Join us for a supportive and informative parent workshop created for families of young children who may have developmental questions, are receiving a new diagnosis, or are preparing for important transitions.
Led by experienced professionals, this workshop will offer guidance on what to expect as you move from early concerns to evaluation, diagnosis, and supports available. Parents will learn about the role of developmental pediatricians, when additional testing may be recommended, and how to access resources and supports.
The workshop will also explore the importance of secure relationships and social connection, provide guidance on transitioning from Birth to Three services to preschool, school-based supports, and offer practical strategies for potty training and managing challenging behaviors.
Presented by Abilis
NEW DATE: Sunday, March 8, 2026- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: The Cohen Abilis Advancement Center, 78 Harvard Ave, 3rd Floor, Stamford, CT
- 💰 Event: FREE and Babysitting Services available for $25
NEW DATE: Sunday, March 8, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: The Cohen Abilis Advancement Center, 78 Harvard Ave, 3rd Floor, Stamford, CT Abilis Presenters
Abilis Presenters
Jacqueline Steele, MD
Dr. Jacqueline Steele is a primary care pediatrician and Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Columbia University Medical Center. After growing up in Greenwich, she went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine and completed her pediatrics residency at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Steele was initially drawn to primary care pediatrics because she is passionate about helping families transition from early intervention to school-based services. She has a special interest in caring for children with multiple medical conditions and is dedicated to helping families navigate the complexity of the medical system. In her personal time, she enjoys skiing, spending time with her family, and going for walks at Tod's Point.
Amy Montimurro, MSW, President & CEO
Amy Montimurro is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Abilis, one of the leading nonprofit organizations in the nation dedicated to offering comprehensive lifespan services and support for individuals with special needs and their families. With a career spanning more than three decades in the nonprofit sector, Amy has been a pivotal force in driving Abilis’ mission and vision forward. Her passion for her work and her steadfast commitment to Abilis' mission have made her a respected leader in the disability space. Her leadership continues to inspire hope and foster positive change in the community, making a lasting impact on the lives of those served by Abilis.
Amy received her Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University. Her extensive background in social work and unwavering dedication to community service have been key drivers of her successful leadership at Abilis.
Jennifer Miklautsch, MEd, Director of Therapeutic Services
Jennifer “Jennie” Miklautsch is the Director of Therapeutic Services at Abilis, overseeing both the Abilis Early Learners Birth to Three program and The Therapy Center in Stamford, Connecticut. Jennie has been with Abilis since 1999, beginning her career as a special education teacher in the Birth to Three program.
She brings extensive experience and professional qualifications to her role, holding a Master of Education in Early Childhood Special Education and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University, along with a postgraduate certificate in Assistive Technology from New York Medical College.
Sharon Hoffner, PT, DPT, Pediatric Physical Therapist
Sharon is the Assistant Director of the Abilis Therapy Center and brings more than 29 years of experience as a physical therapist, along with over 40 years of experience working with children of all ages and abilities. She holds a Master of Science and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, earning her master’s degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and her doctorate from Arcadia University in 2017.
Sharon began her physical therapy career at the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children, where she spent 17 years working with individuals who were blind and had multiple disabilities, including providing aquatic physical therapy. In 2013, she earned her certification as an Assistive Technology Professional. After relocating to Connecticut, Sharon expanded her clinical expertise by working in public school settings, Birth to Three programs, pediatric residential programs, and private pediatric therapy gym settings.
In 2025, she earned credentialing from the American Physical Therapy Association as a Board-Certified Healthcare Executive (BCHE).
Chelsea M. Soares, BCBA, LBA
Chelsea Soares is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism. She has over 12 years of experience in the field working with individuals with varying developmental disabilities and has been a licensed behavior analyst for the past 5 years. Chelsea has been with Abilis for 11 years, where she has developed extensive clinical expertise and a strong commitment to high-quality services. Chelsea is particularly passionate about working with the adult population and specializes in the assessment, modification, and replacement of challenging behaviors using evidence-based behavioral interventions. Her work emphasizes meaningful behavior change that improves quality of life, promotes independence, and supports long-term success for the individuals she serves. Chelsea is dedicated to collaborative practice, data-driven decision-making, and ongoing professional growth within the field of applied behavior analysis. In her personal time, Chelsea enjoys traveling, working out, and spending time connecting with those she loves.