Getting a Diagnosis (116)
A guide to finding, accepting, and utilizing a diagnosis for a child with special needs, including: trusting your instincts; dealing with specialists; researching specific disabilities; sharing information with family and friends; mourning the loss of the "perfect child"; and building new dreams for your child and family.
Early Intervention (46)
Information on finding assistance for children younger than age 3, including enrolling in state-run early intervention programs; selecting a day care or preschool program appropriate to a child with special needs; picking activities your special child can handle; and contacting your school system to make a transition to special-ed preschool.
Special Education (482)
Information on educational options for children with special needs, including: regular education; inclusion; self-contained special education classrooms; special schools; homeschooling; IEPs and 504s; school-based therapy; and being an effective advocate.
In the Community (357)
Information on finding extra-curricular and summer activities for your child; integrating your child into family, church and social groups; and working to make your community more open to people with special needs.
Long-Term Planning (43)
Information on long-term financial planning for families of children with special needs, and employment and residential programs for children with disabilities beyond age 21.
Medical Issues (1797)
Information on medical diagnoses and procedures that affect children with special needs and their families.
Behavior Issues (415)
Information on behavior analyis, modification and management.
Developmental Issues (1480)
Information on developmental delays and disabilities, and comparing your child's progress to "normal" development.
Learning Issues (187)
Information on learning disabilities and differences.
Mental Health Issues (312)
Information on common psychiatric diagnoses for children with special needs, therapies and medication.
Family Issues (280)
Advice on dealing with the family dynamics that come with having a child with special needs, including sibling rivalry, disagreements between parents on treatment, denial, lack of understanding among extended family members.
Therapies (107)
Information on therapies recommended for various special needs, including: speech therapy; physical therapy; occupational therapy; sensory integration therapy; vision therapy; FastForWord; music therapy; hippotherapy.
Equipment (25)
Information on equipment needed by children with special needs, including adaptive and assistive technology; medical equipment; wheelchairs and other mobility needs; sensory integration products; feeding products; items to make life easier and more comfortable.
Respite (948)
Information on supportive resources for parents and families, including respite providers, support groups, online e-mail groups and forums, relaxation techniques and stress relievers.
Special Needs Adoption (26)
Information on how to adopt a child with special needs, and on the unique challenges of raising an adopted child with disabilities.
