Winter break is a time for fun and relaxation; special needs children can enjoy plenty of activities in NYC. Here are a few ideas:   Sensory-friendly activities: The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: This museum offers sensory-friendly hours on select dates, dimmed lights, reduced noise levels, and designated quiet spaces. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits, including the Space Shuttle Enterprise, at their own pace. Children's Museum of Manhattan: This museum has various exhibits designed to be engaging and interactive for children of all abilities. There is also a ..read more

So, you're moving to NYC with your little superhero, who happens to have a few special powers? Buckle up because the city that never sleeps offers a vibrant tapestry of opportunities for every kind of adventurer, including those with unique needs. But fear not, intrepid parents! This guide will equip you to navigate the bustling boroughs and ensure your child thrives in the concrete jungle. Finding Your Tribe Connect with the City: NYC boasts a robust network of organizations supporting families with special needs. The Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) is your one-s ..read more

Bringing a child into the world brings joy, hopes, and dreams. However, when parents discover that their child has special needs, the emotional landscape shifts, and fears may arise. In such situations, the assistance of a lawyer becomes invaluable, helping parents navigate the complex legal and emotional terrain. In this blog, we'll explore some common fears parents face when raising a child with special needs and shed light on why hiring a lawyer can make a significant difference. Educational Challenges and Advocacy: Fear: Parents may worry about securing the best possible education for th ..read more

Setting goals is crucial for the success and development of individuals with learning disabilities. It allows them to visualize their future, make informed choices, and work towards making their dreams a reality. However, goal setting can be challenging for children with disabilities, particularly those with Executive Function Disorder. In this blog, we will discuss effective strategies to help children with disabilities set and achieve their goals, despite any obstacles they may face. Dreams&n ..read more

December bursts with sensory delights. Twinkling lights paint the night sky, carols fill the air, and tempting aromas waft from kitchens filled with holiday cheer. For children with special needs, this season can be incredibly stimulating, offering a wealth of opportunities to explore and engage with the world around them. In this blog post, we'll delve into the benefits of sensory activities for children with special needs and share some fun and festive ideas to make the most of December's sensory playground. ,The Power of Sensory Play Sensory play benefits children of all abilities, but it ..read more

About This Episode Podcast host Adam Dayan, NYC Special Education Attorney, sits down with Bruce Maier, Financial Advisor and Managing Partner of Iron Birch Advisors to demystify the process of planning financially for a child with special needs. Throughout this episode, they explore ways in which parents can ensure long-term financial stability for their disabled child after they are gone by establishing a Special Needs Trust. They speak about the legal tools needed for estate planning to better protect a disabled child from being disqualified from receiving future assistance from government ..read more

"The only disability in life is the attitude of not trying." - Stephen Hawking Imagine a world where every building is accessible, every sidewalk is smooth and even, and every communication channel is tailored to accommodate different sensory needs. In this ideal world, individuals with disabilities would not face the constant hurdles that often impede their mobility, education, and employment opportunities. International Persons with Disabilities Day (IDPD) is an international observance promoted by the United Nations since 1992. It is observed on December 3rd each year to promote the rights ..read more

About This Episode Podcast host Adam Dayan, NYC Special Education Attorney, discusses the process of pursuing adult services with Heather Deutsch, teacher, parenting coach, and founding member of Imagine Academy. As a mother of 24-year-old triplets and an 18-year-old son, Heather shares the turbulent journey she navigated while seeking adult services for her nonverbal, autistic son. While describing the seemingly endless roadblocks and bureaucratic obstacles she encountered, Heather speaks about the benefits of having legal representation and the need for resourceful advocacy when fighting fo ..read more

A special needs trust provides financial support for a person with special needs without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits. Special needs trusts can be created by parents, grandparents, other family members, or friends of the person. The beneficiary of a Special Needs Trust (SNT) must have a disability recognized by section 1614(a)(3) of the Social Security Act. A complete list of recognized disabilities for adults and children is available here. Who needs a Special Needs Trust? Anyone who has a loved one with a disability may want to consider creating a special needs tru ..read more

Ohtahara Syndrome (OS) is a rare, severe epileptic encephalopathy that begins in the first few months of life. A triad of symptoms characterizes it: Tonic spasms: These are sudden, brief stiffening of the body that can occur multiple times a day. Burst suppression pattern on EEG: This is a characteristic pattern on an electroencephalogram (EEG), which is a test that measures electrical activity in the brain. Developmental delay: Children with OS typically have delayed development in all areas, including motor skills, language skills, and cognitive skills. The cause of OS is unknown, but it ..read more