In This Issue:
April is Austim Awareness Month
Everything you need to know about Autism
Meet Richie Smith - A Remarkable Man With Big Ambitions
8 Special Days and Celebrations in April
Recipe: French Toast Casserole with Brown Sugar-Walnut Crumble
April Family Fun Activities
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From Everyone at New Behavioral Network
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Visit us for everything you need to know about signing up for camp!
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April is Autism Awareness Month
Why is autism awareness important?
April is World Autism Month. It's also been deemed National Autism Awareness Month in the United States. However, many advocates have rightly called for the need to increase awareness about ASDs year-round, and not just during 30 select days.
Autism awareness also requires empathy and an understanding that ASDs are different for everyone.
Certain treatments and therapies can work for some people but not others. Parents and caregivers can also have differing opinions on the best way to advocate for a child with autism.
Understanding autism and people who are on the spectrum starts with awareness, but it doesn't end there. Check out one father's story on his "frustrations" with autism awareness.
Why I Won't ApologyzeThat I Find Autism Awareness Frustrating
by Jim Waters
https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/autism-awareness-month-frustrations#1
If you're like me, Autism Awareness Month is actually every month.
I've been celebrating autism awareness month for at least 132 consecutive months, and counting. My younger daughter, Lily, has autism. She sees to my continuing autism education and awareness.
Autism impacts my life, and my daughter, and my world, and because of that, I really want the people who make a difference in our lives to "be aware." By that I guess I mean at least to have a general sense of what is involved. I want the first responders in my neighborhood to understand why they might not get a response from my daughter if they ask her name and age. I want police to understand why she might run from them. I want teachers to be patient when her behavior is communicating a deeper problem than just reluctance to comply.
Autism, like everything else, is a complex issue - and a political one. And like everything else, it gets more complicated the more you learn about it. To help you be supportive, or at least not harmful, to people you know (and with 1 in 68 school-aged children having autism, the odds are that you do in fact know them), autism awareness is extremely important.
At least to some extent. Because, sometimes, autism awareness can be a bad thing.
Too much awareness
The complexity and politics of autism can become overwhelming with too much research. I feel overwhelmed by some aspects of simply writing this article. The more aware you become of all the issues, the harder it becomes for you to take a step without fear of offending someone you're actually trying to be an ally to.
Do I vaccinate, or do I not? Do I say "autistic" or "child with autism"? "Cure"? "Accept"? "Blessing"? "Curse"? The deeper you dig, the harder it gets. This dovetails nicely into my next point, namely:
Trolls under the bridge
Many parents and autistics choose April as a month to fully focus on autism as a cause. We post autism-related articles daily, and link to others we find enjoyable, valuable, or touching.
But the more you post about the complexities and politics, and the pros and the cons, the more dissent you generate. Because autism is too complicated for you to please everyone, and some of the people you displease get REALLY displeased.
The more you post, the more trolls materialize. It can be emotionally and mentally draining. You want to get the word out, but they don't agree with your words or the way you use them.
Autism can require patience and an even keel. I stopped blogging about autism for probably a year just because I found the controversies and criticisms too enervating. It drained my joy, and I needed that positive energy to be a good dad.
Too little awareness
Your average Joe only has enough attention span to digest one or two of the thousands of articles published about autism. Because of that, there is always the risk that the one thing he or she tunes in for is the wrong thing. I once had someone comment on my personal blog that autism was caused by "sporns" and that they just had to be flushed with orange juice in order to clean out the system. Cured!
(This is not a thing.)
There aren't a lot of consensus topics on autism, so to treat any one article, blog post, or even news story as autism gospel (well, except this one, obviously) can be worse than not learning anything at all.
The label itself
I once read the work of a researcher who said that the biggest problem autism faced was its own label. Autism is a spectrum of conditions, but they all get lumped together under this one label.
That means that people watch Rain Man and think they can offer helpful advice. It means that companies can produce medications that ameliorate the symptoms in one child who has autism, but may actually exacerbate the symptoms of another. The autism label creates confusion where confusion already exists.
You may have heard of the saying, "If you've met one child with autism, you've met ONE child with autism." Every child is different and you can't project the experiences of one child onto another just because they share a label.
Campaign fatigue
What most people who work to foster autism awareness want is for the previously "unaware" to become aware. But too much of a good thing can mean that some of the most important messages get drowned out by sheer volume. After a full month of autism awareness, most people who have the luxury would probably tell you, "I don't want to hear another thing about autism for the rest of my life."
Preaching to the choir
Before my youngest was diagnosed, I had read exactly zero articles on the topic of autism. Many of the people reading autism awareness posts are not the target audience. They're living the life. They're people who have autism or their caregivers. While it's comforting to know that someone is reading your stuff, it's hard to generate interest about issues that don't impact the intended audience's lives (as far as they know, at least).
For those of us who need you to be aware - so that our children can live happier, healthier lives - spreading "autism awareness" will always be a thing. And it's a good thing. Mostly.
I honestly am more than happy to put up with the well-meaning questions or suggestions, because it means that you actually care enough about my daughter or myself to have at least read an article, watched a video, or shared an infographic. The information might not mesh perfectly with my experiences, but it beats the hell out of angry stares and judgmental commentary in a crowded theater as your child melts down (yes, I've been there).
So, spread autism awareness this month. But do it knowing you could burn out. Do it knowing you might not reach your target audience. Do it knowing you will catch a little hell for it from someone at some point. Do it knowing that not everything you post will apply to someone else's experience. Do it responsibly.
Jim Walter is the author of Just a Lil Blog, where he chronicles his adventures as a single dad of two daughters, one of whom has autism. You can follow him on Twitter at @blogginglily.
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Everything You Need to Know About Autism
About Autism
What is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a broad term used to describe a group of neurodevelopmental disorders.
These disorders are characterized by problems with communication and social interaction. People with ASD often demonstrate restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped interests or patterns of behavior.
ASD is found in individuals around the world, regardless of race, culture, or economic background. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), autism does occur more often in boys than in girls, with a 4 to 1 male-to-female ratio.
The CDC estimated in 2014 that nearly 1 in 59 children have been identified with ASD.
There are indications that instances of ASD are on the rise. Some attribute this increase to environmental factors. However, experts debate whether there's an actual increase in cases or just more frequent diagnoses.
What are the different types of autism?
The DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) is published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and is used by clinicians to diagnose a variety of psychiatric disorders.
The fifth and most recent edition of the DSM was released in 2013. The DSM-5 currently recognizes five different ASD subtypes, or specifiers. They are:
- with or without accompanying intellectual impairment
- with or without accompanying language impairment
- associated with a known medical or genetic condition or environmental factor
- associated with another neurodevelopmental, mental, or behavioral disorder
- with catatonia
Someone can be diagnosed with one or more specifiers.
Prior to the DSM-5, people on the autism spectrum may have been diagnosed with one of the following disorders:
- autistic disorder
- Asperger's syndrome
- pervasive development disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)
- childhood disintegrative disorder
It's important to note that a person who received one of these earlier diagnoses hasn't lost their diagnosis and won't need to be reevaluated.
According to the DSM-5, the broader diagnosis of ASD encompasses disorders such as Asperger's syndrome.
What are the symptoms of autism?
Autism symptoms typically become clearly evident during early childhood, between 12 and 24 months of age. However, symptoms may also appear earlier or later.
Early symptoms may include a marked delay in language or social development.
The DSM-5 divides symptoms of autism into two categories: problems with communication and social interaction, and restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior or activities.
Problems with communication and social interaction include:
- issues with communication, including difficulties sharing emotions, sharing interests, or maintaining a back-and-forth conversation
- issues with nonverbal communication, such as trouble maintaining eye contact or reading body language
- difficulties developing and maintaining relationships
Restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior or activities include:
- repetitive movements, motions, or speech patterns
- rigid adherence to specific routines or behaviors
- an increase or decrease in sensitivity to specific sensory information from their surroundings, such as a negative reaction to a specific sound
- fixated interests or preoccupations
- Individuals are evaluated within each category and the severity of their symptoms is noted.
In order to receive an ASD diagnosis, a person must display all three symptoms in the first category and at least two symptoms in the second category.
What causes autism?
The exact cause of ASD is unknown. The most current research demonstrates that there's no single cause.
Some of the suspected risk factors for autism include:
- having an immediate family member with autism
- genetic mutations
- fragile X syndrome and other genetic disorders
- being born to older parents
- low birth weight
- metabolic imbalances
- exposure to heavy metals and environmental toxins
- a history of viral infections
- fetal exposure to the medications valproic acid (Depakene) or thalidomide (Thalomid)
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), both genetics and environment may determine whether a person develops autism.
Multiple sources, old and new, have concluded that the disorder isn't caused by vaccines, however.
A controversial 1998 study proposed a link between autism and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
However, that study has been debunked by other research and was eventually retracted in 2010.
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Meet Richie Smith - A Remarkable Man With Big Ambitions
Richie Smith is a managing director of Awesometistic, a unique autism training business. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at 33 years old, Richie's goal is to generate autism understanding and acceptance wherever he goes.
Can you share with me what life was like growing up without an official autism diagnosis?
Growing up without a diagnosis of autism was difficult. I struggled immensely with everyday life and didn't understand where I fit into the world. I did all these different behaviors that at the time I didn't understand, but struggled to stop. Growing up not having answers for the way I was acting was really scary, and it did affect my confidence. I had to hide away and compress everything deep inside.
This helped me become self-aware of what my body was needing, and I have learned a lot about myself and become very self-aware. This meant I could take myself away into a place where no one was giving me what I needed, which allowed me almost to reset my system. I feel this put me in a very good position as an adult to help families, businesses, schools or the general public learn more about ASD and how they can change their environment or their behavior to help people with autism.
When were you first diagnosed with autism?
It took until I was 33 years old before I received my autism diagnoses, and when I did, I felt like a great weight had been lifted, and I could finally be myself. If I had been given this diagnosis back when I was a child and received the proper support needed my whole childhood, I would have been different and happier. Growing up without answers and not feeling the same as the other boys and girls made me feel and call myself a freak which was scary.
So when I started my diagnosis path, I realized I was not that weird little boy and I could be actually pretty amazing, and I should give myself more credit for coping with this for such a long time. As an adult, autism hasn't changed me as a person, but it has made me a lot happier and also made a great happy awesome home life. My family and children now get more out of me as am not scared and don't have to hide anymore. I am regulating my needs to get more out of my day and am actually feeling healthy and proud. Autism changed one big thing-it showed that no matter how hard life was, it's awesome now.
What are the benefits of someone being diagnosed with autism-even as an adult?
Getting diagnoses has helped piece together all the things I questioned about myself and made me see that I am awesome and that I learned how to look after my autism without knowing. I felt like a freak for 30 years because I thought I was different from everyone else and I was really scared to show my true self. But now I feel like everyone else and that I finally feel me for being me. It was hard at the start, but over time I am getting strong and learning that it's okay to be me not the compressed Richie. Knowing I have autism means I can now focus on the important things in life and not worry about my behavior and actions; I let my body sort my autism out and listen to what it's asking for so I can focus on being happy.
Knowing I have autism has also helped my life because with people that understand and care around me they make little changes for me so I can enjoy my family time and not worry about compressing myself. They accept me as myself-it's an amazing feeling. Autism is hard and takes a lot of my energy up to get through a day, but it's the times I am happy and enjoying life I like to talk about and remember. I think without having autism I would not have got through life like I have, the only thing I wished was that I got my diagnoses earlier, but only if others had the understanding around me. I learned some great life skills growing up, the way I did, but I would hope if a child gets a diagnosis now there would be enough understanding and help to make them awesome and have an amazingly full life.
Could you tell me a bit about Awesometistic?
I started my own business to make sure that no little boy or girl has to feel the way I did growing up. Autism can be awesome if we have people around us that want to understand. I go into nurseries and schools to show that autistic children can still have a full life like everyone else. I show them that with an understanding of our ways, we can grow to be awesome. Of course, I can talk about all the hard times, but my business is about showing that they can be less hard times and more fun times with understanding of my needs.
What was your inspiration to share your experience with others?
I don't ever want another child to have to go through the childhood that I had by having to hide ASD for fear of getting punished or criticized. So this is why I started my business, so I can help people to try to understand a child and autism then I have done my job correctly. If a child with ASD is supported correctly throughout life, there is no reason why he/she cannot go on to have a job and family.
I want to be able to give my perspective on my own ASD and hope that this can help a family, a school or business gain insight into someone they may love, work with or just come into contact with. The world can be a scary place for someone with ASD, and if we can help to make it even a little easier for all of us then, I think that we should.
Do you have words of advice for people with autism?
I am aware that every person with autism is different, but my message remains the same for all in that these children need to know that they are loved and can be themselves without fear of being judged whether at home, school or out in public. I feel I want to raise awareness and give a little insight into my own autistic life in the hope that it can help others. Autism can be twice as hard when you don't have anyone to trust or talk too. Being a parent has a key responsibility in helping a child with autism grow.
This article was featured in Issue 84 - The Journey to Good Health and Well-Being
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8 Special Days and Observances in April
April marks the return of spring. And with it comes a plethora of
holidays and observances that focus on health awareness, the arts and reading, and community service. Some are month-long observances with regional events throughout the country. Others are week-long celebrations centered around a theme. And still, other April days mark national holidays that note the arrival of spring's new growth. Each one of these observances provides an opportunity for a special family outing. Just pick a day that works with your schedule, check your community calendar for local events (or plan a festivity of your own), and rustle up the posse for an activity centered around a day that reinforces family values.
Autism Awareness Month
Autism, one of the fastest growing developmental difficulties, makes its statement in April. Sponsored by the Autism Society,
National Autism Month focuses on autism awareness and inclusion for all. Whether it's a brother, a cousin, or a friend of a friend, we all know someone on the autism spectrum and this national awareness provides an opportunity to teach kids that difficulties don't have to be disabilities. Have them "Light it Up Blue" on April 2 by wearing blue and taking a selfie. Then, share it on social media to express your support for families with autistic members.
National Garden Month
Did you know that
cultivating a garden eases stress and actually makes you happier? Plus, growing your own food instills healthy practices in your kids. This year, celebrate National Garden Month by starting and planting your own garden. Let your kids pick out their favorite veggies to grow, and then attend a gardening workshop at your local nursery to learn the tricks of the trade. If you don't have the space for a garden this year, volunteer in your kid's school garden instead (if your local school has one) or purchase a few pots to grow a beautiful container garden on your front porch.
National Poetry Month
Inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996,
National Poetry Month is one of the largest literary celebrations in the world. Schools, libraries, bookstores, and publishers all join in on the fun by hosting poetry events, teachings, and workshops. And poetry doesn't have to be taught in school. This April, have your kids chalk a few poems on the sidewalk, slip a printed poem into each of their lunchboxes, or organize a family outing around a poetry reading at your local library. Prelude the reading with dinner and top it off with a trip to an ice cream parlor.
National Volunteer Week
Held annually each April, national volunteer week celebrates the impact service can have on an individual or a community. The
#ivolunteer campaign, hosted by Points of Light, urges people to create a signboard displaying the reasons why they volunteer, and then share it on social media. Volunteering in a highway or town cleanup, delivering food to those in need, walking a dog for your local pound, and visiting a nursing home are all ways you can provide service as a family. Then, shout out your good deed on Facebook.
April Fool's Day
Around the turn of the 16th century, the French moved New Year's Day from April 1st to January 1st. Some say the origins of this light-hearted holiday-April Fool's Day (or All Fool's Day)-centered on those who refused to accept the new date. They were called "April fools." Today, April Fool's Day is a good time to play pranks or tricks on your loved ones. And kids absolutely love this day! So play a few tricks on them-like turning their cereal milk blue with food coloring-and then watch out for the mischief to come back your way.
Patriot's Day
If you live in New England, you may spend Patriot's Day attending, or even participating in, the Boston Marathon. This historical holiday celebrated on the third Monday of April commemorates the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which started the Revolutionary War in 1775 and marked the first step toward American independence. Traditionally, sporting events are hosted on this day, especially in New England, where most schools give kids the day off. Why not run a marathon together or participate in a family
Tough Mudder? Whatever you do, get outside and exercise.
Earth Day
What started as an earth-conscious gesture has now become a national holiday and a full-blown environmental movement. Held each year on April 22 (but really, "every day is
Earth Day"), this is a good day to plant trees in a community park, clean up plastic on the beach, bicycle to school, work, or a local Earth Day event, or hold a yard sale where proceeds go to a school or local nonprofit. Artsy types can even teach an earth-centric craft project in your kid's classroom. Teachers usually welcome any parental involvement.
Arbor Day
The last Friday in April sounds like a great day to plant a tree, right? Well, the
Arbor Day Foundation certainly thinks so. This day celebrates trees and how they filter our clean air, slow climate change, provide habitat to birds and animals, and supply oxygen through their photosynthesis process. Check your community calendar on Arbor Day and attend a tree-planting event with your family. Chances are, the children will learn something new and you will help beautify your own town in the process.
https://www.thespruce.com/special-days-and-observances-in-april-1448882
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French Toast Casserole with Brown Sugar-Walnut Crumble
This is a glorious dish to make for brunch guests: You soak the bread in eggs overnight, so the next morning all you have to do is top the casserole with streusel and bake. The overnight soak makes the finished French toast almost like a custardy souffle.
Ingredients
Casserole:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened, for the casserole dish
1 loaf Italian-style bread, cut into 18 half-inch-thick slices (about 1 pound)
6 large eggs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Kosher salt
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
Brown Sugar Crumble:
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Kosher salt
1 stick unsalted butter, cut into cubes
1 cup chopped walnuts
Directions
- For the casserole: Generously butter a 3-quart casserole dish. Arrange the bread slices over the bottom of the dish in three rows of 6 slices, shingling slightly.
- Whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon salt in large bowl until combined and smooth. Whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure that all slices have been coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 12.
- Position an oven rack in the center of the oven, and preheat to 350 degrees F.
- For the crumble: Toss the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon salt together in a medium bowl. Add the butter and work it in with your fingers until the mixture is crumbly with pea-sized bits of butter. Mix in the walnuts.
- To assemble: Give the bread slices in the casserole dish a gentle push into the custard. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the top.
- Bake the casserole until the top is puffed and browned and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, about 45 minutes (it will still be a little wiggly but will continue to cook a bit out of the oven); check halfway through the baking time and tent with foil if the topping is browning too quickly. Serve hot.
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April Fun Family Activities
11/29/2018 - 5/30/2019
Tyke's Tuesdays and Thursday's
ISC Cherry Hill
650 Kresson Road
Cherry Hill 08034
CALL TO CONFIRM TIMES
REGISTRATION NOT REQUIRED
AGE RANGE: Preschoolers
CALL: 856-428-8588
Thursday (Begins September 20, 2018 and runs through May 30, 2019. Closed for Thanksgiving)Tyke's Thursday's 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. $8 Per Child Includes: Fun and energetic soccer lesson, time in our FunZone, snack and juice. Ages 6 and under
April 6, 2019
Easter Egg Hunts on the Farm!
Paws Discovery Farm
April 6-7
April 13-14
April 20
Join us for our popular Egg Hunt on the farm! Search for eggs all over the nine acres of trails and land at Paws Discovery Farm! Bring your own bag or basket and gather eggs tor redeem for prizes! April 6,7,13,14 & 20, 2019 10am-6pm
$10 admission *No passes or Groupons will be accepted.
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
F.I.S.H. (Family Inclusive Special Hours) Night.
Adventure Aquarium
April is Autism Awareness month. Join us Sunday, April 7, as we host F.I.S.H. (Family Inclusive Special Hours) Night.
On F.I.S.H. Night the aquarium transforms into an accommodating setting for the special needs community.
This special event is included with a discounted General Admission ticket. Adventure Aquarium Members will need to complete the R.S.V.P. form below to secure their free admission to this event. Paid Care Attendants with a valid ID may enter at no additional cost. Orders must be made in advance. Limited capacity for the event.
What to Expect:
All music throughout the aquarium will be turned off
Setting changes at Piranha Falls - no storm noises and lights will be on
In Caribbean Currents the house lighting will be turned on
NO microphones are to be used at touch exhibits or during any special programming
PSEG 3D Theater will be utilized as a quiet room for attendees
More Event Details:
6:30 to 7:30pm - African Penguin at the Discovery Deck
7:45PM - Hippo Bedtime
April 11 through April 13,2019 Weekly on Thursday, Friday, Saturday
10:00 am - 11:30 am
Three Billy Goats Gruff
The Ritz Theatre Company
915 White Horse Pike
Haddon Township 08107
CALL TO CONFIRM TIMES: 856-858-5230
MORE DETAILS: www.ritztheatreco.org
April 14, 2019
Brunch with the Bunny
Garden State Discovery Museum
WHEN: April 14, 2019 @ 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Come join the Garden State Discovery Museum on Sunday, April 14, 2019 for Brunch with the Bunny! Have your cameras ready for a meet and greet with the Easter Bunny and enjoy brunch served by the Silver Diner!
Seatings available - 11am & 12pm
Pre-Registration Required
April 14, 2019
An Exclusive Scout Event
Diggerland
Access to attractions and arcade
Diggerland USA Fun Patch for Scouts
Overnight Campout (Bring your own Tent)
Dinner, Dessert, & Breakfast included in price
Enjoy access to the park all day Sunday 4/14
Contact our Sales Department to BOOK or for more information
Sales@diggerlandusa.com
856.809.4218
April 21, 2019
12:00 PM
Easter Egg Hunt
Diggerland
We're hiding over 4,000 eggs in the Easter Egg Patches at Diggerland. Every EGG has a prize and 20 GOLDEN eggs have grand prizes hidden in them.
The hunts are for children 12 and under. Please bring your own basket or bag to collect eggs. We will have separate areas for children up to 8 years old and children 9 to 12 years old.
When: Sunday, April 21st @ 12:00 PM - Be sure to arrive early, the park opens at 11:00 AM. Due to the popularity of this event, the egg hunt is typically over within about half an hour.
Miller Farms -Horseback Trail Rides & Lessons in Camden County!
Come enjoy the beautiful scenery at the only horseback/trail riding available in Camden County. Trail riding is offered Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm year round (Weather permitting). Children must be at least 7 years old to trail ride. Cost is $30/person for approximately an hour-long trail ride. Hand-led rides are also available for those younger than 7 and cost $5.
Reservations are strongly suggested.
We offer a great place for family fun, birthday parties, girl scouts and youth groups. Summer horse camp, riding lessons, and horse drawn wagon rides are also available.
1 Hour Trail Rides are $30 Per Person | Call for reservations | Trail Rides Sat and Sun Only | Open Year round
Miller Farms
134 N. Grove Street, Berlin, NJ 08009
856-728-3500
ISC - ISC (International Sport, Skating & Fun Centre) Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Classes: Sports
Camps: All, Sports
HOURS: Our offices are open 9 AM - 5 PM daily. Give us a buzz for more information!
CALL: 856-428-8588
MORE DETAILS: ISC (International Sport, Skating & Fun Centre) Cherry Hill is any family's destination for fun!
Located off of Kresson Road (behind the 7Eleven) in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we offer skating, a FunZone & Inflatable (10 & Under), and an arcade. Our facility also includes a cafè with pizza, hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, drinks and more!
ISC Cherry Hill offers activities for all ages, no matter the season.
Our youth & adult sports leagues run year round and include:
- Soccer
- Lacrosse
- Field Hockey
- Volleyball
- Roller Hockey
ISC Cherry Hill also offers School & Summer Camp programs for ages 3 ½ through Grade 8. Call for more information!
Jellybean Jungle
Crispin Square Shopping Center
Monday - Wednesday 9:30 - 5:00
Thursday 9:30 - 6:00
Friday 9:30 - 8:00
Saturday 9:30 - 2:30
Sunday - Closed for Private Parties
Jellybean Jungle is a play and learn adventure that is exclusively for children 5 and under. Our facility is a bright and stimulating environment created just for your little ones.
Jellybean Jungle was designed by a New Jersey Early Childhood certified teacher. Safe, age appropriate equipment has been selected for your children's enjoyment. We offer a large variety of imaginative and developmentally appropriate activities that will lead your child on an adventure of social exploration! As your child plays, you will gain insight into their development, as well as enjoy a great time of bonding.
3111 Route 38, Ste. 14 Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
856-242-9354 info@werockthespectrummountlaurel.com Call or email in advance to make sure facility is not booked for a party. Open 7 days a week We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym is the first of its kind in New Jersey, offering fitness and play space for children of all abilities, including those with sensory issues. Our Gym Includes: Suspended equipment with swings - for balance and vestibular treatment Crash mats and crash pillows - for fun, motor planning, and strength Zip line - for stress release and joint and body relaxation Trampoline - for building leg and core strength Indoor play structure - for climbing and increasing playground skills Sensory-based toys - for improved auditory processing and fine motor skills
Fine Motor and Arts and Crafts Area - for improved hand-eye coordination
Mon. - Sun.: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
1 Riverside Drive Camden, NJ 08103 PH: 844-474-FISH (3474)
Adventure Aquarium is just minutes from downtown Philadelphia on the Camden Waterfront and features one-of-a-kind exhibits with more than 8,500 aquatic species throughout two million gallons of water. The Aquarium is home to the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast, including the only great hammerhead shark on exhibit in the United States, the only
aquarium in the world to exhibit hippos, one of only six facilities in the US to have Little Blue penguins as permanent residents and exhibits the longest Shark Bridge in the world, a unique V-shaped rope suspension bridge just inches over Shark Realm. Adventure Aquarium is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and is held to the absolute highest standards in animal care and exhibition.
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Our Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theater listings for specific show times, and don't forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly.
62 Battleship Pl, Camden, NJ 08103-3302
Located on the Camden Waterfront, NJ, across the Delaware River from Center City Philadelphia the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial offers guided and self-guided tours. Climb inside the 16" gun turrets, learn explore the captain's cabins and crew's quarters and discover what life was like for a Battleship sailor. Group packages and educational programs are available for school. You can rent space aboard the Battleship for meetings and social events. Families and youth groups can spend the night aboard the Battleship as part of the overnight program.
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Careers
Would you like to make a difference in your community or an individual's life?
Apply to New Behavioral Network today!
We are now hiring . . . Licensed Mobile Therapists Behavior Interventionists Behavioral Assistants BCBAs & BCaBAs
We offer competitive pay, flexible schedules, and a supportive work environment.
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