PORTAGE PARK — Barbara Murphy dreads going out to eat with her son John, who has Autism.
Even before she sets foot in the restaurant, Murphy said she is stricken with anxiety about what other people will think about John's unusual behavior, which can include chanting and bad language.
But for one afternoon at least, Murphy — the owner of Josi's Frozen Yogurt — won't have to worry about apologizing for John's behavior.
From noon-3 p.m. Feb. 21, Murphy will close her kid-friendly restaurant at 4032 N. Milwaukee Ave. to everyone except families with children with mental or physical disabilities, with yogurt, pizza, chili for sale — without a side of apologies or pressure-filled, get-to-know-each-other games.
Online reservations are required, Murphy said. The Six Corners store's doors will be locked — to prevent kids from wandering away — and the restaurant's lights will dimmed to accommodate those with sensory-processing issues, she added.
If the first event is well attended, Murphy said she hopes to hold the gatherings monthly, and help families raising children with special needs connect and share tips and resources.
The event will also feature information from CJ Protects, a newly formed organization dedicated to helping connect law enforcement officers and families with children who have special needs, said Victoria Benson, who co-founded the organization with Murphy.
For more information, email Murphy at barbiemurphy@sbcglobal.net.
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