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

• 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 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 followed by a professionally facilitated play experience. We provide special activities for siblings and supportive assistance for parents.  Call Amanda Smith 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 Foundation.

• 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 With Loved Ones with Autism

• 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.
  

• Basketball Buddies/Soccer Stars for children with special needs (at Little Neck site)
  Children ages 5-21 are meticulously paired up with teen mentors who act as the children’s coaches and buddies throughout
  the season. The 1 hour class is run by a physical education instructor along with other staff including a licensed social worker.
  Each child learns specific basketball or soccer skills each week and the class ends with a snack break and social skills
  learning piece. This is a great way for children to socialize with their peers while learning social skills and sports each week.
  The children play in the gym and benefit from the individualized attention provided by their mentors.
  Contact: Shira Segev, LMSW 718-423-6111 Ssegev@sfy.org