Social Sabby was established in 2010 by Kevin Frederick, and is named after his first individual special needs student, Sabatino. In 2008, Kevin first met Sabatino through Ben Haven, an organization where he worked as a mentor for special needs individuals providing respite care for families in his local CT communities. Sabby’s mother Sheila recalls this time when she was first introduced to Kevin…
“Our family had the pleasure of meeting Kevin when my son Sabatino was 14 years old. We were desperate to get him out and involved in activities in the community as well as introducing Sab to new people and situations with a safe, trustworthy individual; Kevin.
Kevin introduced Sab to everyone. He considered every moment an opportunity for Sab to learn and grow. Kevin wasn’t afraid to take Sab out of his comfort zone but was always considerate of Sab’s limits.
Sab became more comfortable entering new places. He walked into businesses greeting people. It seemed that it didn’t matter where we went – someone knew Sab and made a point of approaching him if he didn’t approach them first.
Sab has confidence that I don’t think we could have helped him gain without Kevin. Sab makes most people wish they were more like him. He says hello to strangers and asks them how they’re doing, regardless of who they are.
We never had another resource outside of our own family. Kevin is a wonderful resource. He has education and experience to skillfully work with individuals on the spectrum.
Sabatino turned 25 this year. He and Kevin are still in touch. Honestly, I couldn’t imagine life without Kevin! They don’t see each other weekly, but talk on the phone often and get together when schedules allow.
Initially, Kevin was Sab’s mentor. He’s become so much more- friend, brother, family! Social Sabby is a safe environment for your child to learn and grow. It will also give you a moment to breathe knowing that your child is in good hands.”
Social Sabby first began with local community events, including seasonal camps and integration days during Autism Awareness Month, in an effort to foster social skills for the autistic attendees, strengthen the local community, and increase Autism awareness and education. It is during these events where Frederick designed social groups for children on the autism spectrum, and paired them with typical peer mentors. Attendees participated in a variety of fitness and sensory activities to improve motor function, provoke social interactions, and make introductions for new friends.
The response received from parents in the community proved that not only was there a need for more resources for parents and special needs children, but that Frederick’s approach has proven results.
Today, Social Sabby is a nonprofit corporation committed to the development, support and inclusion of children on the autism spectrum. Autistic or not, we all know that no two children are alike, what works for one child may not work for another. We believe in a 1:1 customized approach that is developed with your child’s specific needs in mind.
We offer individualized plans that meet a variety of needs and goals. We have a multi-faceted approach that covers social interaction, behavior, sensory fitness and nutrition, all focused on the development of your child. In person sessions are available in the CT area, and virtual appointments are available nationwide.
Contact us today to learn more about our services, upcoming events, or how we can help.