special needs nyc Archives

May 7, 2020

Inclusion Advocate Guide-FREE

Inclusion has long been something I have been passionate about for many years. Back then there was not anything to guide me. I only went with the instincts of my heart. Now a blogger has started her very own inclusion project. She created this fantastic free guide that gives you some helpful tips and provides a place to start when working with a school or another organization. The guide is very simple and has clear cut goals. With it being FREE to download it’s definitely worth a look. Inclusion matters! Join the crusade with the links down below.

https://doc-14-3g-docs.googleusercontent.com/docs/securesc/fhqg5ggt892t9oueofjn9h362i2j5q4i/p48b8iqaqlci0i00l7j5p3auth8rrdve/1588717275000/17952549463412736642/11075556047816199267/1A_NBdFitAp2SMQ7jLpUZesbYMLjW7PQD?e=download&authuser=0&nonce=rurkm59mbd9f8&user=11075556047816199267&hash=2725lmti2m7letmeg3iku70l5n743e6s

https://www.inclusion-project.com/

May 5, 2020

Every Kid’s Yoga -Chelsea

Every Kid’s Yoga is an inclusive yoga studio that focuses not only on yoga but on the integration of creative arts along with playtime. The benefits of yoga to the special needs community are numerous. Some of them include improved speech because of breathwork, increased strength, and flexibility, and help with learning to self soothe in difficult situations. The list goes on and it’s all positive. Because of Every Kid’s Yoga’s expertise, they also showcase detailed training in teaching yoga to children with disabilities to occupational therapists and the like. Be sure to sign up for the email list to find out when the next sessions take place. Om your way to relaxation by clicking below.

https://www.everykidsyoga.com/about-us/

May 5, 2020June 11, 2020

American Museum of Natural History-Upper East Side

Access at AMNH is exceptional for those with Disabilities. For one thing, they created the Discovery Squad Group. As long as you have a Reservation in advance, you can go on a Pre-Opening 40-minute tour. The tour is specifically for individuals on the Autism Spectrum and their accompanying family, friends, or caregivers. It must be remembered that Walk-ins are NOT allowed. Please call to schedule and the tour ahead of time. As a result, the tour will be free as well as your admission into the museum afterward. If this idea sounds like fun but you have a different disability it might be worth a shot to ask if you can participate in the squad.

* My hunch says they will go for it but I’m NOT making any promises. I’m sure staff availability is a big factor.

So I told you about the Discovery Squad, now you need to hear about the Discovery Room. This area of the museum an absolute must during your visit. Lots of Hands-on Science objects are waiting for you. As long as there is an adult present with you to monitor your experience, you’re good to go. Sounds like a dream to finally walk into a store without hearing “don’t touch that”-“hands behind your back”, doesn’t it?

Additionally, the entire museum is accessible to those in wheelchairs, even the food/dining areas. The theater has assigned seats designated for a person in a wheelchair along with a companion seat. Service animals can come along on your fun trip to the museum! You’ll just need to answer a few questions about them upon entry. A whole host of other accommodations is available for those who need audio, braille, large print, etc. With a phone call ahead Access at AMNH is easy breezy! Here is the contact info. accessibility@amnh.org or 212-769-5250

Unearth some treasures with a click down below.

https://www.amnh.org/plan-your-visit/accessibility

Hey, Have You Subscribed to our Newsletter Yet? https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/newsletter/

May 3, 2020June 11, 2020

SND’s Everyone Dance Program-Harlem

I like to Move It. Move It. I like to Move it. Move it. Listen I know how it is. When you get older you just want to relax. The thing is that’s not good for your body. You need to keep it moving. Why not have some fun while you’re doing it in an Adult Adaptive Dance Class? Consequently, We have one nearby in Harlem with your name on it.

The Everyone (last time I checked, everyone means YOU) Dance Program is the Adult Adaptive Dance Class you Want with the movement you Need!

Everyone Dance has been made possible through a collaboration with AHRC NYC and the Stephanie Nelson Dance (SND) Studio. Both programs saw a gap that needed to be filled. Disability Dance classes for Adults are usually few and far between. In general, a dance company’s special needs program only focuses on children. Now the tables are turned. Everyone Dance only allows Adult Dancers 18+ with various disabilities to participate. During this 10-month program creative expression flows and ends with a performance in a glamorous Arts Center in Manhattan. As is only right! How Spectacular!

The Adaptive Dance for Adults Everyone Dance program also welcomes individuals in wheelchairs. Move to the beat down below and find out all the specifics. Subscribe to their newsletter to be the first to know when to sign up.

https://www.sndancegroup.org/community-projects

Home

Hey! Have you checked out the Other Helpful Resources I personally love ? Have a Look. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/reviews-from-special-needs-nyc-community-etc/other-helpful-special-needs-nyc-resources/

May 2, 2020June 11, 2020

Crip Camp Movie Released!

Crip Camp is the ADA movie doc everyone is talking about!

During the Pandemic in the process of creating this website, I came across a headline that caught my eye. Netflix was releasing a new movie on a subject most Hollywood Studios would steer clear of. Being no stranger to the subject of disabilities and human rights, I knew I had to see the movie!

Through my good fortune, I had the pleasure of watching Crip Camp( rated R) with 120 members of the disability community at CUNY and other NY colleges. Judy Heumann, the main star and iconic disability advocate that the story is about was also in attendance. I know, right! How lucky was I?

In general, this documentary movie is a moving history of how 504 and the ADA ( American Disabilities Act) was passed in 1990. Although the story itself is a serious one there are a few funny parts where some of the characters’ endearing sides are revealed. The timeless tale of teen angst back in the 1970s still rings true today and many teens will find the movie relatable in that regard.

Immediately after the premiere, we were are able to have a Q and A with Judy Heumann herself. This was beyond amazing. It is important to note that 2020 marks the 30 year anniversary of the passing of ADA. We are forever grateful to Judy Heumann for her passion and diligence. We also appreciate Netflix for taking on this incredible story. Without you, this ADA movie doc wouldn’t have made it to the mainstream media. Thank you for supporting the stories that need to be told.

Change starts with just one person and after watching the powerful documentary you will think to yourself why can’t that one person be me?

https://cripcamp.com/

https://www.netflix.com/title/81001496

Have you ever gone scuba diving? I need to point out that we actually have a place in Manhattan that you can learn how. Check it out. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/adaptive-scuba-diving-lessons-category-programs-classes-sports-and-exercise-stay-focused-scuba-diving-midtown/

May 1, 2020June 12, 2020

92Y Birthday Party-Upper East Side

92Y is an ideal Special Needs Birthday Venue here in Manhattan. I’ve got all the details for you. To begin with the parties at the Y come with a private room complete with tables, chairs, and party favor for the attendees’. Whew. This sure makes things simple once I know how many people I’m having. Sure would be nice to have a room all to ourselves. I need to mention that when I went to a party there it wasn’t a darkroom in the dungeon. The room was well lit and had windows lining one entire wall. What’s more, the room was clean and well maintained. The entire building is also wheelchair accessible. Always a plus.

Furthermore, enthusiastic staff will help entertain kids of All Ages and Abilities with Gymnastics, Tae-Kwon Do, Dance, you name it. Lots of themes such as Circus in the Sky and Dance Party to name a few. As can be seen, the 92Y is the perfect Special Needs Venue in Manhattan for Birthdays or other celebrations. The Y’s staff is ready to make it a party to remember.

https://www.92y.org/birthday-parties.aspx

Hey, Do you know about the 92Y’s “Let’s Get Movin’ ” Program? They even have their own Swim Team! Read all about it. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/special-olympics-swim-manhattan-category-programs-classes-sports-and-exercise-92y-upper-east-side/

May 1, 2020June 12, 2020

92Y-Upper East Side

You can now train for the Special Olympics Swim Team in Manhattan at the 92Y. The Flying Dolphins Team was created specifically for teens and young adults. Generally, the team trains for events by working on certain skills such as freestyle and backstroke. Being that some swimmers may not be as capable, there are also fundamental events for less advanced swimmers. For this reason, the Special Olympics ensures that opportunities are available for all abilities.

Training to participate in competitions around New York is an exciting way to get in shape while also making new friends.

Likewise, The Y also offers other aquatics, fitness, and dance classes to children with special needs. During Private coaching sessions, students can also be trained in a Fitness Program. The program, Let’s Get Movin’ is geared specifically for those with Autism.

However, the program can be adapted by the instructional coaches to teens with differing abilities besides autism. For the purpose of being inclusive to all the Y is continually increasing its offerings to the Special Needs NYC Community. Therefore, you might call to inquire about new or other existing options available. Accordingly, everyone that I’ve encountered at Manhattan 92Y has always been friendly. From the Special Olympics Swim Coach to the Phone Operator they are ready to help YOU.

Moreover, there are three elevators in the building giving all access to individuals in wheelchairs. What are you waiting for? Let’s do this.

https://www.92y.org/search?searchtext=special+needs&searchmode=anywordorsynonyms

Did you know you could even have your Birthday Party there? In a Private Room No Less. See for Yourself. This Place Rocks! https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/special-needs-venue-manhattan-category-birthday-parties-venues-92y-birthday-party-upper-east-side/

May 1, 2020June 12, 2020

SNACK -(Special Needs Activity Center Kids +Adults )-Midtown

Please allow me to introduce you to The SNACK* Center located in Midtown. This exceptional Special Needs Program in Midtown has it ALL. For instance, the Center has various classes in Art, Music, Swimming, Fitness, and Yoga. In general, you would be running around town to take these lessons. Am I right? That’s not the case here. Everything is conveniently located under one roof. This means more time having fun with your peeps rather than commuting place to place. YES, Finally, someone gets me!

With inclusivity in mind, Snack also has a Social Club for those Fly Adults that are 21 and up. Originally SNACK* was geared toward children with Autism. However, the center quickly expanded to be an umbrella type of Special Needs Program for Midtown. All of the programs are also open to people in wheelchairs in addition to people who have NO disability whatsoever. Classes are small with a 2 to 1 ratio and usually no bigger than 8 students. Try a FREE trial class to see if a certain SNACK class is a good fit with just a click down below.

https://www.snacknyc.com/about

Hey on the off chance you want to know about other exhilarating opportunities in Manhattan- Would ya sign up for the Special Needs NYC’s Newsletter ?https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/newsletter/

May 1, 2020June 12, 2020

Marlene Meyerson-JCC Manhattan-Upper West Side

Did you know that there is an outstanding Special Needs Program at the JCC on the Upper West Side? In fact, it’s called the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. Now I have to pause a moment and tell you about Marlene Meyerson. They named the building after her because she was one of the building’s primary donors for over 20 years. But here’s my favorite part. She’s originally from Galveston, Texas, my hometown. Galveston is not very big especially compared to NYC. So I was extremely excited to find that out one day when I was reading about Marlene.

Anyway back to the Special Needs Program at JCC. The center prides itself on inclusivity and accessibility. And for this reason, there is a vast amount of programming provided throughout the year.

Furthermore, this JCC is home to the Penguins, a Special Olympics Swim team that trains teens and young adults at the center twice a week. Aquatic skills and self-discipline go hand in hand when you are swimming to compete. Coaches continually provide support and encouragement

More examples of social programs for Special Needs Teens and Tweens include Community Cooks, Girls Night Out, and Transitions Lounge. Individuals who are not Jewish or are in a wheelchair are also welcome into this diverse environment of acceptance. Join the Marlene Meyerson JCC community with a click below.

https://jccmanhattan.org/children-families/tweens-teens/special-needs-programs

Hey! Have you watched The Healing Powers of Dude yet on Netflix? Dude is a therapy dog and boy is he cute! See what you think? https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/social-anxiety-on-netflix-category-entertainment-tv-the-healing-powers-of-dude/

April 30, 2020June 12, 2020

Kaiser’s Room-Midtown

Kaiser’s room is an All-Inclusive Setting for children and adults with varying abilities to participate in performing arts. In particular, KR Dance and Acting classes are Adapted to fit the Special Needs of ANY participant. Thus, this also includes individuals who are wheel-chair bound. A private One on One lesson is also available.

So let me make sure I’m getting this straight. According to what we just read, ALL Ages and Abilities are Welcome? Yes, that’s right, my friend! It’s no wonder they say that Kaiser’s cultivates a Yes environment!

Coupled with the fact that KR boasts a safe place to allow your imagination to run wild, KR has my heart. Not to mention these Inclusive Performing arts (acting/dancing/singing) Programs are interactive and engaging. Most importantly everyone has FUN! Simply put I don’t see how you can go wrong. Kaiser’s Room is relentless in its pursuit of making everyone feel included. This means YOU. Artistic expression can be yours with a click down below.

https://www.kaisersroom.org/mission-history

Hey! When is the last time you went to the American Museum of Natural History? Did you know you can get a private tour before they open? Provided you give some notice, you can join the Discovery Squad! https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/programs-classes/science-history/