Creating a Community of Support for
Children In Therapy and You
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a dynamic community, both online and in person, that supports all families navigating the needs of their child in therapy, regardless of diagnosis.
We believe that all families can benefit from the support of this unique community. All of our resources and programs are provided at no cost and in various forms (in-person and online) in order to increase accessibility for families.
78%
of our funds go towards our programs
75%
of our funds come from sponsorships and donations
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75%
funding from sponsorships & donations
Free
programs for the community
8k+
social media followers
442
guests at our Graduation this year
What We Do
Programs
Our free and inclusive programs welcome all kids in therapy and their families, no matter the diagnosis. Programs include sensory-friendly photo shoots, library playgroups, Birthday Buddies celebrations, NICU partnerships, and so much more.
Events
Children and families can participate in a range of free events including inclusive library playgroups, parent meetups, webinars, and our annual Graduation Ceremony and Let’s Meet Retreat!
Community Classes
Resources
Our online learning platform is for both parents and professionals. Parents can access free resources guides while professionals can access continuing education courses, some of which are approved for PDH.
“We felt different, as parents, because our situation was so unique…
Your child might have medical needs. Or maybe there’s a behavioral or a sensory need where you’re worried about how they will tolerate the environment.
Sometimes we find ourselves doing less as a result of that, and it can lead to those feelings of loneliness or isolation.
I think it’s why these communities of support are so important…”
“The network of families and therapists that C.I.T.Y. brings together is priceless. Being a parent of a special needs kiddo can be scary, and joyful, and overwhelming.
For any of these moments, thanks to C.I.T.Y., I know right where to go for advice, for expertise, for friendship, and for celebration.”
Upcoming C.I.T.Y. Events & Classes
Developmental Playgroup at the Skokie Library
Skokie Public Library 5215 N. Oakton St., Skokie, ILThis drop-in inclusive playgroup is for children who receive or are considering therapy services, age birth-5. Children play while families meet and find support. Siblings are welcome. Facilitated by staff […]
Storytime and Fun!
GENERO-C.I.T.Y. TOY SHOP 91 W. Rand, Arlington Heights, IL, United StatesJoin Emily Mroczek, Youth Librarian from the Arlington Heights Library, as she brings her stories to the GENERO-C.I.T.Y. Toy Shop! Drop-in! No registration required.
Developmental Playgroup at the Arlington Heights Library
Arlington Heights Memorial Library 500 N. Dunton Ave, Arlington Heights, Illinois, United StatesAn inclusive drop-in playgroup for children who receive or are considering therapy services, ages 0-5. Children play while families meet and find support. Siblings welcome. Facilitated by Julie Kander, CITY […]
Developmental Playgroup at Elmhurst Library
Elmhurst Library 125 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, Illinois, United StatesAn inclusive drop-in playgroup for children who receive or are considering therapy services, ages 0-5. Children play while families meet and find support. Siblings welcome. Facilitated by Amy Mishima (Local […]
Developmental Playgroup at the Skokie Library
Skokie Public Library 5215 N. Oakton St., Skokie, ILThis drop-in inclusive playgroup is for children who receive or are considering therapy services, age birth-5. Children play while families meet and find support. Siblings are welcome. Facilitated by staff […]
Storytime and Fun!
GENERO-C.I.T.Y. TOY SHOP 91 W. Rand, Arlington Heights, IL, United StatesJoin Emily Mroczek, Youth Librarian from the Arlington Heights Library, as she brings her stories to the GENERO-C.I.T.Y. Toy Shop! Drop-in! No registration required.
Developmental Playgroup at the Arlington Heights Library
Arlington Heights Memorial Library 500 N. Dunton Ave, Arlington Heights, Illinois, United StatesAn inclusive drop-in playgroup for children who receive or are considering therapy services, ages 0-5. Children play while families meet and find support. Siblings welcome. Facilitated by Julie Kander, CITY […]
Developmental Playgroup at Elmhurst Library
Elmhurst Library 125 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, Illinois, United StatesAn inclusive drop-in playgroup for children who receive or are considering therapy services, ages 0-5. Children play while families meet and find support. Siblings welcome. Facilitated by Amy Mishima (Local […]
News, Events, Updates, & More
Our Latest Blogs
How to Collaborate Effectively with Your Child’s IEP Team
Guest blog contributed by: Kate Lakowski, NCSP School Psychologist/Educational Consultant with Education Empowerment Partners, PLLC. Consider joining her for a live discussion/Q&A...
Read More
The Importance of Therapeutic Preschool
Guest blog contributed by: In2Great! Pediatric Therapy In the early years of a child’s life, the foundation for future learning, behavior, and...
Read More
Why Executive Functions Matter for Social Skill Building
Guest blog contributed by: Alyssa Stone, MT-BC, NMT, Music Therapist,Clinical Director, Owner, and Founder of Dynamic Lynks Executive functioning is a...
Read MoreHelp Support Our Programs
Every single C.I.T.Y. program or event that you have participated in was made possible by community members like you!
As a 100% volunteer run nonprofit, we rely on both financial support and volunteer time from our members and community sponsors in order to keep growing!
Donate
C.I.T.Y. member donations accounted for about 56% of all funding for 2023! Every little bit helps us grow.
Sponsor
Learn about the opportunities and impact of becoming a community sponsor.
