As promised, I was able to locate a few more schools which serve children in Du Page and Cook Counties.
I have been focusing specifically on programs that cater to the needs of children on the Autism Spectrum, as this is a very personal issue for me.
So, here is some of what I found.
EASTER SEALS! Who doesn’t know about Easter Seals and all of their wonderful work with people afflicted with disabilities? What I did know was that they offered programs for Early Childhood. I honestly thought that they did not offer services to older children and adults. At least not in the way that I discovered.
To my great surprise and pleasure, I discovered that they are building a whole Therapeutic School and Center for Autism Research. This Center will be located in the Illinois Medical District in Chicago. And this one of a kind facility will combine education, research, training, early intervention, independent living capabilities, as well as school to work transition programs. I was ecstatic!
I also found out that this center will incorporate talented researchers, who, while working on finding out what causes Autism, will also be observing the children. These observations will lead to better and more successful interventions for the children. Along with this Center, Easter Seals currently has Autism Therapeutic Schools located in Chicago, Waukegan, Tinley Park and Rockford. For more information on Easter Seals and all of their wonderful programs, please visit: www.chicago.easterseals.com
CAMELOT OF ILLINOIS is the next series of schools that I found. They have locations in DeKalb, Des Plaines, Hoffman Estates, Kingston, Naperville and Pulaski. These schools provides services for children as young as 3 and offer services for young adults up to age 21 or 22. While Autism is not specifically mentioned, Aspergers and PDD are. According to the website for the schools, the following are some of the diagnoses that are included in the student body: Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Bipolar Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Aspergers.
This is very hopeful, especially considering that they offer 6 different campuses. And specifically, the Hoffman Estate campus has an Autism Center. Every campus seems to be a little bit different, so it’s best to contact them for more information. One thing of note, however, is the fact that these schools, in particular, are also involved with the Chicago Area Alternative Education League (CAAEL). This league helps the students participate in sports such as Basketball, Flag Football and even includes Chess. And that is a wonderful thing. For more information on these programs, please visit: www.camelotforkids.org
I hope that the information I have provided helps other parents struggling with finding suitable academic placement for their children. Being the parent of a 13 year old Autistic son, I know how hard it is to find a program that will work. Until recently, I did not even realize how much is actually out there. Which is why I am still looking.
Just remember, not EVERY school is right for EVERY disability. Ask lots and lots of questions. And don’t let your School District tell you where they will place the child. TELL them! Let them know how you feel!
I found out recently that some Districts will even surprise you when you tell them if something is not working for your child. So ask questions, demand some answers, and above all else, DON’T GIVE UP HOPE!!
