THE EAST COAST'S LARGEST HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA! A three-day family event featuring more than 800 uniquely decorated holiday trees, wreaths & gingerbread houses, live entertainment, over 100 gift boutiques and Santa himself.
Location: Maryland State Fairgrounds
The Cow Palace
2200 York Road
Timonium, Maryland 21093
Breakfast with Santa tickets include a hot buffet breakfast and all-day admission to Festival of Trees! Children 12 and under will receive a special gift from Santa, unlimited train and carousel rides, and access to the fun house!
To make the Breakfast with Santa event more special and to cut down on the crowds, Kennedy Krieger Institute is selling a limited number of tickets based on the amount of seating available for breakfast. Any child with a free ticket MUST sit on an adult’s lap during the breakfast.
Location:
Cow Palace
2200 York Rd
Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093
Sensory Friendly Santa at The Mall at Prince George's
December 1, 2019 –
Children within every spectrum of special needs and their families are invited to a private photo session, to experience the time-honored tradition of a visit with Santa Claus during dedicated hours. Please reserve your complimentary ticket on Eventbrite - ONE TICKET per group/family, please.
Location:
The Mall at Prince Georges 3500 East West Highway
Hyattsville, MD 20782
Group leader Grace Myhill, MSW, focuses small group discussions on coping strategies for the unique issues that arise because of the neurological differences between each partner in a neurodiverse couple.
Discover our Children's Sensory Room, a unique space for children (ages 14 and under) of all abilities to enjoy with their families and caregivers. The Children's Sensory Room provides stimulation and relaxation through touch, light, sound and using an array of multi-sensory experiences.
Families are invited to attend a weekly play and learning time with their child: birth to age 5 of all abilities. Children will learn through play and parents/caregivers will be able to access resources and support from the staff of the Parent Resource Center. Join us for playtime, crafts, social skills, and music & movement activities.
Please note: Playgroup will not be held if schools are closed or there is a 2-hour delay.
Contact Name : Cecil County Public Schools Parent Resource Center for Special Education
Contact Email : PRC@ccps.org
Location: CCPS Parent Resource Center for Special Education 203 Newark Avenue Gilpin Manor Elementary School Elkton, Maryland 21921
Children of all abilities and their caregivers welcome to this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Children of all abilities and their caregivers welcome to this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Support Group of the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake
December 5, 2019 –
Support group open to all adults. Meeting begins with general announcements about upcoming activities, followed by individual introductions and the invitation to share one "golden moment" you've experienced during the previous month. Following that, there will be time for questions and follow-up discussion as well as further opportunity for group support and socialization. Some meetings will have speakers on topics of interest to the autism community in the Baltimore area.
Light refreshments and handouts available along with access to our lending library.
Please be aware that support group meetings are for adults as some topics discussed may not be suitable for children, and child care is not provided.
For information about ASBC, call our phone line at 410-655-7933 or email info@baltimoreautismsociety.org
Location
Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital, 3rd Floor Conference Room
1708 W Rogers Ave
Baltimore, MD 21209
Reserve your space now for the 8th annual Sensory Friendly Santa event at Fair Oaks Mall's Santa's Flight Academy! Fair Oaks Mall will create sensory-friendly adaptations to Santa's Flight Academy to allow for a softer environment with lower lights and sounds for children with special needs. This private event will allow your family to avoid the lines this holiday season.
All families with children with Autism and other special needs can enjoy the time-honored tradition of a visit with Santa, in a more subdued and calmer environment. This is a registration only event with 10 minute slots available from 9:30am until 1:00pm. Registration will begin two weeks prior to the event on November 23rd. Limited spots and this event fills up quickly!
Please call the Mountain Road Community branch at 410-222-6699 to register
An accepting, judgment-free story time that welcomes children of all abilities, but is especially designed for children sensitive to large groups. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Sibling participation encouraged. Limited seating.
Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
Contact Name : Jennifer Riley
Contact Email : jriley@bcpl.net
Location: Baltimore County Public Library, Perry Hall Branch 9685 Honeygo Blvd Perry Hall, MD 21128
Sensory Friendly Visit with Santa The Mall in Columbia
December 8, 2019 –
As part of the Say “Santa!” with It’s a Wonderful Lifetime photo takeover, Lifetime, Brookfield Properties, and the national advocacy organization, Autism Speaks, join together for Santa Cares Day—a sensory friendly event providing early access and extra time to visit and take photos with Santa to families with kids with autism and other special needs.
If you would like to schedule a visit with Santa on Santa Cares Day, please use the Eventbrite widget below to reserve your complimentary ticket. One ticket per group/family, please.
Location: The Mall In Columbia
(Lower Level – Near Lord & Taylor) 10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy
Columbia, MD 21044
Children within every spectrum of special needs and their families are invited to a private photo session, to experience the time-honored tradition of a visit with Santa Claus during dedicated hours. Please reserve your complimentary ticket on Eventbrite - ONE TICKET per group/family, please.
Visits with Santa are free. Photo packages that capture holiday memories will be available for purchase at the event, pricing varies by location.
Location:
The Shops at Kenilworth
800 Kenilworth Dr.
Towson, MD 21204
Children of all abilities and their caregivers welcome to this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Contact Name : Cari Gast
Contact Email : cari.gast@hclibrary.org
Location: HCLS Miller Branch Library 9421 Frederick Rd Ellicott City, MD 21042
Children of all abilities and their caregivers welcome at this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Contact Name : Cari Gast
Contact Email : cari.gast@hclibrary.org
Location: HCLS Central Branch Library 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy Columbia, MD 21044
Discover our Children's Sensory Room, a unique space for children (ages 14 and under) of all abilities to enjoy with their families and caregivers. The Children's Sensory Room provides stimulation and relaxation through touch, light, sound and using an array of multi-sensory experiences.
Children of all abilities and their caregivers are welcome to this small informal, judgment-free learning environment. A great opportunity to support young children in developing early literacy and group social skills through free play and sensory exploration. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Families are invited to attend a weekly play and learning time with their child: birth to age 5 of all abilities. Children will learn through play and parents/caregivers will be able to access resources and support from the staff of the Parent Resource Center. Join us for playtime, crafts, social skills, and music & movement activities.
Please note: Playgroup will not be held if schools are closed or there is a 2-hour delay.
Contact Name : Cecil County Public Schools Parent Resource Center for Special Education
Contact Email : PRC@ccps.org
Location: CCPS Parent Resource Center for Special Education 203 Newark Avenue Gilpin Manor Elementary School Elkton, Maryland 21921
Transition planning is when a student with a disability, along with family members, the school system, and service providers, begin to officially plan for life after high school.
Transition planning should begin when you are 14 (if not earlier!). This may sound very early, but if you plan to apply for services you may need to get your applications in before you graduate so your supports are ready for you when you leave school.
Overview of Training Importance of planning Eligibility
1) Transition Programs & Services
2) Employment First
3) DDA Waivers
Who should attend? * Self-advocates
* Family members/Allies
We have established a self- advocacy group that welcomes not only the individuals with disabilities that we serve but others as well. The group is called Voices of U.S. (Unified Speakers).
All Voices of U.S meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month from 6:00pm-8:00pm at the Mid-Atlantic Main Office (2109 Laurel Bush Road, Bel Air MD, 21015).
Each meeting is a social event where people can discuss whatever recent success they have had, current events and hold fundraisers.
All attendees receive food and drink at every meeting.
Volunteers are welcomed!
Feel free to ask any questions.
Parnell Barmer
Day Options Director, Mid-Atlantic Human Service Corporation
2109 Laurel Bush Road, Bel Air, Maryland, 21015
Cell- 443-468-9815
Contact Name : --
Contact Email : --
Location: Mid-Atlantic Human Service Corporation Main Office 2109 Laurel Bush Road Bel Air, Maryland 21015
Children of all abilities and their caregivers welcome to this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Contact Name : Cari Gast
Contact Email : cari.gast@hclibrary.org
Location: HCLS Miller Branch Library 9421 Frederick Rd Ellicott City, MD 21042
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who communicate and see the world like you do about the challenges that arise in neurodiverse relationships. Not only are coping strategies and tools presented, they are practiced in the meetings to help group members improve their relationship skills.
Please plan to join us to share your expertise and learn critical components about leadership of your local SECAC to support a local and Statewide educational system meeting the needs of students with disabilities and their families.
Contact Name : Carmen Brown
Contact Email : carmen.brown1@maryland.gov
Location: JHU/CTE 6740 Alexander Bell Drive Room 218/219 Columbia, MD 21046
Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
December 12, 2019 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Contact Name : --
Contact Email : --
Location: Baltimore area, contact Grace for details.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
December 12, 2019 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Our Sensory-Friendly performances aim to provide a safe environment where individuals and families can relax and be who they are.
Sensory-Friendly performances are designed to create a theatre experience that is welcoming for individuals on the autism spectrum or those with other sensory sensitivities who might benefit from an adjusted environment.
Adaptations for these performances may include:
Pre-visit social narrative and other preparatory materials describing what to expect.
Lower sound level, especially for surprising or loud sounds;
House lights remain on at a low level in the theatre during the performance;
Lessening of strobe lighting or lighting focused on the audience;
Patrons are welcome to talk and leave their seats during the performance;
Designated take-a-break space and quiet areas;
Space throughout the theatre for standing and movement;
Limited crowds at Ford’s Theatre during the day and timing of the performance;
Ford’s Theatre staff trained to be inviting and accommodating to patron’s needs; and
Allowance for the use of tablets and smartphones for communication.
Sensory Friendly Santa at Churchville Recreation Center
December 14, 2019 –
Churchville Recreation Center – Level Building 3023 Level Road
Churchville, MD 21028
10:00-11:30 am
Please call the Therapeutic Recreation Office to schedule a picture appointment time at 410.638.4899.
Fee – $3.00
Multi-sensory story time, developed for children and families of all abilities, with engaging visuals, interactive stories, adaptive movement and sensory activities. Sibling participation is welcomed. The Children's Sensory Room will be open after story time to explore. Please contact the library to register and discuss special accommodations in advance. This story time is designed for ages 3-8 with parent/caregiver and family.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
December 15, 2019 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
It is a topic that every special needs parent needs to address, but most keep putting off: planning for your child's future financial needs. Please join Bill Heider, Independence Planning Group, and Kelly Nelson, Maryland ABLE, as they prepare us to provide for our children's financial needs. Registered attendees will receive a special needs financial planning book.
Contact Name : Cecil County Public Schools Parent Resource Center for Special Education
Contact Email : prc@ccps.org
Location: CCPS Parent Resource Center for Special Education 203 Newark Avenue Gilpin Manor Elementary School Elkton, Maryland 21921
Families are invited to attend a weekly play and learning time with their child: birth to age 5 of all abilities. Children will learn through play and parents/caregivers will be able to access resources and support from the staff of the Parent Resource Center. Join us for playtime, crafts, social skills, and music & movement activities.
Please note: Playgroup will not be held if schools are closed or there is a 2-hour delay.
Contact Name : Cecil County Public Schools Parent Resource Center for Special Education
Contact Email : PRC@ccps.org
Location: CCPS Parent Resource Center for Special Education 203 Newark Avenue Gilpin Manor Elementary School Elkton, Maryland 21921
Children of all abilities and their caregivers are welcome to this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Contact Name : Cari Gast
Contact Email : cari.gast@hclibrary.org
Location: HCLS Savage Branch Library 9525 Durness Lane Laurel, MD 20723
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
December 17, 2019 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Designed for teens with special needs, this program engages socially as participants explore using hands-on activities. For ages 11 to 19 years old with adult.
Contact Name : Jennifer Riley
Contact Email : jriley@bcpl.net
Location: Baltimore County Public Library, Perry Hall Branch 9685 Honeygo Blvd Perry Hall, MD 21128
Being a parent is among the most difficult jobs in the universe. We are called to teach, model, love, support, comfort, advise, and give discipline. Sometimes these roles conflict with each other and we are pulled in opposing directions. Add in our fast-paced environment and the impact of social media and this job can be monumentally difficult. Parent coaching provides guidance to parents and helps families consider what is going well and what challenges need to be addressed. All kids want to be successful, and parent coaching can give parents the tools to teach kids the skills and resilience they need.
Parenting a child with autism, anxiety, ADHD, and other neurological challenges adds another layer of complexity. Despite the best advice from friends, family, and others, sometimes additional tools and strategies are needed.
Lighthouse is pleased to offer parent coaching one Saturday a month. These 45-minute sessions can stand alone as one-time supports or can be on-going coaching sessions. Prior to the first session, our Social Learning Coordinator, Jolene Farmer, sends a skills inventory for parents to complete. Together with Jolene, parents will prioritize goals and decide on an action plan designed especially for their family.
Our next available session is October 20th. There is one remaining slot available on this day at 1:15pm. The next upcoming dates for coaching sessions is 11/17 from 10am to 2pm.
Please contact Jolene Farmer to schedule
Jolene@lighthousemd.org
Contact Name : --
Contact Email : --
Location: Lighthouse, Inc 60 Mellor Avenue Catonsville, MD 21228
Children of all abilities and their caregivers are welcome to this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Contact Name : Cari Gast
Contact Email : cari.gast@hclibrary.org
Location: HCLS Savage Branch Library 9525 Durness Lane Laurel, MD 20723
For individuals with disabilities; siblings welcome. Kids get a fun night "in" and parents get a date night out. Games, music, movies, pizza and other fun treats! Come dressed in your favorite pajamas, robes and slippers. Staff supervision provided, but no personal care provided.
Families are invited to attend a weekly play and learning time with their child: birth to age 5 of all abilities. Children will learn through play and parents/caregivers will be able to access resources and support from the staff of the Parent Resource Center. Join us for playtime, crafts, social skills, and music & movement activities.
Please note: Playgroup will not be held if schools are closed or there is a 2-hour delay.
Contact Name : Cecil County Public Schools Parent Resource Center for Special Education
Contact Email : PRC@ccps.org
Location: CCPS Parent Resource Center for Special Education 203 Newark Avenue Gilpin Manor Elementary School Elkton, Maryland 21921
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
December 26, 2019 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Sensory Friendly Train Garden at Wise Ave Volunteer Fire Company
December 27, 2019 –
Tour theWise Ave Volunteer Fire Company Train Garden at a more sensory-friendly time! This is a private event for Pathfinders for Autism.
The holiday music will be playing at a lower level and there will be more space to move around.
The garden is one of the largest temporary displays in the country at 20 feet wide by 44 feet long.
Sensory Friendly Train Garden at Jarrettsville Volunteer Fire Company
December 27, 2019 –
Tour the Jarrettsville Volunteer Fire Company Train Garden at a more sensory-friendly time! This is a private event for Pathfinders for Autism. The holiday music will be playing at a lower level and there will be more space to move around.
Thursday, December 27, 2018
12:00pm – 2:00pm
You may arrive any time during this time frame.
Children of all abilities and their caregivers welcome to this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Children of all abilities and their caregivers welcome to this supportive, judgment-free class that includes stories, music, and movement in a small group. Ages 3-5 with adult.
Support Group of the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake
January 2, 2020 –
Support group open to all adults. Meeting begins with general announcements about upcoming activities, followed by individual introductions and the invitation to share one "golden moment" you've experienced during the previous month. Following that, there will be time for questions and follow-up discussion as well as further opportunity for group support and socialization. Some meetings will have speakers on topics of interest to the autism community in the Baltimore area.
Light refreshments and handouts available along with access to our lending library.
Please be aware that support group meetings are for adults as some topics discussed may not be suitable for children, and child care is not provided.
For information about ASBC, call our phone line at 410-655-7933 or email info@baltimoreautismsociety.org
Location
Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital, 3rd Floor Conference Room
1708 W Rogers Ave
Baltimore, MD 21209
An accepting, judgment-free story time that welcomes children of all abilities, but is especially designed for children sensitive to large groups. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Sibling participation encouraged. Limited seating.
Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
Contact Name : Jennifer Riley
Contact Email : jriley@bcpl.net
Location: Baltimore County Public Library, Perry Hall Branch 9685 Honeygo Blvd Perry Hall, MD 21128
Kennedy Krieger Festival of Trees
Sensory Friendly Santa at The Mall at Prince George's
