For over a decade, the Friendship Circle of Central Jersey has been serving the families with special needs of our community, providing social and education opportunities they would not otherwise have access to. Through their flagship program Friends at Home, which connects teen volunteers with children with special needs for weekly playdates, as well as two dozen additional programs and events, the organization provides friendship, respite and support to over 100 special families each year. But the Friendship Circle isn’t satisfied just yet: this month they debuted two brand new programs: Mommy & Me and Mini Chefs.
With New Jersey having one of the highest rate of autism in the nation, with roughly one out of every 49 children diagnosed with the disorder, Mommy & Me targets the mothers of newly diagnosed toddlers, offering them emotional and practical support when they need it most. With sessions scheduled each month, Mommy & Me will serve as a platform for moms of children with special needs to share their experiences and resources. At the same time, the moms will learn how to interact with their little ones through a variety of music and movement activities that build strength, flexibility and coordination as they grow.
“Those first few months post diagnosis is often overwhelming,” explained Friendship Circle director, Chanale Wolosow. “From the start, we want to create a safe place where these moms can connect and create a community.”
Mini Chefs will cater to preschool aged children with special needs, use the kitchen as a classroom to teach them a myriad of crucial skills, including fine and gross motor skills, communication and teamwork. At the same time, the children form lasting friendships and have a great time creating theirculinary masterpieces.
“We’re going to continue to grow and respond to the needs of the community,” concluded Wolosow, “We’re here to help in any way we can.”
For more information on the Friendship Circle of Central Jersey, please visit www.friendsnj.com or call 732-536-2319.
