Exciting Updates for Children and Families Inside

Welcome to the Table Talk newsletter from The Arc of New Jersey's Children's Advocacy Program. Our September 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 Three is back! 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!

Upcoming Webinars

Understanding Early Intervention: Empowering Families From the Start

Thursday September 18th at 6:00 pm please join Karen Lozaiza, Family Support Coordinator, for an informative session led by the Family Link Regional Early Intervention Collaborative, part of the New Jersey Department of Health. This presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the New Jersey Early Intervention System (NJEIS), which supports children from birth to age three who have developmental delays or disabilities.

Creating Opportunities through Music: Services for Children and Adults with Disabilities

Join us on October 22nd at 6:00 pm for a special webinar featuring Derrick and Nick from Blue Light Music Group. Learn how their inclusive music programs empower children and adults with disabilities through creative expression, skill-building, and community connection. Whether you're a parent, educator, or support professional, this session will provide valuable insight into how music can be a powerful tool for engagement, growth, and joy.

Upcoming Events

Women's Health & Down Syndrome

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) has created a new women's health and Down Syndrome webpage to cover topics such as how to prepare for gynecological visits and other women's topics. There are helpful resources, printable documents, and more. Click here for more information.

Find an Accessible Park

Are you unsure concerned that a park may not be accessible? Check out Nature: Accessible for All. This website allows you to search parks by name or county. It provides information about parking, restrooms, and accessibility information.

Click here to start exploring!

Special Education Resources

To learn more about the special education process and current issues, take some time to explore the resources below. Gaining a deeper understanding of the process can help us better support students with disabilities. Click the links for helpful information and guidance.

Apply to iCanConnect

This program provides various types of assistive technology and telecommunication devices to New Jersey residents who are both vision and hearing impaired. Eligibility and program requirements can be found on the website. Documentation of a disability must be provided.

Click here to apply. You can also call (800) 825-4595.

Important 504 Case

Texas v. Kennedy is a court case in Texas that was filed in September of 2024. A ground of 17 states has sued the United State Government to remove Section 504 and the updates from 2024 that protect people with disabilities from discrimination in health care and human services. Click here to continue reading.

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 :

September 18th & 25th 12-2 pm

October 2nd, 16th, 23rd, & 30th 12-2 pm

Click to sign up

Transition Survey

We'd love to hear from you! Please take a few minutes to participate in our transition survey to help us better understand the challenges and experiences during the transition to adulthood. Your insights will guide us in improving support and resources for others going through this important stage. Click here for the survey.

Governor Murphy Signs Legislation to Expand Access to Early Childhood Education

Governor Phil Murphy signed three bills to expand early childhood education in New Jersey, advancing the state toward universal free preschool and full-day kindergarten by 2030. The legislation codifies preschool funding, streamlines partnerships with childcare providers, and strengthens support for families by making early education more accessible and equitable. With these measures, New Jersey continues its multi-year effort to give every child a strong educational foundation. Click here for full article.

Join Us for the First Annual Community and Resource Expo at Sussex County Community College

Join us for the First Annual Transition Fair at Sussex County Community College on October 9th at 5 PM. It’s a great opportunity to explore resources, connect with others, and learn more about navigating the transition to adulthood. We can't wait to see you there!

Provider Flyer

Attendee Flyer

The 41st Annual NJSSAN Conference

is Back In Person

Please join us at this in person conference on October 3rd. This years theme is "Play Your Part" to bring awareness that every person is a vital part of advocacy as a whole. Advocacy is stronger when we all speak up together and everyone plays their part! There is a lineup of wonderful speakers, including Patrice Jetter, star of Patrice: The Movie; a panel led by NJSSAN and ending with a dance party and networking session. Please note registration ends September 18th at midnight.