top of page

GROUPS

Kids Playing Tug of War

This Group is open to McHenry County Caregivers of individuals with delays, disabilities, or other neurodivergent learning differences. There will be hot topic discussions, sharing, and networking opportunities. For more information and questions contact Angela Krambeer at angela.krambeer@opad.org

Hang Out Jr. is a group designed to give elementary school-aged children with autism an opportunity to hang out in a supportive environment and practice social strategies. For more Information or to RSVP contact Christine Neilsen christine.neilsen@opad.org 

This group is open to all Spanish-speaking caregivers of people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The next online meeting is on September 18. For questions or to RSVP contact Melissa Reynoso at 815-477-4720 ext 235 melissa.reynoso@opad.org

Sibshops are workshop groups for 8-14 year old siblings of kids with special needs. Groups meet monthly from September 2023-May 2024 on the first Saturday of each month from 9am-11:30am. The first session will be on September 2nd. This group is open for registration. For more information, contact Winter Noe at winter.noe@opad.org

For registration forms in English click here or Spanish click here.

Respite is one of the most common resources requested by family and one of the most challenging to find. This is why Options & Advocacy and First Church of Crystal Lake are so pleased to announce that there is a FREE respite opportunity available right here in McHenry County!

The purpose of Discovery Group is to offer an opportunity for adults on the autism spectrum to build friendships with one another. The group engages in discussions about life, goals, and strategies and occasionally hosts guest speakers. For more information, contact Darbi Carbone at darbi.carbone@opad.org!

Social Skills groups utilize multiple Social Thinking curricula and strive to teach children and adolescents on the autism spectrum the importance of understanding themselves and their peers! Watch out for the next Social Group. For more information contact Darbi Carbone at darbi.carbone@opad.org

Child & Family Connections and Helping Us Grow offers playgroups for you and your child ages 4 and under:

 

  • Our playgroups are designed to help prepare children for preschool and other structured group activities by offering free play, circle time/story time, motor activities, sensory activities, crafts, and a snack.

  • Our playgroups provide a “no pressure” environment that strives to support children and families in structured group settings that you can implement into your daily routines. 

  • Playgroup is an opportunity for parents and children to meet others and experience social situations in a safe place.

 

  • GETTING THE MOST OUT OF PLAY GROUPS

  • Actively participate in activities with your child.

  • Practice turn-taking and waiting for a turn.

  • Use hand over hand to assist your child in participating in all activities.

  • Invite your service providers to attend playgroup.

 

  • HELPFUL TIPS

  • Remember that playgroup may not go smoothly the first few times and that’s OK!!

  • Allow time for movement if your child has a hard time sitting, but encourage staying with the group when possible.

  • Feel free to ask questions!!

  • Have fun!  Enjoy this time with your child!

       Contact Angela Krambeer, Parent Liaison for more                 information 815-477-4720 ext 258 or angela.krambeer@opad.org

bottom of page