The Foorce

Family Programs 2011-12

Sarah Birnbaum, Monday September 19th 6-8 pm

The parent of a child with special needs, Sarah Birnbaum has amassed a wealth of knowledge in dealing with New York City’s unique subculture of therapists, agencies, schools, and governmental bodies. She turned her experience into a consultancy helping parents navigate the maze of services and educational options here. She guides parents to schools that can best support their children’s needs, gives advice on the application process, coaches them on working with their school districts, and helps them to become powerful advocates. But most importantly, she offers them support in coping with the complicated emotions that accompany the quest to educate an exceptional child. 

Master Clinician, world expert on childhood anxiety and trusted advisor to The Quad Anne Marie Albano will discuss real world markers she is creating to gage a child’s progress towards independence and autonomy.   When should kids be independent enough to ride public transportation on their own? Have a cell phone? Do sleep-overs or sleep away camp? Interact with store clerks? Find out answers to these plus a whole lot more!

Preceded by The Quad Fall Open House 5-6pm

Dr. Anne Marie Albano is Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology at Columbia University and Director of Columbia University’s Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders. 

The Quad’s very own gifted 2e expert and Educational Director, Pat Sciortino, will share her insights and strategies for parenting and educating a gifted child.  Ms. Sciortino, who has over 10 years experience working with gifted 2e learners at Bridge’s Academy in L.A., will outline best practices and settings for these very EXCEPTIONAL kids!

Lindsey Biel, MA OTR/L Monday December 12 6-8 pm

Lindsay Biel is a pediatric Occupational Therapist with a private practice in New York City. She works with children, teens, and young adults with sensory processing disorder, autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning challenges, and other issues. She is also the author of “Raising a Sensory Smart Child” that has long been the “bible” for children with sensory difficulties–those who struggle to process everyday sensations and exhibit unusual behaviors such as avoiding or seeking out touch, movement, sounds, and sights. In this talk, Ms. Biel will describe SPD and best practices to help those affected by it: from the right type of therapies to practical tips on parenting in a “sensory smart” way.

We look forward to seeing you all in the Fall!

Kimberly Busi, Founder and Executive Director 

Pat Sciortino, Educational Director 

Emily Andrews, Preschool Director

Sarah Clay, Associate Director 

The Quad Manhattan