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Peer support, educational, and activity-based groups via Zoom for kids who have a brother or sister with a disability or chronic condition. This is a free, online event. RSVP is required. Please email ahren.hoffman@aah.org to RSVP This is a repeating event with additional dates on May 17, & June 21, 2025, from 10 - 11:30am This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: ahren.hoffman@aah.org.

Come curious. Come ready to inspire and be inspired. Come be part of the shift. How can stories lead to transformation in Chicago and beyond? Film has the power to help us imagine, dream, and open our minds to a world that reflects our deepest hopes and humanity. Join a panel of storytellers, visionaries, and changemakers who stutter who are using the art of film to address challenges and opportunities to make change in our communities. During our time together, we will hear and see glimpses of projects from the following panelists: Maya Chupkov, founder and executive director of Proud Stutter Reveca Torres, filmmaker and disability advocate The panel will be moderated by Danielle Scruggs, the founder of Black Women Directors. Remarks will be given by Northwestern faculty: Elisha Boxer Magnifico from CSD, David Catlin from the Department of Theatre, and Catherine Carrigan from RTVF. Because Chicago has a rich and diverse community with deep historical roots, and the program will lift up topics that touch different issues, the event brings together distinct but intersectional communities: stuttering, journalism, film, disability, speech-language pathologists, and justice-impacted. Space is limited! This is a free event, but RSVP is required. Please go here to register. Campus parking lot or street parking available. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: mcsharone@gmail.com.

Join Sitaara as she talks with Natasha Croff and Julie Molina, Parent Support Specialists for Chicago Public Schools, about the CPS application and admissions process for students with disabilities. Natasha and Julie provide expert insights on navigating the system, things to consider when applying to selective enrollment elementary and high schools, available resources and what resources to look for when considering which school may be the best fit. Tune in for practical advice, key steps families should take to ensure their children receive the support they need, and the essential information to help make the admissions journey smoother. This recording is the twelfth episode of NPN's podcast, Chicago Style Parenting. The podcast was published on 3/25/25. For more information and resources about this topic, visit the podcast episode's show notes.

It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). The Zoom link will be included in your eticket. Do you live south of the Loop and want to bring NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group to your area? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss. Register for NPN's Developmental Differences Resource Fair and catch up on NPN's three-part series on special education in Chicago.

It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). This event is in person at Gigi's Play House, 3948 N. Lincoln Chicago, IL 60613. Do you live south of the Loop and want help starting NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group in your neighborhood? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss! Follow these links to see the upcoming NPN three-part series on special education in Chicago and register for NPN's Developmental Differences Resource Fair.

During your preschool and elementary school search, you may be looking for a school where your child will feel a sense of belonging. In this session we will cover what it means for a school and classroom to be inclusive of all students, why it is important, and how to identify an inclusive school during your school search. We will discuss how schools create a welcome environment for families from a variety of cultures, backgrounds, identities, developmental and physical differences and intellectual disabilities. Come with questions! There will be time for Q & A at the end. This session will take place over Zoom. RSVP for the link. Our panelists include experts from Park West Cooperative Nursery School and Blue Bird Day School. Stay tuned for more!

Join Emily Winsor, Managing Director of Tuesday's Child, in the first of a three-part series on Special Education in Chicago. This session will walk parents through the basics of the special education process. Learn who special education is for, key terms, and more. There will be time for questions at the end. This session will be held over Zoom. RSVP to receive the link. In the next session, parents will learn about IEPs (Individual Education Programs), learning environments, and then many steps involved in getting an IEP, or 504 and the order that the steps happen. In the final session, parents will learn how to determine if their child's IEP is "good". The final session will be held in-person at NPN's Developmental Differences Resource Fair (DDRF) on Sunday, April 27th at Wolcott College Prep. RSVP for session 2 here. RSVP for session 3, at DDRF, here. More about our speaker: Emily Winsor MSEd, BCBA brings many years of experience in the fields of Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis. She earned her Master's Degree in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from Endicott College in Beverly, MA, and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2014. Growing up, Emily became interested in Special Education as she watched her mom help hundreds of students in her role as a high school Special Education Teacher and administrator. She decided to pursue a Master's degree in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis when her nephew was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder at age three. Through her education and experience, Emily has learned that providing compassionate care through a collaborative team approach is the best way to help individuals and their families achieve their goals. Emily's priority is for all children and their families to have meaningful, supportive educational experiences and enjoy their lives!

Join Emily Winsor, Managing Director of Tuesday's Child, in the second of a three-part series on Special Education in Chicago. This session will walk you through the first steps you need to take when entering into special education with your child. You will learn about the difference between IEPs and 504s, the continuum of special education services and learning environments in Chicago, the steps of the IEP/504 process, and what to expect during IEP and 504 meetings. There will be time for questions at the end. This session will be held over Zoom. RSVP to receive the link. In the final session, parents will learn how to determine if their child's IEP or 504 is meeting their child's needs. The final session will be held in-person at NPN's Developmental Differences Resource Fair (DDRF) on Sunday, April 27th at Wolcott College Prep. RSVP for session 3 here. More about our speaker: Emily Winsor MSEd, BCBA brings many years of experience in the fields of Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis. She earned her Master's Degree in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from Endicott College in Beverly, MA, and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2014. Growing up, Emily became interested in Special Education as she watched her mom help hundreds of students in her role as a high school Special Education Teacher and administrator. She decided to pursue a Master's degree in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis when her nephew was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder at age three. Through her education and experience, Emily has learned that providing compassionate care through a collaborative team approach is the best way to help individuals and their families achieve their goals. Emily's priority is for all children and their families to have meaningful, supportive educational experiences and enjoy their lives!

Join the Discussion in the NPN Forum on April 24th (Member's Only Event): Ask Emily Winsor, Managing Director of Tuesday's Child, specifics about the IEP process, how to manage your child's challenging behavior or social-emotional challenges, and how to support your child's development. Ask your question here. The thread will open for one day only, April 24th, starting at 5:00 AM. Emily Winsor is a board certified behavior analyst and the managing director of Tuesday's Child. Before joining Tuesday's Child, she served as the Clinical Director at ABA Midwest and the Director of Clinical Services at Reach ABA. She holds a Master of Education (MEd) in special education and teaching from Endicott College. Tuesday’s Child supports Chicago families facing behavioral and social-emotional challenges that hinder their child's ability to thrive at home, in school, and in social settings. Tuesday's Child's evidence-based child behavior and development programs emphasize early intervention, offering essential tools and resources to parents without requiring a formal diagnosis for their children. NPN's Discussion Forum is available to members only. Not a member? Join NPN today!

We apologize for the inconvenience. This meeting has been canceled. The group will meet in-person in March. You can RSVP here. It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). The Zoom link will be included in your eticket. Do you live south of the Loop and want to bring NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group to your area? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss.

Samantha Alloway, Executive Director of The Arc of Illinois talks with Amy about Medicaid. We discuss what it is, what it provides, and who uses it. Parents might be surprised to learn that Medicaid benefits families at all income levels and it makes disability services possible in Illinois. Hear about what services will be lost and who will be at risk if Medicaid funding is cut. Learn how to advocate for full funding and how you can support your neighbors with intellectual and developmental disabilities in your daily life. Important links: The Arc of Illinois Take Action and Contact Your Legislators Share Your Medicaid Story Plus, ask specific questions about Medicaid to The Arc of Illinois' Director of Family to Family Health Information Center here: Susan@thearcofil.org See also: NPN's Developmental Differences Resource Fair - coming up April 27, 2025! NPN's Developmental Differences Resource Directory NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group This recording is the ninth episode of NPN's podcast, Chicago Style Parenting. It was published on 2/13/25.

Join LEEP Forward and NPN for a Preschool Discover Day! Get ready for an exciting, hands-on event designed to introduce children ages 2-5 to the magic of preschool. Siblings of all ages are welcome to join in the fun as we create a morning filled with exploration, creativity, and connection in a warm and inclusive environment. Young learners will engage in activities that spark curiosity and imagination. They can explore our sensory bins, overflowing with exciting textures and hidden treasures, or express their creativity through painting with non-toxic, washable paints. Budding builders can dive into playdough creations, while future storytellers can relax in our cozy story corner with captivating tales. Our preschool-themed event also includes a pretend play area where kids can dress up, role-play, and experience the joy of imaginative adventures. For outdoor fun, families can join a guided nature walk to collect treasures and learn more about the world around them. To keep everyone energized, we’ll provide healthy, allergy-friendly snacks. As an added bonus, every family who attends will be entered into a raffle for a night of respite or babysitting—a special treat for parents. Join us for a morning that offers a glimpse into the preschool experience and showcases how we nurture young minds through play, exploration, and meaningful connections. We can’t wait to welcome you! Location: 1447 W Montrose NPN is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We need your help to keep these playdates free for families. Please support NPN's work by becoming a paid member or donating.

We apologize for the inconvenience. This meeting has been canceled. Please join us at the February meeting. You can learn more and RSVP here. It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). This event is in person at Gigi's Play House, 3948 N. Lincoln Chicago, IL 60613. Do you live south of the Loop and want help starting NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group in your neighborhood? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss!

It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). The Zoom link will be included in your eticket. Do you live south of the Loop and want to bring NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group to your area? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss.

It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). The Zoom link will be included in your eticket. Do you live south of the Loop and want to bring NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group to your area? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss.

It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). The Zoom link will be included in your eticket. Do you live south of the Loop and want to bring NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group to your area? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss.

It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). This event is in person at Gigi's Play House, 3948 N. Lincoln Chicago, IL 60613. Do you live south of the Loop and want help starting NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group in your neighborhood? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss!

It’s a night to be supported, to ask questions and share resources, and to be with other parents who get what it’s like to deal with special challenges for their kids. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, medical issues, etc.). Parents/family only, please (no therapists, students or business owners). This event is in person at Gigi's Play House, 3948 N. Lincoln Chicago, IL 60613. Do you live south of the Loop and want help starting NPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group in your neighborhood? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to discuss!

This webinar is for Illinois families with students of ALL ages who have a disability. Special Education, Disability Rights, and Human Services Attorney Matt Cohen, will break down disability rights, IDEA, ADA, and how post-election results may impact students with disabilities, and what families can do to prepare. All families who have a student with a disability in the state of Illinois are welcome. This is a free, online event, but RSVP is required. Please go here to register. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: ttjeanbaptiste@cps.edu.

Join us this Fall at Northwestern University for Imagine U: The Wong Kids in the Secret of the Space Chupacabra, Go! (OCT 24. -NOV. 3). Check out this special preview video highlighting this production coming together. The Wong Kids is about Violet and Bruce Wong who just don’t fit in with the other Earth kids. Sure, they have superpowers; they’re just not very good ones. But when an evil beast called the Space Chupacabra appears, intent on universal destruction, the Wong kids must travel to far reaches of outer space to stop it ...if they can only stop bickering. Violet and Bruce ultimately realize that being different isn’t just okay; it might just be the most important thing ever. Using a mix of action-driven storytelling, puppetry, and visual magic, The Wong Kids transports its audience into the galaxy’s far reaches. Suggested Ages 7+ Approximate Run Time 70 minutes, no intermission Learn more about the play Learn more about the costumes and the sets No RSVP is required. Tickets are available, please go here for dates, times, and tickets. This is a repeating event, with shows until November 3, 2024. Special sensory showing, November 2, 2024. Discounted tickets for NPN members. Go here for more information. Lot parking available. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: pete.brace@northwestern.edu.

This webinar provides a boundary setting approach that frees you from the frustration and anger at your children's reactions when you make simple requests, provide easy directions, and set limits. With this guidance, you'll experience a mindset shift, and become equipped to be the leader your children - all children, including neurodiverse children - will want to follow. It creates more peace and fun (yes, fun!) in your family life! You'll leave the webinar with: - compassion for what you’re up against, - understanding of the hidden reasons for your child’s default settings - know-how for factoring your child's settings in to your interactions, and - key principles to anchor you as you use the - scripts and - implementation plan provided - - knowing you can become a Serenely-Confident-Parent™! This is a recurring event being offered two other times: Wednesday, Nov 13th at 9:30amCT Saturday, Nov 16th at 10:30amCT This is a free, online event, but RSVP is required. Please go here to register. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: sheryl@stollerparentcoaching.com.

This playdate has been canceled and is in the process of being rescheduled. Please check the NPN calendar soon for the new date. We are sorry for this inconvenience. Thank you for your understanding. Join LEEP Forward and NPN for Autumn Adventures! This sensory-friendly, inclusive event is designed for all children, ages 2-5, with siblings of all ages welcome to join in the fun! Embrace the magic of autumn with a variety of engaging activities that promote exploration and creativity: Children can dive into our Leaf Sensory Bin filled with dried leaves, acorns, and other textures, or enjoy the Apple Sensory Bin where they can scoop and discover hidden treasures. We’ll have a Pumpkin Painting station where little artists can decorate mini pumpkins with non-toxic, washable paint, and a playdough Station featuring autumn colors for creative molding and shaping. For imaginative play, kids can dress up our friendly scarecrow using old clothes and hay, and relax in our Autumn Story Corner with cozy blankets and captivating fall-themed stories. Plus, don’t miss our guided Nature Walk, where everyone can collect autumn treasures! We will also have a bounce house for our little adventurers seeking more movement activities. Our event will also include a ball pit and sensory tables for more hands-on exploration. Finally, we’ll provide healthy, allergy-friendly snacks to keep everyone energized, and every family will be entered into a raffle for a night of respite or babysitting! Join us for a morning of sensory exploration, connection, and autumn fun in an inclusive environment. We can’t wait to see you there! Location: 1447 W Montrose NPN Playdates are free for NPN members. We ask non-members to contribute $20, which comes with a one-year NPN membership giving you free access to every playdate! Non-members, RSVP and then contribute HERE. If you are experiencing financial hardship, contact us at director@npnparents.org to ask about our fee-waived memberships and playdates.

Victoria Djembe & Chicago Warriors Drum Class! For the AUTISM and Disabilty Community! Learn fun African history along with basic sounds and rhythms of the Djembe and Dundun Drums. Class fee is $15. To RSVP and for info, email Adonis Haymer adonishaymer81@yahoo.com. Street Parking availalbe. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: adonishaymer81@yahoo.com.