Welcome to the Table Talk newsletter from The Arc of New Jersey's Children's Advocacy Program. Our April 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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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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Truancy and Due Process: Navigating Legal Frameworks
Wednesday April 23rd at 6:00 pm. Join Gwen Orlowski from Disability Rights NJ for an informative webinar that provides an overview of the Due Process procedure in New Jersey. This session will explore the steps involved in due process proceedings and the legal protections for students. Additionally, Gwen will discuss available school supports designed to address truancy while ensuring students' rights are upheld throughout the process.
Sign up here
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Roots of Healing: Unlocking the Benefits of Hippotherapy and Nature-Based Therapies
April 24th at 6:00 pm. This webinar with the team at Pony Power Therapies will explore the powerful connection between nature, equine therapy, and individuals with disabilities, focusing on how these therapies support communication and development, especially for non-verbal children and adults. We will dive into the benefits of hippotherapy and nature-based therapies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), highlighting the latest research that shows how these therapies foster emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. 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 :
April 17 & 24th 12- 2 pm
May 1 & 8th 12- 2 pm
May 12th 10 am-12 pm
Click to sign up
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Student with Autism Restrained in School
An 8-year-old girl who is non-verbal with autism was allegedly bound with painter's tape on her wrists and ankles, over her mouth, by staff at Brackman Middle School in Barnegat, New Jersey on multiple dates during March of this year. Once uncovered, the school district terminated one teacher and four paraprofessionals. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office is actively investigating the case.
Read full article.
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Kicks for a Cause: Inclusive Summer Camp & Lunch
Kayleigh Daley, a junior at Gateway Regional High School and founder of the nonprofit Shine Together – Unified Social Inclusion, is hosting her first adaptive soccer camp, “Kicks for Cause,” on Saturday, July 12th at Gateway High School in South Jersey. The free event, open to individuals with special needs of all ages, will run from 10:00 AM to 11:15 AM followed by lunch, with all proceeds benefiting a local South Jersey special needs center. Volunteers and participants can sign up through the Shine Together website under the “events” tab. Sign up here.
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Summer Social Skills Camp
in Secaucus
Introducing JDK Social Station, a CSOC-qualified and 1:1 summer camp provider located in Secaucus, NJ. Our camp focuses on building essential social skills in a supportive and engaging environment tailored to each child’s unique needs. Click here for more information.
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Newark Airport Opens a Second Sensory Room
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has opened a second sensory room at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A, enhancing accessibility for neurodivergent travelers and those on the autism spectrum. This new post-security room complements the existing pre-security space and TSA Cares services, creating a seamless, inclusive travel experience from curb to gate. Click here for full article.
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New Library Cafe is Changing Lives for Transition Students
A $1.4 million state grant is supporting a new café at the Burlington County Library in Westampton, where students with disabilities are gaining valuable workplace experience. The initiative is a partnership with the Burlington County Special Services School District and offers hands-on training in a real-world setting. Superintendent Ashanti Holley highlighted the program’s role in empowering students and strengthening the community. The café helps build job skills and confidence to prepare students for future success. 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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School Transportation Considerations for Students
with Disabilities
This bus safety resource guide developed by the State Office of Special Education is designed to help students with disabilities, their families, and school staff develop strong, individualized transportation plans within the IEP. It offers key tips and best practices to ensure safe, reliable travel and a supportive environment. By working together; the state, schools, and families can help every student arrive safely and ready to succeed in school. Download the guide here.
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April is Autism Awareness Month
April is recognized as Autism Awareness Month, a time dedicated to fostering understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum. This observance encourages communities to engage in educational initiatives, support advocacy efforts, and promote inclusive practices across various sectors. Organizations like NeuroNav provide valuable resources and advocacy guides to assist families, educators, and professionals in supporting neurodivergent individuals. By participating in these efforts, we contribute to a more inclusive society where every individual is valued and empowered. Click here to read more from NeuroNav.
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