Special Needs
Special Needs Programs
Gerrie Mayerhoff, MS PD
Co-Director Special Services
Director of C.H.I.L.D. Program, (718) 225-6750 ext. 262
GMayerhoff@sfy.org
Shira Segev, LMSW
Program Director Community-Based Services for Children with Disabilities
(718) 423-6111
SSegev@sfy.org
Robin J. Topol, LCSW
Director Special Services, (718) 225-6750 ext. 259
RTopol@sfy.org
For Children with Developmental Disabilities
The Special Services Department of the Samuel Field Y is now in the process of registering for the summer camp programs. This department services children ages 5-21 who have a developmental disability. The Childhood program is for children ages 5 – 9 years old and is based at the Samuel Field Y in Little Neck. This program includes activities such as swim time, arts and crafts, sports, structured play, creative movement, and music. The Campsite program is for children ages 10 –21 years of age. This summer program is based off-site at the Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds. Activities for this summer camp program include nature walks, sports, swimming, arts and crafts, music, drama, and if the child meets certain criteria there will be a possible overnight available. All programs work on socialization and skills of independence. For more information please call Robin Topol, LCSW, Director of Special Services at 718-225-6750, x259.
- AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
This after school care program is for children having developmental disabilities ages 5-21. Groups meet daily after school under the direction a professionally supervised staff. New York City Board of Education transportation is provided from school to the Y and van transportation may be provided by the Y to the child's home at the end of the day. Contact Robin Topol, ext. 259. RTopol@sfy.org
- PROJECT CHILD
After School Program for Children with Learning Disabilities at Bay Terrace Center
An after school program specifically designed to meet the needs of elementary school children with learning disabilities, ADHD, and mild autistic spectrum disorders. Program is offered from 2:30-6:00 PM daily.
Each afternoon, children participate in educational, recreational and socialization experiences designed to enhance academic and social skills while boosting self-esteem.
Homework help will be available.
The after school activities program, designed and supervised by professional educators and clinicians, offers the opportunity for children to enjoy safe, supportive and successful after school experience.
This project is made possible by a grant from the J.E. & Z.B. Butler Foundation. (718) 423-6111 ProjectChild@sfy.org
- SPECIAL TEENS
A once monthly recreational program that meets on Sunday afternoons geared for high functioning and independent teens with developmental disabilities. Contact Robin Topol, ext. 259. RTopol@sfy.org
- SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM
We provide children having developmental disabilities with an exciting assortment of trips to places of interest on most school holidays and vacations throughout the year. Interview required. Contact Robin Topol, ext. 259. RTopol@sfy.org
- SUMMER CAMP
Our day camps specialize in serving children 5-21 who have developmental disabilities. Younger campers enjoy center-based summer camp programs at the Y's Little Neck site while older campers have the adventure of full day summer camp experiences at the Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds. Register for the 2010 Summer Season NOW! For more information please contact Robin Topol, ext. 259. RTopol@sfy.org
- SUMMER RESPITE PROGRAM
This youth summer camp program serves children with autism and other similar disabilities ages 5 - 21. Children participate in an array of educational, recreational and socialization activities following their summer school program. Day camp activities are designed and implemented by professional educators and clinicians. The summer program is offered 2:30 - 5 PM daily. At the end of each program day, participants receive mini-bus transportation home. At summer school's end, a one-week, full day respite program is offered to day camp program participants.This program is made possible by a grant from New York State OMRDD-Queens DDSO. Contact , Co-Director, 718-352-4157, or 718-423-6111 (Bay Terrace Center)
- WEEKDAY RECREATION PROGRAM FOR PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
This day camp program serves children 3-6 years of age that have developmental disabilities and their families. The year-round program includes twice weekly recreation programs that feature an adaptive physical education or swim activity followed by a professionally facilitated play experience. We provide special activities for siblings and supportive assistance for parents. Call Gerrie Mayerhoff at (718) 225-6750 ext. 262

Programs for Children with Learning Differences:
- C.H.I.L.D.
Center for Helping Individuals with Learning Differences
C.H.I.L.D. has been established to help families with children who have been diagnosed as having a learning differences and/or ADHD. The child care center offers four basic components:
· Homework Helper Program
· Lecture Series
· Parent Support Groups
· Hebrew Homework Helpers
In addition, we are here to provide support and guidance around issues that arise concerning children with Learning Disabilities and ADHD and their families. Call Gerrie Mayerhoff at (718) 225-6750 ext. 262
This program is made possible by a grant from the J.E. and Z.B. Butler Foundatio
- SOCIAL SKILLS GROUPS
For Children with Autism or Learning Disabilities
(718) 423-6111 ProjectChild@sfy.org
The Samuel Field Y is proud to work with The Seaver and New York Autism Center of Excellence at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in offering social skills programs. The program includes a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) structure of teaching skills and will focus on skills such as non-verbal communication, social initiation, problem solving and coping. Children are placed in groups consisting of 5 - 8 children according to age and current areas of strength and concern. Groups meet once weekly for an hour and a half. Help your child carry the skills home through participation in a voluntary parent discussion group that will meet for a half hour with our trained staff.
Programs for Families Having Loved Ones with Autism
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CAP CONNECTS
This community-based initiative serves families having loved ones with autism within the Clearview Gardens Cooperative and in Northeast Queens. The program offers support as well as special education consultation services and advocacy. Special holiday celebrations and workshops within synagogues serve to increase inclusion within the wider Jewish community.
Contact Gary Babad, LCSW at (718) 352-4157. This project is made possible by a grant from UJA-Federation of New York.