Monterey County families raising kids and young adults with special needs have a lot to look forward to this month. Special Kids Connect has packed September with opportunities to learn, connect, and just be together — from a moms’ potluck to developmental screenings with free diapers. Here’s what’s on the calendar.
Moms’ Night Out Potluck
Moms and caregivers who fill a mom-like role for children and adults with special needs are invited to an evening of food, conversation, and connection. Bring a dish to share (plates, napkins, and utensils are provided), and stick around for a discussion using a recipe as a metaphor for understanding the basics of an IEP — because just like a dish can be made with different recipes, every child’s IEP looks different based on their individual needs. This one’s for moms and caregivers only — no kids, please.
CalABLE Info Session
Special Kids Connect is also hosting a session on CalABLE, the state’s tax-advantaged savings program for people with disabilities. It’s a great chance for families to learn how an ABLE account works and whether it’s a fit for their financial planning.
Self-Determination Program Workshop
In partnership with Imagine Supported Living Services, Special Kids Connect is hosting an in-person workshop on the Self-Determination Program (SDP) — an alternative way to receive Regional Center services. A panel of facilitators and program participants will share real-life experiences, including the pros and cons, so families can decide whether SDP might be the right fit. Lunch is provided.
Registration is required. Register here
Special Needs Parent Support Group
A safe, welcoming space for parents to talk openly about the realities of raising a child with autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, and more. Expect shared resources, honest conversation, and support from families who get it. This group is held in English, and it’s adults only — no children, please.
Play • Connect • Grow
A parent-and-child development class for the whole family, designed for moms, dads, and little ones ages 0–5. The class offers tools to strengthen parenting skills, build school readiness, support emergency preparedness, and help kids develop social skills through play. You don’t need to have a child with special needs to join — all families are welcome. Registered families who attend also receive free diapers.
REACH Basketball at the Salinas YMCA
A recreational basketball program for children and young adults ages 10 and up, designed to build social skills and confidence in a supportive group setting. Participants receive a full REACH uniform and all necessary equipment.
Please note: this is a recreational program, not therapy, and participants need to be able to take part safely in a noisy, active group setting.
0–33 Months Developmental Screenings & Free Diapers
Greenfield Screening Day — Friday, September 26 · 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
A developmental screening is simply a set of questions about how your child learns, plays, and communicates — it takes about 30 minutes and is a quick way to check that your little one is on track. This event is in-person in Greenfield, but questionnaires can also be completed by phone. Families who take part are also connected with Special Kids Connect’s free diaper support.
Save the Date: Halloween Carnival & Resource Fair
Saturday, October 24 · 11:00 AM–1:00 PM · Monterey County Fairgrounds
Mark your calendars now — Special Kids Connect’s Halloween Carnival & Resource Fair will bring resource tables, carnival games, and kid-friendly activities to the Monterey County Fairgrounds. This event is for families who have children, young adults, and adults with special needs.
For more information on any of these events, call Special Kids Connect at (831) 372-2730.
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