Blog

Joint attention is when two people focus on an object, person, event or idea at the same time. It occurs when one person alerts the other to an object without words, indicating with just a look or pointed finger. Often joint attention is associated exclusively with toddlers and autism, but it also informs social behavior for adolescents and adults who aren’t on the spectrum. 

JCFS Chicago is honored to partner with MISSD and No Shame on U to expand the suicide prevention work of the Chicago Jewish community and offer support and comfort to those who have lost someone to suicide, with support from JUF’s Breakthrough Fund.

We’ve added more inclusive physical education equipment and activities for our Knapp School & Yeshiva students with disabilities! Group activities like rolling skating are opportunities for students to have fun while they develop valuable life skills and healthy lifelong habits.

Are you a parent or caregiver of a child with intellectual/developmental disabilities? Consider joining us at our monthly respite groups at the Joy Faith Knapp Children’s Center on Sundays from 1-4 pm.

Are you a parent or guardian of a child with special needs who has an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan? Do you have any questions about the plan itself or with its implementation? Do you suspect your child may have a disability and may need services in school? If you answered yes to any of these questions, the JCFS Chicago Legal Advocacy Center may be a resource for you.

As January 1, 2020 approaches, JCFS Chicago’s addiction services has been receiving  requests to provide information about marijuana in anticipation of the legalization of recreational use in Illinois.  As with all substance use issues, marijuana legalization is expected to impact the Jewish community along with the general population.

Why are people playing video games while driving? A look at the science behind why video games are so hard to put down.

As a parent or caregiver, this scene may seem all too familiar. You’re traveling to visit family during the holiday season, or getting the house ready for guests to arrive, when your toddler has a temper tantrum. Tantrums occur when children are trying to get something they want or need. 

Each person’s background and story is unique

Emily came to JCFS after months of conflict and unhappiness. Through counseling she was able to identify unhealthy patterns and gain the strength to take control of her life.

Having books in the home is proven to positively benefit children in a myriad of ways. A two-decade long study found that the mere presence of a home library increases children’s academic success, vocabulary development, attention and job attainment.