning style v. a label. We are committed to using respect and relationships to support a student’s ability to become an engaged and active learner. We are proudly celebrating 20 years of special education!
Chapel Hill Academy
31 Chapel Hill Rd., Lincoln Park
973.686.0004 | www.chapelhillacademy.net
Chapel Hill Academy is a New Jersey Approved Private School for students with learning, social, emotional and behavioral issues in Kindergarten through 12th grade. We have a flexible and comprehensive curriculum tailored to meet the needs of, and focus the strengths of each student.
CTC Academy
Fair Lawn Campus (18 months - 7 years)
29-01 Berkshire Rd, Fair Lawn, 201.797.7440
Oakland Campus (7–21 years)
125 Bauer Dr, Oakland, 201.612.5677
www.ctcacademy.org
CTC Academy is enhancing the lives of children and young adults with special needs, and their families, by providing an enriched educational, therapeutic and supportive environment. NJ State approved pre-school through 12th grade. The Fair Lawn campus serves children ages 18 months through 7 years and offers an Early Enrichment Program (EEP) designed to enhance and build upon early Intervention services received in the home for ages 18 months - 3 years (open enrollment). The Oakland campus serves 1st through 12th Grade (ages 7–18), and STEP Program, ages 18 – 21 years (including children who are medically fragile). Support groups are available for families and siblings of children at both locations.
Windsor Bergen Academy
56 Passaic St., Ridgewood
201.857.4785 | www.windsorbergen.com
Windsor Bergen Academy (WBA) is a state approved non-profit, private school. We provide a quality education for children from Pre-K through 8th grade allowing students to overcome academic and social/emotional challenges through innovative programs focusing on academic success and high school readiness.
RECREATION
Alstede Farms
1 Alstede Farms Lane, Chester 908.879.7189
info@alstedefarms.com | www.alstedefarms.com
Alstede Farms is a welcoming, family-friendly destination that prioritizes inclusivity for all visitors. We are proud to offer ADA-accessible wagon rides, ensuring that everyone, regard-
less of mobility needs, can fully enjoy the farm experience. Our accessible wagons provide a comfortable and safe way to explore the farm’s orchards, fields, and attractions. At Alstede Farms, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature, participate in seasonal activities, and create cherished memories with loved ones, making our farm a truly inclusive space for all.
MarbleJam Kids
214 State St., Suite 204, Hackensack 201.497.6512 | www.marblejam.org
Authorized NJ DDD and NJ DCF Provider
MarbleJam Center is a fully compliant ADA facility that provides creative arts therapies and adaptive social learning programs for children, teens, and adults with autism, ADHD, and mental health challenges. The year-round programs and services explore the person’s creative expression and potential while building social skills and a support network.
Special Dragons Karate
Locations: Union, Bellevue, Jersey City, Paterson Info@SpecialDragonsKarate.org
973.667.8525 | www.SpecialDragonsKarate.org
A karate program for children with autism and oth- er developmental disabilities. We have exclusively taught special needs students for over 12 years. Basic karate techniques are used to address eye/ hand coordination, motor control, conditioning, balance, sensory integration, time on task and focus as well as cognitive processing speed and encourages neuroplasticity. Parents are allowed to participate together with their children. We come to you too!
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RESOURCES
CAPE Resource Center
Bergen County Special Services Paramus
201.343.6000 ext. 4067 | www. bergen.org/cape
The CAPE Resource Center provides information, referrals and assistance for individuals, families and professionals in the disability community. We help access information regarding developmental disability resources, transition planning, recreation programs/summer camps and mental health services. We offer a variety of webinars on topics related to disabilities and sponsor monthly parent support groups.
LEGAL SERVICES
Karen Edler, Jackie Lasher & Michelle Krone Education Law Group Price, Meese, Shulman & D’Arminio, P.C. 50 Tice Boulevard, Woodcliff Lake
201.391.3737 | www.pricemeese.com
Our attorneys have personal experience with special needs family members and friends. They provide parents with tools to be effective advocates and to obtain a free, appropriate public education. Services include: reviewing Individualized Education Plans, Section 504 Plans,
Health Care Plans, and Intervention & Referral Service Plans; explaining evaluations; attending IEP & 504 meetings; negotiating resolutions of programming and placement disputes; filing mediation and due process petitions; handling school disciplinary charges, hearings & appeals; providing guidance to college students regarding rights under Section 504; and assisting with applications for public benefits.
Our compassionate and experienced attorneys offer comprehensive legal services to help families protect the rights and secure the future of individuals with special needs. Our Special Needs Department provides guidance on matters such as Special Education, Special Needs Trusts, Guardianships, Disability Benefits, Estate Planning, and Elder Law, ensuring that families can navigate the legal system and maximize the rights and benefits available to their loved ones.
Recognized as one of New Jersey’s top law firms in both special education and estate planning. Having helped thousands of families secure their
SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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futures and access vital educational opportunities for their children with special needs, our work has set legal precedents in both NJ and Federal Courts. SGW brings a comprehensive approach to our clients’ legal needs, adeptly handling IEP meetings, courtroom litigation, and estate planning to achieve the best outcomes for families. With our deep understanding of the complexities involved, we’re ready to assist you.
THERAPY SERVICES
Neurobehavioral Wellness Center
Woolwich Township 856.975.6279
www.neurobehavioralwellnesscenter.com
We provide evaluation and treatment services for children beginning at 3 years. Our doctors specialize in neuropsychological conditions in children and adolescents. We work with children and parents to understand the challenges they face and how these affect them in their day-to-day lives. Using neuropsychological evaluation and input from teachers, parents and medical professionals, we make a diagnosis and provide personal and comprehensive treatment plans. We also develop an IEP or 504 Plan and collaborate with school districts and if necessary, we help parents access services outside the school district.
DENTISTRY
Carter Smile
180 Main Street, Madison
973.540.1666 | www.cartersmilellc.com
Committed to providing comprehensive dental care and orthodontics for infants through teens, including those with special needs, striving to create a fun-filled environment where children feel at home! Early dental care can promote a lifetime of healthy smiles for your child. Dr. Carter and her nurturing team will help equip your child with the knowledge necessary for good oral hygiene. Finding new ways to provide exceptional pediatric and orthodontic dental care is their priority.
National Associations, Societies & Centers
Autism Society
www.Autism-society.org
Local and state affiliates are the primary source through which the Autism Society helps individuals and families.
Autism Little Learners
www.autismlittlelearners.com
Teaches autistic children how to learn with visually stimulating activities geared toward helping develop skills and fine motor control.
Center for Parent Information & Resources
www.parentcenterhub.org
A central hub of information and products created for the network of Parent Centers serving families of children with disabilities.
Easterseals
www.easterseals.com
Services include early intervention, inclusive childcare, medical rehabilitation and autism services for people of all ages including mental health and recovery programs, assistive technology, camp and recreation, caregiving support including respite – and much more.
Family Hope Center
www.familyhopecenter.com
Serving families of children with neurological challenges and disorders. Teaches, guides, and supports parents in developing effective, customized and integrative plans.
National Center for Learning Disabilities
www.ncld.org
NCLD improves the lives of those with learning and attention issues by empowering parents and young adults, transforming schools and advocating for equal opportunities.
Parenting Children with Disabilities
Provided by New Jersey Department of Children and Families. www.nj.gov/dcf
As a parent, it’s essential to learn all you can about your child’s disability, but just as important, you must learn good parenting skills.
Understand how your child will grow and develop. Every child is different. No one can predict what your child will be able to do and when.
• Spend time with your child and get to know him or her as a person.
• Read about your child’s disability. Keep books and other resources handy.
• Keep a journal of your child’s development. Share it with those who work with or care for your child.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more you know, the better you can adjust to the changes around you.
• Prepare for appointments. Use a notebook to write down questions and answers. Save copies of all records.
• Learn ways to help your child with daily tasks (for example, activities that improve communication or helpful medical devices).
• Talk to other special needs parents. They can be a valuable resource for you and your family.
Good parenting takes patience-and practice. Use fair and consistent discipline.
• Never hit, shake or yell at your child.
• If your child misbehaves, try taking away a privilege. Relate this consequence to the behavior (for example, if your child plays with his or her food,don’t offer dessert).
• If possible, use “timeouts.” Have your child sit in a quiet, safe place while he or she settles down. Don’t respond to a child who is acting out to get attention.
• Explain that the behavior is wrong, but never tell your child that he or she is wrong or “bad”. Use a firm, but calm tone. Explain rules and consequences using simple, clear language.
• Praise your child when he or she behaves well.
Teach your child to problem-solve. Allow your child time to figure things out on his or her own. Use puzzles and games to encourage this.
Foster independence and confidence. Show your child what to do. Then give him or her time to try it, instead of doing it yourself. Offer choices. For example, can he or she choose what foods to eat? Activities to do? Clothes to wear? Chores to do? Your child will feel that he or she is playing a more active role in everyday life at your home.
Set a positive example. When you show kindness and patience, so will your child. If you feel angry, stay calm. Try taking deep breaths and leaving the room until you’ve calmed down. If you’re afraid, you might harm your child, take your child to a safe place and call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-422-4453).
Tell your child you love him or her. Tell your child often- even if he or she doesn’t always behave the way you want. Praise his or her accomplishments and improvements.
No parent is perfect! If you want to improve your parenting skills, consider taking a parenting class. Talk openly and share your feelings and emotions. Expressing how you feel is healthy for you and for your family. Don’t be afraid to let others know what’s going on inside. Showing emotion is a sign of strength, not weakness!
Take steps to reduce stress. Stress at home can affect children. No parent is stress-freebut stress affects children more than you may realize. It may affect your child’s happiness or even the way you treat your child. Know the common signs of stress.
• Feeling sad a lot.
• Feeling irritable a lot.
• Feeling fatigued, guilty, and/ or worthless most of the time.
• Not sleeping well(or sleeping too much)
• Gaining or losing weight
• Not being able to focus on everyday tasks
Learn ways you can reduce stress, including relaxation techniques, proper diet and exercise.
Good parenting takes patience and practice
Get your child started with an IFSP. The law protects children with disabilities. IFSPs (Individualized Family Service Plans) are provided for all families and their children with disabilities from birth to age 3. Usually,the process begins when a child is an infant or a toddler. To start an IFSP, parents should contact a local disability office or Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities office.
When your child turns 3, he or she may be eligible for an IEP. IEPs(Individualized Education Program) are designed to help children with disabilities transition to a school setting. A team of specialists will work with you and your child’s education. The IEP covers the educational programs and accommodations that will be provided to meet your child’s needs.
Be involved with your child’s IFSP and IEP. The IFSP and IEP can be great tools for you and your child. Your IFSP or IEP team will use the strengths of your family to outline:
• Your child’s abilities
• Major goals for your family and your child
• What services will be provided (and when and where they will be provided).
• Steps that will be taken to ease your child’s transition into other programs.
This article was provided by The Department of Children and Families which funds various programs throughout the state to help and strengthen families. At this site you can find links to these programs along with links to other State agencies that offer assistance to families. www.nj.gov/dcf
