the whole family

Text Box: HOME ABOUT US find a therapist our recommendations leads for student therapists sample ads diagnostic services therapeutic strategies 10 major intervention models FAQ what is floortime? what is verbal behavior? what is AIT? what is vision therapy? great therapy ideas local toy stores educational supply stores how to set up a sensory room social story writing simplified little tips, big results upcoming events burning the midnight oil special needs books must-see sites the whole family local support groups schools & camps special ed schools pros & cons special ed schools mainstream schools WPPSI testers et cybera federal 2003 tax guide

After a day at the office, just about any parent feels tapped out. Add to that the challenge of raising a child with special needs, and you’ve got one really stressed out parent.

Advice: Don’t go it alone. There are numerous support groups in the DC Metro area. If you’re not a support-group type of person, go anyway, at least once. Try to link up with someone so that you can exchange phone numbers or email and talk one on one. You’ll be glad you did.

Here are some popular support groups to explore.

Explorer’s Group of the St. Columba’s Special Needs Ministries

Informal, small group of parents who meet once a month for 90 minutes. Friendly, warm and welcoming to new members. Less resource oriented than other support groups. No advance registration required unless you plan to take advantage of the free babysitting service.

contact: Joy Belew

registration: jbelew@starpower.net

when: March 21, 3:00 pm-4:30 pm.

meets at: St. Columba’s Church; 4201 Albemarle St. NW; Washington, DC.

Family Support Group of the Jewish Social Service Agency of Metropolitan Washington

Parents and family members of children with disabilities share their joys and sorrow, hopes and fears, coping mechanisms and strategies for living for today and planning for the future.

leader: Martha Mervis, LCSW

when: monthly on the third Tuesday (January-June), 7:15-8:30 p.m.

Meets at: Rockville

registration: 301-990-6880, ext. 316

Programs for People With Disabilities

Description of various support programs, with times, dates, location and contact information, for siblings and parents of children with Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD, autism, PDD and chronic physical illness. Sponsored by the Jewish Social Service Agency of Metropolitan Washington.