🗓️ SPF SEPAG Weekly Newsletter – April 27 to May 3, 2026

Parents and Caregiver,

As we wrap up Autism Acceptance Month and head into a busy spring season hurdling toward the end of the school year, the SEPAG and this newsletter focus on transition planning, literacy advocacy, and local inclusive recreation.

📢 Recap: SPF SEPAG Autism Acceptance Event On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, the SEPAG hosted a virtual event featuring local Occupational Therapists who shared strategies for helping our children with emotional regulation and independence. If you missed the live session, we will be posting a summary of the key takeaways and resources on our blog shortly.

📢 May SPF SEPAG Meeting

Next month's meeting covering Transitions at the various school levels will take place on May 11, 2026 at 7pm in the Terrill Middle School Media Center. Calendar invitations will be sent out next week. As usual there will be virtual link to join. Next month's meeting will also cover the SEPAG election results. We hope you can join us.

🎈 Community Events and Inclusion

The Union County Trailside Nature & Science Center is hosting its "Toddler Time: Spring Scavenger Hunt" on Thursday, April 30 and Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM. These sensory-based nature walks are specifically designed for children ages 3 and under to connect with the environment in a gentle, hands-on way. Registration is required at https://secure.rec1.com/NJ/union-county-nj/catalog

On Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, join the Union County Fishing Derby for Persons with Disabilities at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside. This event is inclusive of all ages and abilities, with equipment provided for those who need it. Register through the Union County activities portal at https://secure.rec1.com/NJ/union-county-nj/catalog

The Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) presents a Sensory-Friendly Performance of "Big Bubble Bonanza" on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM. This interactive show by Jeff Boyer is specially adapted with lowered sound levels and house lights left up to accommodate guests with sensory sensitivities. Reserve tickets at https://ucpac.org/sensory-friendly-theatre/

On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the "Adaptive Tennis" spring clinic begins at the Brookside Park courts in Scotch Plains at 1:00 PM. This local program focuses on physical coordination and social play for neurodivergent youth. Sign up through Scotch Plains Recreation at https://scotchplainsnj.gov/departments/recreation-department

💙 Support and Mental Health Resources

The Family Support Organization (FSO) of Union County is hosting a "Caregiver Support Group" on Monday, April 27, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. This meeting provides a judgment-free space for parents to discuss the unique challenges and triumphs of raising children with complex needs. Join the virtual session via https://www.fso-union.org.

As state assessments (NJSLA) continue this week, the FSO remains a resource for families navigating test-related stress. Their peer support specialists can be reached through their warmline at 908-755-0090 for guidance and encouragement. Visit their website for additional resources at https://www.fso-union.org/

We hope you enjoy the start of the May season!

On Behalf of the SPF SEPAG Executive Board