Event created by NPN Liz G
Get the support and resources your child needs at our IN-PERSON fair
NPN will follow all IDPH and City of Chicago COVID guidelines. Check back for the latest updates.
If your child has a physical, developmental or intellectual challenge, NPN's 11th Annual Developmental Differences Resource Fair can help. Our free fair puts you in touch with school options, therapy providers and more resources that will encourage your child to reach his or her highest potential. Your child does not need to have a diagnosis for you to benefit from the resources offered at this fair. Parents with concerns about their child's development due to COVID regression will find help here.
Parents can chat with speech, occupational, physical and ABA therapy providers; schools; fun extracurricular options; and more at the exhibitor booths. Plus, get advice and strategies you can use immediately at free expert-led sessions.
Exhibit Hall Hours 1:00 - 4:00pm
Sessions - These in-person sessions will be recorded. RSVP today to receive a link to the live recordings after the event.
12:00 - 1:00pm IEP Questions & Answers with Mo Buti
Mo Buti M.Ed-BD, M.Ed-ADMIN, QIDP, is an advocate and instructional expert who is devoted to supporting individuals and families affected by autism and other disabilities. Providing guidance and support to navigate the school district’s complex systems, she assists parents with every stage of the IEP process. This session will start with a short presentation from Mo, and then open up to questions from the audience. Prior to attending this session, we strongly encourage parents to watch our previously recorded session, IEP 101. Find more free IEP-related sessions in NPN's Video Library.
One attendee at this session will win a free IEP evaluation session with Mo! Must be present to win.
3:15 - 3:45pm Paying for Services through Grants and Government Programs
Kimi Matsumura is the founder and CEO of Chicago Autism Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families find and afford effective autism therapy and supports. Kimi will speak about Health Insurance Premium Payment grants (HIPP), Priority of Urgency of Need for Services (PUNS), Supplemental Security Insurance for Children (SSI), local private grants, national private grants, and Medicaid.
Attendees at this session will be able to sign up to receive Kimi's detailed slides to reference after the event.
4:00 - 5:00pm From Recreation to Competition: Enrichment Opportunities for Your Child
Chicago has so many enrichment opportunities for your child and in this session you will hear from some of the best. Learn how your child can become a competitive or performing participant, or simply have fun.
Our esteemed presenters are:
Sam Mauceri, Director of Education & Access Programs, Chicago Children's Theatre
Blair Sarkiss, Master Instructor, HMD Academy Chicago Tae Kwon Do
Eileen Guinane, Special Olympics Administrator, Chicago Park District Special Recreation and Special Olympics
Catherine Attfield, Studio Manager, Intrigue Dance & Performance Arts Center
John Fitzpatrick, Owner and Head Coach, Chicago Blue Dolphins
Laura Fillenwarth, Executive Director, Kids Enjoy Exercise Now (KEEN) Chicago
This panel is presented to you by Chicago Children's Theatre and HMD Academy Chicago Tae Kwon Do
MUST-KNOW INFO
When: Saturday, May 7 12pm–5pm (exhibit hall hours are 1:00 - 4:00)
Where: UIC Student Center East, 750 S. Halsted St., Chicago
Who: Open to the public! Registration required. This event is designed for adults but we understand that arranging childcare can be difficult. Parents attending with children will not be turned away.
Cost: FREE. $25 donation recommended. Donate here. NPN is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We rely on your financial support to bring free resources like this to Chicago families.
Covid precautions: NPN will follow all IDPH and City of Chicago Covid guidelines. As the guidelines change periodically, check back for updates.
Interested in exhibiting or advertising opportunities? Find out more HERE.
Questions? Email Events Manager Elizabeth Gourio at egourio@npnparents.org.
By registering for this event, you agree that NPN may share your name and email address with our presenting sponsors.
