Presented by Equip for Equality - Client Assistance Program (CAP) Speaker: Emily Wilson (Rachel Weisberg will join too) ASL interpreters and CART will be provided. If need other accommodations, email us at cap@equipforequality.org or call 855-452-2725. Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_osJfYFNiTXCS1KyrjQ3VhQ

Experience the exhibits and trails of Four Rivers on your own terms! This independent program is for guests with sensory-processing needs, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and those who would benefit from a small-group experience. The center will be open only to registered participants during this time. Buddy bags with sensory gadgets and a limited... Read more »

A free digital safety webinar for students with disabilities, their parents, educators and community members focusing on popular online games and social media Join the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force via Zoom for “Gaming & Social Media Use Among Children with Special Needs” on Jan. 10 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.... Read more »

Learn to advocate for a child with autism by becoming familiar with the state guidelines surrounding autism spectrum disorder and the development of the IEP REGISTER ONLINE HERE  All workshops will take place online using Zoom. Entrenamientos serán virtualmente, sobre la plataforma de Zoom.   Questions? Please reach out to Nora Stillwell norajs@uic.edu Preguntas? Escriba a... Read more »

A free webinar for parents and caregivers on transition planning and meaningful assessments for youth with disabilities Join Family Matters Parent Training & Information Center’s Transition Webinar Series for “Instructional Practices to Support Implementation of the IEP (Individualized Education Program)” on Jan. 11. Participants may register for either : A daytime session from 12 to 1 p.m.... Read more »

Hosted by STAR NET Region IV Learn about how to support social interactions of young children with autism. Evidence-based practices will be described and identified that support the social engagement and play of young children with autism. Activity ideas and case examples will be shared. Participants will develop a plan for how to use these... Read more »

Hosted by STAR NET Southern Region IV This is a family training for families who have a child ages 3-5 with a disability.  Fears in childhood are the rule, not the exception. Sometimes these fears rise to the level of phobias, where the worries and avoidance actually interfere with the child’s functioning. Join child psychologist... Read more »

A free webinar on the transition process and life in the community after educational entitlements end. Join Connect to Community‘s (CTC) Friday Forum “Transition to Adulthood: Journey to Success” via Zoom on Jan. 13 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. What specific changes will/should occur as young adults with developmental disabilities prepare to transition out of... Read more »

Bundle up, grab your favorite mug and embrace the cold and quiet winter morning with a guided hike around Hidden Oaks Nature Center. After the hike, come over to the fire and let us treat you to a cup of hot cocoa or joe. Event requirements: Registration required by Wednesday, Jan. 12: 815-722-4121. https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/fpdwc/activity/search/detail/8382?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

Location Mt. Greenwood Park, 3721 W. 111th St., Chicago A free, outdoor skating event for teens who are deaf and hard of hearing and their families The Chicago Park District Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs is hosting a night of winter fun on Jan. 15 from 6:15 to 8 p.m. Come and enjoy an evening of... Read more »

A free webinar series for families with young children with disabilities or developmental delays on understanding inclusion and how important inclusion can be in the life of a young child. The Early Choices Inclusive Education Series for Families continues with “Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) & Inclusive Practices” via Zoom on Jan. 19 from 6:30 to... Read more »

Bring your creative child to this Family Storytime! Each session will feature songs, stories, and a hands-on craft. Ages 3 to 5. Santori Library -101 S River St, Aurora, IL 60506 S139 - Hurrell Storytime Room

A FREE seminar for parents/family.caregivers of a person (any age) with a dual diagnosis of Down Syndrome PLUS Autism Spectrum Disorder. Speak Mary Anne Ehlert - President and Founder of Protected Tomorrows Register HERE: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E205021&id=38

Children of all abilities are invited to discover the endless possibilities for athletes with disabilities Come explore adaptive sports at the Chicago Children’s Museum‘s “Play For All” event on Jan. 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The museum and Dare2tri, a non-profit dedicated to removing barriers to sports and fitness, will help visitors discover the endless... Read more »

A free event for families of children with special needs to explore, learn and build memories The Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago is hosting “Everyone at Play” on Jan. 22 from 2 to 5 p.m. Kohl Children’s Museum is specifically designed to be inclusive of all children and adults regardless of ability. The Museum’s 16 exhibits... Read more »

Stop in any time during the day to celebrate National Puzzle Day with us. We will have giant floor puzzles as well as mazes, ciphers and more. Come join the fun. AGE GROUP: ELEMENTARY AGE - AGES 6-11 EVENT TYPE: GAMES & GAMING Location: Santori Library (101 S River St, Aurora, IL 60506) - Kiwanis... Read more »

Estas clases son GRATUITAS para los familiares de niños sordos y con problemas de audición desde el nacimiento hasta la escuela secundaria. Los miembros de la familia extendida son bienvenidos. Usted no necesita residir en Illinois para participar. Los instructores son sordos y se comunican usando ASL e inglés escrito. ¡NO SE UTILIZARÁ AUDIO! CALENDARIO... Read more »

Location Salvation Army – Springfield, 1600 E. Clear Lake Ave., Springfield A free, fun, action-packed event for children and families The Kiwanis Club of Springfield-Downtown is hosting “Kids Bash” on Jan. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is at the Salvation Army, 1600 E. Clear Lake Ave., in Springfield. It is free and... Read more »

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, 212 N. 6th St., Springfield An inclusive, sensory-friendly event at the museum The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum (ALPLM) is hosting “Abe for All: Sensory Friendly Sunday” on Jan. 29 from 1 to 5 p.m. ALPLM guests will learn about President Lincoln in a sensory-friendly environment with more... Read more »

Learn more about an exciting & free mentoring program for youth with disabilities in the City of Chicago! When: January 30th, 2023 Time: 6 - 6:30 PM Where: Zoom (See link below) Are you or someone you know.. 12 - 24 years old & have a disability of any type Living in the North/Central region... Read more »

Learning Level 1: Introductory/Awareness Intended Audience – Administrators, ECSE/General Educators, Paraeducators, Family Members, Family Educators, Psychologists, Social Workers, SLPs, OT/PTs, Early Intervention Description – In this community of practice, we provide a space for early childhood special education providers and early intervention professionals to share, learn, problem solve, and support one another as we work to improve... Read more »

Presented by Karen Hurst, Speech-Language Pathologist and Parent Coach Join NADS on Zoom once a month to connect with other new families!  Learn more about NADS, the Down syndrome community, and all the opportunities available for your child!! Register HERE

Free virtual sign language classes running from January through March The CHS (Chicago Hearing Society) is offering free Family Sign Language classes. The virtual classes will run from January through March. Classes are taught by instructors who are deaf and communicate using American Sign Language (ASL) and written English (or Spanish). The classes will use... Read more »

Program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities Is the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) Certificate in Co-Operative Career Experience (Co-Op Program) the right fit for you? Join the Co-Op Team to get a look at the program and learn about the application process on Feb. 3 from 12 to 1:30 pm. The UIC Co-Op Program... Read more »

Do you receive frequent phone calls from your child's school regarding his/her behavior? Perhaps you noticed some behavior concerns during remote learning. This training will discuss the components of the Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP), the purpose of the BIP, and steps to acquire one for your child if appropriate. Register HERE

Location Kidzeum of Health and Science, 412 E. Adams St., Springfield A sensory-friendly opportunity for children with disabilities and neuro-differences to check out the Kidzeum. Explore the Kidzeum of Health and Science in a sensory-friendly environment on the first Sunday of every month from 9 to 10 a.m. Kidzeum will reduce lights and noises in... Read more »