Special Child Glossary: Definitions That Every Family Should Know

Special Needs Glossary: Keywords That Every Special Needs Family Should Know
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Special Needs Glossary: Definitions and Keywords That Every Family with Children with Disabilities Should Know 

Part of navigating a special needs or disability diagnosis (Developmental disability: Physical, learning, language, or behavioral impairments that will delay your child’s development. ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities, etc. are all examples of developmental disabilities) is knowing the words used to describe it. But it can be intimidating to ask what everything means, especially when doctors or websites seem to be speaking another language with acronyms like “ERSS” and “OT”. We’ve all been in that confusing place before and, as parents, it’s not a fun feeling. That’s why, we’ve created a glossary for keywords that you may want to know as a parent of kids with special needs. This guide includes common disability words, phrases, and acronyms so that you can feel more confident in your parenting journey!

ADHD

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A developmental disability that makes it difficult for your child to pay attention or stay focused. Look out for squirming and fidgeting, talking a lot, not being able to wait for their turn, or trouble concentrating.  

ASD

Autism Spectrum Disorder: A developmental disability that may delay your child’s speech, motor, learning, and social skills. Early intervention (see below) can help improve skills.

Down Syndrome

A condition caused by an extra chromosome that affects how your child’s brain and body develop. Diagnosis typically happens before or during birth.  

Emotional Disturbance

Mental health disorders such as anxiety, bipolar, OCD, etc. that have no direct, identifiable cause. Be on the lookout for aggressive behavior, withdrawal or nerves related to social environments, and vocal outbursts in public places.   

Learning Disability

Difficulty learning and grasping new concepts. Learning disabilities include dyslexia (reading), dysgraphia (writing), and dyscalculia (math). See Special Education for more. 

Stutter

A speech disorder that makes it challenging for your child to say what they want to say. You may hear them repeat a sound a lot, hold one sound for a long time, or stop speaking mid-sentence. 

Helpful Resources 

OPWDD

Office of People with Developmental Disabilities: A New York organization that can help connect your family to nonprofit services, based on what kind of treatment/therapy they need, and provide funding. 

Transition planning

Creating an action plan for what your child with disabilities will do after high school. This is often a part of your IEP (see below). 

Service provider

An agency or organization that will help your family navigate some aspect of your journey. This could be everything from speech therapy to after school programs with a focus on special needs to horseback riding as a form of physical therapy.

INCLUDEnyc

A non-profit organization that advocates for young people in NYC to be included in their communities: classrooms, workplaces, etc. They have super informative resources for parents of kids with disabilities, and they can connect you with professionals who can help you navigate your options even further. 

Special Education  

Inclusion

Everyone in the classroom feels welcomed by the school, teacher, and classmates. For kids with disabilities, inclusion is definitely a keyword to look for when choosing a school!

IEP

Individualized Education Program: A written plan for your child’s education as a special needs student. According to the NYC Department of Education (DOE), this means your child is guaranteed a free and appropriate public education in a Least Restrictive Environment (see below). Your child’s IEP will also include development and progress reports, evaluation results, specific needs, and anything else that is relevant to your child’s success.  

IEP Teams

Your IEP team will be made up of you (as a parent/guardian), a school psychologist, a special education teacher (and sometimes a general education teacher), and the district representative. It may also include a school physician or other service providers who have worked with your child.

LRE

Least Restrictive Environment: Your child will be in a classroom with kids who do not have a disability diagnosis. 

SETSS

Special Education Teacher Support Services: Either a special education teacher will design specific activities for children with special needs or the special education teacher will collaborate with the general education teacher to modify the entire classroom to accommodate.  

SEDL

Special Education Distance Learning: Modifying special needs education for virtual/online students. This became especially important during the pandemic. 

SWD

Students With Disabilities: Used to refer to special needs children in the classroom.  

SC– Special Class

If your child’s needs cannot be met in a general education classroom, they will have all classes taught specifically by a special education teacher. These classes are typically very small in NYC schools, with up to 12 students for elementary/middle school and up to 15 for high school. 

PBIS

Positive Behavioral Interventions & Support: NYC school-wide approach that encourages positive behavior instead of punishing or pointing out the negative. One example of this is changing a poster from “No Food. No Weapons. No Drugs.” to “School Rules: Be Safe, Responsible, Respectful”. This positive environment is especially important for special needs education.

Treatment & Evaluation  

ADL

Activities of daily living: Day-to-day actions like brushing your teeth, going to the bathroom, walking up and down stairs, etc. that are used to determine your child’s diagnosis and progress. 

Early intervention

Services and support for infants and young children with developmental disabilities. Early intervention can often help improve your child’s skills and progress.   

OT– Occupational Therapy

Focuses on ADL’s (see above) and other everyday skills that your child will work on.  

PT- Physical Therapy

Focuses on physical developmental disabilities and helps your child with mobility and movement.  

Speech pathology

Focuses on language and speech disabilities to help your child communicate their thoughts. 

Regression

Your child loses skills that they previously had. If regression happens, you may want to revisit and revise your child’s IEP (see above). 

AT

Assistive technology: Any device that helps your child’s special needs by improving their capabilities. AT’s include wheelchairs, text to speech, voice recognition, and more.  

ABA

Applied Behavior Analysis: A positive-reinforcement program designed to understand your child’s behavior in real life situations. It is most commonly used for children with Autism, but it can also be effective for other developmental disabilities. 

Developmental milestones

Key movements, expressions, speech etc. that show your child’s progress. For little ones, this may include smiling at people, crawling, copying sounds, and reaching for toys. 

PsstThe Special Child Fall/Winter Edition: Special Needs

Additional Resources

Click on your region to jump to resources near you!

Brooklyn

The Gillen Brewer School 

410 E. 92nd Street, New York

212-831-3667

gillenbrewer.com

admissions@gillenbrewer.com

The Gillen Brewer School is a 12-month, special education program located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, serving children ages 2.8 to 11 years old who have a wide variety of language-based and non-verbal learning disabilities. Their academic-therapeutic program includes speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and social groups.  GBS currently serves children Pre-K-age 11 and is expanding in the Fall of 2024 to include middle school.

 

The IDEAL School of Manhattan

5 Hanover Square, New York 10004

212-769-1699

admissions@thidealschool.org

theidealschool.org

A Small School That’s Big on Inclusion–In a New Location! The IDEAL School of Manhattan, New York’s only K-12+ independent inclusion school, is now located at 5 Hanover Square in the Financial District. IDEAL students thrive in a diverse and nurturing learning community where a robust academic program teaches them to recognize their potential to effect change, seek out difference, advocate for themselves, stand behind others, and know that a strong, diverse, caring community is the IDEAL. Learn more at an open house or email admissions@theidealschool.org to schedule a tour.

 

Bronx

The Gillen Brewer School 

410 E. 92nd Street, New York

212-831-3667

gillenbrewer.com

admissions@gillenbrewer.com

The Gillen Brewer School is a 12-month, special education program located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, serving children ages 2.8 to 11 years old who have a wide variety of language-based and non-verbal learning disabilities. Their academic-therapeutic program includes speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and social groups.  GBS currently serves children Pre-K-age 11 and is expanding in the Fall of 2024 to include middle school.

 

Stepping Stones Day School 

2826 Westchester Avenue, Bronx

718-554-2025

steppingstonedayschool.com

37 years ago SSDS opened its doors to provide services to children. The schools have remained true to the original vision which embraced the sentiment that “All children can”. SSDS continues to be at the forefront of best practices in early childhood services.

 

Queens

 

Autism Behavioral Consulting Services  

Karen Bottalico, SAS, SDA

516-851-8330

kbottalico2002@yahoo.com

An Educational Consultant serving Queens and Long Island and the NY Metro area. Working directly with families, services include: Evaluating placement and service options; Accompanying parents throughout the entire CPSE or CSE process which includes meetings, screenings, observations and extensive education history reviews. Other services include Staff Training, School-Based Consultation, FBA Assessment and BIP Implementation, ABA and Verbal Behavior Training Techniques, Behavior Management Strategies, Home/School Intensive Behavior Intervention Services, Crisis Intervention and Prevention, Home-Based Services and Parent Education Training. 

 

Comprehensive Consultation 

114-20 Queens Blvd, Suite CS2, Forest Hills

180 East 79 St.  Suite # 1C, 

New York, NY 

comprehendthemind.com 

Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. is a group of neuropsychologists who work as a team to help you understand your child’s functioning, from cognitive, to academic to neurological. They can properly diagnose ADHD from a learning disability, and anxiety from autism. They use highly sensitive tests and include parent and teacher data to support assessments.

 

The Gillen Brewer School 

410 E. 92nd Street, New York

212-831-3667

gillenbrewer.com

admissions@gillenbrewer.com

The Gillen Brewer School is a 12-month, special education program located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, serving children ages 2.8 to 11 years old who have a wide variety of language-based and non-verbal learning disabilities. Their academic-therapeutic program includes speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and social groups.  GBS currently serves children Pre-K-age 11 and is expanding in the Fall of 2024 to include middle school.

 

Long Island Speech 

Nine locations

lispeech.com

Long Island Speech

Long Island Speech is the leading speech therapy provider on Long Island with 9 locations in Nassau and Suffolk County. They specialize in Myofunctional Therapy,  PROMPT, Voice Disorders, Fluency, Augmentative Communications, Articulation, Feeding Therapy, Auditory Processing, Expressive/Receptive Language Disorders and so much more. Long Island Speech participates with most major health insurance companies and offers evening and weekend hours. Call 844-5-SPEECH to schedule your first appointment, or visit LISpeech.com.

 

Stepping Stones Day School  

77-40 Vleigh Place 

Kew Gardens Hills

718 591-9093

steppingstonedayschool.com

37 years ago SSDS opened its doors to provide services to children. The schools have remained true to the original vision which embraced the sentiment that “All children can”. SSDS continues to be at the forefront of best practices in early childhood services.

 

Long Island

 

Appletree ABA

100 Duffy Avenue, Suite 510, Hicksville NY

516-881-5373

appletreeaba.com

info@appletreeaba.com

Appletree ABA is committed to providing high-quality and compassionate ABA therapy services to individuals with autism and their families. They utilize evidence-based practices, collaborate with families and professionals, and offer an individualized approach tailored to promote meaningful change. They offer in-home ABA services across Nassau County NY. They work with most major insurances and accept private pay clients.

 

Autism Behavioral Consulting Services

Karen Bottalico, SAS, SDA

516-851-8330

kbottalico2002@yahoo.com

An Educational Consultant serving Queens and Long Island and the NY Metro area. Working directly with families, services include: Evaluating placement and service options; Accompanying parents throughout the entire CPSE or CSE process which includes meetings, screenings, observations and extensive education history reviews. Other services include Staff Training, School-Based Consultation, FBA Assessment and BIP Implementation, ABA and Verbal Behavior Training Techniques, Behavior Management Strategies, Home/School Intensive Behavior Intervention Services, Crisis Intervention and Prevention, Home-Based Services and Parent Education Training.

 

Comprehensive Consultation 

114-20 Queens Blvd, Suite CS2, Forest Hills

180 East 79 St.  Suite # 1C, 

New York, NY 

comprehendthemind.com 

Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. is a group of neuropsychologists who work as a team to help you understand your child’s functioning, from cognitive, to academic to neurological. They can properly diagnose ADHD from a learning disability, and anxiety from autism. They use highly sensitive tests and include parent and teacher data to support assessments.

 

The Hagedorn Little Village School 

Jack Joel Center for Special Children 

750 Hicksville Road, Seaford

516-520-6000

littlevillage.org

jon.feingold@littlevillage.org

The Hagedorn Little Village School is a not-for-profit school highly regarded for providing outstanding educational and therapeutic services for children with a wide range of developmental disabilities. HLVS provides year-round programs and services that include diagnostic evaluations and treatment, early intervention, a preschool, an elementary school, SEIT and related services.

 

Gersh Autism 

631-385-3342

info@GershAutism.com

gershautism.com

Gersh Autism provides a wide range of services for individuals with autism across the US and Puerto Rico. Their mission is to help individuals with ASD reach their full potential by providing educational and therapeutic programs tailored to their specific needs. The organization offers a range of services, including early intervention, preschool and K-12, life skills and transition services for young adults. They are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with ASD and their families.

 

Long Island Speech 

Nine locations

lispeech.com

Long Island Speech

Long Island Speech is the leading speech therapy provider on Long Island with 9 locations in Nassau and Suffolk County. They specialize in Myofunctional Therapy,  PROMPT, Voice Disorders, Fluency, Augmentative Communications, Articulation, Feeding Therapy, Auditory Processing, Expressive/Receptive Language Disorders and so much more. Long Island Speech participates with most major health insurance companies and offers evening and weekend hours. Call 844-5-SPEECH to schedule your first appointment, or visit LISpeech.com.

 

Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen, P.C. 

1100 Franklin Avenue, Suite 305, 

Garden City

516-877-0595

amcohenlaw.com

ac@amcohenlaw.com

 The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen provides personalized, high-quality special needs estate planning and special education legal services. Whether your needs are simple or intricate, the Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful legal planning. All clients are provided with high quality, personalized and timely legal services at a reasonable cost. Attorneys Cohen and Adler-Greene also conduct free workshops on several topics for agencies, schools and parent groups.

 

Saf-T-Swim 

Multiple Locations in Nassau and Suffolk, Little Neck

866-723-3794

saf-t-swim.com

info@saf-t-swim.com

Discover Saf-T-Swim’s Adaptive Aquatics Program, designed to cater to each swimmer’s distinct needs, promoting water confidence, prioritizing safety, and offering instruction despite physical or developmental challenges. Their program yields numerous advantages, such as enhanced physical and mental well-being, a joyful water experience, crucial water safety skills, and life-saving techniques. Join us on a journey where every swimmer thrives, regardless of their unique abilities. 

 

Tiegerman School 

100 Glen Cove Avenue, Glen Cove, NY 11542

516-609-2000

Tiegerman.org

Rosemarie King, Admissions Coordinator

rking@tiegerman.org

Tiegerman is a NYS approved non-public school program (K-12) for students with special needs. Our campuses in Nassau and Queens Counties serve students throughout Long Island and the five boroughs. Tiegerman’s innovative program specializes on the relationship between language development and academic success, providing intensive language immersion and academic instruction while meeting the individual needs of each student. To find out more, visit our website at tiegerman.org and register for a tour.

 

The Vincent Smith School 

322 Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington

516-365-4900

vincentsmithschool.org    

lbekore@vincentsmithschool.org 

Since 1924, Vincent Smith School has been Long Island’s premier school for differentiated instruction in grades first-12th for students with learning difficulties. They are known for their individualized programs for challenges like Dyslexia, Auditory Processing Disorders, or ADHD. Your child will find a supportive and nurturing environment at Vincent Smith.

 

Winston Prep Long Island 

30 Deforest Road, Dix Hills

631-779-2400

winstonprep.edu

kpreston@winstonprep.edu

Winston Preparatory School Long Island is a leading school for students with learning differences, including dyslexia, ADHD, and nonverbal learning disorders. Learn more about their nationally recognized program at winstonprep.edu.

Manhattan

Atlas Foundation for Autism 

252 W 29th Street, 3rd Fl., NY

info@atlasforautism.org

212-256-0846

atlasforautism.org

Atlas is a comprehensive community-building program that includes the Atlas School as well as Health & Wellness and Creative Arts Community Classes that are designed for anyone interested in increasing their skills and passions in art, music, health and fitness, and growth to keep students connected and engaged in their interests and each other!  Atlas is different in its approach to working within modalities that promote empowered communication and overall self-esteem!

 

Camp Lee Mar 

450 Route 590, Lackawaxen, PA 

Winter: 215-658-1708

Summer: 570-685-7188

leemar.com

A private, seven-week residential summer program offering a unique curriculum incorporating a strong Academic and Speech program with traditional camp activities. Campers flourish at Lee Mar due to the structured environment provided allowing campers to feel comfortable and secure. Careful study is made of parent input, school (IEPs), camper interview, etc., so that the interests and needs of each child can be determined for suitable grouping prior arrival.

 

The Gillen Brewer School 

410 E. 92nd Street, New York

212-831-3667

gillenbrewer.com

admissions@gillenbrewer.com

A 12-month, special education program located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, serving children ages 2.8 to 11 years old who have a wide variety of language-based and non-verbal learning disabilities. Their academic-therapeutic program includes speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and social groups.  GBS currently serves children Pre-K-age 11 and is expanding in the Fall of 2024 to include middle school.

 

The IDEAL School of Manhattan

5 Hanover Square, New York

212-769-1699

admissions@thidealschool.org

theidealschool.org

The IDEAL School of Manhattan, New York’s only K-12+ independent inclusion school, is now located at 5 Hanover Square in the Financial District. IDEAL students thrive in a diverse and nurturing learning community where a robust academic program teaches them to recognize their potential to effect change, seek out difference, advocate for themselves, stand behind others, and know that a strong, diverse, caring community is the IDEAL. Learn more at an open house or email admissions.

 

Robert Louis Stevenson School

24 West 74th Street, New York, 

212-787-6400

stevenson-school.org

Stevenson is Manhattan’s therapeutic college preparatory independent school. Their proven track record of academic and therapeutic progress begins with their unique program. Stevenson students receive small classroom instruction, intensive advisor support, and on-demand access to a fully staffed Counseling Center throughout each day. Furthermore, their Transition Coaching Program helps to promote post-secondary success.. Apply today.

 

SUNY College of Optometry University Eye Center 

33 West 42nd St New York, NY

universityeyecenter.org

The University Eye Center provides top quality eye care through over 60,000 on-site patient encounters, free patient screenings, and community partnerships. Eye doctors access state of the art equipment and diagnostic tools to ensure maximum eye health for patients ages 6 months to 100+ including special populations and children with special needs. Schedule an appointment today by calling 888-416-9933.

 

Westchester School 

45 Park Avenue, Yonkers, NY

520 Route 22,North Salem,NY

33 Seymour St., Yonkers NY (Pre-K)

914-376-4300

westchesterschool.org

A New York State approved, non-public school that provides educational and therapeutic services to students from Long Island, New York City, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut. With campuses in Yonkers and North Salem, NY the program provides services to over 300 students with the classifications of Autism, Intellectual Disability, Multiple Disabilities, Orthopedic Impairment, Other Health Impairment, Emotional Disability, and Preschool Student with a Disability.

 

The Windward School   

1275 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains – Lower School 

40 West Red Oak Lane, White Plains – Middle School

914 949 6968

212 E. 93rd St, NYC – Lower and Middle Schools

212 222 8628 

thewindwardschool.org 

A coeducational, independent day school for children in grades 1 through 9 with language-based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. Windward remediates students’ skill deficits through a proven instructional program—combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth—to enable students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Visit our website to sign up for an information session!

 

 

Rockland

Brick It Again 

7 Lake ridge Plaza, Valley Cottage, NY

845-839-7032

brickitagain.org

andrew.perr@jawonio.org

At Brick It Again Lego Resale Store, their mission is to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with special needs. They provide meaningful employment opportunities and job training to empower people with disabilities. Through the sale of Lego products, they’re more than just a store; they are a symbol of inclusivity and community involvement, embracing diversity and standing as a beacon of social responsibility, working to ensure that everyone in their community can shine.

 

Jawonio 

260 N. Little Tor Rd, New City, NY 

845-708-2022

jawonio.org

diana.hess@jawonio.org

Jawonio is a non-profit provider for children and adults with special needs from infancy and throughout life serving Rockland and Westchester. Services include early intervention, special education preschool, summer program, day services, residential, care management, mental health, and consumer-directed assistant program. Serving both Rockland and Westchester counties. Jawonio is an indigenous word that means independence. Their mission statement is: Dedicated to Advancing the Independence, Well-Being and Equality for People With Special Needs.

 

Staten Island

A Very Special Place 

49 Cedar Grove Ave., 10306 

718-987-1234

info@avspny.org

avspny.org

A Very Special Place, Inc. (AVSP) was established in 1974 as a not-for-profit organization and today serves more than 1,600 people in Staten Island, Brooklyn and Manhattan. AVSP provides a comprehensive network of programs and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.  Programs include day habilitation, residential, self-direction, respite and community habilitation. With the guidance and support offered at AVSP, people of all ages find opportunities to achieve independence and self-fulfillment.

 

The Community School

High School: 201-862-1796 CHSoffice@communityschool.k12.nj.us

1135 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666 

Lower School: 201-837-8070 office@communityschool.us

11 W Forest Avenue, Teaneck, NJ 07666  

communityschoolnj.org

Community School serves the bright child with learning and attentional disabilities. For 55 years the school’s primary goal has been to help children achieve a level of classroom performance that is fully commensurate with their abilities, intellects and talents. Community Schoolwelcomes students from New York and New Jersey, and is located just over the George Washington Bridge, in Teaneck, NJ.

 

CrimsonRise 

info@crimsonrise.org

crimsonrise.org

CrimsonRise is a nonprofit organization for nonverbal autistic children and adults to help them get communication access. They serve autistic individuals, ages 5+, who have sensory, movement and communication differences. CrimsonRise teaches these individuals how to Spell to Communicate (S2C). S2C is a method that teaches the purposeful motor to point to letters on a letterboard or keyboard to enable nonspeakers (formally called nonverbal) to communicate.

 

Extended Home Care 

1200 South Avenue, 10314

347-459-8441

Extended Home Care is a Special Needs, Certified Home Health Care Agency, serving New Yorkers since 1997. They specialize in providing home care services to patients and their families with OPWDD. Nursing, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and HHA services all provided in the comfort of your home. Servicing ages 3 and up. Therapists are available after school and after Day Hab programs. Offering services to Residential Programs as well. 

 

JCC of Staten Island

1466 Manor Road, 10314

1297 Arthur Kill Road, 10312

2221 Richmond Avenue

sijcc.org

At the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, children with special needs can find the support they need in a fun and nurturing environment. The JCC offers an array of programs for children with special needs, including First Foot Forward for preschool-age children, Marvin’s Camp for children ages 6 to 21, after school activities for kids and teens, a Girl Scouts troop, inclusion opportunities in traditional programs, and more.

 

The Grace Foundation
460 Brielle Avenue, 10314

718-983-3800

graceofny.org

The Grace Foundation improves the lives of individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Grace provides programs including Site Based Respite/In-Home Respite, Day Hab, Com Hab and  for ages 5-30. The ultimate goal is to enable individuals with ASD to lead independent and productive lives.

 

Guiga Law PLLC 

1682 Victory Boulevard, 10314 

929-415-8700

planyourwholelife.com

Guiga Law is dedicated to providing parents with peace of mind knowing that your children with special needs will be well taken care of if you are unable to care for them yourself. Guiga Law offers a variety of estate planning tools designed to help you choose future guardians to care for your children and pass on assets so your children can live a quality life without jeopardizing government benefits. 

 

James P. Murphy, Staten Island Preparatory School 

23 Summit Street, 10307

718-285-9377

ahrcnyc.org

AHRC NYC James P. Murphy Staten Island Prep is a preschool and school-age program for students with disabilities from 3-13 years of age. The school meets student’s individual learning needs using a multisensory approach in congruence with ABA programming while implementing the Next Generation Learning Standards. Classroom ratios are 6:1:2/8:1:2 in the preschool classrooms, and 8:1:3/10:1:2 in the school-age classrooms. In addition, they offer related services such as speech, OT, PT, and counseling within the building.

 

503 Mosely Avenue
Staten Island, NY 10312
718-317-5007
Seeking compassionate legal counsel for your family’s future? Look no further. Kevin McKernan Law specializes in estate planning, wills, and trusts tailored to families, especially those that have special needs children and young adults. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges you face, we craft comprehensive and personalized solutions to ensure a secure and thriving future for your loved ones. Put your family’s well-being first – contact them today for expert guidance in safeguarding your family’s financial legacy and your child’s future.

 

Dr. Lisa Lazzara, Kids Dental

739 Woodrow Road, 10312

718-356-5437

sikidsdental.com

Kids Dental understands that every child’s dental needs are as unique as their smiles and require an individualized approach. All doctors at Kids Dental pride themselves on specialized and comprehensive care solely focused on your child’s needs, especially those with special needs. Kids Dental has kid-friendly themed rooms for your child to relax and make the first experience a very happy one. From the moment you walk into the office, their focus is on your child.

 

Person Centered Care Services

150 Granite Avenue, 10303

pccsny.org

info@pccsny.org

Person Centered Care Services is a not-for-profit organization creating social change within communities by supporting people with disabilities on their search for identity and acceptance. Services available include Community Supports, Residential Supports, Career Supports, Day Supports, Family Education & Training, and Self-Directed Supports. 

 

Sandra Mazzucco, Speech-Language Pathology

465 Belfield Avenue, 10312

917-825-9005

Providing speech and language therapy to the Staten Island community for over 40 years. Toddlers to seniors. Specializing in fluency and stuttering, language and feeding disorders. Prompt trained for Apraxia of speech and phonological and articulation disorders. ASHA certified.New York state license in Speech and Language Pathology. Department of Education RSA accepted.

 

Staten Island Alliance for North Shore Children and Families

statenislandalliance.com

sialliance2022@gmail.com

The SI Alliance for North Shore Children and Families is a coalition of organizations, schools and community members focused on improving the overall well-being of children 0-8 years old. The SI Alliance promotes equity and addresses disparities while connecting SI North Shore families to resources located on SI. Families can access the SI Alliance Resource Hub via the website.

 

Sunny Days Consulting Services 

1110 South Ave., Suite 405, 10314

718-556-1616

sunnydays.com

Sunny Days provides home-based evaluations and ongoing therapy for infants and toddlers (ages birth to three years) suspected of having any developmental delays. They offer Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Special Educational services. Services are funded by the NY State Department of Health. No out of pocket expenses necessary.

 

Where Little Minds Grow 

501 Richmond Hill Rd., 10314

718-689-2795

info@wherelittlemindsgrow.com

wherelittlemindsgrow.com

Where Little Minds Grow is an integrated learning program offering an interactive and multi-sensory language based approach for successful learning. Programs are led by special educators and include Speech and Occupational Therapy, special instruction, Little Essentials Toddler Program, integrated activity classes, and Summer Camp. Services offered in individual and group settings alongside the support needed for language acquisition, and to attain socialization skills. Their indoor sensory gym and outdoor play yard offer endless opportunities to learn and grow!

Westchester

Camp Kodiak

905-569-7595

campkodiak.com

info@campkodiak.com

Canada’s premier overnight summer camp for children and teens with and without learning disabilities, ADHD and ASD Level 1. Your camper should attend because of Camp Kodiak’s social skills program, academic program, 50+ activities, 2:1 camper-to-staff ratio, increased self-esteem and confidence, Leader in Training program (16 to 18 years old), comfortable cabins with electricity and bathroom, over 400-acre site with 2 miles of waterfront. Your camper deserves a summer of fun, friends, and success!

 

The Charter School of Educational Excellence (CSEE)

260 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY 10701

914- 476-5070

charterschoolofeducational-excellence.org

CSEE is a regional charter school open to students in grades k-12, that reside in Westchester, Rockland and Bronx counties. In partnership with parents, teachers and community, CSEE instills in students a passion for learning, to be critical thinkers, leaders and lifelong learners. The School’s special needs program and robust academic curriculum fosters a healthy body and mind course of study, which has led the school to be recognized by the NYS Department of Education as an “Exceptional School”.

 

Creative Wonders Therapy Center

470 Mamaroneck Ave, Suite 204, White Plains

101 South Bedford Rd Suite 404, Mt. Kisco

914-421-8270 ext. 1

creativewonderstherapy.com

Creative Wonders is a pediatric therapy center in both White Plains and Mt. Kisco. Their speech clinic has speech therapists trained extensively in PROMPT as well as oral motor and feeding. Seasoned occupational and physical therapists trained in specialties including sensory integration and evaluations including SIPT. They have toddler rooms as well as a sensory gym in a state-of-the-art facility! They also provide OT and ST in the home and daycares/pre-schools throughout the county.

 

FlexSchool

Bronxville, NY and Berkeley Heights, NJ

908-279-0787

flexschool.net

Accredited private school for gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) learners. Our gifted curriculum, infused with executive functioning support and social-emotional learning, is custom-designed for insatiable minds. Summer enrichment / ESY offered on Cloud and NJ campuses. International students are welcome on all campuses. FlexSchool is proud to provide financial aid and scholarships to those who qualify. Weekly Virtual Open House.

 

Green Chimneys School

Campuses in Brewster & Carmel

400 Doansburg Rd

Brewster, NY 10509

33 Clearpool Rd

Carmel, NY 10512

845-279-2995

greenchimneys.org

admissions@greenchimneys.org

Green Chimneys is an accredited special education program for students who have been unsuccessful in traditional school environments, and benefit from a highly structured and supportive setting. Therapeutic day and residential programs feature an enriched curriculum for individualized academic, behavioral and emotional support. An innovative approach integrates animal-assisted activities and outdoor exploration into treatment and education plans, helping students connect with nature, discover their own special talents, and develop skills to grow into independent young adults.

 

Hershey Therapy Practice

Greenwich and New Rochelle

NY, CT, NJ, FL

hersheytherapypractice.com

Tala@HersheyTherapyPractice.com

Hershey Therapy Practice has an office in Greenwich, CT and in New Rochelle, NY. We also provide school screenings and in-home therapy. Tala Hershey, M.S. CCC-SLP, owns and operates the practice, focusing on pediatrics. She and her highly trained clinicians work with children targeting early language development, school-aged language development, articulation / phonology, fluency, feeding, tongue thrust swallowing, social skills, and more! We are trained in PROMPT Therapy, DIR-FloorTime, Sounds In Motion, and Feeding.

 

Jawonio

176 S Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701

914- 963-8666

jawonio.org

diana.hess@jawonio.org

Jawonio is a non-profit provider for children and adults with special needs from infancy and throughout the lifespan. Services include early intervention, special education preschool, summer program, day services, residential, care management, mental health, and consumer-directed assistant program. Jawonio is based in Rockland and Westchester Counties. Please contact us via email at info@jawonio.org, phone 845.708.2000 and visit our website at www.jawonio.org.The word Jawonio is an Indigenous American Word for Independence. Our mission statement is: Dedicated to Advancing the Independence, Well-Being and Equality for People With Special Needs.

 

John Cardinal O’Connor School

16 North Broadway, Irvington

914-591-9330

jcoschool.org

admissions@johncardinaloconnorschool.org

JCOS empowers children to thrive academically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially in their supportive school community. JCOS faculty are NYS certified and committed to students with mild to moderate special education needs mainly centered around speech, language, reading, writing, math, attention, and social skills. This K- 8th grade private Catholic school is a great affordable choice in Westchester County. All faiths are welcome.

 

Littman Krooks, LLP

800 Westchester Avenue,
Rye Brook

914-684-2100

littmankrooks.com

Littman Krooks Special Needs Planning and Special Education Advocacy Attorneys work for the empowerment of individuals with special needs. Planning for your child’s future can seem overwhelming but you do not need to face these tasks alone. Seeking the assistance of an attorney can be the best approach.

 

Main Street Pediatric Dentistry

115 Main St., Suite 302, Tuckahoe, NY

914-633-4440

drpennydds@aol.com

mainstreetpediatricdentistry.com

Main Street Pediatric Dentistry’s experienced staff has specialized training to work with special needs patients and those with disabilities. They focus on behavior management, working closely with the patient and their families to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Patients of all ages are welcome.

 

Monster Mini Golf

Yonkers Ridge Hill Mall

221 Market St., Unit 2950, 2nd fl., Yonker

914 346-5072

yonkers@monsterminigolf.com

monsterminigolf.com/yonkers

Monster Mini Golf is an indoor, fun, affordable, upbeat experience for special needs humans of all ages. Their 18 holes of monster-themed mini golf, glow-in-the-dark experience is wheelchair accessible, climate controlled, with interactive team members. For more excitement they have an on-course DJ, arcade games, bowling, and private party rooms!

 

RSC Therapeutic Service

914-772-0864

rscwestchester.com

grahamsrscinc@gmail.com

RSC offers adaptive sports and performing art programs. Their programs are adapted to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. This is a learning environment where they encourage self-expression, instill confidence through social interaction and making friends. While these programs encourage a fun environment, their mission is to significantly improve the overall quality of life of their participants. A 501C# not for profit that provides therapeutic programs. Ask them about their special Olympics program.

 

SAIL at Ferncliff Manor

1154 Saw Mill River Road

Yonkers, NY 10710

914 968-4854

ferncliffmanor.org

The School for Adaptive and Integrative Learning (SAIL) at Ferncliff Manor is a NYS Education Department approved private, non-public special education program serving residential and day students with severe ASD and developmental disabilities.  SAIL provides 24-hour medical services, rehabilitative and psychiatric care and an intensive staff to student ratio.  We accommodate a variety of meal plans (ie: kosher, diabetic, gluten free). We strive to provide each student with the skills they need to enjoy a personally rewarding life

 

Talk of The Town Speech and Language Therapy PLLC

39 Smith Ave, Mt Kisco, NY 10549

914-244-9600

Talkofthetownspeech.com

Talk of the Town Speech and Language Therapy provides children with individual therapy, evaluations, and social skills groups. Their program is rooted in Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), social cognition, developmental language acquisition, and  various learning theories. Group work includes forming friendships, picky eaters, and social success events.

 

Westchester BrainCore Therapy and Wellness

604 Fifth Avenue, Pelham NY 10803

914-738-4460

drwillmck.com

drwill@drwillmck.com

Dr. Will McKenna offers BrainCore Therapy for children and adults at his Pelham and Dutchess locations. BrainCore Therapy non-invasively alleviates symptoms associated with ADD/ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, Learning Disorders, Migraine and Tension-type Headaches, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Insomnia, Chronic Pain, and more. One main area of treatment involves children with ADHD. BrainCore Therapy encourages children to focus by watching videos of their choice for 30 minutes, without any drugs or side effects. Dr. Will says children love this therapy and parents love the 95% success rate and permanent results.

 

Westchester School

45 Park Avenue, Yonkers, NY

520 Route 22,North Salem,NY

33 Seymour St., Yonkers NY (Pre-K)

914-376-4300

westchesterschool.org

A New York State approved, non-public school that provides educational and therapeutic services to students from Long Island, New York City, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut. With campuses in Yonkers and North Salem, NY the program provides services to over 300 students with the classifications of Autism, Intellectual Disability, Multiple Disabilities, Orthopedic Impairment, Other Health Impairment, Emotional Disability, and Preschool Student with a Disability.

 

The Windward School

1275 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains – Lower School

40 West Red Oak Lane, White Plains – Middle School

914 949 6968

212 E. 93rd St, NYC – Lower and Middle Schools

212 222 8628

thewindwardschool.org

A coeducational, independent day school located in NYC and White Plains for children in grades 1 through 9 with language-based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. Committed to helping students achieve their full potential in order to successfully return to a mainstream educational environment, Windward remediates students’ skill deficits through a proven instructional program—combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth—to enable students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Visit our website to sign up for an information session!

 

Winston Prep Connecticut

57 West Rocks Road, Norwalk, CT

203-229-0465

winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/connecticut

Michelle Rolfe, Director of Admissions

mrolfe@winstonprep.edu

At the core of Winston Preparatory School’s unique, individualized learning program for students with learning differences is the continuous commitment to an in-depth understanding of each and every student.  At Winston Prep, emphasis is put on discovering who each student is, what their strengths and learning needs are and, based on their learning profile, designing an individualized curriculum that is grounded in continuous assessment and evaluation by expert faculty and staff.

 

Yes She Can

10 Church St. (by City Center)

White Plains, NY

914 358 1460

YesSheCanInc.org.

darlene@yesshecaninc.org

Yes She Can Inc., a non-profit founded in 2013, is dedicated to helping young adults with autism and related disabilities develop transferable job and workplace social skills – through authentic work experience.  We serve teenagers transitioning from high school to adulthood and young adults with autism spectrum disorders in an inclusion setting at Girl AGain Boutique.

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CBE Kids Summer Day Camps

<p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Congregation Beth Elohim is so excited to announce the return of CBE Kids Day Camps starting THIS summer!</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Two programs will be offered in summer 2022: Elementary Day Camp and Camp Kef Hebrew Language Camp, both for rising Kindergarten to 4th graders. A typical day will include community building through play, and activities such as sports, art, computer coding, dance, instructional and free swim in our indoor pool, and much more. Camp Kef Hebrew Language Camp offers all of the same great activities in a Hebrew immersion setting appropriate for dual language learners, native speakers, and kids looking to grow their Hebrew skills.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Both camps utilize their beautiful Temple House in the heart of Park Slope, as well as Prospect Park — CBE’s backyard — for outdoor programming. CBE Kids aims to be a place where campers can try new things, make new friends, and grow through play.</span></p> <p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">CBE can't wait to welcome everyone back to camp this summer. Whether you are a returning camper who cannot wait to get back after two summers away, or a new camper who is ready for a magical summer, there is something for everyone at CBE Kids Summer Camps!</span></p> <p> </p>

Advantage Junior Tennis

<p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; color: #000000;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">At Advantage Junior Tennis Camp, the focus is on the game, up close and all summer long! It’s ideal for beginners and more experienced players. Campers ages 7 to 17 spend full days learning how to play their best game—and meeting campers who love tennis as much as they do.</span></p>

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

<div>Surrounded by 140 acres of natural beauty, Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts is the perfect place for your child to joyfully express their creativity. We offer 1, 4, and 8-week day camp programs for students K through 12. Classes are taught by exceptional educators and professional artists in music, art, theater, creative writing, chess, and more. Bus transportation is available from Long Island and NYC to our woodland campus in Wheatley Heights.<br /><br /></div> <div> </div> <div><strong>Scholarships</strong></div> <div><br />We believe that every student who wants to attend Usdan should be able to. Usdan has offered need-based scholarships since our opening in 1968 and on average 45% of our campers received some kind of scholarship. We welcome you to apply.</div> <p> </p>