Pediatric developmental support services

Workshops and parent training

At the Advocate Illinois Masonic Pediatric Developmental Center, parents have the opportunity to learn useful skills in a group setting with other families facing similar challenges. Topics include organizing your home, taking charge of challenging behavior, understanding your child's sensory needs and using visual communication systems.

Sibling support program

We are first in providing fun, informative groups for brothers and sisters of children with special needs. These monthly meetings give siblings a chance to meet and talk with peers who have a sibling with a developmental disability or chronic illness.

Kids from ages six and older are invited to join our Saturday morning groups held in-person or via Zoom. Teenagers 12 and older are invited to join our Friday evening groups held via Zoom. Advocate Children's Hospital Sibshops are part of the National Sibling Support Project. Learn more about the project.

Contact Ahren Hoffman, Sibshop Coordinator, for more information: ahren.hoffman@aah.org.

Parent support groups

Monthly meetings enable parents to meet and share feelings with other parents who are facing similar challenges.

Support for young parents

The Healthy Families program provides home visiting for young parents as well as birthing support through a "Doula" program for teen mothers. The goal of the program is to foster parent-infant relationships and enhance developmental outcome for children.

Call 773-296-7340 for more information on diagnosis, treatment and our specialized programs.