Welcome to the Snoezelen Room, a new hotspot and enrichment at TDS that is designed to stimulate all the senses while foster a feeling of relaxation among students.

For the past 5 years, JCFS TDS’ vocational program has had the pleasure of partnering with a local candy store, Mini Man Monkey Brains.  Founded by Gloria and Jim Iverson, Mini Man Monkey Brains is a place close to their hearts.  The candy shop provides a place for young adults on the Autism spectrum (and who have varying abilities) a place to practice and implement work expectations. 

Congratulations to all the teen participants and adult leaders on another successful Operation Snowball 2019! At the end of February teens from across Chicagoland came together to participate in Operation Snowball, our annual winter teen retreat planned entirely by teens.

Rabbi David M. Rosenberg, Coordinator, Jewish Educational Services, JCFS Chicago Therapeutic Yeshiva reflects on Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month and the opportunities for success the JCFS Chicago Therapeutic Day School & Yeshiva create for students whose potential to achieve has been hindered by their emotional disability. 

Looking for ideas to cure cabin fever?  Here are 10 ways to make the most of the long winter days.

The winter months are a great time to master kids’ dressing skills. With the addition of coats, sweaters, and vests to the daily dressing routine there are many opportunities to practice managing fasteners including snaps, zippers, and buttons

For as long as I can remember, camp has been a part of my life. From day camp as a young child to my first summer at overnight camp when I was 12, my experiences at camp shaped the person I am today. It helped me become independent and go outside of my comfort zone. Anyone who knew me growing up knew that Camp Chi was the place where I truly shined and was my best, happiest self.  

Fostering someone else’s child is a tough parenting situation, and while a child is in your care it’s up to you to manage their behavior. The key to successful behavior management is to examine your own reaction to the behavior, change that reaction and in most cases, a more positive behavior will result. Here are some guidelines to consider:

Bulldog Bulletin February 2019, Volume 1

5th grade student Miguel, pictured playing chess with his teacher Kate, has made huge strides since attending TDS. His mom shared how different Miguel has been since his time here: “TDS gave my son a new life. I don’t know what else to say except that having my son be a part of TDS is the best thing that’s ever happened to him.”