If you’re a parent looking for programs or special needs schools in New Jersey, it can sometimes be a challenge. But with diverse activities and supportive curriculums, kids can thrive in developing their education, skills, and friendships in unique programs suited to your child’s individual needs. We’ve rounded up a collection of locations, resources, and special needs schools in New Jersey that can help parents find everything they need for their preschoolers, elementary school students, tweens, and teens. Scroll down for programs, special needs schools in New Jersey, and a list of our NJMOM partners for more information. And make sure to check out our Private School Guide too. (featured photo credit: istock/kali9)

SPONSORED

CTC Academy

CTC Academy is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that provides educational and therapeutic services for students with a diverse array of developmental disabilities through our collaborative educational program and support services for students and families. We first opened our doors as the Cerebral Palsy Center of Bergen County, NJ, on March 29, 1950. We began as a Center for Children with Cerebral Palsy, but over the past 70 years, we have evolved into an innovative educational institution that provides creative education and advanced therapies to students with various types of disabilities – students who face physical, medical, and developmental challenges. Now, we offer two schools and follow the school continuum from Preschool through age 21 and Early Enrichment for children ages 18 months through 3 years. Our Fair Lawn Campus serves students from 18 months through age 7. The Oakland Campus serves students aged 7 through 21. Our Mission: Enhancing the lives of children and young adults with special needs and their families by providing an enriched educational, therapeutic, and supportive environment. Our Vision: Fulfilling the potential of all people with special needs.
CTC Academy, 29-01 Berkshire Road, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410

SPONSORED

The Center School

The Center School is a private, non-profit, approved school for students with learning disabilities. Our students range from grades 1 to 12, and we also offer a transition program for high school graduates up to the age of 21. Most students are on the autism spectrum and are classified with multiple disabilities. In addition to the academic-based program, our students receive all the related services that support students with IEPs to be successful, including physical and occupational therapy, counseling, behaviorists, reading specialists, speech/language therapists, and a psychologist. Along with a robust academic curriculum that mirrors that of mainstream schools, students have access to electives such as music, woodshop, computers, and physical education, as well as after-school clubs and athletic teams, including soccer and basketball. The Center School also offers an e-sports gaming program for students to compete against other schools. Our goal is to help students work through their challenges and prepare them to go back to their original school district. We ensure our students receive the NJ common core state curriculum and the same access to activities, but with the accommodations, services, and supports they need by tailoring each student’s program to their specific IEP needs.
2 Riverview Drive, Somerset, NJ 08873

SPONSORED

Community School and Community High School

Special Needs Schools In New Jersey: Classes, Programs, And Fun

As You Are
As You Are is a virtual clinic that offers autism evaluations for children aged 16 months to 10 years through telehealth appointments. Families are connected with a Board-Certified Physician from the comfort of their own homes to help them understand if the child’s behaviors can best be explained by autism or another diagnosis. After a diagnosis is made, the team helps guide families along their autism journey and ensures they have the knowledge and resources they need to support their children’s thriving.
Virtual

Bierman Autism Center
At Bierman Autism Centers, they provide comprehensive early intervention services, and their dedicated professionals offer a range of specialized therapies tailored to your child’s individual needs, including Diagnostic Testing, ABA therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. Their center-based ABA model provides a supportive and dynamic setting where children up to the age of 9 can thrive. 
Locations in Berkeley Heights, Eatontown, Princeton, and Piscataway

BrainBuilders
Servicing all 21 counties in New Jersey, BrainBuilders is a place where your child can grow, with classes starting at age 2 and continuing through teens. Opt for early learning or social groups where children can learn valuable skills and socialize with their peers. Home during school breaks? They offer special Fun Days and camps for kids to be engaged and meet new friends.
Centers located in Evesham, Lakewood, South Plainfield, and Toms River serve all NJ counties.

Certified Fitness for Special Needs, Inc.
No matter what fitness level your child is at, Certified Fitness has classes that include All-Sports Fitness Fun, Yoga, Drumming, and Martial Arts. Older kids can benefit from the Nutrition program, where they learn how to choose fast food wisely, prepare healthy meals, read nutrition labels, and navigate grocery shopping.
295 Route 22 #102, White House Station, NJ 08889

HealthBarn USA
During their special needs programming in New Jersey, students can learn culinary skills through cooking, develop gross motor skills through gardening, yoga, and active movement, and gain practical nutrition knowledge through games and scavenger hunts. They also have self-esteem development too.
1057 Hillcrest Road, Ridgewood, NJ 07450

JDK Social Station
JDK Social Station is a specialized multi-sensory teaching facility that enhances the social and living skills of children with social deficits and other related issues. Their program is individualized to help every child reach their maximum potential. Their programs emphasize supporting children to develop self-confidence, play skills, and social and problem-solving techniques. They offer private therapy, weekly social skills classes, music & movement programs, and a summer program. 
780 Post Place, Secaucus, NJ 07094

LifeTown
Kids will love to explore and learn life skills at this 53,000-square-foot facility, which features a simulated downtown area with shops, cafes, a bank, a medical center, and a cross street where they can practice their skills. Older kids can also receive job training. There are also dance, music, art, theatre, movie nights, and social events classes. 
10 Microlab Road, Livingston, NJ 07039

Pediatric Therapy and Yoga of Morris
Children can learn yoga and breathing techniques from certified therapists to help improve their gross motor skills, reduce anxiety, and guide each child toward finding harmony and inner peace. Classes are offered weekly, and new students can try a drop-in class.
18 Elm Street, Morristown, NJ 07960

PlayDate
PlayDate is a space for neurodivergent children to work on their social and play skills while their caregivers take a much-needed and deserved break. As educators of neurodivergent children, we understand the importance of a good playdate. Play dates are great opportunities for kids to socialize, use their imagination, and learn. Classes are facilitated by trained professionals who have a passion for helping children. 
193 E. Mount Pleasant Avenue, Livingston, NJ 07039

TOPSoccer
Got a kid who likes soccer? This program provides drills and games in a fun environment that allows young athletes with disabilities to develop their fitness, technical skills, courage, and self-esteem. Bonus: Player registration and TOPSoccer Coach/Buddy training are currently free, thanks to the generous support of RWJBarnabas Health.
Leagues throughout New Jersey

TryCAN
This unique program utilizes a buddy system with trained peers from local high schools. Experienced coaches and instructors from the community teach classes. Programs have included tennis, golf, basketball, martial arts, game club, and art. 
100 Morris Avenue, Summit, NJ 07901

Spectrum Sports
Want to introduce your child to a sport, but not sure what? Spectrum Sports offers specialized programs that include basic sports skills, fitness, obstacle courses, games, and yoga to develop skills and foster a love for fitness. 
Headquarters: 1329 Hurffville Road, Deptford, NJ 08096
Other locations include Fieldsboro, Moorestown, and Cinnaminson

We Rock the Spectrum
Specifically designed to offer an inclusive environment for every kid, We Rock is where kids can let loose in a space tailored to their sensory needs. With crash mats, suspended equipment, tunnels, and trampolines, kids will have a blast finding what makes them happy. Need a break? Book a We Rock Care package where kids are paired with a staff member, and parents can feel safe knowing their child is in good hands and having fun.  
11 Park Place, Paramus, NJ 07652

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