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Disabilities and Special Needs: Preschool children
Families say that no two children are the same---each one is unique. That’s exactly right, and that is why it is sometimes hard to tell when you should be concerned about difference between children or youth of the same age. Most of the time, these differences are nothing to worry about. But for one child in 10, the differences can be related to a special need. That’s when school and early intervention programs can help.
Early intervention and special education programs can identify children who are ‘not exactly the same’ as others of the same age. These children may have difficulty walking, talking, or hearing. Or, there may be behavioral issues to address. Whatever the concern, the earlier a special need is identified, the better the chance that a child can be helped.
What if a concern is identified?
If a developmental or special learning need exists, the family, along with an early intervention service provider or local public school district, will design a program that is best for the child. This may include an Early Intervention Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) that outlines the supports and services a family will receive, an Individual Education Program (IEP) specifically for the child or other recommended action. No matter what course is taken, the family will have a central role in the decision-making process and will be put in touch with specialists and educators who can help the family make a difference for their child.
Organizations:
ABC Moms, Inc.
(630) 299-4909
Parenting Support: ABC Moms, Inc. assists parents with individualized education, specific strategies, and customized materials to support positive behavior change in children. Our parenting experts go directly into the home to coach, model,and teach specifically to your family's needs. ABC Moms meets the needs of children from birth through teen years, and have extensive experience working with children and families of special needs. ABC Moms accepts private health insurance for this division of service.
New Baby Nurses/Night Nanny: ABC Moms Inc.'s well trained Night Nannies will provide overnight care for your newborn(s) so you can get much needed rest. They will also assist you in care taking needs to make this major life transition easier for you. Our New Baby Nurses are Registered Nurses who will provide support and education based on the needs of your newborn.
From lactation support to sleep training and scheduling, a New Baby Nurse will be an invaluable asset. The New Baby Nurses are available for daytime or nighttime appointments.
Able Kids, Inc Autism Support Group
(773) 287-4290
Assistance for parents with children on the spectrum.
ASA Chicago South Suburban Chapter Support Group
(708) 335-2910
ASA Chicago Southside Chapter Autism Support Group
Meetings 3rd Saturday of month ex. Aug & Dec, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
(773) 728-2979
ASA Northwest Suburban Chapter Support Group
Meets 1st Tuesday of month, 7:30pm (ex. December)
(847) 885-8006
ASA Southwest Cook County Chapter Support Group
(708) 430-7297
ASI Far West Suburban Support Group
(888) 691-1270
Aspire Children's Services
(708) 547-3550
Aspire provides children with an early advantage that facilitates and intensifies the learning curve for children from birth to age eight. Aspire helps children develop the skills they'll need to realize their potential across a lifetime. Offers respite services.
Aunt Martha's Community Health Center
(630) 896-7900
Provides high quality health care services for family members of all ages, including: school/sports physicals, sick care, well baby/child care, immunizations and TB testing, Attention Deficit Disorder Clinic, family planning, pregnancy testing, STD testing and treatment, HIV testing and referral, KidCare/Family Care enrollment services and social work services. In addition. 4 psychiatrists on staff working with children, adolescents and adults. Takes Medicaid, Private Insurance and All Kids for payment. Bilingual medical interpreters are available for psychiatric appoointments.
The Crossroads Program is designed to prevent youth from entering the Juvenile Justice System by providing education in social skills, anger control, and moral reasoning. For youth ages 11-17, once a week for 8 to 10 weeks. (630) 553-1400 fo rmore info
Autism Diagnostic Clinic
Tuesdays 9:00am and 10:00am
(708) 216-0135
Dr. Mary Lou Gutierrez, child psychiatrist at Loyola, is now operating a Diagnostic Clinic to help professionals better understand children with autism. Clinics will be held on Tuesdays at LOC, 4th flr at 9 and 10 am.
Age of patients targeted: older 2's, 3,4,5,or young 6 year olds.
Center for Speech and Language Disorders
(630) 530-8551
CSLD's mission is to help children with communication disorders reach their full potential through family centered services.
Charlie's Gift
630-810-1200
Charlie's Gift makes it easier to get your child what they need NOW - it is "one stop shopping" for therapeutic interventions. Early detection and intensive therapy are the keys to unlocking the spirit and independence of children who struggle with such disorders. Charlie's Gift provides the direct services, support, and case management that are essential to make an impact in their daily lives. The unique intra-disciplinary treatment approach at Charlie's Gift has many advantages. Families will find getting the support they need easier as a result of:
Streamlining of admission, evaluation and billing processes
Coordination of services and ease of scheduling; scheduling of services consecutively with different therapists can possibly reduce the number of necessary trips to clinic
Availability of staff for consultation and case management across disciplines (e.g., Occupational, Speech, and Behavioral Therapist strategize to ensure clarity and consistency in treatments)
Integration of treatment planning by different disciplines through the development of a Master Treatment Plan with individualized goals, objectives and measurable outcomes tailored to your child's specific strengths and needs.
Instead of participating in multiple services at various different clinics/offices which requires children to adjust to multiple environments and makes coordination of services extremely difficult for parents, having all of the therapeutic interventions provided under one roof at Charlie's Gift makes getting your child what they need easier. The staff at Charlie's Gift includes experienced Occupational, Speech, and Behavioral Therapists who work together with the parents and family to ensure all aspects of your child's development are addressed simultaneously. The Charlie's Gift treatment team's goal is to work with your child's strengths toward their maximum success.
Chicago Education Project
(847) 884-7030
The Chicago Education Project is a nonprofit organization that provides services to children and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, behavioral disorders and special learning disabilities.
Comfort Keepers: Non-Medical In-Home Care
(630) 892-9600
Helps seniors live happy, healthy lives in the comfort of their own homes by providing quality, compassionate care and safety technology solutions to preserve independence and contribute to a better life.
Communications Clubhouse
(630) 495-6800
Communication Clubhouse is a leader in comprehensive pediatric therapy services for children who are developmentally challenged. We offer speech/language, occupational, developmental, music and counseling services.
Diagnostic evaluations in the area of speech/language, occupational, developmental
We have two specialized groups that focus on children with autism.
Infants:
For children ages 2-3 the “Connections” group is now the only intense Early Intervention funded program in Du Page West Cook area. This group incorporates Speech, Occupational, Developmental and Music disciplines.
Preschool- School Age:
For children ages 4-11 “Pragmatics in Action” is available. This group focuses on the development of social skills and language in a peer group.
Free screenings are available.
Communication Clubhouse can arrange for free evaluations for children ages Birth to Three.
Contact Diane Lee, Program Director at (630) 495-6800 for more information.
Community Support Services, Inc.
(708) 354-4547
Community Support Services, Inc., is a private, not-for-profit service agency that initiates, provides and promotes services for people with developmental disabilities and their families, within their communities, in order to strengthen their independence, self-esteem, and ability to participate in and contribute to community life.
DuPage Children's Museum
(630) 637-8000
The DuPage Children's Museum offers great opportunities for children to play, explore and learn through exhibits, activities and programs. The museum also offers Autism Family Day, or the Third Thursday, which is a special time once a month allowing families of children with autism to enjoy the Museum together.
Third Thursday of every month from 5-7 p.m., families are invited to come play, and utilize the augmentative communication devices available at our exhibits. A resource table is also available with community services displayed. Normal admission prices apply. The Museum also provides programs for Adults including the Just for Grown-Ups series of lectures; Parent Programs, including talks, discussions and video viewing and other resources for families. The Museum serves all families in DuPage County and the surrounding areas.
General Admission: $8.50 per person (ages 1 to 59)
Seniors: $7.50 per person (ages 60 plus), children under 12 months are free. Ride Metra to Naperville or drive- parking is free.
DuPage County Health Department - Early Intervention Programs
(630) 682-7979
Fee-Consultations are based on sliding scale. Training fee is $75.00/hour.
Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation and training is available in both English and Spanish. Home visits are made. Primary service concern is families with children ages 0-5. The focus of treatment is helping parent(s) develop healthy relationships with their children.
Staff development training is available on a range of topics, which focus on the social and emotional development of children from birth to age 5. Consultation with other service providers is available on an individual case basis. Parent training classes are also available.
Grace Dyson - ASA Metropolitan Chicago Chapter - Autism Support Group
(773) 233-4210
Easter Seals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region
(630) 620-4433
Easter Seals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region provides services for infants, children and adults with disabilities to achieve maximum independence, and to provide support for the families who love and care for them.
Family to Family Health Information and Education Center
(866) 931-1110 or (815) 464-8247
Provides free services for families of children and youth with special needs. Information pertaining to health insurance and medical bills.
Anne Felt, MS - Heart Felt Coaching
(815) 267-8387
Services for families include: parent/caregiver coaching, parent support groups and advocacy skills. Services for professionals include: staff trainings, consultations and continuing education for therapists, social workers, teachers, daycare staff and various other providers.
Giant Steps Illinois School
Monday - Friday: 8:45 am - 2:45 pm CST (school hours); Monday - Friday: 8 am - 3:30 pm CST (business hours)
630-455-5730
Giant Steps Illinois day school provides comprehensive education and therapy support to children whose needs cannot be met in traditional school settings. Giant Steps Illinois is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education to serve students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) ages 4-18.
GiGi's Playhouse - Fox Valley
(630) 778-7529
GiGi’s Playhouse is a not for profit Down Syndrome awareness center. With multiple locations, they offer activities, resources, educational programs and support for individuals with Down Syndrome, their families, and the community.
GiGi's Playhouse - Hoffman Estates
(847) 885-PLAY
GiGi’s Playhouse is a not for profit Down Syndrome awareness center. With multiple locations, they offer activities, resources, educational programs and support for individuals with Down Syndrome, their families, and the community.
Joliet Support Group - Autism
(815) 725-6677
Kane County Autism Information & Support Group
Meetings 3rd Tuesday of the month, 1pm-2:15 pm
(630) 443-8085
kanecountyautism@hotmail.com
Keshet Jewish Parents of Children w/ Special Needs
(847) 205-1234
Dayschool, camps, adult programs, recreation, etc.
Little Friends, Inc.
Monday thru Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(630) 355-6533
Little Friends, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization serving children and adults with developmental, emotional or behavioral disabilities.
Marklund
(630) 593 5500
Marklund serves infants, children and adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities. Those who require the most medical attention and medical monitoring have access to thecare unit.
Milestones
(630) 792-1800
Provides individualized services for children in the home, day-care and community settings. Services include physical, occupational, speech and developmental therapy.
Naperville Asperger Group
(630) 904-4110
Email jholman@wideopenwest.com for more information.
Northeast DuPage Special Recreation Association
(630) 620-4500
Provides for those with disabilities, the same variety of recreation services available to the general public
Northeast DuPage Special Recreation Association Autism Support Group
(630) 620-4500 x 132
Northwest IL Autism Parent Support Group
Meetings on third Thursday of each month 6pm-8:30pm
(815) 965-6745 x 278
Provena Mercy Medical Center - ADHD/LD Diagnostic and Support Center
(630) 801-2556
Children ages three and older are eligible for care. They may be referred by their parents, physicians or schools. Most insurance plans are accepted through the hospital, with the exception of HMO's.
Support Group for Parents with ADHD/LD Children:
Second Wednesday of every month 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Please contact Connie Parr at 630-801-2556 for more information. No child care provided.
Rainbow Center
630-898-2200
Outpatient pediatric therapy services including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Provide services to children from birth through age 21 years. Treatment for developmental disabilities, acquired injuries, pre and post operative management, social skills, language skills, gross and fine motor skills and delays in self care or play skills.
Accepts most insurance providers; free screenings to determine eligibility or need for evaluation; Open Monday through Friday, please call clinic for hours and appointment.
Rainbow of Friends
(773) 764-8740
Children of all ages, backgrounds, abilities meet to play & grow social skills, plus Moms' get together and have meetings
Ray Graham Association
(630) 620-2222
Bednorz Children's Respite Home and In-Home Respite Voucher Program provides temporary, overnight respite care and funding that reimburses families for provision of care to persons with developmental disabilities. The Early Intervention Program assists children ages birth to three years old that show early signs of delay to reach their highest potential by providing the most appropriate instruction at the earliest possible opportunity. A trained developmental therapist works individually with each child in his or her home. Early Intervention services include:
* Developmental Screenings
* Evaluations
* Individual Therapy Services
Rockford Asperger/PDD-NOS Group
(815) 399-5262
Rolling Meadows Asperger Group
Meets 2nd Tuesday each month, 7pm-9pm
(847) 255-5465
S.A.L.T.O. Autism Support Group (spanish)
(312) 996-0903
Contact Matie Ovalle for more information.
Seguin Services, Inc.
(708) 863-3803
Teresa Silva - Spanish Autism Support Group
(773) 582-6226
Special Directions
(708) 423-6244
Autism support group
Speech Tree Therapeutic and Developmental Center
815-725-9992
The Speech Tree team is a unique combination of therapists who deliver a customized and effective package of services for individuals of all ages, but specializing in serving children from birth to school age. Speech Tree provides evaluation and intervention for individuals, encompassing all modalities of learning through sensory and movement therapy to foster interaction, socialization, and communication.
Stepping Stones Therapy, Inc.
630-844-0837
Groups provide interactive and fun opportunities to increase speech, language, oral-motor, motor planning, socialization and sensory processing & modulation skills. 1,2,3 Play With Me is designed to bring children together in a sensory and language-rich environment. Children learn through hands on experiences, peer model, adult guidance & positive reinforcement. This group will provide information for parents and caregivers to help support and promote skill development.
For more information contact Paula Hamilton at 630-618-0024 or steppingstonestherapyinc@yahoo.com.
The Pediatric Place
Monday-Thursday 8:00am-7:00pm, Friday 8:00am-5:00pm
630-955-1940
Outpatient pediatric therapy services including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Provide services to children from birth through age 21 years. Treatment for developmental disabilities, acquired injuries, pre and post operative management, social skills, language skills, gross and fine motor skills and delays in self care or play skills.
Accepts most insurance providers; free screenings to determine eligibility or need for evaluation; Open Monday through Friday, please call clinic for hours and appointment.
The Pediatric Place
Monday-Thursday 8:00 am-7:30pm, Friday 8:00am-5:30pm
708-482-9453
Outpatient pediatric therapy services including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Provide services to children from birth through age 21 years. Treatment for developmental disabilities, acquired injuries, pre and post operative management, social skills, language skills, gross and fine motor skills and delays in self care or play skills.
Accepts most insurance providers; free screenings to determine eligibility or need for evaluation; Open Monday through Friday, please call clinic for hours and appointment.
The Pediatric Place
Monday-Thursday 8:00am-6:00pm, Friday 8:00am-12:00pm
630-584-7530
Outpatient pediatric therapy services including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Provide services to children from birth through age 21 years. Treatment for developmental disabilities, acquired injuries, pre and post operative management, social skills, language skills, gross and fine motor skills and delays in self care or play skills.
Accepts most insurance providers; free screenings to determine eligibility or need for evaluation; Open Monday through Friday, please call clinic for hours and appointment.
The School Association for Special Education in DuPage County
(630) 778-4500
The School Association for Special Education in DuPage County is a cooperative of 18 school districts providing services to 6,442 students with disabilities in DuPage County, Illinois.
A complete continuum of services is provided for all students with disabilities ages 3-21.
Educational Materials and Information:
American Academy of Pediatrics
American Academy of Pediatrics - Children's Mental Health in Primary Care
Bright Futures
Choices For Parents
Health and Disability Advocates
National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities
Illinois STARnet
Erikson Institute
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