THEATER OF POSSIBILITY
Theater of Possibility uses theater improv, role-play, acting and creative writing techniques to explore friendship dynamics and social skills. This year, two classes are being offered, Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting the first week of October and running after school, 4:15-5:45 PM, at University Heights Center in Seattle, for ten weeks. The Tuesday class is for ages 8-12, and the Thursday class is for ages 12-20. Cost is $400; sibling discounts and partial scholarships available. Contact Lauren@laurenmarshall.com or check out www.Laurenmarshall.com, for a flyer and more info.
JUST KIDS PROGRAM
Seattle Parks and Recreation, Specialized Programs, has openings for their FREE Just Kids Program starting Wednesday from 6:00-7:30 PM, starting October 5th through December 7th! This open-gym program at Green Lake Elementary School, is designed to help participants learn new active games while developing social skills! Siblings are welcome to attend! Participants between 5 and 12 years old at any ability level! If you have any questions, or if you'd like to register, please call (206) 684-4950
GYMNASTICS CLASSES FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN
Seattle Gymnastics Academy is offering gymnastics class for autistic children. Any age and any level on the spectrum, all are welcome. This class is held at their Lake City location, 12535 26TH Ave NE, Seattle, on Sundays from 10:00-11:00 am. They close the entire facility just for these kids. Please call SGA at (206) 362-7447 to ask questions and/or to register. http://www.seattlegymnastics.com/lakecity/
CALL FOR ART and WRITING
The Autism Society of Washington is seeking artists with autism spectrum disorder to exhibit at its dinner and art program Saturday, October 29 (see Events and Training). They are also seeking poems and essays including those authored by family members and care providers. Contact Connie Allison for more information at conniea@autismsocietyofwa.org or (360) 515-8910.
ArtISTRY with a Heart Gallery
Gallery and art classes for individuals with autism, Aspergers, and similar challenges.
Gallery located at 536 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA (206) 478-8342 or email info@artistrywithaheart.com. For more information about classes, contact Michael Tolleson at (206) 293-1997, or visit www.ArtistryWithAHeart.com
NORTHWEST CENTER SUMMER PROGRAM FOR TEENS WITH DISABILITIES
Northwest Center has a full-day summer program for teenagers with disabilities serving youth ages 13-21, the center will be open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday throughout the summer. The program will offer monthly, weekly, full-time and part-time tuition rates. No one will be turned away based on finances. For more information, or to receive an application packet, please contact Bryan Baker bbaker@nwcenter.org or (206) 378-6352.
ASPIRING YOUTH SUMMER PROGRAM
The Aspiring Youth Summer Program is a nationally accredited program, helping children, teens and young adults with Asperger’s, ADHD and High-functioning Autism experience social growth, self-confidence, and fun! They serve students ages 9-20 in age-specific groups in Seattle, Redmond, Bellevue and Portland. Contact Ben Wahl (206) 517-0222 for more information or benw@ryther.org or visit www.aspiringyouth.net
LOSE THE TRAINING WHEELS
Lose The Training Wheels™ is more than just a bike-riding program. For many children with disabilities, it’s a seemingly impossible task they can typically master in less than a week’s time. Within days of learning to ride, many children exhibit independent behaviors for the first time ever. This achievement, in turn, creates a gateway of opportunity, helping them gain assurance and self-reliance in many other aspects of their lives. http://www.losethetrainingwheels.org/
CAMP ALTITUDE
Offers year-round programs for boys and girls with social cognitive challenges. Committed to providing safe, fun, and rewarding experiences that promote social learning and independent living skills for individual children. For more information, contact anna@altitudefamilies.com or (408) 353-0377 x1, or visit www.altitudefamlies.com
TOP SOCCER – OUTREACH PROGRAM OF SOCCER
TOPSoccer is a community-based training and team-placement program for young athletes with disabilities, organized and administrated by Kent Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) volunteers under the direction of Washington Youth Soccer and US Youth Soccer. The program is designed to bring the opportunity of learning and playing soccer to any boy or girl, age 4 and up, with a disability of any king. For information, visit http://kysa.org/index.php?page=topsoccer or contact Nicole Jensen at moddirector@kysa.org for details.
CHALLENGER BASEBALL TEAM
The Challenger Division was established in 1989 as a separate division of Little League to enable boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high
school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide. Practices and games on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Practices at Paramount Park, 155th St and 10th Ave NE, Shoreline. Contact Melissa Banker at nkcchallenger@gmail.com for details.
SPECIAL NEEDS YOGA WITH MANDI
A yoga class for all people with developmental disabilities, teens and adults. Focuses on gentle stretching and strength building poses, breathing, and relaxation. This is a fun class, where participants can enjoy a group yoga practice. Drop-in ($8) or discount class card (5 classes for $35). Mandi at Taj Yoga, 9250 14th NW, Room 2, Seattle 98117. For details, contact (206) 782-9642, mandigrover@gmail.com, or visit www.tajyoga.com
Youth: Tuesday, 4:30-5:30 PM
Adult: Thursday, 4:30-5:30 PM
SPECIAL NEEDS YOGA IN BALLARD
Molly Harrigan offers a yoga class for special needs youth. For more information, contact mollyharrigan@hotmail.com or visit www.ballardhealthcenter.com Pre-registration is NOT REQUIRED.
WEE LIL FRIENDS DAYCARE
Wee Lil Friends is a non-profit daycare experienced in caring for children with autism. For more information, contact Kelly at (253) 852-2454 or visit www.weelilfriends.com
SPECIAL OLYMPIC SLOW-PITCH SOFTBALL IN ISSAQUAH
It’s time for the 2010 season. Basic softball skills of batting, base running, fielding, and throwing, along with team-playing skills. Players are grouped by skill level and all skill levels are welcome. Teams are co-ed. Ages 8 and up. Practices are held from 6:30-8:00 PM, Fridays, Tibbetts Valley Park, 965 – 12th Ave NW, Issaquah. Contact Leo Finnegan at (425) 392-5682.
BLUE COMPASS CAMP
Blue Compass is a family owned and operated camp in Washington State that provides fun and supportive adventure programs for kids and teens with Asperger’s, Autism, and ADHD. Overnight and day camp programs available. For more information, call (866) 683-6262 or visit www.bluecompasscamps.com
OUTDOORS FOR ALL SUMMER BROCHURE
http://outdoorsfora ll.org/documents /Brochures/ Brochure_ SummerActivityGuide.pdf
STONE SOUP THEATRE CLASSES
For information call (206) 388-9212 or visit www.stonesouptheatre.org
Ages 6-10 Creative Dramatics; Ages 7-13 Treasure Island; Ages 8-16 Improvisation with Masks; Ages 13-17 Playwriting. For specific questions, contact Michael LoSasso, Outreach Coordinator, at Michael@stonesouptheatre.org
SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY
http://cshcn. org/resources-contacts/summer-camp-directory
CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY CHILDCARE
The Centers at Green River Community College and in Kent offer part- and full-day child care services with a stimulating pre-school curriculum for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. The centers provide early screening and developmental assessments, individualized learning plans for each child, and parent education and support. Head Start and Early Head Start services are offered at both locations. For more information, visit http://www.childrenshomesociety.org/Our_Services/Early_Learning/Child_Development_Centers.html
SPECIAL FAMILY WEEKEND – MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND 2011
This Memorial Day Weekend event at Camp Sealth is an opportunity for families with children with special needs to experience the outdoors in an inclusive, supportive environment. Sleep in heated, camp-style cabins, and enjoy delicious meals cooked for you by the Camp Sealth staff. Walk the beach, play in the sand, hike in the woods, bike (adaptive bicycles provided by OutdoorsForAll), fish, row a boat, canoe, do crafts and archery all weekend long. Sing songs around the campfire, make s'mores, and get to know other local families with kids with disabilities. Parents can have a couple of hours of respite care while talented Special Sitters and weekend volunteers provide activities and supervision for the kids. For more information about Special Family Weekend, contact us at (206) 463-3174,
ext. 35 or campprogram@campfire-usa.org.
PLAYGARDEN KIDS CAMP
Summer program distinguished by staff:child ratio capped at 1:3, certified special educators and therapists and a caring staff experienced working with children with special needs. Located at 1740-23rd Ave South, Seattle, 98114. Contact Liz Bullard at (206) 227-5458, or lizbullard@gmail.com or visit www.childrensplaygarden.org To register, please download the updated form at http://www.seattlechildrensplaygarden.org/pdfs/document/29/2010summerprogram-web.pdf
SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMP FOR TEENS WITH ADHD AND AUTISM SPECTRUM
Blue Compass helps teens with Autism, Asperger’s and ADHD learn to face some of their greatest challenges in a fun, adventurous and safe environment. For details, visit www.bluecompasscamps.com
DRUM LESSONS
Ned Smith, Bellevue, (425) 577-4777 or visit www.nedzeppelin.com
Donn Bennett Drum Studio, Bellevue, (425) 747-6145 or visit http://www.bennettdrums.com/
OUTDOORS FOR ALL (formerly SkiForAll)
Outdoors for All provides year round instruction and equipment in a variety of sports for people with physical, developmental, and sensory disabilities and their families. For a complete list of activities, visit http://www.outdoorsforall.org or contact (206) 838-6030 or by email info@outdoorsforall.org
RECREATIONAL PROGRAM FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
A new program has started at the YMCA in SeaTac. Created to bring together youth and young adults with and without disabilities, this weekly class will present a variety of recreational activities for participants to explore. Ranging from sports and games to Zumba and fitness or cooking classes. 3595 South 188th Street, SeaTac, Tuesdays, 4:00-5:00 PM. Call Matt Griffin at (206) 244-5880 for information.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
http://www.sowa.org
AUTISM ON THE SEAS
Autism on the Seas provides cruising vacation options for adults and families dealing with autism and related disabilities. Group and individual travel in collaboration with Royal Caribbean International. Contact (800) 516-5247 or visit www.AutismontheSeas.com
SPOTLIGHT DANCE CENTER IN RENTON
Samantha Sullivan, owner of Spotlight Dance Center in Downtown Renton, is starting dance classes that accommodate special needs. Contact Samantha at (425) 241-3388 or (425) 235-7033 or spotlightdancecompany@yahoo.com or visit www.spotlightdancecenter.net
CARE.COM
Helps families find special needs child care resources and respite care. Contact Stephanie Manzo at membercare@care.com or visit www.care.com/special-needs-p1049-seattlewa-qxc|Seattle|s|WA|id|SPCLNEEDS|p|1.html
RESPITE PROVIDERS
Special Care Agency (425) 333-4114
MIKA’S HOUSE LICENSED AND INSURED RESPITE
Care approved for kids with special disabilities, ages 6-17 years, seven days a week, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, meals provided, activities every day. $20.00/hour; some scholarships available. Contact Geneva Pearson at (253) 579-6563 or (425) 572-0551 for details
FIND THE PERFECT BABYSITTER, DOGWALKER, TUTOR, ETC.
At www.sittercity.com you can search for babysitters, tutors, dog walkers, and much more, specify your location, and other specifications. They make recommendations and do the background checks. Fee based. (Recommended by a parent on AutismKing)
NEW BABYSITTING EXCHANGE
A parent associated with the Seattle Special Education PTSA is interested in starting a babysitting exchange for special needs kids. She has experience with a similar exchange. Please contact Jenny at jennycochrane@gmail.com to discuss.
SPECIAL NEEDS GOLF
An avid golfer and autism father is interested in connecting with other parents who would like to be involved in getting a junior golf league for special needs kids. If you are interested, please email Kaoru Ohta at ohtakaoru@gmail.com
BABY POWER / FOREVER KIDS
Free parenting classes geared for newborn all the way to teens; children’s programs for newborns up to age 8 years; screenings for children 5 years to adults, including HANDLE screens; Mom’s day out drop off for ages 1-7 years. Preschool Programs; After-School Tutoring; Special Needs Preschool. FREE weekly parent information and tools session. And, they do birthday parties! Contact Becky Blake at (425) 493-5303 or visit http://babypower.com/everett/
RECREATION/DROP-OFF RESPITE PROGRAM
FEAT of Washington has begun a South Sound Super Saturday Program at the Evergreen Primary School in University Place. Parents need to pre-register their children, ages 5-12. Program is designed as respite for parents for three hours per month. Children on the autism spectrum or similarly aged neurotypical siblings can be dropped off at 9am and picked up by noon. Phone Ruth Burks at (253) 232-4493 or email featsouthsound@earthlink.net to participate.
SPECIAL NEEDS MOVIE IN ISSAQUAH
The North Bend Theatre in Issaquah has a monthly Special Needs movie. They don’t play the sound too loud, lights are kept on, and the audience is understanding of kids who move around and make noise. Email them at specialneeds@northbendtheatre.com or visit http://www.northbendtheatre.com/specialneeds.html
SPECIAL NEEDS MOVIE IN KENT
The ASA has started working with AMC Theaters across the country to have sensory friendly show-times for ASD children. AMC Kent Station 14 will be showing at 10am at 426 Ramsay Way in Kent. Tickets $5 adult and child. The lights will be up and the sound will be down. The “Silence is Golden” rule will not be enforced. Outside snacks okay.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS BASKETBALL IN ISSAQUAH
Special Olympics Basketball for ages 8 and up. Practices held at noon every Sunday at Issaquah Community Center, 301 Rainier Blvd S, ISSAQUAH. All skill levels are welcome. Contact Megan Hemingson, King County Sports Manager, (206) 362-4949 ext 212 or MHemingson@sowa.org or Susie Arnold, King County Adm. Assistant, (206) 362-4949 ext 208 or SArnold@sowa.org
RECREATION CALENDAR
Visit http://www.arcofkingcounty.org/guide/events/rec/ for the latest information about recreational activities for all ages in the Puget Sound area. This is a very valuable service provided by the Arc of King County.
LEGO CLUB – NOW ON SUNDAYS AND NEW LOCATION
The Arc of Snohomish County Lego Club for children with disabilities, siblings, friends, neighbors, etc, All ages. Third Sundays, 1:00-3:00 PM, Everett Firefighters Hall, 2411 Hewitt Ave, Everett. Legos provided. Parents must be present with their children. Contact Tracie Diemert at Tracie@arcsno.org or (425) 258-2459 ext 111
THE BOUNCY PLACE
A new, fun place for kids in South King County. Special Needs event the last Thursday of each month, drop in price is $5 for each child. Parents accompanying children are free. Check their website or call first. The Bouncy Place, 22647 72nd Ave So, Kent (253) 872-2155 or www.thebouncyplace.com
ONLINE ASPERGER BOOK CLUB
You are invited to join a new book club. The discussion will be held online at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AllThingsAspergers/ Read more about the club at www.AllThingsAspergers.com . All are welcome.
FRIENDSHIP ADVENTURES
Friendship Adventures is a volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of people with developmental disabilities through recreational, educational and leisure opportunities. Visit http://www.friendshipadventures.org for details.
SPECIAL NEEDS GYMNASTICS CLASS – SUMNER
Roach Gymnastics in Sumner is offering gymnastics classes for children and young adults; qualified gymnastics coach; no other classes going on during these classes; 11,000 square feet of gym; trampoline, bubbles, parachute, and music. Parent or therapist required at all times. Siblings may register as typical peer models. Seven week sessions. Saturdays, 11:00 AM-Noon. Roach Gymnastics, 1627 – 45th St E, Bldg #D-103, Sumner. To register, call Sumner Parks and Recreation at (253) 891-6500.
EMERALD BALLET THEATER EXCEPTIONAL DANCERS
The Emerald Ballet Theater is offering an “exceptional dancers” class for special needs children age 3-8 on Thursdays, 6:00 to 6:45 PM. The teacher is Sarah Jacobsen, sarah@sicasm.org or sarahj@emeraldballet.org Okay to just show-up. Dress code is bare feet with black yoga pants/sweats and white t-shirt. Contact teacher or (425) 883-3405 or visit www.emeraldballet.org
SPECIAL DANCE AT KIRKLAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BALLET
Dance classes called “Into the Arts” for youth up to age 21 taught by Jody Fridenstine, OT. Visit www.interballetschool.com
DANCE AND CREATIVE MOVEMENT
Dance and creative movement for children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. Allegro Dance, 1209 Central Ave S #101, Kent, (253) 813-9630.
SWIM LESSONS
Susan Steckler, susan@schooloffish.net , (425) 747-6769
Linda Riggins, swim@lindariggins.com , (425) 823-0177, www.lindariggins.com
Tiger Mountain Aquatics, www.tigermtaquatics.com, (425) 392-4302, vivgene@aol.com
Northwest Center adaptive aquatic instruction for special needs adults and children, www.nwcenter.org, several locations
Harriet Ott, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist and Certified Aquatic Therapist, www.cisaquatics.com
Stroum Jewish Community Center, Mercer Island, www.sjcc.org
Bothell Pediatric and Hand Therapy offers swim therapy http://bpandht.com
Seattle Children’s Hospital therapy pool, adaptive swim lessons in 93 degree water, $15-$22/lesson, (206) 987-2000
Safe N Sound Swimming www.snsswim.com
Community Integration Services (all ages) http://cisaquatics. com/index. html
ATHLETES FOR KIDS
This group matches kids with special needs with high school athletes willing to volunteer as role models and mentors. Visit www.athletesforkids.org or call Teresa Bretl at (425) 260-2109 or teresabretl@athletesforkids.org
SPECIAL SATURDAY CLUB
Camp Fire USA’s Special Saturday Club provides recreation for children of all abilities, children with disabilities ages 4-12, and children without disabilities ages 4-10. Each session is staffed by an adult program manager and 2-4 teens trained in Camp Fire USA’s Special Sitters Program, Saturdays, 10am-3pm. Contact (206) 461-8550 ext 308 or visit www.campfire-usa.org/specialsaturdayclub/index.htm
MUSIC CLASS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN
Let’s Make Music Class for children, 3-6 years, with special needs. Designed to promote communication, music and social skills for children with autism and ASD. Call Connecting through Music at (206) 999-6840 or visit www.connectingthroughmusic.com
MY TURN YOUR TURN CD HELPS CHILDREN LEARN SOCIAL SKILLS
Cathy Bollingers of Charlottesville, VA, and her husband have produced a children’s music CD said to be revolutionary in teaching basic turn-taking, appropriate emotional expression, and basic social skills. The CD is currently available online at www.rivannamusic.com , www.cdbaby.com , and various other online retailers.
GIRL SCOUTS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS
Ruth Bacha is working with Girl Scout troops in King County to include special needs girls in troops with specially trained interns. For more information contact Ruth at rbacha99@comcast.net
BOY SCOUTS and CUB SCOUTS TROOP 419 - RENTON
Troop 419 boys enjoy the experiences, routines and camaraderie of scouting at their own pace. Boys ages 12+ (over 18 welcome) of all abilities are welcome. Meets 7 PM on first and third Tuesdays during the school year at New Horizon School, 1111 S Carr Road, Renton. For more info call Chrissy at (425) 223-4311. For Cub Scouts, ages 7-11, contact George Tibbits at adgtwft@yahoo.com
ROYAL RANGERS PROGRAM
Royal Rangers is a Christian-based scouting program for boys and girls that meets on Wednesdays from 7-8:30pm at the New Life Church in Maple Valley, 15711 152nd Ave SE, Resource Room, Renton. Visit http://royalrangers.ag.org/about/programs.cfm for details about Royal Rangers. Contact Jeannie at jemerypec@yahoo.com with questions.
JUNIOR GIRL SCOUT TROOP
This troop serves girls with special needs and their typically developing sisters in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. Meeting in the Wedgwood neighborhood of Seattle. Leaders have experience working with a variety of cognitive, emotional and physical needs. Contact Kathy at (206) 526-2425 for more information.
ADVENTURESOME
AdventureSome offers fun and challenging outdoors experiences for special needs children. Contact adventuresome@hotmail.com or Jonathan Wood (206) 634-9439.
PERSONAL TRAINER for children with Asperger's Syndrome and related disorders. Reach your goals for improved fitness and well-being or for sports-specific assistance. Marianne Jackson (206) 870-2755 or mariannewjackson@msn.com or visit www.fitness-to-go.com
TRIPS INC.
Travel opportunities for adults of various abilities in a safe, respectful, and fun atmosphere. Contact KC Sanders for a brochure and more information kc@tripsinc.com or 206-399-3955
WE'RE OUTTA HERE TRAVEL
Individually designed vacation plans for your special family. Make sure all special needs and accommodations are taken care of. Contact Sandy Silveria, owner, (360) 607-8007 or sandy@woh-travel.com
WEE LIL FRIENDS DAYCARE in Auburn
Childcare in a daycare setting. Care provided by Kelly Roach, mother of a young child with high functioning autism and experience with special needs children. Call (253) 852-2454 for more information.
NORTHWEST`S CHILD – year-round program for children age 8-21 years with moderate to severe special needs while their parents are at work and when school is not in session. Eligible for childcare subsidies; located at 85th N just north of Greenlake. For more information please call Darcy at (206) 526-2493 or email darcyh@earthlink.net or visit www.northwestchild.com
AIM HIGH is a child home day care program dedicated to serving the needs of school-aged children on the autism spectrum. For more information call Marya Laviste at (206) 417-8357 or marya@aim-high.us
YOUTH ADVANCEMENT THROUGH MUSIC AND ART (YATMA) offers one-on-one and small group instruction in music and art to help students learn positive communication and build self-esteem. Contact (206) 523-9167 or visit www.yatma.org for more information.