February

Tuesday, February 3, 2026: Transition Talks Family Workshops "Innovative Technology Solutions for Self-Determination and Lifelong Support", 6:00-7:00 PM

Discover practical, easy-to-use tech that helps young adults build independence and stay connected. We’ll look at tools like Voiceitt (speech support), Cognitopia (goal-setting and task management), Floreo (virtual reality learning), SimplyHome (smart-home and remote monitoring), and ElliQ (social and daily-living support), and how AI, virtual reality, augmented reality, remote supports, and other digital platforms can strengthen communication, safety, and everyday decision-making.

Parents and caregivers will walk away with ideas you can put to use right away.

Guest Speaker: Jennifer A. Petersen, Founder, Equitable Tech

Link to Registration 

Friday, February 13, 2026: Fridays with Friends:  6:00-7:00 PM

Location: Ambler YMCA

Audience: Special Needs Teens and Young Adults (age 15+)

Cost: $10 Members; $20 Nonmembers

Spend Friday evenings with your friends at the Y! This is an opportunity for our special needs community to socialize, meet new friends, and try new activities! We will have arts, crafts, swimming, snacks, and social time.

Future dates: March 13, April 10, May 8, September 11

Contact Katie McGuigan at katie.mcguigan@philaymca.org for any questions.

Registration is required. 

Sunday, February 15, 2026: Sensory Friendly Mornings at The Academy of Natural Sciences:  9:00-11:00 AM

Location: The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University | 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia PA 19103 

Dates: February 15, 2026, March 14, 2026, April 12, 2026

Sensory-friendly mornings can be a comfortable, calmer way for museum visitors, especially those with sensory sensitivities, to explore the museum. These mornings will include:

• Advanced ticketing to help avoid lines

• Smaller crowds

• More tranquil sounds in exhibitions whenever possible, with soundscapes and roaring dinosaurs softened or turned off

• An available quiet and relaxing space

• Time to explore our signature and special exhibits and wander through the dioramas at your own pace.

• Noise cancelling headphones and fidget toys available for guests

• Understanding, empathetic staff ready to help and share science with you!

Guests of all ages are welcome at this family-friendly event!

Preregistration is required to ensure a calm, positive experience for all guests. While guests will not be turned away if capacity allows, we strongly recommend reserving your ticket in advance due to the popularity of this program and to help all our families avoid lines.

Registration link

Thursday, February 26, 2026: PEAL Center presents "Your Power Online: Staying Safe and In Control on Social Platforms", from 6:00-7:00 PM

Join us for an empowering, youth-focused training designed to help you navigate the digital world with confidence.  Learn how to protect your privacy, spot online risks, and build healthy tech habits that put you in control.  This hands-on session breaks down real-life scenarios, teaches practical digital skills, and gives you the tools to stay safe, informed, and empowered in every corner of the internet.  Perfect for teens and young adults with disabilities ready to step up their digital game!

This unique opportunity will:

• Empower you to be an upstander online.

• Connect you with resources and support systems when navigating online platforms.

• Answer your questions and build self-confidence online. 

To register, click the link: Registration 

For more information, click the link here.