November was a month of connection, learning, and fun for families in The Arc of Essex County’s Children’s Services programs, including:

• Social Skills Classes on Tuesday afternoons at Opportunity Zone in Maplewood for children and teens. To learn how to register for the weekly classes, which are offered at no charge to families, call Toshonda Johnson-Hall at 973-535-1181 ext. 1275.
• Communi-Play on November 8 and 22, where children ages 2.5 to 5 and families enjoyed engaging play sessions designed to foster social skills, creativity, and community inclusion. Sessions are offered to families at no charge, but registration is required at bit.ly/communi-play.
• The first of the Shapiro Early Intervention Family Workshop Series, a webinar titled “What is PerformCare?” and led by speaker Adara Heilmann, Director of Children’s Advocacy at The Arc of New Jersey, provided an array of helpful information to families. Upcoming webinars include “Overview of Special Child Health Services Case Management” at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, and “Guiding Your Path: Understanding Special Ed School Choices” at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13. Register for these sessions at bit.ly/shapiro-family-series
• A “Friendsgiving Fun Night” at Parents’ Night Out on November 21, whenparents had a chance to relax while children and teens participated in an evening filled with games, crafts, and festive treats. The next Parents’ Night Out is scheduled for Friday, December 19.

To learn more about The Arc of Essex County’s Children’s Programming, click here or contact Toshonda Johnson-Hall at 973-535-1181 ext. 1275 or tjohnson-hall@arcessex.org.