An innovative eltingville shop carries products for children with special needs, with an aim of becoming a community resource

by Susan Lunny Keag • Photos Alex Barreto

Melissa Palermo always knew she wanted to open her own commercial enterprise. Having studied business at Baruch College, she recalled that “it was simply my dream to be an entrepreneur.” The tricky question, however, was which industry to explore. It was her then-toddler son, Ryan, now 6, who made her see the answer right in front of her.

Ryan had been diagnosed with Pervasive Development Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (known as PDDNOS). As a parent of a special-needs child, Palermo often had to rely on the
Internet to order products he needed.

“There was no other way of getting them. Therapists would recommend a catalogue or an on-line site. It was frustrating,” she recalled, adding that these options also required paying shipping and even buying in bulk.

Looking to give herself and others in the special-needs community a place to shop locally, Palermo sought out the help of New York City Business Solutions, which helped her develop a business plan and find financial assistance. The busy mother of two was able to get a loan from the New York Business Development Corporation and also invested her own savings with her husband
Ron, a New York City sanitation worker. With all the pieces in place, Palermo opened the Island Sensory Shoppe in October, which offers products for parents, teachers, and therapists.

“I carry a lot of therapy tools, actually” said Palermo, whose inventory includes developmental toys to sensory products like body socks, vibrating pillows, and wiggle cushions—along with educational items such as story starter cubes and reward charts.

The owner added that she is able to offer some personal advice in the process.

“I can talk about their child, as I talk about mine,” she said, explaining that parents of children with any kind of special needs—such as autism or sensory issues—can find the issues they face overwhelming. “When you start out, it’s scary. You don’t even understand all the jargon at first.”

One of the first services Palermo will be offering at the store is music therapy classes, which will begin in January. “My hope for the store is to ultimately be the center of the special needs community. A place to meet, learn, and connect,” she said.

The Island Sensory Shoppe
16 Sylvia Street / 718.605.6550
slandsensoryshoppe.com