BEST ACCESSIBLE RESOURCES: 2024 Main Line Parent LOVE Awards & Family Favorites
Discover the best support, educational programs, and specialized services for families navigating special needs, learning differences, and disabilities.
Our Family Focus Media team is pleased to present the most accessible resources of the Main Line and Philly’s western suburbs, as recommended by parents in the Main Line Parent Community. From accessible birthday parties to specialized education programs, from inclusive fitness classes to supportive childcare services, these award-winning businesses and programs are dedicated to empowering children of all abilities.
Discover the best resources that the Main Line has to offer for creating an inclusive, supportive environment for your family then pop over to our Main Line Parent Best for Families Guide to find more trusted resources! Best for Families Celebration & LOVE Luncheon photos by AMC Photography.
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Best Accessible Birthday Party
A Flick of the Wrist
Broomall & Malvern
“A Flick of the Wrist is very accommodating for all needs and works with all different budgets. They will also adjust to any sensory needs a child may have!”
– Main Line Parent Community Mom
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Excellence in Education for Students with Learning Differences
Benchmark School
Media
“My son started last year in 6th, and it’s been wonderful for him. It does only go to 8th, but one child started this year in 7th and has fit right in. I truly wish we started earlier. My son takes school pretty seriously now.”
– Susan R.
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Excellence in Education for Students with Learning Differences
Delaware Valley Friends School
Paoli
“Delaware Valley Friends School is fantastic! The class sizes are small and there are so many opportunities for the kids. All of the teachers have been trained in techniques to support Executive Function development. They use the same program between lower, middle and upper schools as well as between subjects.”
-Pamela G.
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Excellence in Education for Students with Learning Differences
Hill Top Preparatory School
Bryn Mawr
“What don’t I love about Hill Top!? The teachers and staff are highly trained in the Special Education field. They are loving, kind and patient. They are extremely collaborative with parents, doctors and other outside staff/therapists. The small classroom size allows for individualized attention. They see their students as people not problems that need to be solved.”
– Dana B.
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Excellence in Education for Students with Learning Differences
Pathway School
Jeffersonville
“We have been very happy with Pathway since my son started there this school year. They are very professional and my son has loved the opportunities he’s gotten there.”
– Spencer R.
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Excellence in Education for Students with Learning Differences
Stratford Friends School
Newtown Square
“Here’s the outcome of my child’s seven years at Stratford Friends: he was accepted at Science Leadership Academy, Philadelphia’s most selective public high school. It’s safe to say that he couldn’t have done it without the skills and self-discipline he learned at Stratford Friends.”
– Rick B.
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Excellence in Education for Students with Learning Differences
Woodlynde School
Strafford
“This Woodlynde School has experienced educators who tailor the curriculum to meet a student specialized learning needs. At the same time, there is a wonderful sense of community between teachers, students and their family. Having both a rigorous education and a very supportive, caring community allows students to succeed and thrive!”
– Gabriela S.
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Best Exercise Program for Neurodivergent Families
Uniquely Abled Fitness
Downingtown
“When I found out this program was coming to my community, I teared up, excited that my autistic son had a place to exercise with other kids who are different like him. And it’s been the best experience for him, but also for me. I photograph almost every session that my son attends and the coaches sincerely care and love these amazing athletes. I have captured and witnessed genuine friendships form between these kids.”
– Jodi D.
2024 FAMILY FAVORITE HONOREE:
Exercise Program for Neurodivergent Families
Full Spectrum Fitness
Bala Cynwyd
“My Autistic son, who also has cerebral palsy has been working with Pete from Full Spectrum Fitness for 3-4 years. Pete is amazing with my son, who, by the way absolutely loves his sessions with Pete and does things for Pete that he won’t do for anyone else. Pete not only understands my sons needs, he knows how to communicate with him and work with him to get those needs met. He is extremely patient and treats my son with respect. He knows when and how much to push him to work more without frustrating him. I have already had other families reach out and start working with Pete for the same reasons I mentioned. Pete is one of a kind and is very hard to come by for our special needs children. His staff is just as amazing as he is.”
– Suzette K.
“Fueled by Twirl’s philosophy of “All for dance. Dance for all” students with Down syndrome work on improving movement skills, coordination, and memorization as they explore jazz and musical theatre dance styles. Students also have performance opportunities at community events and Twirl’s end of the year show.”
– Main Line Parent Community Parent
“I can’t rave about this place enough. If our schedule allowed it we would be there everyday! My boys love it so much the only place where they feel comfortable and adapted to their needs. Everything they love at school is in this fun place! The only place where I can “relax” a minute or two without being worried about something not for them. This place was designed with out atypical kids in mind and I haven’t never felt more grateful for my boys to FINALLY have a place for them. Thank you Sensory FIT for including my boys!”
– Main Line Parent Community Dad
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Inclusive Sports Program for Kids with Diverse Abilities
TOPSoccer
Limerick
“I just want to say THANK YOU [to the Main Line Parent Community Mom] for posting about the TOPS soccer program up in Limerick in here back in March! My daughter who is 9 yrs old has been asking to play and we haven’t been able to find anything suitable for her down here. She was SOO HAPPY today after their first practice!! Her buddy was awesome and she had such a good time! My heart is soo full and without your post I’d still be looking for her! Grateful for you and this wonderful group!”
– Jennifer K.
“We just celebrated my son’s 7th birthday there and everyone (adults too) had so much fun! The staff was wonderful to work with and the place is so cool and clean! Perfect place for kids 6 and up and a great area to walk around before or after.”
– Amanda M.
“This is my favorite hangout spot on the Main Line, whether I’m working, meeting friends, or grabbing a quick bite. The atmosphere is always warm and nurturing and I love supporting real employment opportunities for individuals with special needs.”
– Jennifer B.
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Best Neurodiversity Support
Child and Family Art Therapy Center
Blue Bell, Haverford, Philadelphia
“My child attends the weekly, year-round Art of Friendship Social Coping Program. Hour-long social skills groups are offered for young people, between the ages of 4 – 19 years, both with AND WITHOUT diagnoses such as Autism level 1, ADHD, learning differences, anxiety, & more. The children are paired with kids the same age and based on what social skills they are each working on. The play sessions are facilitated by trained therapists who also educate the parents on what social skills are being taught to the kids. It is a wonderful program.”
– Main Line Parent Community Mom
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Best Special Needs Childcare Provider
Balanced Babysitting
In the comfort of your home
“Our first date night in 4 years! I wouldn’t have been able to leave my kids without the assurance of a professional team who understands my child’s needs. So thankful for Balanced Babysitting.”
– Christiana
2024 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Best Village for Families with Special Needs
Main Line Special Needs Parents Facebook Group
Online
“Both the admin and the parents in the group are TREMENDOUS sources of not only information but also emotional and physical support for families with kids with special needs. There is a wealth of information on public school systems, private schools, mental health supports, colleges and other related services. I have seen many parents go way above and beyond supporting one another during what can only be described as very challenging times.”
– Lisa P.
As we celebrate these outstanding Main Line Parent LOVE Award Winners and Family Favorite Honorees, it’s clear that the Main Line community is rich with resources for families navigating special needs, learning differences, and disabilities. These organizations go above and beyond to create inclusive, supportive environments where all children can thrive. Whether you’re looking for educational support, recreational activities, or simply a welcoming community, these award-winning providers offer the expertise and compassion your family deserves. We encourage you to explore these valuable resources and connect with the dedicated professionals who are committed to helping your child reach their full potential. Together, we’re building a more inclusive and accessible Main Line for all families.
Know a fantastic local resource that should be on this list? Share your experience with a Main Line Parent Member on their Profile Page (we count new endorsements as nominations year-round)! If you’d like to Recommend a Resource that our community should know about, our team will reach out to any referrals with an invitation to join and will mail you a copy of our Community Magazine as a thank you gift. If you would like YOUR organization to be more connected with local parents, caregivers, and family-focused business leaders in our community, we invite you to join our Main Line Parent Membership Program.
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