Abilis Parent Workshop: Supporting Your Young Child’s Development

Abilis, the nonprofit organization that supports more than 800 individuals with disabilities and their families throughout Fairfield County, is offering a very special program for parents entitled, “Supporting Your Young Child’s Development: A Parent Workshop,” to be held on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at The Cohen Abilis Advancement Center in Stamford, Connecticut. This workshop offers parents and caregivers practical guidance and trusted information as they navigate developmental concerns, new diagnoses and key transitions for young children with developmental disabilities. The workshop is free and open to the public with advance registration; on-site babysitting is provided for $25. Those interested can register at abilis.us/workshop.

Designed for families of young children who may have developmental questions, are receiving a new diagnosis, or are preparing for important transitions, the workshop will cover what to expect from early concerns through evaluation, diagnosis and supports. Families will learn about the role of developmental pediatricians, when additional testing may be recommended, and how to access resources and services.

The Workshop will also explore the importance of secure relationships and social connections, as well as providing guidance on transitioning from Birth to Three services to preschool and school-based supports. Presenters will share practical strategies for potty training and managing challenging behaviors as well.

The program will be led by Abilis staff experts from across the organization’s leadership and therapeutic teams, including Abilis CEO and president Amy Montimurro, Jennifer Miklautsch, MEd, director of Abilis Therapeutic Services, Sharon Hoffner, PT, DPT, an Abilis pediatric physical therapist, and Chelsea Soares, BCBA, LBA, a board-certified behavior analysis with her master’s degree in analysis and autism. The speakers will also include Dr. Jacqueline Steele, a primary care pediatrician and assistant professor of pediatrics at Columbia University Medical Center.

Workshop details:
Supporting Your Young Child’s Development: A Parent Workshop
Sunday, January 25, 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
The Cohen Abilis Advancement Center, 78 Harvard Ave., third floor, Stamford, Connecticut.
Cost is FREE; on-site babysitting services available for $25. Advance registration is required at http://www.abilis.us/workshop.
For questions, contact Erica Klair at klair@abilis.us.