We are fortunate that in our area services and support for children with special needs is growing.
While there are still needs to be met, parents today have greater options for their children when it comes to special needs education, recreation, therapy, support and even camps.
This article includes some of the many special needs resources we have assembled. Consult this list and then go online to our homepage at westc
SPECIAL NEEDS CLASSES
These facilities, groups, classes and sport programs offer activities for kids with special needs after school, on weekends and during school vacations.
ART
S.N.A.C.C. (Special Needs Academic and Arts Center). Enrichment programs for children pre-K to 18 years old. Sunday Funday, 9 a.m. to noon, a social skills-based program for all children with any social or emotional issues. Focus is on social skills, speech skills, sports, art, music therapy, theatre and computers. Also available Sib Connection, a program for siblings of children who have special needs. JCC of Mid-Westchester, 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale.472-3300, ext. 361. jccmw.org
Westchester Creative Arts Therapy Services. A source for music and art therapy services. Westchester CATS provides Saturday group sessions at their location in Yonkers as well as art and music therapy for interested agencies and schools in Westchester and neighboring areas. 16 Villard Ave., Hastings. 476-7662. wcats.org
DANCE AND GYMNASTICS
Moving Wheels & Heels. An integrated dance class for students of all abilities, including wheelchair bound, who gather to explore the joy of movement. Steffi Nossen School of Dance, 216 Central Ave., White Plains. 328-1900. steff
Rockin’ Jump. This trampoline park has a dedicated sensory friendly jump time. Individuals with special needs and their caregivers can make use of the two-hour open jump time and socialize in a fun, comfortable, friendly environment. Sensory friendly jump time held the first Sunday of every month from 8 to 10 a.m. Visit the website to fill out your online waiver and purchase tickets. Rockin’ Jump, 333 N. Bedford Road, Mt. Kisco. 743-5730. mtk.rocki
HORSEBACK RIDING
Endeavor Theraputic Horsemanship, Inc. Provides and promotes the therapeutic benefits of equine-assisted activities to individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional and social needs. Training programs for volunteers. I Succabone Road, Bedford. 241-0211. endea
Pegasus Therapeutic Riding. PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center offering therapeutic horseback riding and related activities for individuals with special needs. Programs held at Pegasus Farm in Brewster and at regional chapters in Greenwich and Darien, Conn. Please direct all inquiries to the main office at Pegasus Farm only, 845-669-8235 or info@
We Will Ride Therapeutic Riding Inc. Offers programs in equine related activities to people with disabilities aimed at enhancing their physical, mental, emotional and social well being and functioning in every day life. P.O. Box 1155, Ridgefield, Conn. 203-438-1947. wewil
MUSIC
Heartsong. Art and music therapy for all special needs children. 277 Martine Ave., Suite 230, White Plains. 358-5613. heart
Music Therapy Institute of the Music Conservatory of Westchester. Music therapy programs for children and adults. All faculty members are Board Certified and professional members of the American Music Therapy Association. 216 Central Ave. White Plains. 761-3900. music
RockonMusicSchool. Learn guitar in the comfort of your home. It’s a one-of-a-kind method using fun and original music to build confidence and social skills. Children and especially children with special needs a specialty. Servicing Westchester and Putnam Counties. Call David Meyers for times and information. 914-489 0520. rocko
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPS
There are a growing number of camps in our area that specialize in serving children with special needs. We’ve included a few of our favorites.
Camp Donnenbeck at the Kildonan School. A camp where students with dyslexia or language based learning difference build the reading and language skills they need in a fun camp environment. Activities include, archery, horseback riding, mountain biking, tennis, martial arts, athletic fitness, dance, filmmaking, woodworking, programming, makerspace, ceramics, music, drama and the visual arts. 425 Morse Hill Road, Amenia. 845-373-2012. kildo
Camp Huntington. A camp for children with developmental disabilities including autism, Down Syndrome and other related disabilities. Therapeutic recreational programs. 56 Bruceville Road, High Falls. 855-707-2267. camph
Camp Northwood. Provides quality programming to a coed population of 165 learning challenged and high functioning autistic children. Non-competitive recreational programming with a focus on social skill development. 132 State Rte. 365, Remsen. 315-831-3621. nwood.com.
Our Victory Day Camp. Oriented toward children ages 5 to 12 with learning challenges and/or attention difficulties in need of a structural and supportive environment. A full-day camping program held in Dobbs Ferry is modified to meet camper’s needs. Groups of nine, utilizing professional staff and a 3:1 camper to counselor ratio, provides a high level of individualization and support. Office: 46 Vineyard Lane, Stamford, Conn. 203-329-3394. ourvi
NYU Summer Program For Kids. A seven-week, all day, therapeutic program exclusively for children ages 7 to 11 with ADHD and behavior disorders. Program focuses on building self-esteem and developing attention, organizational and friendship skills. Clinical psychologists and highly qualified teachers supervise undergraduate and graduate-level counselors. Enrollment is limited. 516-358-1811. www.nyula
Summitt Camp & Travel. Summit is an ACA accredited camp offering summer overnight camp, teen travel programs and school year weekender programs for children and teens ages 8-19 years with attention issues, related learning disabilities or social challenges. Programs for campers include the arts, performance, nature, science, social development, athletics and adventure outings. Office: 322 Rte. 46 West, Suite 210, Persippany, New Jersey. 973-732-3230. summi
Wagon Road Camp. Located on 53 acres in Chappaqua, this camp offers a co-ed summer day camp program for children ages 6 to 13. Small groups of campers are supervised by qualified counselors. Activities include horsemanship, archery, athletics, drama, dance, music, nature study, cooking, team building, and arts and crafts. The Children’s Aid Society Wagon Road Camp, 431 Quaker Road, Chappaqua. 238-4761. child
Frost Valley YMCA Camps. Their Specialty Camps welcome children with developmental disabilities and chronic kidney disease. Counselors and on-site medical staff in the Guenther Family Wellness Center are well-trained and have vast experience working with children of differing abilities, ensuring that all are safe and secure while they experience the thrills of summer camp. 200 Frost Valley Road, Claryville, NY. 845-985-2291. frost
SCHOOLS FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Find the best schools, preschools and summer programs for kids with behavioral, developmental and physical disorders.
Alcott Montessori School. Small special education classes and Early Intervention classes for ages 2 to 5 with learning differences. Multiple locations. alcot
Ames Early Childhood Learning Center Leake and Watts Services, Inc. The Marion and George Ames Early Childhood Learning Center provides integrated educational classrooms for 3- and 4-year-olds with language and other developmental delays. 463 Hawthorne Ave., Yonkers. 375-8743. leake
Blythedale Children’s Hospital Early Childhood Center. The Early Childhood Center at Blythedale Children’s Hospital provides a unique medical, educational and recreational program for children ages birth through 5, and who are inpatients or Day Hospital patients at Blythedale. Services include Early Intervention programs for children with developmental delays and programs for children with Communication Disorders/Autism. 95 Bradhurst Ave., Valhalla. 831-2454. blyth
Eagle Hill School. Eagle Hill, est. in 1975, provides individualized academic programs for children with average or above average intelligence who are diagnosed with a specific learning disability. Students receive short term, intensive, academic remediation to help them develop the skills, strategies and confidence necessary to successfully enroll in a more traditional educational environment. 45 Glenville Road, Greenwich, Conn. 203-622-9240. eagle
Green Chimneys. A New York State-Approved Special Education Program that is is designed for students who need a highly structured and supportive program. Their therapeutic program includes academic, behavioral and emotional support. Social challenges are addressed and the school uses innovative animal-assisted therapy and education programs to enhance learning. 400 Doansburg Road, Brewster, 845-279-2995. green
John A. Coleman School. A community school providing excellence in education for children with and without disabilities, ages 18 months through 8. Approved evaluation site. Special Programs include music therapy, family support and specialized physical, occupational and speech therapies. 317 North St., White Plains. 597-4071. seton
The Kildonan School. The first established summer program for students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences; Dunnabeck at Kildonan offers children ages 8 to 16 a six-week experience featuring daily one-on-one Orton-Gillingham tutoring, a proven approach to remediate difficulty with reading, spelling and writing. Exciting activities like horseback riding and water-skiing. 425 Morse Hill Road, Amenia. 845-373-8111. kildo
Triform Camphill Community. A residential community for young adults with developmental disabilities located in Hudson, New York on a more than 500 acre biodynamic/organic farm. 20 Triform Road, Hudson. 518-851-9320. trifo
Windward School. A traditional school schedule plus a four-week summer program is designed for students in grades 3-9 who desire to improve their skills, enrich their knowledge in math, science, organizational and study skills. Afternoon socializing and fun through sports, arts, computers, rock band and drama. All students receive instruction from teachers trained in Windward’s multi-sensory approach to learning. 40 West Red Oak Lane, White Plains. 949-6968. thewi
SPECIAL NEEDS SPORTS PROGRAMS
There are a number of sports leagues and classes for your child with special needs. Sign up for swimming, soccer or baseball now!
Backyard Sports. Danny Bernstein offers special needs classes in soccer and basketball for children in pre-K to 8th grade. Qualified professionals are assisted by student volunteers, and groups are based on age and ability. 75 South Broadway, Suite 453, White Plains. 304-4052. byard
The Miracle League Of Westchester. A modified baseball program at Ridge Road County Park in Hartsdale for children of all ages with disabilities. 522-1547. mlwny.org.
Sportime USA. An activity center with activities for all ages including a 4D motion theater, laser tag, rock climbing wall, Superfly Thrill Ride, batting cages, bumper cars, kiddie rides, 200 video/redemption games and a soft-adventure play zone. ADA compliant and able to help everyone with special needs enjoy the attractions. 380 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford. 592-2111. sport
Topsoccer Program. Westchester Youth Soccer League offers this program for children with special needs who wish to play soccer. Coaches are specially trained to work with athletes with special needs. usyou
SPECIAL NEEDS SWIMMING PROGRAMS
Angelfish Therapy. Gives children with special needs a fun, challenging and highly motivating environment for therapy. Working in the water is not only mentally and physically soothing, but the opportunity to practice movements in water helps the children integrate sensory information step-by-step. DoubleTree Hotel, 455 South Broadway, Tarrytown. 203-545-0024. angel
Aqua Tots Westchester. Owners: Aileen Crampton Bucciero and Fiona Crampton Kearney. West Harrison. 694-3289. aquat
SPECIAL NEEDS YOGA
Yogashine. Top quality for 22 years, for all children, all ages. Specializing in developmental, physical and emotional disabilities, including Autistic Spectrum Disorders, PDD, ADD/ADHD. Kids enjoy playful, centered movement, learn and create postures, build strength and mental focus, develop self-calming and cooperation. Offering Child with Parent sessions, individual yoga/movement therapy, group classes, family yoga, parent support services. 7-11 Legion Dr., Valhalla. 769-8745. yogas
SPECIAL NEEDS RECREATION CENTERS AND PROGRAMS
These facilities and groups in Westchester, New York offer activities for kids with special needs afterschool, on weekends and during school vacations.
JCC of Mid-Westchester. After-school and weekend recreational program for teens with special needs in grades 9-12. Programs include computer club, Saturday night teen lounge, Wednesday afternoon social groups, Sunday Adventure travel group and other activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, dancing. 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale. 472-3300, ext. 426. jccmw.org
North East Westchester Special Recreation, Inc. Weekend, summer and after school recreational programs for children with special needs. 63 Bradhurst Ave., Hawthorne.347-4409. north
Norwest. Therapeutic recreational programs for children with disabilities ages 5 and up. Weekend, school vacation and after school programs and a six-week summer camp and an August mini-camp. 293-D Furnace Dock Road, Cortlandt Manor. 737-4797. nor-w
Shames JCC on the Hudson. Afterschool and school vacation recreational programs for children ages 5-12 with learning or developmental disabilities, and who may be on the Autism spectrum. Children learn how to navigate the social world successfully. Programs are integrated whenever possible. Integrated off-site day camp. Transitional recreational programming for ages 13 to 21 includes life and job skills, the opportunity to intern at day camp under the supervision of a job coach, and weekend social outings. 371 S. Broadway, Tarrytown. 366-7898. jccon
Stepping Stones Museum For Children. There is free admission for families of children with special needs on Accessibility Day. Check for days and times. Reservations not required. 303 West Ave., Norwalk, Conn. 203-899-0606. stepp
YWCA of White Plains (North Street). Special Programs Department. Sunday recreation for ages 4 to 21. Vacation camps, school vacation camps for children with autism, PDD, CP, MR. Swimming, piano and guitar lessons available. Family respite and support also available. 949- 6227 ext. 108. ywcaw
SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICES and SUPPORT
These organizations offer therapy, treatment and education for children with special needs.
All About Kids. Provides a full range of home and center based evaluations and therapy services for children of all ages with developmental delays, and is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and their families. Services including, but not limited to, occupational, physical and speech and language therapy, special instruction, ABA, social work and psychological services facilitate individual growth and independence. Offices in all five NYC boroughs, Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk counties. 145 Huguenot St., Suite 404, New Rochelle. 251-0905. allab
Andrus – Mental Health Division. Provides varying services in our outpatient, community based mental health centers, including screenings and assessments; psychological testing; psychiatric consultation and evaluations; medication management; Individual, Group and Family therapy. Licensed by the NYS Office of Mental Health. Serving all ages. Locations in Peekskill, White Plains, Yonkers, and Eastchester 8am-8pm, Monday through Thursday; 8am-6pm, Friday. Saturday hours in White Plains and Yonkers from 9am-2pm; 965-3700. ddrus
Autism Speaks™. Founded in 2005, this organization is now a leading force in autism science and advocacy, Funds research, increases awareness and shares information. Westchester/Fairfield office. 934-5138. westc
Delany Center For Educational Enrichment At Pace University. The Delany Center for Educational Enrichment offers services in reading and math and SAT prep to children from the age of 5 through high school. The program is individualized to meet the strengths and needs of each person. The classes meet after school and on Saturday in the fall and spring and during the month of July. 78 North Broadway, White Plains. 422-4135. pace.edu/
Center For Small Jewels. Specializes in pediatric therapeutic feeding and swallowing, apraxia of speech, articulation delays and disorders, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), Language Delay and Disorder, Auditory Processing, Augmentative and Alternative Communication Systems (AAC), Neurodevelopmental Therapy (NDT) and Sensory Processing and Integration. 3 The Boulevard, New Rochelle. 632-9109. csjin
Dietitian / Nutritionist Elena Kochin MS, RDN, CDN.Specializing in treating children with: autism, ADD/HD, OCD, learning disabilities, delayed language development, gastrointestinal problems, behavioral problems and irritability, anxiety, food allergies and delayed sensitivities, eczema, and depression. 1600 Harrison Ave, Suite 305, Mamar
Donald R. Reed Speech & Hearing Center. Committed to helping children and adults with communication impairments. Provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, individualized therapy programs, and family/patient education relative to the communication disorder. 777 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow. 366-3010. phelp
Isa Marrs Speech Language Pathology, PC. Programs for children who have a difficulty with communication, making friends or eating a healthy and diverse diet. Services tailored to help each child reach their fullest potential. 127 Woodside Ave., Suite 201, Briarcliff Manor. 488-5283. speec
Kidabilities Occupational and Physical Therapy. KidAbilities is a group of dedicated occupational, physical and speech therapists. Cutting edge treatment is combined with spacious sensory gyms and state of the art therapy rooms to assist special needs children and develop their physical, sensory, verbal and social skills, while having fun. KidAbilities offers individual therapy and group experiences. 1 Skyline Drive, Suite 298, Hawthorne. 347-5990. kidab
New York Life Insurance Company. Elizabeth Kinstlinger, a licensed agent with New York Life Insurance Company, specializes in helping parents and caregivers create financial strategies for children with special needs. 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 900, Saddlebrook, NJ. 917-533-0284. newyo
Where I Can Be Me Social Skills. Programs to help kids learn to make friends and maintain relationships. Their website Where
Westchester Therapy Solutions, PLLC. Servicing children for more than 25 years providing occupational, physical and speech therapies. The therapeutic services they provide are interpreted by the children being serviced as play. 690 N. Broadway, White Plains. 686-3116. Westc
Attorneys for Special Needs
Littman Krooks, LLP. Littman Krooks Special Needs Planning and Special Education Attorneys work for the empowerment of individuals with special needs. Sign up for their free newsletter and see their website for articles that address special needs legal concerns. 399 Knollwood Road, White Plains. 684-2100. speci
Bashian & Farber, LLP. Partners James L. Hyer, Esq, Gary E. Bashian, Esq. and Irving O. Farber , Esq. provide legal services including estate planning, trust and estate litigation, estate administration, matrimonial and family law, guardianships and litigation. 235 Main St., White Plains. 946-5100. bashi
