Parent and Guardian Resource Center
We're here to help you and your child(ren) navigate through the next step in your journey! Look below to find detailed tips and guidances.
1. Understanding the Diagnosis
Learn about your child’s diagnosis.
Using reputable sources, such as the Center for Parent Information and Resources, be sure to understand the behaviors associated with the diagnosis. Keep in mind that many times, there may be multiple diagnoses. To be organized, I recommend having a folder with all of your child’s records, including the diagnoses, assessments, and therapy notes.
You’re not alone!
Join family support groups and connect with experienced parents for advice and resources.
Look below for networks you can access.
Networks For You
Parent to Parent USA
https://www.p2pusa.org/
About: “At Parent to Parent USA, when someone asks what we do, we say we empower and support parents, nationwide.
Why? Because we understand being a parent of a child with special needs can be a challenge — we’ve been there!
The journey is filled with hills and valleys and sometimes feels a little overwhelming. So, we’re driven to ensure no parent feels alone. Ever.”
Family Voices
https://familyvoices.org/
About: “Family Voices is a national nonprofit led by families and friends of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) and disabilities. We connect a network of family-led organizations across the United States that provide support to families of CYSHCN.”
National Parent & Youth Helpline
Call 855-427-2736 or visit https://nationalparentyouthhelpline.org/
About: “If you are struggling as a parent, caregiver, child, or youth, the helpline is here as a dedicated resource for those seeking immediate support and guidance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”
2. What about school?
Learn about Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans. These are tools that help ensure your child receives the support they need, including extra test time, assistive technology, and more. Work with the school counselors to make sure your child is receiving the proper accommodations. Remember, communication is key!
Wait, what are IEPs?
It is a legal document developed for each student in a U.S. public school who needs special education. It ensures that the student receives specialized instruction and related services (Source: University of Washington)
I recommend reading through this document for more details: https://www.ed.gov/sites/ed/files/parents/needs/speced/iepguide/iepguide.pdf