www.yai.org
220 East 42nd St, 8th Floor, New York , NY 10017
(212) 273-6100
communications@yai.org
YAI is an organization striving to support the intellectual and developmental disabilities community, including those with autism, Down syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy. YAI offers support through clinical services, community & socialization, crisis & behavior support, day services, education, employment & family support, and residential services. Find what works best for you and your family here.
Eligibility
Individuals of all ages with an intellectual or developmental disability.
How To Apply
Interested in being a part of the YAI community? Please fill out this online form and you will receive a response within five business days. If you prefer to speak with someone, contact YAI at (212) 273-6182 for assistance.
Find more information at www.yai.org
Updated on July 18, 2021
extremekidsandcrew.org
185 Van Dyke Street, Suite 205, Brooklyn, NY 11231
(347) 410-6050 | info@extremekidsandcrew.org
Extreme Kids & Crew Summer camp is a free arts and play program for children with IEPs. Activities are built on a foundation of creative expression, imaginative play, and social emotional learning (SEL). Participants will make friends, build confidence in their abilities, and have fun.
Eligibility
Children with IEPs ages 7 to 12
Activities
Field Trips, Arts and Crafts, and so much more!
How to apply
The application is still not open for summer 2022, but fill out this interest form to be notified when the application opens!
Updated on April 19, 2022
Website
Department of Finance
Dial 311
Tenants that qualify for the NYC Rent Freeze Program for Tenants with Disabilities (DRIE) can have their rent frozen and be exempt from future rent increases. This does not lower your rent but only keeps it from increasing.
To be eligible for DRIE, you must meet the following requirements
► You must be at least 18 years old.
You must receive one of the following:
► Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
► Social Security Disability Income (SSDI)
► Disability-related Medicaid (if you have received either SSI or SSDI in the past)
► Veterans Affairs Disability Pension
► Veterans Affairs Compensation
► United States Postal Service (USPS) Disability Pension
► United States Postal Service (USPS) Disability Compensation
► You must live in an eligible apartment type.
► You must be named on the lease or the rent order or have been granted succession rights to the apartment.
Also
► The apartment must be your primary residence, meaning you live there for most of the year.
► You must spend more than one-third of your monthly household income on rent.
► The total combined income for all members of your household must be $50,000 or less in the prior calendar year (DRIE records all income sources, taxable, and non-taxable. You can’t deduct your medical expenses and Medicare premium).
More information on eligibility at Disability Rent Increase Exemption.
Application
Complete the DRIE Initial Application. You can submit your application online by signing up with the Department of Finance or by sending it to New York City Department of Finance Rent Freeze Program – DRIE P.O. Box 3179 Union, NJ 07083
More information about the application at Disability Rent Increase Exemption.
Updated on December 13, 2020
AHRC Middle / High School
1201 66th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11219
(718) 259-4389
A program that provides services to adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and those classified with emotional disturbances, multiple disabilities, or other health impairments; as well as students with a learning disability and intellectual disability.
AHRC Middle/ High School, (also known as MHS,) is divided into two distinct programs: a middle school for students ages 12-14 and a high school for students ages 15-21. Within these two schools, there are classrooms with ratios of 8:1:2 and 10:1:2, depending on the support needs of the student. The classroom teachers are all New York State Certified.
Click here to download a pdf file including additional information about how AHRC Middle / High School can help prepare your child for adulthood.
Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary
2335 Gerritsen Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11229
(718) 834-0597
Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary, (also known as BBF,) accepts children between 5 and 12 years of age who reside in the five New York City boroughs. Children must exhibit behavioral characteristics associated with autism and must have an educational classification of autism. Students must be recommended for a Non-Public School (NPS) placement by the New York City Department of Education. The school aims to help students achieve the level of functioning that will allow them to transition to less restrictive environments.
Virtual tour on pdf or video.
Autism Spectrum Disorder at Neighborhood Charter Schools (NSC)
info@NCSchools.org
Neighborhood Charter Schools provides a rare opportunity for students to access both social-emotional learnings as well as rigorous academics. Our program is described as ‘inclusive education’ which means our students with ASD are fully included in their classrooms, learning alongside their ‘neurotypical’ peers.
Videos of Parents Talking About the ASD Program
If you feel your child would be a good fit for NCS, access the application process.
includenyc.org/resources/tip-sheet/applying-for-childcare
(212) 677-4650
info@includenyc.org
Based on your income, childcare can be free to low cost with a childcare subsidy. Use the ACS Eligibility Wizard to see if you qualify by visiting
https://on.nyc.gov/2NzqOYc.
To apply for an ACS childcare subsidy, the application and a list of other forms you will need to complete can be found here: https://on.nyc.gov/2KYia3W. Submit applications to an approved ACS funded childcare provider. You must submit three months of consecutive pay stubs in order to verify employment. If you cannot, your employer can complete the “Referral to Employer for Income Information” form.
Find more information in this tipsheet by IncludeNYC.
ESPAÑOL/SPANISH
https://www.includenyc.org/resources/tip-sheet/applying-for-childcare
Según sus ingresos, el cuidado de niños puede ser gratuito o de bajo costo con un subsidio de cuidado de niños. Utilice el Asistente de Elegibilidad de ACS para ver si califica visitando
on.nyc.gov/2NzqOYc.
Para solicitar un subsidio de cuidado infantil de ACS, la solicitud y una lista de otros formularios que deberá completar se pueden encontrar aquí: on.nyc.gov/2KYia3W. Envíe las solicitudes a un proveedor de cuidado infantil financiado por ACS. Debe enviar tres meses de comprobantes de pago consecutivos para verificar el empleo. Si no puede, su empleador puede completar el formulario “Remisión al empleador para información de ingresos”.
Updated on August 31, 2020
Developmental Disabilities
NYC Children
Administration for Children’s Services Offices
Parenting a child with developmental disabilities requires patience, planning, information and resources. Learn more about resources offered by the city including:
-Child evaluation services
-Medicaid waiver programs (OPWDD)
-Assistive technology and equipment
-Resources for children with autism
-Assistance with serious emotional problems
Visit the Developmental Disability website to learn more about each program and how to get started.
nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/early-intervention.page
311 (ask for Early Intervention)
The Early Intervention (EI) Program helps young children who are not learning, playing, growing, talking, or walking like other children their age. The program works with your family to set goals for your child and create a plan to help your child and your family meet these goals.
Children that are eligible for Early Intervention services (therapy) are those who:
► Are younger than 3 years old (must refer before 2 years and 11 months)*
► Have a delay in one or more of the following areas of development: physical (motor skills), cognitive, communications (verbal/talking), social-emotional, and/or adaptive.
► EI is available to all eligible New York City children, regardless of race, ethnicity, income, disability, or immigration status, and services are provided at no cost.
How can I get services?
— Speak to a social worker for assistance (ask your child’s doctor for a referral).
— Doctors can also make a referral by completing the Early Intervention Program Referral Form.
— Alternatively, you can call 311 and ask for “Early Intervention Evaluation Services”.
What happens after my child gets referred?
1. A service coordinator will contact you. They will explain what are the EI services, begin the evaluation process, and then select with you an agency to use for the evaluation. (This same person will continue to provide assistance while your child is in the program.)
2. Your child will have an evaluation by a specialist from the agency you select.
3. If your child has a delay, they may be eligible for EI services.
Remember that therapeutic early intervention services have been shown to improve developmental outcomes, mitigate behavioral concerns, and increase caregiver confidence.
*If your child is 2 years 11 months or older and you think he needs special education, visit “Preschool Special Education Services”.
Find more information about EI services in NYC by visiting the EIP website by NYC Health.
Early Intervention handout.
Spanish Early Intervention handout.
El programa de intervención temprana ayuda a los niños que no están aprendiendo, jugando, creciendo, hablando o caminando como otros niños. Este programa ayuda a crear metas para tu hijo y un plan para ayudar a alcanzar estas metas.
**MUY IMPORTANTE: habla con un trabajador social para obtener asistencia o pide al doctor de tu hijo un referido a “Intervención Temprana”. Los doctores pueden hacer un referrido completando este formulario Early Intervention Program Referral Form. Alternativamente, llama al 311 y pregunta por “Intervencion Temprana”.
Hoja informacional para aplicar a una evaluación y obtener servicios de Intervención Temprana.
Si tu niño tiene 2 años y 11 meses o es mayor, y crees que necesita servicios de educación especial visita “Servicios de Educación Pre-escolar Especial” para más información.
Updated on February 16, 2023
schools.nyc.gov/learning/special-education/preschool-to-age-21/moving-to-preschool
Contact Your District’s Committee on Preschool Special Education Services by email
311
The Early Intervention (EI) Program provides services to families concerned about their child’s development. These services are provided free of charge to families.
If you are concerned about your child’s development and you are interested in a preschool special education evaluation, you can write a letter to your local Committee of Preschool Special Education CPSE . This letter is called an “initial referral” and it must be made in writing.
Requesting special education services handout (English).
Hoja informativa acerca de cómo solicitar servicios de educación especial/Requesting special education services handout (Spanish).
Preschool Special Education Services Template Letter (English)
Carta modelo para solicitar servicios de educación especial con instrucciones en espñol/Preschool Special Education Services Template Letter with Spanish instructions.
You may provide the referral to your CPSE in person, by fax, or by mail. To find out which CPSE covers your child’s home address and to get your CPSE office’s contact information visit this website. You will need to know your child’s school district. To find that district, look up your school’s address with the Find a School tool.
El Programa de Intervención Temprana (EI por sus siglas en inglés) ofrece servicios a familias con preocupaciones acerca del desarrollo de su hijo/a sin ningún costo. Si está interesado en una evaluación, escriba una carta al CPSE (Committee on Preschool Special Education) local.
Esta primera carta es la “remisión inicial” y debe ser escrita. Carta modelo para solicitar una evaluacion para obtener servicios de educación especial durante el pre-escolar.
Entregue la carta en persona o envíela por fax o email. Para encontrar el CPSE que cubre el domicilio de su niño, visite esta página. Necesitará conocer el distrito de la escuela de su hijo para localizar su CPSE. Para encontrar el distrito, visite Find a School tool. En la página Find a School Tool localice en el menú superior “Select language” y seleccione “Spanish”.
Website
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are a part of public education. They are given to eligible kids who attend public school. That includes charter schools. Furthermore, students with IEPs participate in the same admissions processes as their non-disabled peers. All schools serve students with disabilities.
An IEP is a map that lays out the program of special education instruction, supports, and services kids need to make progress and thrive in school. The term IEP is also used to refer to the written plan that spells out the specific types of help kids will get.
IEP handout and template letter of request for an evaluation
Spanish IEP handout and template letter of request for an evaluation
El Plan de Educación Individualizado (IEP en inglés) es un mapa que ilustra las instrucciones, apoyos, y servicios del programa de educación especial que los niños necesitan para mejorar en la escuela.
El término IEP también se refiere al plan escrito que detalla los tipos de ayuda específica que el niño va a recibir. Carta modelo para solicitar una evaluación al rector de la escuela (para su niño de 6 o más años)
.
Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)
44 Holland Avenue, Albany NY 12229
(866) 946-9733
info@opwdd.ny.gov
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is a state agency that provides services to people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many children with IEP (Individualized Educational Plan) classifications of Intellectual Disability (ID), Multiple Disabilities (MD), or Autism qualify for OPWDD services.
Understanding the process of applying to OPWDD services can be confusing. Advocates for Children has created a helpful resource to help you navigate the steps involved when you apply for special needs services for your child. Access the guidance document here.
INCLUDEnyc
116 E. 16th Street, 5th floor, New York, NY 10003
(212) 677-4650; Text 646-693-3175 | Español: 212-677-4668; Texto: (646) 693-3157; Whatsapp (212) 858-0795
info@includenyc.org
INCLUDEnyc is the leading provider of training and information for children and young people with any disability (age 0-26) in New York City, their families, and the professionals who support them.
Connect with INCLUDEnyc to get support and learn about: education resources and programs, preschool and younger, navigating NYC schools and applications, special education, developmental disability services, busing/specialized transportation, bullying and behavior, family issues, child socialization, recreation, financial support, health, legal services and more.<
To access resources visit includenyc.org/help-center/resources or call the helpline at (212) 677-4650 to get connected with the best programs that fit your child and family needs.
Updated on May 5, 2022
Advocates for Children
151 West 30th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10001
Education Helpline (866) 427-6033 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Thursday
info@advocatesforchildren.org
Advocates for Children of New York (AFC) offers NYC families education assistance in a number of different ways. The organization:
–Provides free advice (and sometimes legal representation) for families of students who are struggling or experiencing discrimination in school
—Offers free training and workshops so parents can advocate effectively on behalf of their children
–Litigates for improvements in NYC’s education system
–Provides protection for the most vulnerable students, such as those who are disabled, disadvantaged, minority or low income, so they too can enjoy a quality education
All of AFC’s projects involve special education advocacy to some extent, as they target specific populations that tend to include a disproportionate share of students with disabilities.
AFC serves New York City students from birth through age 26, focusing on students from low-income backgrounds who are struggling in school or experiencing school discrimination of any kind.
ADAPT TechWorks
175 Lawrence Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230
techworks@adaptcommunitynetwork.org
(718) 436-7979 ext. 711
Assistive Technology by the ADAPR Community Network finds solutions to enable individuals to adapt to their environment with a wide range of options when they have special needs.
ADAPT Community Network provides evaluation, selection, instruction, and introduction customized to each individual’s needs. Their Assistive Technology includes vision, hearing, communication, daily living, and environmental control modifications.
Examples of devices or resources that the organization facilitates to children with special needs are: adapted toys and switches, adapted computers and peripherals, wheelchairs and inserts, augmentative communication systems, daily living devices, home and workplace modifications, environmental control units, and adapted telephones.
Please contact the ADAPT TechWorks Centers for information or to schedule an appointment by sending an email to techworks@adaptcommunitynetwork.org or calling (718) 436-7979 ext. 711
Learn about more services provided by the ADAPT Community Network here.
ARCH NYC Headquarters
83 Maiden Lane, New York, NY 10038
AHRC is a family governed organization committed to finding ways for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities to build full lives as defined by each person and supported by dedicated families, staff, and community partners. Find services from medical and dental care, school services, and recreational programs.
✳Medical Services
AHRC’s ACCESS Community Health Center located in downtown Manhattan offers evaluations, therapy, and a full range of primary and specialty health care services, including a special needs dental clinic.
Most insurance plans are accepted. Sliding scale for the uninsured. Call 212-895-3410 for more info or to schedule an appointment.
✳Education
AHRC runs various educational programs:
—Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary School for children ages 5 to 12 with autism spectrum disorders.
—AHRC Middle/High School for ages 13 to 21 who are classified with autism spectrum disorders, emotional disturbances, multiple disabilities, or other health impairments.
✳Evaluations
Children ages 3 to 5: can receive evaluations at no direct cost to families through the Early Intervention service system. These services are funded through the state and city in accordance with federal law. The child with a suspected developmental delay will need an Early Intervention Services Coordinator. For more information on preschool services, call the intake coordinator at 800-459-7596.
✳Recreation
Various activities, including social groups for children, theater, sports, and arts and crafts, are available for all ages. Travel and vacations are even made possible for adults with disabilities. For information about activities taking place in all five boroughs, call AHRC’s Referral and Information Center at 212-780-4491 or email referrals@ahrcnyc.org.
Website
(212) 690-7234
34 West 139th Street New York, NY 10037
The Harlem Child Development Center is a program that is part of The Jewish Board and has different services that will help children of many ages with many developmental, neurological, emotional, and behavioral problems.
There are individual and group services for the children, their families, and those who take care of them.
The services include a Therapeutic Nursery School, Special Education Itinerant Teaching Program, Early Childhood Consultation, and an Outpatient Clinic.
| Therapeutic Nursery School
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For children 3 to 5 years of age presenting with developmental delays, communication problems, social/emotional/behavioral difficulties, or attention and learning deficits. |
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| Early Childhood Consultation | Specialists in child/family development provide ongoing, on-site consultation to private and public preschools. Consultants observe children, meet with directors and teachers, conduct workshops, and offer parent guidance, including child development referrals for assessment and services when needed. |
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| Virginia and Leonard Marx Outpatient Clinic
|
Serves families with infants, toddlers, and children through elementary school age (up to age 8). The clinic offers evaluations and treatment planning; parent-child psychotherapy; individual, family, and group therapy; and family guidance. Learn more about the Virginia and Leonard Marx Outpatient Clinic. |
For more information about programs and services offered by The Jewish Board click, here or call (212) 690-7234.
El Centro de Desarrollo para Niños en Harlem es un programa que hace parte del Jewish Board, el cual tiene muchos servicios que asisten a niños de todas las edades con problemas de desarrollo, neurológicos, de comportamiento y emocionales.
Los servicios incluyen una enfermera de terapia en la guardería, consultas de niñez temprana, y servicios médicos ambulatorios. Para mas información acceda esta hoja informacional o llame o visite al número o dirección escrito arriba.
Updated on May 5, 2022
ABC (Association to Benefit Children)
Administrative office: 419 East 86th Street (between 1st and York Ave.), New York, NY 10028
ABC Schools’ addresses
(212) 845-3821
abc@a-b-c.org
Echo Park Children and Family Center
1841 Park Avenue (between Park and Lexington Ave.), New York, NY 10035
ABC offers distinctive programs that respond to the unique and changing need of a child and family.
Early Childhood: programs that offer therapy and lessons at the centers or at home for children of low income families, with disabilities, or those that have gone through trauma or homelessness. ABC Schools and program details at www.a-b-c.org/early-childhood.
After School Programs and Youth Services: available at Echo Park, ABC offers to children 5-21 years old academic round support for school with the Therapeutic Afterschool Program. In Afterschool, students also participate in “Study Buddies Connect”, a program where they connect with volunteer buddies who help them achieve their academic goals. Camp Calvin is a 6-week Therapeutic Summer Day Camp. Learn more at www.a-b-c.org/youth-services
All Children’s House: serves children from birth to age 5—those at highest risk for morbidity and mortality resulting from abuse and neglect. All Children’s House builds child-parent attachment to help shield children against the extreme strains of poverty and complex trauma. To learn more visit www.a-b-c.org/preventive-services
La Asociación de Beneficios para los Niños (ABC en inglés) ubicada de la Parte Alta Este de Manhattan tiene programas que benefician a niños y familias como:
-Niñez Temprana: programas que ofrecen terapia y clases en los centros o en las casas de niños de bajos recursos, sin hogar, con discapacidades o que han experimentado traumas. Encuentras escuelas ABC y detalles de los programas visitando www.a-b-c.org/early-childhood.
-Apoyo para la Familia: programas para todos los miembros de la familia como entrenamiento de computadoras y trabajos, clases de inglés, ayuda con el examen de ciudadanía, ayuda den inmigración, grupos de apoyo para sobrevivientes de violencia doméstica y más. El programa de los sábados ofrece un refugio seguro para niños y familias con comidas para todos los participantes. Aprende más visitandowww.a-b-c.org/family-support
-Servicios de Juventud: Disponibles en Echo Park, ABC ofrece apoyo académico completo para niños desde los 5 hasta los 21 años con el Programa Postescolar Terapéutico. Después de la escuela, los niños también pueden participar en “Buddy Connect”, un programa donde ellos se conectan con voluntarios amigos que les ayudan a alcanzar sus metas académicas.
All Children’s House: El programa sirve a niños desde el nacimiento hasta los 5 años que se consideran en alto riesfo de morbilidad y mortalidad por abuso y negligencia. All Children’s House crea lazos de apego familiar que ayudan a proteger a los niños de los efectos más graves de la pobreza y el trauma complejo. Aprende más acerca del programa visitando www.a-b-c.org/preventive-services
Updated on May 5, 2022
