Parenting special-needs children and the introduction of autistic ‘Sesame Street’ Muppet Julia

This issue has quite a few articles written by parents who have boldly and bravely shared with us their stories. Their generosity in exposing their experiences, their heartaches, their challenges is what makes publishing this magazine something we’re particularly proud of. The need for “community” is no greater than amongst the families caring for children on the spectrum.

Kevin Howard’s reaction to being told his 3-year-old son had autism, he describes as being blindsided by an unexpected jolt. His parental confidence morphed into a great sense of powerlessness. The subsequent journey he and his son made together and the way in which he recaptured his role as a parent is inspiring.

Lisa A. Beach tells us the bittersweet tale of her now college age son who was diagnosed with Asperger’s when he was in the 6th grade. She reveals to us the disappearance of his social life as his autism spectrum disorder found former friends drifting away. She exposes her heartache for him and ultimately her celebration of his personal triumph.

There are other articles as well, of course, and our good Resource Guide to help inform. One of my favorites is about the recent introduction of the new Muppet character Julia into the cast of “Sesame Street.” A girl with autism entering the cast of this innovative show is not only groundbreaking but truly amazing and of course that’s what it’s called, “See Amazing in all Children.” Two interesting interviews take place in this piece and I certainly hope you will all read it through. Our resident Award winning writer Tammy Scileppi has done her usual good job of writing about an important local and timely topic.

This magazine is a labor of love for me and has been since our first issue in 2008. There is more on the subject of Special Needs on our website and we have created a special tab that will give you access to much of our editorial over the years and also to a growing Special Needs Providers Guide.

If you want to have this magazine mailed to your home or school or therapy center, please contact Tina@nyparenting.com and she will put you on our list.

Happy Spring! Thanks for reading.

Relevant Directory Listings

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Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park & Children’s Zoo

<p dir="ltr">Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park & Children’s Zoo presents programming for children and families of all ages, animal encounters, zookeeper experiences, VIP tours, season memberships, and much more! Camp Zoo introduces and immerses children in nature through outdoor exploration, games, crafts, and other educational hands-on activities. </p> <p dir="ltr">In partnership with their nonprofit arm, the Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability, the game farm also offers culture, education, and wellness programs to connect people with wildlife and the natural environment. </p> <p dir="ltr">A critical aspect of the game farm is serving as a sanctuary to animals that have been rescued, rehabilitated, or re-homed, including Sicilian miniature donkeys, alpacas, African Sulcatta tortoises, peacocks, rabbits, goats, sheep, alligators, and our beloved Gomez, a Sulphur-crested cockatoo, and Nala, an African Serval cat! </p> <p> </p>

Laurissa Jane Music

<p>Laurissa Jane Music Studio is a dedicated institution that offers a solid foundation for students to explore the captivating world of music and arts. With experienced instructors, we offer private and group lessons in piano, voice, and guitar, for all ages and skill levels. We provide year-round training for renowned programs such as NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). LJMS runs an annual Summer Musical Theatre Arts Program from July-August which offers a creative environment for young individuals with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing. We are proud to serve the vibrant communities of Jamaica Queens and can also provide classes virtually. At LJMS, we firmly believe in the transformative power of the arts. Call us today!</p>

Rodeph Sholom School Day Camp

<p>Rodeph Sholom School Day Camp is devoted to celebrating the joys of childhood. Our enthusiastic and compassionate staff are dedicated to providing a memorable, safe, and fun summer experience where children pursue passions while gaining new experiences. Our thoughtful, age appropriate programming enables children to grow as individuals and make lifelong friendships.</p> <p>This Summer, we believe kids need camp more than ever!</p> <p>More friendships than ever!</p> <p>More community building than ever!</p> <p>More connection making than ever!</p> <p>More activities than ever!</p> <p>More joy than ever!</p> <p>More ruach (spirit) than ever!</p> <p>More camp magic than ever! </p> <p>More FUN THAN EVER! </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Who We Are</strong></p> <p>Rodeph Sholom School Day Camp engages children <strong>ages Three through 6th Grade</strong> through experiences that help build a positive sense of self, strong peer relationships, skill development in a range of areas, exposure to new and existing passions.</p> <p>We are a strong community that celebrates each individual. Our camp feels like home to all of our campers and staff.</p> <p><strong>Our Mission</strong></p> <p>Our strong culture and community allows each child to discover new passions, create life-long friendships, and find a strong sense of belonging</p> <p><strong>Pursuit of Passion Elective Program</strong></p> <p>All of our rising 1st through 6th graders will have a two-hour long elective period daily, which is a chance to pursue an old or new passion. At the beginning of each two week session, campers have a chance to sign up for their Pursuit of Passion elective, or if they’d like, they can sign up for a mix of two passions to explore. After their Pursuit of Passion period ends in the morning, campers will return to their bunk group for a day full of sports, arts, swim, and more.</p> <p><strong>Possible Pursuits of Passion programs include:</strong></p> <p>- Sports (Floor Hockey, Soccer, Basketball, Skateboarding, Gymnastics, etc.)</p> <p>- Chess</p> <p>- Woodworking</p> <p>- Studio Arts</p> <p>- Hebrew</p> <p>- Performance Arts</p> <p>- Music (Rock band, DJing, Acapella)</p> <p>- Cooking</p> <p>- Business and Debate</p> <p>- Outdoor Adventure</p> <p>- Architecture</p> <p>- STEM Based Programming</p>