Cinnaminson Child Study Team
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During the month of February, the Cinnaminson School District continues to focus on ADHD Awareness. ADHD is a highly genetic, brain-based syndrome that focuses on the regulation of a particular set of brain functions and related behaviors.
These brain operations are collectively referred to as “executive functioning skills” and include important functions such as attention, concentration, memory, motivation and effort, learning from mistakes, impulsivity, hyperactivity, organization, and social skills. There are various contributing factors that play a role in these challenges including chemical and structural differences in the brain as well as genetics. The executive function impairments that occur in ADHD individuals result in problems with staying organized, time keeping, excessive procrastination, maintaining concentration, paying attention, ignoring distractions, regulating emotions, and remembering details.
Treatment recommendations for ADHD
ADHD can be managed with the right treatment. There are many treatment options, and what works best can depend on the individual child and family. To find the best options, it is recommended that parents work closely with others involved in their child’s life—healthcare providers, therapists, teachers, coaches, and other family members.
Tips for Parents
The following are suggestions that may help with the child’s behavior:
- Create a routine. Try to follow the same schedule every day, from wake-up time to bedtime.
- Get organized
- Encourage the child to put school bags, clothing, and toys in the same place every day so that they will be less likely to lose them.
- Manage distractions. Turn off the TV, limit noise, and provide a clean workspace when the child is doing homework. Some children with ADHD learn well if they are moving or listening to background music. Watch the child and see what works.
- Limit choices. To help the child not feel overwhelmed or overstimulated, offer choices with only a few options. For example, have them choose between this outfit or that one, this meal or that one, or this toy or that one.
- Be clear and specific when you talk with the child. Let the child know you are listening by describing what you heard them say. Use clear, brief directions when they need to do something.
- Help the child plan. Break down complicated tasks into simpler, shorter steps. For long tasks, starting early and taking breaks may help limit stress.
- Use goals and praise or other rewards. Use a chart to list goals and track positive behaviors, then let the child know they have done well by telling them or by rewarding their efforts in other ways. Be sure the goals are realistic—small steps are important!
- Discipline effectively. Instead of scolding, yelling, or spanking, use effective directions, time-outs or removal of privileges as consequences for inappropriate behavior.
- Create positive opportunities. Children with ADHD may find certain situations stressful. Finding out and encouraging what the child do
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Please see the attached letter regarding the Special Education Medicaid Initiative (SEMI) program. If you have already signed and returned the attached form, please disregard. There is no need to re-sign. If you have not signed in the past, please sign and return using any of the methods explained in the letter. Thank you! |
Believe it or not, Annual IEP Season begins mid-February. Our office will begin scheduling meetings shortly before your child's Annual date.
At least two days prior to your child’s Annual meeting, you will receive another notification, via email, including items to be discussed at the meeting and your child’s current levels of academic and functional performance.
If you would like a copy of the draft IEP prior to the meeting, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s case manager after your invitation is received. We will make every effort to get you a copy at least three days prior to the meeting.
Additionally, in an effort to be more environmentally friendly, the links to the P.R.I.S.E booklet and Procedural Safeguards are here instead of being sent home in hard copy.
If you would like a hard copy in addition to the links, please reach out to Natasha Ferroni at ferronin@cinnaminson.com or (856) 829-7600 ext. 2117.
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The Play Unified campaign is a way to excite and engage young people to come out and play Unified Sports. Play Unified expresses the movement’s ambition to be recognized as an inclusive community where people with and without intellectual disabilities have the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate each other’s gifts, both on and off the playing field.
Our CHS Play Unified Basketball program is off to a great start with a 2-0 record so far. Their next home game is Friday, February 13, at 3:00PM when the Pirates take on Ewing. We will also be honoring our Senior athletes and partners at halftime during this game, which is the last of the season. All are encouraged to come out and support our Pirates!
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Below are several local programs that may be of interest to you and your family. These programs are for your reference and are not affiliated or sponsored by Cinnaminson School District. |
SPAN’s (SPAN Parent Advocacy Network) offers a variety of learning opportunities for families and the professionals who work with them.
Please click on the link for SPAN’s upcoming events with details and registration information:
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The Children’s System of Care (CSOC) is reopening the Assistive Technology program for youth with intellectual/developmental disabilities up to age 21. CSOC has resumed accepting new Family Support Services (FSS) applications for Assistive Technology requests. Interested families may call Perform Care (1-877-652-7624) to request Assistive Technology services and complete the FSS application over the phone. For more information about CSOC’s Family Support Services programs including Assistive Technology, please visit: https://www.performcarenj.org/pdf/families/family-support-services-facts.pdf
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The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Office of Education on Self-Directed Services (OESDS) provides training for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) receiving services, their families, advocates and support coordinators, as well as community partners and other stakeholders.
Please see the link for more information on in-person, virtual or webinars on the following:
Family Networking Sessions
Peer-to-Peer Networking Sessions
Education and Resources
Technical Assistance and Education
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On Saturday, February 21, 2026, The Caregivers of NJ is Hosting a Transition Fair In Somerset County from 10-1PM. This fair will benefit any families with a high school student with an intellectual or developmental disability who will need support after graduation. The fair is located at Montgomery High School, 1016 Route 601, Skillman, NJ 08558. Registration is required. For questions or more information and registration, please see the below link:
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Community Inclusion of the Katz JCC offers a variety of fun and engaging social and recreational programs and events throughout the year for individuals with special needs, of all ages, to build social skills, enhance self-esteem and cultivate friendships. Whether you are looking to build creativity through art or music, a healthier mind and body through fitness and cooking, or a way to stay connected to the community – the JCC offers something for everyone! Click the link for more information on the variety of programs and registration: https://katzjcc.org/programs/about-achad/
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Chuck E Cheese will now open 2 hours early on the first Sunday of every month, specifically for children with Autism and other special needs with reduced lighting and noise, food and games offered, and trained and caring staff.
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Princeton House Behavioral Health Child and Adolescent Program now offers in-person for children in grades 5-12. The Children’s Program offers outpatient treatment services for children with emotional and behavioral problems that interfere with functioning at school and home. The program helps children with impulse control problems, depression, and aggressive or self-destructive behavior. The goal of the program is: improve self-control and coping ability; express emotions in a positive way; function in healthier ways at school and home; improve self-esteem.
To learn more or make a referral: Call 888.437.1610, option 2 (outpatient)
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Equal Opportunity Support Services supports your loved ones who have an intellectual / developmental disability providing assistance in meeting their emotional, cognitive, social, and physical needs. Their services are rooted in the belief that individuals must be provided with the support that they deserve to grow, be independent, and have the chance to live their best life. They provide the following services: Support Coordination, Support Brokerage, Training and Transition to Adulthood. Please see the link for more information: https://www.equalopportunitysupportservices.org/
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Spectrum Sports is an inclusive sports and fitness program for individuals of all abilities. They provide exercise through various sports, games, and group fitness with three locations in southern New Jersey. Check out the website for more information:
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Below is a link to possible Special Needs Programs offered by Moorestown Township such as Social Skills club (SMASH) for middle and high school students, basketball and special needs party open for all. Programs are open to non-residents. Registration is open as programs begin soon! Click the link for more information and registration: https://secure.rec1.com/NJ/moorestown-nj/catalog
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Please see link below to find information regarding the Marlton Recreation Council (MRC) Sports Unity Program. The program is designed to provide opportunities for athletes with special needs to participate in organized sports. Click the link for more information and registration: https://www.marltonreccouncil.org/sportsunity
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The JFCS Disability Services Department is committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities in Southern New Jersey. We also provide support, education, and networking opportunities for family members. JFCS develops programs and services to help clients achieve their highest potential and lead more independent and fulfilled lives. JFCS is an approved vendor of supported employment services through the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS), and a qualified provider of the Supports Program through the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD).
The JFCS Disability Services Department offers various programs, such as: J-Time After-School Respite; Supported Employment; Community-Based Supports; High School Transition Services; TOPS Habilitation Program; Social, Recreational & Athletic Programs; Soups & Sweets Culinary Training Program; Project Search; Self-Hired Respite Care; STAR Program. Please see the below link for more information: https://jfcssnj.org/disability-services/
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ZZ Jams offers a unique class for children with special needs and varying abilities. This class will explore the world of dance, while encouraging each specific child’s needs. Compassion, respect and love is what you’ll find in this class. The class will focus on all types of movement with a concentration on hip hop. All of our ZZ Jams students will be encouraged to perform in our showcases, but it is not required to take the class. See link for registration information.
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Become a member of the RWJ Barnabas Health Toms River Field of Dreams at the Ocean Orthopedic Associates Complex. Membership is FREE and is for special needs individuals and their families ONLY. The Toms River Field of Dreams is a one-of-a-kind 3.5-acre complex specifically designed with special needs children and adults in mind. Since its Grand Opening on April 20, 2022, the Field of Dreams has built a community of over 2,000 special needs families of all ages and abilities from all over the tri-state area, and the number keeps on growing. Please see the link for more information and how to become a member. https://rwjbhfieldofdreams.com/about-us/
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Previously know as Build Jake's Place® founded Jake's Place - an all-inclusive playground which allows children and adults of all abilities to play and interact together. Jake's Place is a nationally ranked, award-winning all-inclusive playground located at Challenge Grove Park in Cherry Hill, NJ AND an all-new redesigned Jake’s Place in Delran, NJ. Funded by donations and built by community volunteers, the mission of Jake’s Place is to provide all-inclusive play opportunities for children and adults with special needs through advocacy, awareness building, programming, building playgrounds, and sharing our expertise with like-minded individuals and organizations. Jake's Place also offers programs, such as: Camden County NJ Miracle League and Community Service Day. To learn more about Build Jake’s Place, please visit their website:
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Encouraging Kids Family Resource Center has open spots for their Special Needs Afterschool Program. There is a low adult-child ratio, snack, art and crafts, and indoor and outdoor fun! Transportation is also available on a limited basis. Please see their website for more information and registration information: http://www.encouragingkids.org/
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Mom2Mom, funded by The New Jersey Department of Children and Families and Rutgers Health University Behavioral Health Care, is a peer support service to address the behavioral health challenges of caring for a special needs child. Moms with children with developmental disabilities, autism, mental health conditions, medical problems, and more can find comfort in connections. Mom2Mom offers peer support counseling, assessments, a specialized provider network, and resilience and support groups. Over 30 special-needs Mom Peer counselors are available. Call today (877) 914-6662 or see the flyers below for more information and additional resources.
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Parental Rights in Special Education (PRISE)
School-Based Family Resources
Policy and Procedure Resources
Community-Based Family Resources
Support Resources
Hotlines and Helplines
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