Alphabetical Listing of Autism Resources
This list is presented for information purposes only. Additional information regarding any of the
agencies/organizations should be directed to the agency or organization in question. By compiling this
list, the BCPS Department of Special Education and Student Support Services in no way endorses or
promotes any of the agencies/organizations below. Some may require a fee for service.
An electronic copy containing active links to the websites and documents listed below can be requested by
contacting Debbie Page at dpage2@bcps.org in the Department of Special Education and Student
Support Services.
Abilities Network
Abilities Network Autism Services enables individuals with autism to function as meaningfully and
independently as possible in their homes and community, while providing their families with the strategies and
resources necessary to assist their children in reaching their maximum potential. Autism Services provides
family training, transition planning into adult services, and after school therapeutic integration programming.
Abilities Network through Project ACT has developed the Autism Inclusion Project which supports children
(birth to age 12) who are being evaluated for or have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, and who are
attending child care or out of school time programs in Baltimore County or Baltimore City. Children may be
referred for FREE supportive services by their child care program, parent or guardian. With parent permission
inclusion specialists may design an individual support plan and work with program staff to support and fully
include children with an autism diagnosis in their child care setting.
410-828-7700
http://abilitiesnetwork.org/our-programs/autism-services-/autism-services.html
Allied Sports
BCPS Allied Sports is a totally inclusive program that affords high school students with disabilities an equal
opportunity to participate in their interscholastic sports alongside their non-disabled peers
410-887-2328 http://www.bcps.org/offices/athletics/alliedSports/history.html
Arc Baltimore
Dedicated to helping people with developmental disabilities make the most of their potential since 1949, the
Arc Baltimore is one of the nation's largest and most respected organizations of its kind. The Family and
Children Division (Family & Children Division - 410-296-7667) offers a variety of supportive programs for
children and their families with the goal of honoring family choices, providing opportunities for parents and
caregivers to learn about resources and strategies, and to offer networks that build partnerships and promote
self-advocacy.
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The Arc Baltimore knows that parents and caregivers face many challenges in navigating the systems of public
and private assistance, special education, and other resources. Their staff is knowledgeable about community
resources and can help families make appropriate connections for recreation, equipment, special education
advocacy, and a host of matters.
The Arc Baltimore's Respite Care Program provides financial assistance for occasional, short-term temporary
physical and emotional relief to families caring for children or adults with developmental disabilities living in
their home. It is an income-based program.
The ARC Baltimore also provides parent groups like:
Guy Talk - Relax in a casual setting to talk about the challenges and joys of having a child with special needs
the third Thursday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. at our offices located at 7215 York Road in Towson.
Moms Understand - Share challenges and joys with other moms the first Wednesday evening of each month
from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at our offices located at 7215 York Road in Towson.
Parents' Day Out - Designed for parents of children with special needs who need some time to attend to much
needed chores while their children have fun in a nurturing environment.
Menucha: Supports Jewish children with special needs and their families in Baltimore. Menucha enables
children to connect to their Jewish heritage and to become a vital part of their community.
410-296-2272 http://www.baltimorearc.org/
Autism Service Dogs of America
Provider of service dogs for children with autism throughout the United States, Autism Service Dogs of
America is a non-profit, community based organization. In 2002, Priscilla Taylor, founder and director,
incorporated her love of dogs and her background as a special education teacher and formed a service dog
agency to serve the needs of children.
http://autismservicedogsofamerica.com/
Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization. The program’s goal is to
change the future of individuals who are impacted by autism spectrum disorders. Autism Speaks is devoted to
bringing the autism community together to address this disorder that is on the rise and to do everything possible
to raise public awareness, raise funds for research, and give hope to everyone who is impacted by autism.
Autism Speaks provides downloadable Tool Kits that cover a wide array of topics.
100 Day Kit
Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Tool Kit
ATN/AIR-P An Introduction to Behavioral Health Treatments
ATN/AIR-P Blood Draw Tool Kit
ATN/AIR-P Dental Professionals' Tool Kit
ATN/AIR-P Medication Decision Aid
ATN/AIR-P Parent's Guide to Toilet Training in Autism
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ATN/AIR-P Parent’s Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis
ATN/AIR-P Sleep Tool Kit-Parent Booklet and Quick Tips
ATN/AIR-P Visual Supports and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Challenging Behaviors Tool Kit
Dental Tool Kit
Employment Tool Kit
Family Support Tool Kits
Housing and Residential Supports
Individualized Education Program (IEP) Guide and Other School Resources
Manual de los 100 Días
Participant's Guide to Autism Drug Research
School Community Tool Kit
Talking to Parents About Autism Kit
Tips for Successful Haircuts
Transition Tool Kit
888-288-4762 or en Español 888-772-9050 http://www.autismspeaks.org/
Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake
The Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake (ASBC) is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to
acting as a voice for all people along the autism spectrum in the greater Baltimore area. The ASBC is an
affiliate of The Autism Society of America, the nation’s leading grassroots autism organization which exists to
improve the lives of all affected by autism. Most members of ASBC are parents of children and adults with
autism, but membership also includes individuals with autism, their siblings, grandparents and other relatives,
as well as professionals and students in the teaching and medical fields. It exists as a resource for anyone who
needs help and support with the difficult job of raising, working with, and/or advocating for a person diagnosed
with autism.
The ASBC provides monthly support groups at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital on the first Thursday of
every month. Teleconferencing is also available for those who have difficulty attending the meetings in person.
The ASBC recognizes that the diagnosis of autism can be isolating for a family. It provides monthly social
events for families to attend. These socials are either free or low cost to its members. The ASBC also sponsors
sensory friendly movies at the AMC Theaters in White Marsh, Owings Mills and Columbia.
The ASBC has a bi-monthly newsletter and calendar of events on its website which is comprehensive in
terms of identifying autism related events in and around Baltimore. The ASBC also has a library of books and
other resources housed at the Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital and can be accessed at the monthly support
group meetings.
Members are entitled to up to $100/year in scholarship money to attend autism related workshops and
conferences. Additional funding is available for respite care and therapeutic recreational activities to its
members through annual grants made to the Maggie’s Light organization.
The Adult Autism Resource Group is a chapter of the Autism Society in Baltimore which supports the parents
of teens and adults with autism. The monthly meetings can help guide parents through the transition process
and help in the journey to and throughout adulthood.
410-655-7933
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www.baltimoreautismsociety.org
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The Autism Waiver in Maryland
The autism waiver, through Medical Assistance, will allow eligible children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to
receive specific waiver services in order to support them in their homes and communities. Children who apply
to the waiver are referred from the registry to MSDE in chronological order.
For more information, contact:
Baltimore County Public Schools 410-887-4130
To put your child on the waiver waiting list or check to see the current status of your child on the list,
contact: Autism Waiver Registry 866-417-3480
Baltimore Area Special Hockey
The Baltimore Saints is an ice hockey program for both children and adults with a traumatic brain injury or
intellectual disability such as autism. The program provides participants the opportunity to play ice hockey in
an environment adapted to each of their abilities. Special Hockey is not only recreational, but therapeutic. It
emphasizes social interaction, self reliance, concentration. and willingness to adapt to new experiences with a
sense of accomplishment and pride.
410-370-1818 http://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=baltimoresaintshockey
Baltimore County Department of Recreation & Parks’ Office of Therapeutic Recreation Services
The Baltimore County Office of Therapeutic Recreation Services provides a wide variety of recreation
opportunities and services for individuals with disabilities countywide. The programs are designed specifically
for individuals with disabilities, as well as inclusion into general recreation programs. Distributed twice a year
(Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer), the Leisure Resources newsletter lists program opportunities for
individuals with disabilities. Visit the website for a copy of the current newsletter.
410-887-5370
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/recreation/programdivision/therapeutic/index.html
Baltimore County Family Navigator
Baltimore County Family Navigator Services offers support and guidance while helping families identify their
strengths and challenges, find resources, and develop a plan of action. This free service is available to Baltimore
County families who have a child with intensive needs related to mental/behavioral health or a developmental
disability.
Request an appointment:
A Family Navigator is the parent or caregiver of a child with special needs, who has learned from the challenges
of being a caregiver, and is knowledgeable about Baltimore County support services and delivery systems. A
Family Navigator can work with you over the phone or meet with you at a time and location that is convenient
for you to help identify your strengths and challenges and develop a plan of action.
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Family Navigator Services offers a Kinship Care Program. The challenges of raising grandchildren and other
related children can severely stretch the resources a family has available to them. As a kinship care provider,
you may be eligible for certain resources to help you raise the child you are caring for.
Read More http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/family-navigator/news/kinship-care-progral.html
The Family Resource Academy may be just what you need for support, strength, and understanding that can
enhance your ability to parent a child with intensive behavioral health needs. In partnership with professional
child development specialists and veteran family members, The Family Resource Academy has designed a
series of workshops just for you, and they are FREE to all Baltimore County residents and anyone receiving
services through Catholic Charities. Childcare is provided on site. Transportation is available on a limited basis
for Baltimore County families who need this support to attend.
Read More http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/family-navigator/news/family-resource-academy.html
410-252-4700 ext. 265 http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/family-navigator/
Baltimore County Public Schools’ Special Education Resource Center
The BCPS Resource Center supports parents of children with disabilities, ages birth to 21. Its mission is to
promote positive, effective partnerships within the school community. Staffed by parents of children with
disabilities, the center activities include, but are not limited to, the following services:
 Maintaining a lending library of articles, newsletters, books, and videotapes on a wide range of special
education topics such as special education law, types of disabilities, support groups and recreational
opportunities.
o Special Education Resource Center Lending Library Brochure
o Browse the collection online 24/7 at http://destiny.bcps.org
 Seeking ways to encourage and strengthen communication between parents and school personnel.
o Parents Quick Reference
 Teaming with educators to teach free workshops.
o Important Parent Workshops
 Making community presentations to both parent groups and school staff.
 Representing special education issues and concerns of parents and students with special needs.
 Directing parents to available community resources.
o Parent Resources & Support
 Establishing a family-to-family support network.
 Offering support to parents who need someone to talk to on an individual basis in a confidential,
supportive atmosphere.
 Coordinating the PTA Special Education Liaison Project.
o Special Education Liaison Brochure
Parent Publications
Autism Waiver
Spring 2013 Hand In Hand Parent Newsletter
Parent Surrogate Application
Recreation Programs
Respite Resources
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Social Skills Resources
Tutoring Resources
SECAC Meeting Schedule
Special Education Acronyms
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MSDE Publications
Procedural Safeguards
Building IEPs with Maryland Families
Understanding the Evaluation, Eligibility and Individualized Education Process
410-887-5443 http://www.bcps.org/offices/special_ed/parent-resources.html
B’MoreAbilities Special Art Center
B’MoreAbilities Special Art Center offers recreational classes in dance, music, theater, art and more. Their
mission is to promote performing and visual arts with particular emphasis on fostering creative expression for
persons with developmental and/or physical disabilities. Visit their website to find more information on the
variety of programs, camps and events offered for all ages.
443-769-0507 http://www.basac.org/
Boy Scouts of America (Baltimore Area Council)
Boy Scouts of America works with parents to include boys age six years and older with special needs into
community units or assists parents in locating special needs units throughout Maryland appropriate for their
children.
443-573-2500 http://www.baltimorebsa.org/volunteer-resources/scouts-with-disabilities/38866
Girl Scouts of Central MD
The Girl Scouts of Central Maryland works with parents to include girls age 5 and older with special needs into
community units or assists parents in locating Special needs Units throughout Maryland appropriate for their
children.
1-800-492-2521
www.gscm.org
The IMAGE Center of Maryland
The IMAGE Center is dedicated to the creation of a learning and thinking environment that challenges concepts
of what people with disabilities can do. They see the potential for people to become full contributing partners in
their families, on the job, and in the community.
Peer Mentoring
Independent Living Coordinators employed by the Center are individuals with disabilities who share similar life
experiences to those coming into the Center and are able to share their experience in a manner that will assist
those managing the effects of the disability in their lives. Participants develop a plan to achieve maximum
independence and set goals toward accomplishing that independence. Participants learn about the needs and
resources required for meeting their individual independent living goals. Independent Living Specialists help
individuals set achievable goals that best fit their desires and lifestyles. Peer counseling can be provided
individually or in a group setting.
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Independent Living Skills Training
Programs are designed to teach individuals with disabilities the skills necessary for acquiring, maintaining, or
increasing their independence. Individual and group training can be provided in personal assistant management,
building self-esteem, money management, navigating ones environment, and self-advocacy.
Information and Referral
Center staff members identify resources, services, and service providers in public, private, and community
organizations that can assist individuals with their independent living goals.
Individual Advocacy
Staff members train and assist individuals with disabilities in understanding and exercising their civil rights
regarding government and other service providers. We regularly educate public officials about the capacities
and skills of individuals with disabilities and promote rational nondiscriminatory Legislation that advances the
full inclusion of people with disabilities in society.
Education Transition Program
Staff identifies transition resources and match individuals with appropriate services and service providers based
on goals set by the student. Whether choosing the path of higher education, continued adult program education
or employment, staff works to assist students with disabilities in making an easy transition into the adult world.
Travel Training
Travel training is a step-by-step individually customized process designed to help people with disabilities and
senior citizens to use the MTA fixed-route Local Bus, Light Rail and Subway. Travel training will not affect
eligibility for MTA Mobility. The IMAGE Center also offers group and classroom travel trainings. For more
information please contact Amanda Taylor at ataylor@imagemd.org or call 443-275-9393.
410-982-6311 http://www.imagemd.org/index.html
Jewish Community Center (JCC)
The Baltimore JCC’s department for people with special needs provides appropriate social and recreational
programs for children, teens and adults with disabilities. Their programs give participants the opportunity to
interact with their peers, enhance self-esteem and improve social skills. Whenever possible, they encourage the
integration of participants into JCC classes, camps, after-school programs, groups and events.
JCC’s Special Needs Programs for Children:
Toddlers in Motion- Ages 18 months - 3 years
Sunday Funday- Ages 5 - 21 years
Art Made With Heart- Ages 8 – 21 years
Karma Dogs: Saving Dogs, Serving People- Ages 5 - 15 years
Check out the website for additional summer programs.
For more information call Stacy Israel, Special Needs Department or email sisrael@jcc.org.
410.559.3576
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http://www.jcc.org/youthfamily/special-needs/
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Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD)
The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) at Kennedy Krieger Institute is a multifaceted,
interdisciplinary program serving children, families, and professionals in the autism spectrum disorders (ASD)
community. CARD combines research, clinical service, a therapeutic day program, and training programs to
unlock the potential of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), enrich their life experiences, empower
patients, and promote the well-being of families through evidence-based practices. One of their major endeavors
is developing effective new models of care for families and providers, whether locally, nationally, or
internationally.
The Center has four primary programs:
 Clinical Programs
 Achievements Program
 Outreach and Training
 REACH Research Program
443-923-7680
www.card.kennedykrieger.org
Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Pediatric Developmental Disorders Clinic
The mission of the Pediatric Developmental Disorders (PDD) Clinic is to provide consultation and
intervention to caregivers of children with a wide variety of developmental disorders (e.g., pervasive
development disorders spectrum, intellectual disabilities). Intervention focuses on empirically based approaches
to behavior management and addresses both behavioral excesses (e.g., aggression, self-injury, tantrums) and
behavioral deficits (e.g., compliance, self-help skills, toileting). For children with language delays and behavior
disorders, there is a strong emphasis on providing training to develop verbal behavior (vocal and/or sign
language). Services are provided primarily to families and school staff. Sessions are conducted primarily in the
clinic, but also take place in the school and the child's home, when indicated. Education of the caregivers is also
considered an integral function of the clinic including provision of information pertaining to community
resources, child development and special education.
The PDD Clinic provides a range of behavioral services for children, adolescents and adults who are diagnosed
or suspected of having broad-range developmental disorders. Behavior problems treated at this clinic include:
self-injury (head-banging, biting, scratching); physical aggression (hitting, scratching, biting, spitting);
disruptive behaviors (screaming, repetitive speech); noncompliance (not following directions, unable to stop an
activity when told to stop); elopement (leaving the room or home without permission); property destruction;
communication deficits; toileting and other self-care deficits; habit disorders (thumb-sucking, trichotillomania)
and problems associated with concurrent mood and anxiety disorders.
The clinic also provides intensive, specialized services to pre-school age children with language delays and
associated problematic behaviors (i.e., physical aggression, self-injury, property destruction, etc.) to target
increasing basic communication skills and to decrease problematic behaviors.
443- 923-9400
http://www.kennedykrieger.org/patient-care/patient-care-programs/outpatient-programs/pediatricdevelopmental-disorders-clinic
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The League for People with Disabilities
The League’s year round Camping & Therapeutic Recreation program provides joyful, life-changing
experiences in a safe environment and builds meaningful relationships in the lives of youth and adults. Camping
& Therapeutic Recreation is proud to offer summer camp programs, year round camping, assisted travel and
community recreation. The League’s Camping & Therapeutic Recreation department serves participants of
the Autism Waiver. The Autism Waiver is a Medicaid funded program designed to provide support for
individuals diagnosed with Autism. If you have not applied for the Autism Waiver, contact your child’s service
coordinator or the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) by calling 1.866.417.3480 to get step-bystep instructions on how to apply. The League’s Autism Services also works with families to help secure
additional forms of funding, such as Low Intensity Support Services (LISS), to fund the cost of services for
individuals not yet on the Autism Waiver.
410-323-0500 http://www.leagueforpeople.org/programs-services/autism-services-programs
Lighthouse “Sociabilities” Social Skills Program
Lighthouse, Inc. is a private non-profit youth and family services center located in Catonsville, Maryland. As a
member of the Maryland Association of Youth Services Bureaus, Lighthouse provides counseling for children,
youth, and their families. The Lighthouse “Sociabilities” Program involves social skills groups designed to
help kids have fun playing and interacting with peers.
410-788-5483 http://lighthouse-md.org
Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) Funding
See “Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: Developmental Disabilities Administration”
Loyola Clinical Centers – Speech-Language Pathology
The Speech-Language Pathology services at the Loyola Clinical Centers take a step-by-step approach to
speech therapy and provide hands-on assessments and treatment for children and specialized services for
adults with a range of communication difficulties.
Working with graduate student practitioners and professional clinicians at the Loyola Clinical Centers, you
will receive assessments, as well as either one-on-one or group therapy sessions—or both—tailored to your
individual speech and language needs. With clearly stated and mapped-out objectives, your practitioner
will work with you to progress continually and help you reach your goals.
As part of their approach to speech language therapy, they see the family (parents, siblings, extended
family, spouses) as part of the client intervention. Family members are encouraged to participate in therapy
sessions and will have opportunities to observe as well as speak with the clinicians.
410-617-1210 http://www.loyola.edu/clinical-centers/services/speech-language.aspx
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Maggie’s Light
Maggie’s Light is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization helping Maryland families help their children & young
adults with special needs create lives they love – lives filled with friends, new experiences, and opportunities to
grow and to be active in their communities. Maggie’s Light is excited to assist families in navigating local and
state resources to make this possible. We help families obtain funding for respite services and identify
caregivers.
410-527-1401 www.maggieslight.org
MarTar Swim School
MarTar Swim School specializes in providing quality, enriching swimming education that gives equal access
for everyone to learn at their own pace and abilities. They specialize in teaching individuals with special needs
how to swim by employing a variety of techniques including visual aids and sign language. They are committed
to providing excellent instruction and a safe, compassionate learning environment.
(410) 799-8887
http://www.martarswimming.com/index.html
Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE)
The Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education Inc. (MCIE) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to
the inclusion of students with disabilities in their neighborhood schools. Founded in 1988, MCIE provides a
variety of services to families and schools. Their mission is to be the catalyst for meaningful and successful
participation of all students in their neighborhood schools, through partnerships, advocacy, professional
development, and public education.
MCIE provides the following services:
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Individual Student Planning
Training and Technical Assistance
School- & System-wide Reform
Professional Development Courses
Legal Representation
Request Information
Advocacy
410-859-5400
www.mcie.org
Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)
The DDA provides funding for services for people with developmental disabilities that have been diagnosed
before the age of 22. The families of all children with a developmental disability should file a DDA
application after the disability is diagnosed. A copy of the IEP, most recent psychological evaluation and
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educational assessment should be attached to the application. The family should keep a copy for the child’s
home file; a copy may also be kept in the child’s school record.
The family should be advised to describe the child’s and the family’s needs as honestly as possible on the DDA
application. Families should request assistance from the case manager, guidance counselor, or transition
facilitator if they need help completing the application.
After DDA receives the application a DDA caseworker or a service coordinator will meet with the family to
determine whether or not a child is eligible for services funded by DDA. The provision of services is
contingent upon available funding. A determination of eligibility does not mean that a child or family will
automatically receive funding or services.
Why apply to the DDA?
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Having an application in the DDA system is a sort of insurance policy; if there should be an emergency
need for services or a significant change in the child’s or family’s needs or circumstances, the child will
already be known to DDA.
Even if there are not available funds at the time a child is determined to be DDA eligible, the child will
be “on the list” so that when funding becomes available the child or family may have access to it.
Even if DDA funding is not available the caseworker or service coordinator can inform the child’s
family of other sorts of funding that may be available through other sources (e.g., LISS, respite, camp
scholarships, etc.).
Families are empowered by the knowledge that there are supports available outside of the school system.
DDA Central Maryland Regional Office: 410-234-8200 http://dda.dhmh.maryland.gov/SitePages/Home.aspx
For Applications and Request forms: http://dda.dhmh.maryland.gov/SitePages/services.aspx
Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) enable a family to provide for the needs of a child or an adult with
developmental disabilities living in the home or to support an adult with developmental disabilities living in the
community. The LISS program is flexible to meet the needs of people or families. LISS funds are available on a
first-come, first-serve basis until all funds are allocated.
Request for LISS is usually accepted beginning on July 1, via US Mail or in person at one of the DDA LISS
agencies.* Be sure to complete the form in its entirety and submit the required documentation including a copy
of the social security card, proof of residency, and proof of a developmental disability. As per regulations,
approval of services for eligible individuals is based on a first come first served basis and the availability of
funds. Therefore no LISS request forms will be accepted prior to July 1, and need to be dated July 1, or later.
Do not fax or email any request forms as they will not be processed.
LISS does not cover services or supports that require on-going funding. LISS may include, but are not limited
to, supports involving: adaptive equipment, adaptive clothing, assistive technology, camp, community supports,
day care / child care, dietary supplements, educational equipment, food, housing related: eviction assistance,
utility disconnection, deposits, job coaching, medical services, personal care, recreational programs,
therapeutic, self-advocacy and support groups, vehicle modifications.
http://dda.dhmh.maryland.gov/SitePages/liss.aspx
*LISS AGENCIES FOR CENTRAL MARYLAND
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Humanim, Inc.
Telephone: (410)381-0227 Ext.5225
Toll-Free: 1-877-230-4951
TTY: 711
FAX: (410)381-0782
http://www.humanim.com
Penn-Mar Human Services
Toll Free: 1-877-282-8202
TTY: 1-877-282-8202
FAX: (410)357-4767
http://www.penn-mar.org
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Maryland Disability Law Center
The Maryland Disability Law Center is a non-profit law firm that was selected by Congress to protect and
advocate for individuals in Maryland with disabilities using many different methods; including but not limited
to, direct representation, technical assistance and community outreach. MDLC works towards advancing the
rights of people in Maryland with disabilities. The law center envisions a world where people with disabilities
are fully included in the workplace, neighborhoods and all aspects of community life.
To get a free copy of Special Education Rights and Wrongs, call MDLC at 1-800-223-7201.
http://www.mdlclaw.org/
Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)
The Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services provides leadership, support and
accountability for results to local school systems, public agencies and stakeholders through a seamless,
comprehensive system of coordinated services to children and students with disabilities, birth through 21,
and their families. MSDE provides access to many publications and resources regarding special education
on its website.
http://marylandpublicschools.org/MSDE/divisions/earlyinterv/Special_Ed_Info
Autism Connect provides stakeholders in the state of Maryland with an online resource that will assist
them in locating and securing resources for individuals with Autism. The website focuses specifically on
research, educational resources, and advocacy organizations available to families in Maryland.
http://www.autismconnectmd.org/
MSDE Website: www.msde.state.md.us
MSDE Directory: http://mdeddirectory.org/
Maryland Technology Assistance Program:
The Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) is a program run by the Maryland Department of
Disabilities. Their mission is to enhance the lives of all Marylanders with disabilities, older Marylanders, and
their families by helping support access to assistive technology (AT) devices and services.
Services:
 Learn About AT
MDTAP conducts trainings, presentations, and public awareness activities for persons, organizations, or
agencies who would like to learn about assistive technology.
 See & Try AT
MDTAP offers a hands-on device demonstration and device loan program to help individuals see and try
assistive technology. These services are free and open to Maryland residents who have a disability or are
senior citizens, as well as to family members and caregivers of qualified individuals.
 Buy, Sell & Recycle AT
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MDTAP operates Equipment Link, where people can buy, sell, and recycle used assistive devices.
MDTAP also supports the work of the Maryland AT Co-op, a cooperative buying program that can
provide many new devices at a discounted price.
Pay for AT
MDTAP helps people pay for AT by managing two low-interest financing programs for the purchase of
assistive technology. These programs are open to Maryland residents with disabilities or family
members of qualified individuals.
Appointments are required to visit the AT Lab.
1-800-832-4827 (Voice-Toll Free) / 1-866-881-7488 (TTY-Toll Free)
http://www.mdod.maryland.gov/MTAP%20Home.aspx
The Parents' Place of Maryland: A Center for Families of Children with Special
Needs
Founded in 1991, The Parents’ Place was created by parents of children and youth with disabilities to help other
parents and families facing similar challenges. Today, The Parents’ Place serves families of children and young
adults from birth to age 22 with all disabilities. Individual assistance is provided over the phone and in-person
to families who have questions about their child's needs such as special education and health care access.
Parents’ Place provides:
 Workshops for parents and professionals take place on an ongoing basis throughout Maryland.
 Resources such as information packets and fact sheets are available on a variety of relevant topics.
Most Parents' Place services are provided free of charge to Maryland families. The Parents' Place receives
funding from a variety of government, foundation, and private sources.
What can I expect when I call?
You will be asked some basic information to direct your call to the appropriate person. The majority of
Parents' Place staff is a parent of a child with disabilities who understands what you are experiencing
and is ready to help you help your child. The Parents' Place helps a wide variety of families and
professionals on local, state, and national levels every day.
(410) 768-9100
http://www.ppmd.org/
Pathfinders for Autism
Pathfinders for Autism was founded by a group of parents of children with autism to support
and develop lifespan services and provide information and resources for families of children with
autism. Pathfinders has an extensive data base of autism resources and providers in MD. Their website
contains articles and other helpful information and resources for parents and professionals. They also provide
free trainings, workshops and fun events across the state.
Helpline: 443-330-5341 Toll Free: 866-806-8400
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http://www.pathfindersforautism.org
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Rebounders (Timonium) “I Can Do it Too”
The Rebounders, “I Can Do it Too” program is a sensory/motor/gymnastics program for children of all ages
with any minimal to severe physical, mental, emotional, social, language, and/or sensory challenges. The
program combines sensory stimulation, gross motor activities, and gymnastics to facilitate learning and growth
in all aspects of human functioning. Furthermore, it offers students the opportunity to be integrated in a safe
and fun environment with non-challenged children.
The "I Can Do It Too" Program emphasizes sensory / vestibular stimulation through:
 Swinging
 Rolling
 Jumping and more using Suspension equipment (net, tire, trapeze, helicopter, rings, bolsters)
Class Options:
 Individual Classes
The teacher works one-on-one with a child individually. This class is scheduled on an individual basis.
 Integrational Classes
The child participates in an integration lesson within a regular Rebounders class.
 Small Groups (with Integration)
The teacher works with a child in a small group of 2-4 children. The length of class time depends upon
the age and level of the children in the group.
410-252-3374
http://www.rebounders.com/special-needs/
Shafer Center
This is an early intervention program for those children on the Autism Spectrum from the ages of 18 months to
age eight. The Center’s approach to autism therapy is called the “whole-child” approach. Within the Shafer
Center there is a resource center where parents can go to contact other parents, professionals, and find services
that meet the needs of their child.
The Resource Center at the Shafer Center for Early Intervention
Speech Services:
 Available in half-hour or one-hour sessions
 Taught by a Speech & Language Pathologist who specializes in working with children on the autism
spectrum
 Mastered speech and language professionals work one on one with your child to increase language and
communication in a positive, fun, learning environment
Social Groups:
 Available in half-hour or one-hour sessions, taught by either a Speech & Language Pathologist or
Special Educator
 Our mastered special educator oversees small groups of two to three children enjoying play-based
activities meant to foster improved socialization
 Every child is assessed prior to joining a group to ensure the best group dynamic and a fun, productive
experience for the child
Sibling Social Groups:
 Available in half-hour or one-hour sessions, taught by either a Speech & Language Pathologist or
Special Educator
 The bonds between siblings are important to a child’s development and the overall wellness of the
family unit
 Our sibling social groups, as an individual sibling group or with a small group of other children and their
brothers or sisters, engage children in guided play that brings joy and strength to the sibling relationship
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Assessments: Assessments are offered for speech and language, occupational therapy, and cognitive issues.
Applied Behavioral Analysis & Verbal Behavior Program: This program uses one-on-one intensive therapy
provided by a qualified therapist and overseen by the Program Director to teach children skill acquisition and
generalization so they may carry their knowledge from the classroom into their lives.
410-517-1113
http://www.shafercenter.com/
Social Security Disability: Applying for Disability Benefits on the Basis of Autism:
This website provides information regarding applying for disability benefits for individuals who are on the
autism spectrum. There are steps to follow and specific information regarding the explanations that are given
under the law. There are comments regarding the information as well as links to other important questions that
some people may have regarding the issue of funding agencies and benefits for individuals with autism.
http://www.disabilitysecrets.com/conditions-page-2-53.html
Social Security Administration 800-772-1213
www.ssa.gov
Towson University Speech, Language and Hearing Center
The Speech, Language and Hearing Center offers screening, diagnostic and treatment services to improve
communication for children and adults with a variety of concerns. Within their state-of-the-art facility, Towson
University students receive hands-on experience seeing clients under the direct guidance of licensed and
certified professional staff.
The Speech, Language and Hearing Center provides services to more than 1,400 children and adults each year.
Clients with a variety of communication disorders, including stuttering, autism, hearing loss, language delay
and stroke survivors, are seen in their clinical programs. The Center is part of the Department of Audiology,
Speech-Language Pathology and Deaf Studies. This ensures that current clinical research is continuously
integrated into their services.
410-704-3095 http://towsoniwb.com/centers/speech-language-and-hearing-center/
Trellis Services, Inc.
Trellis Services, Inc, headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland, provides comprehensive services for children
with autism and related communication disorders.
Trellis Services:
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

Therapeutic Integration
After school, clinic-based programs located in Baltimore, Harford, and Howard counties promote social
skills and positive peer interaction in a small group setting.
Love 2 Learn Clinic
This clinic is an early intervention program using the Applied Verbal Behavior Methodology for
children 18 months to 5 years at the Trellis School, in Hunt Valley, MD.
Social Skills Groups
Social Skills groups guide and support children in their development of self-awareness, perspective-
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
taking, and empathy towards peers. Trellis teaches appropriate and fluent conversation skills and
interactive play. The curriculum is designed to provide the child with the tools needed to interpret
"hidden" social cues and understand social conventions. The Social Skills Groups staff members are
dedicated to providing services that utilize social thinking concepts and knowledge from the field of
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for children ages 4 – 10 years of age. Small groups of 4 to 5 children
are formed based on age and social matching.
Outpatient Services
Speech and Occupational Therapy services are provided at the Hunt Valley clinical location. Some
health insurances are accepted.
410-785-3845
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http://trellisservices.com/
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