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DDI - Children's Day Program - Saturday Sibling Group
The first meeting of the Saturday Sibling Group for 2012/13 school year is September 29, 2012.
For almost 20 years the Social Work Department has sponsored a monthly group for the siblings of our students. Our groups are activity based—we play games, do arts and crafts, cook, and always include a time to go outside or to the gym to balance our energies. The Group is a fun way for kids to learn about autism and other developmental disabilities and to meet other kids who share the same experiences. Our unique games and ‘game show’ competitions are designed to gently provide concrete information about disabilities; to stimulate conversations about what it’s like to have a sibling with special needs; and to provide a forum for kids to help each other with some of the challenges they all face. Over the years the kids have described the group as a ‘sort of club’ made up of other kids who ‘get it.’
Our group is open to siblings from 6 to 16+. Their special needs sibling doesn’t have to attend DDI or even have a diagnosis of autism, although our discussions are predominantly about Spectrum issues. Since our meetings are organized around a central theme and activity, we are able to offer something for everyone. Older members often act as helpers for younger or new members. Many new members like to watch from the sidelines for a meeting or two and or have their parent nearby, that’s ok too.
New members, best friends, and cousins are welcome at any time. We know kids are busy with lots of activities, so it isn’t necessary to make a commitment to attend every session. We encourage sibs to come when they can. We usually get a nice sized group, and we always have fun!
The group meets in the kitchen at the Smithtown DDI (99 Hollywood Drive, Smithtown 11787) from 10 am to noon.
Future meeting dates: no Oct. meeting Nov. 3, 2012 Dec. 15, 2012
Jan. 26, 2012 no Feb. meeting March 2, 2012 April 20, 2013
no May meeting June 8, 2013
For more info and to let us know you are coming call or email:
Amie: 366-2989 ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. )
Candy: 266-4420 ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. "> This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. )
