Welcome to the Table Talk newsletter from The Arc of New Jersey's Children's Advocacy Program. Our March edition is filled with valuable advocacy resources as well as exciting opportunities and experiences for your family. For more information, please visit our webpage. | |
Advocacy with Adara on Facebook Live Update
Season Two is in full swing! Don't forget to view our archived episodes on Facebook.
New to the series? Each episode offers a friendly 10-15 minute chat on special education or services for children with IDD and their families. Tune in every other Monday during the school year at 12 pm on our Facebook page. No sign-ups needed, just drop by, watch, and don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments. We look forward to having you join us!
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Streamlining Access to ADOS Testing: Enhancing ABA & Teen Services for Timely Support
Join us for a webinar on March 27th at 6:00 pm with Daryl Brewton, Community Outreach Liaison with ABA Centers of New Jersey. During this session, Daryl will provide an overview of ABA Centers of New Jersey, including exciting new locations, streamlined access to in person and virtual testing for autism within 3 weeks, and a deep dive into ABA therapy—highlighting key differences in services for teens. We look forward to connecting with you! Click here to register.
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Navigating Family Support: Resources and Services from the Center for Family Services
On April 17th at 6:00 pm, join us for an informative webinar designed for parents of children with IDD and behavioral challenges. The Center for Family Services will guide you through the resources and support available to help navigate your family’s unique journey. Learn about tailored programs, expert guidance, and practical tools to empower your family and enhance your child’s development. Sign up here.
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Children's Advocacy Virtual Office Hours
Virtual office hours are here to stay! Due to anticipated volume, sessions will be limited to 20 minutes and given on a first come, first served basis to ensure that we can accommodate as many families as possible.
Upcoming Virtual Office Hours :
March 20th 12-2 pm
March 27th 1-3 pm
April 3, 10, 17th 12-2 pm
Click to sign up
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A Parent Information Session: Parenting a Child with Special Needs
Monday March 24th at 5:45 pm. The RCSJ Academy for Neurodiversity, in partnership with the Schools for Neurodiversity of the Gloucester County Special Services School District, will host a parent information session as part of the College's ongoing Community Education Series. This session will be geared toward parents of children with special needs and will focus on Education, Housing, Medical, and Recreation. Former Senate President and parent of a daughter with special needs, Steve Sweeney will be the keynote speaker. Registration link.
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NJ District Wanted to Change How It Teaches Special Ed Kids and Parents Fought Back
South Orange-Maplewood school district in Essex county planned on major changes in the way it teaches special education students in their elementary schools. The proposal was put in place to save the district money, but proved so devisive among parents that it is now on hold.
Continue reading here.
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More Adults are Wondering If They Have Autism
This article from AP News gives tips for adults who believe they may have autism and are seeing a diagnosis. Studies have shown a 452% increase in adult autism diagnoses in young adults ages 26-34 in recent years. Click here for full article.
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Are You Concerned About Insurance for Your Adult Child?
Connor Griffin, the Director of Health Care Advocacy here at The Arc of New Jersey has created resources to aid in your understanding of this topic. Please click here for the Facebook Live video. Here is the accompanying fact sheet.
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NJ School Bus Reforms Haven't Protected Kids with Disabilities
Anabela Rossi vividly remembers the last time she saw her son, Matthew, alive as he boarded a school bus on February 10, 2023. Matthew, 19, who had muscular dystrophy and autism, tragically passed away after his bus ride home, prompting a lawsuit, criminal charges, and calls for reform in New Jersey's school transportation system for children with disabilities. His parents argue his death was preventable and part of a broader issue affecting the transportation of special education students. Read more here.
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Summer Camp Sign Ups
Start Now
In 2025, the Children's System of Care (CSOC) will offer Summer Camp Services to eligible youth and young adults under 21, including financial support for tuition and one-to-one aide services. Additionally, CSOC will provide Alternative Recreational Sessions (ARS), allowing youth to engage in shorter, community-based activities with peers. Eligibility based meeting criteria outlined by CSOC. Applications must be received by June 30th, 2025. Read more here.
The Arc of New Jersey's Family Institute has a CSOC Summer Camp Services Guide and a Summer Camp Check List. Check them out!
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Free Access: The Arc@School Curriculum
The Arc@School has a limited number of free accounts for parents and caregivers to access the Special Education Advocacy Curriculum training. This training provides basic information needed to navigate the special education system, including early intervention services, IEPs, 504 Plans, behavioral supports, and more. Request access here.
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March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month
Cerebral Palsy (CP) Awareness Month, observed in March, aims to raise awareness about cerebral palsy, a group of neurological disorders that affect movement and muscle coordination. The month highlights the challenges faced by individuals with CP, promotes education about the condition, and supports efforts for improved treatments and accessibility. It also emphasizes the importance of inclusion and equal opportunities for those with CP in all aspects of life. Click here to read more from Cerebral Palsy Guide.
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