Special Needs Children: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Gluten-Free Stuffing
Bread cubes are traditional for Thanksgiving turkey stuffing, but problematic for people with wheat allergies, Celiac disease, or a need for a GFCF diet. Whether you switch to gluten-free bread crumbs or seek other stuffing ideas, these recipes will help you make stuffing that's delicious and safe.
Bread cubes are traditional for Thanksgiving turkey stuffing, but problematic for people with wheat allergies, Celiac disease, or a need for a GFCF diet. Whether you switch to gluten-free bread crumbs or seek other stuffing ideas, these recipes will help you make stuffing that's delicious and safe.
What is a 504 plan?
Information on accommodations for disabled students under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Information on accommodations for disabled students under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Fun Things to Do
Running out of inspiration? Here's a handful of things to do -- with your kids, or for your own procrastinating self -- to keep you informed, amused and occupied.
Running out of inspiration? Here's a handful of things to do -- with your kids, or for your own procrastinating self -- to keep you informed, amused and occupied.
School Behavior Plans
Blank forms and sample behavior management plans can help parents be active participants in the process of devising a plan for their student -- or proposing a plan themselves.
Blank forms and sample behavior management plans can help parents be active participants in the process of devising a plan for their student -- or proposing a plan themselves.
What Are "Special Needs"?
An explanation of the term "special needs," and a look at different children's diseases, disorders and disabilities that fall under that umbrella.
An explanation of the term "special needs," and a look at different children's diseases, disorders and disabilities that fall under that umbrella.
Gluten-Free Christmas Cookies
Giving up gluten doesn't mean giving up Christmas cookies. Follow these links to recipes for crunchy, festive goodies that can be enjoyed even by kids on gluten-free diets.
Giving up gluten doesn't mean giving up Christmas cookies. Follow these links to recipes for crunchy, festive goodies that can be enjoyed even by kids on gluten-free diets.
iTunes No Credit or Gift Card
It's now possible to start an iTunes account with no money or information down. Follow this step-by-step to set it up.
It's now possible to start an iTunes account with no money or information down. Follow this step-by-step to set it up.
Allergy-Safe Pumpkin Pie
Serve up the classic Thanksgiving dessert without endangering your child with food allergies.
Serve up the classic Thanksgiving dessert without endangering your child with food allergies.
Tea Tree Oil for Head Lice
The dangers of pesticide shampoos have left parents looking for natural solutions to the problem of head lice. Tea tree oil shampoo can chase the bugs away and keep them away.
The dangers of pesticide shampoos have left parents looking for natural solutions to the problem of head lice. Tea tree oil shampoo can chase the bugs away and keep them away.
What Is BIP?
Learn more about Behavior Intervention Plans and how they can help improve your child's behavior in the classroom.
Learn more about Behavior Intervention Plans and how they can help improve your child's behavior in the classroom.
Sample 504 Plans
504 plans spell out accommodations and modifications necessary to keep students with certain disabilities safe and available for learning. Review these sample plans from around the Web before helping plan your child's.
504 plans spell out accommodations and modifications necessary to keep students with certain disabilities safe and available for learning. Review these sample plans from around the Web before helping plan your child's.
Make Behavior Charts Work
Awarding points or checkmarks for jobs well done can be effective motivational tools for kids, but behavior charts are often too abstract for children with special needs. Here are some ways to make them work.
Awarding points or checkmarks for jobs well done can be effective motivational tools for kids, but behavior charts are often too abstract for children with special needs. Here are some ways to make them work.
504 plan vs. IEP
Learn about the difference between accommodations offered under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and services offered through an IEP under IDEA. Both help your child with special needs survive in school, but only one will be appropriate.
Learn about the difference between accommodations offered under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and services offered through an IEP under IDEA. Both help your child with special needs survive in school, but only one will be appropriate.
Make a Textbook Cover
An early homework assignment in a lot of schools is to cover textbooks. Here's how to turn a brown paper bag into a textbook protector -- just cut, fold and (if things look a little messy) tape.
An early homework assignment in a lot of schools is to cover textbooks. Here's how to turn a brown paper bag into a textbook protector -- just cut, fold and (if things look a little messy) tape.
Emergency Time-Wasters
No matter how organized the parent, there will always be times when kids need distraction and there are no books or playthings at hand. Here are 101 informal time-wasters to amuse your child when you've nothing more than your wits about you.
No matter how organized the parent, there will always be times when kids need distraction and there are no books or playthings at hand. Here are 101 informal time-wasters to amuse your child when you've nothing more than your wits about you.
Do Vaccines Cause Autism?
Medical authorities have answered that question firmly in the negative. Mothers and fathers who believe their children were damaged by vaccines have refused to take no for an answer. The continuing debate over the subject is often framed as a struggle between science and parents. But parents also battle among themselves on the issue, even parents of children with autism.
Medical authorities have answered that question firmly in the negative. Mothers and fathers who believe their children were damaged by vaccines have refused to take no for an answer. The continuing debate over the subject is often framed as a struggle between science and parents. But parents also battle among themselves on the issue, even parents of children with autism.
Diabetic Christmas Cookies
Bake up some no- and low-sugar cookies to make the holidays brighter for kids and adults with diabetes.
Bake up some no- and low-sugar cookies to make the holidays brighter for kids and adults with diabetes.
Write a Good Paragraph
Organizing thoughts into a coherent piece of writing can be hard for children with learning disabilities. Here's how to help your child write a strong five-sentence paragraph, whether for an elementary assignment or a open-ended exam.
Organizing thoughts into a coherent piece of writing can be hard for children with learning disabilities. Here's how to help your child write a strong five-sentence paragraph, whether for an elementary assignment or a open-ended exam.
Stop School Misbehavior
School behavior problems may start small, but they're a sign that something is not working for your child. Here are five ways to fix them before they get out of control.
School behavior problems may start small, but they're a sign that something is not working for your child. Here are five ways to fix them before they get out of control.
22 Ways to Tell Your Child "I Love You"
Inspirational ways to show your child how much you care.
Inspirational ways to show your child how much you care.
Printable Reward Coupons
Whether you need an easy gift add-on, a motivational tool for behavior charts, or a quick token to mark a job well done, these printable coupons give kids those little things they really want -- or lets them make you do those little things you don't usually want to do.
Whether you need an easy gift add-on, a motivational tool for behavior charts, or a quick token to mark a job well done, these printable coupons give kids those little things they really want -- or lets them make you do those little things you don't usually want to do.
How do I get a 504 plan?
Learn how to get the accommodations offered by a 504 plan for your child with special needs.
Learn how to get the accommodations offered by a 504 plan for your child with special needs.
Book Cover Step-by-Step
An early homework assignment in a lot of schools is to cover textbooks. Here's how to turn a brown paper bag into a textbook protector -- just cut and fold.
An early homework assignment in a lot of schools is to cover textbooks. Here's how to turn a brown paper bag into a textbook protector -- just cut and fold.
Gluten-Free Brownies
Brownies are a delicious treat, but for kids with wheat allergies, they may be off limits. These recipes from around the Web take the wheat flour out but leave all that chocolatey goodness in.
Brownies are a delicious treat, but for kids with wheat allergies, they may be off limits. These recipes from around the Web take the wheat flour out but leave all that chocolatey goodness in.
Smother Head Lice
One non-toxic way to deal with head lice is to put a substance on the head that kills lice by smothering them and also makes the nits easier to comb out. Learn how to put this plan into action.
One non-toxic way to deal with head lice is to put a substance on the head that kills lice by smothering them and also makes the nits easier to comb out. Learn how to put this plan into action.
Sensory Integration Tools
A listing of sites that offer products to help children with sensory integration problems.
A listing of sites that offer products to help children with sensory integration problems.
What Is a Paraprofessional?
Learn more about the aides who help children and teachers in special education classrooms.
Learn more about the aides who help children and teachers in special education classrooms.
Speech Therapy Games
Chances are the word games you're playing with your child are already ones that help strengthen speech and language skills. Here's how to tweak them for some impromptu speech therapy.
Chances are the word games you're playing with your child are already ones that help strengthen speech and language skills. Here's how to tweak them for some impromptu speech therapy.
Behavior Analysis
Information on how to perform an analysis of troubling behavior and change the environment to change the child.
Information on how to perform an analysis of troubling behavior and change the environment to change the child.
What Is FBA?
Learn more about Functional Behavioral Assessments and how they can help improve your child's behavior in the classroom.
Learn more about Functional Behavioral Assessments and how they can help improve your child's behavior in the classroom.
Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes
If your child can't have milk or dairy products, try these recipes that substitute oil, garlic and other flavorful ingredients.
If your child can't have milk or dairy products, try these recipes that substitute oil, garlic and other flavorful ingredients.
School Behavior Chart
Communication is essential in keeping your special-education student safe and happy at school, but busy teachers often don't have time to write notes. Send in a simple chart to track progress on three goals, and reward your child for success achieved.
Communication is essential in keeping your special-education student safe and happy at school, but busy teachers often don't have time to write notes. Send in a simple chart to track progress on three goals, and reward your child for success achieved.
Homemade Therapy Toys
Can't afford the fancy therapy items in sensory integration and speech therapy catalogs? Make or find your own using these 20 easy suggestions.
Can't afford the fancy therapy items in sensory integration and speech therapy catalogs? Make or find your own using these 20 easy suggestions.
Special Education Classrooms
Learn about the different types of classrooms special-education students may be placed in, and why each might be right -- or wrong -- for your child.
Learn about the different types of classrooms special-education students may be placed in, and why each might be right -- or wrong -- for your child.
What Is an IEP?
Introduction to Individualized Education Plans.
Introduction to Individualized Education Plans.
Gluten-Free Candy
Where to find lists of candies that are safe for children on a gluten-free diet
Where to find lists of candies that are safe for children on a gluten-free diet
Cutting and Self-Mutilation
Excerpt from the book "My Kind of Sad: What It's Like to Be Young and Depressed" by Kate Scowen focuses on cutting and other forms of self-mutilation in teens.
Excerpt from the book "My Kind of Sad: What It's Like to Be Young and Depressed" by Kate Scowen focuses on cutting and other forms of self-mutilation in teens.
#4: Echolalia Bells
Christmas is a time that fills most families with ho ho ho, but for families of children with special needs, there can be some uh uh oh! thrown in there too. Have a little fun with these Christmas carols that reflect the stress of the season for parents who feel their family's differences at the holidays.
Christmas is a time that fills most families with ho ho ho, but for families of children with special needs, there can be some uh uh oh! thrown in there too. Have a little fun with these Christmas carols that reflect the stress of the season for parents who feel their family's differences at the holidays.
What Is FAE?
Definition of Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE), with links to more information.
Definition of Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE), with links to more information.
Recognizing Emotions
Identifying emotions -- in other people, and in themselves -- can be hard for children with special needs. Here are five fun ways to help your child learn what facial expressions mean, how to recognize emotions in others, and what those same emotions feel like to them.
Identifying emotions -- in other people, and in themselves -- can be hard for children with special needs. Here are five fun ways to help your child learn what facial expressions mean, how to recognize emotions in others, and what those same emotions feel like to them.
iTunes Without a Credit Card
iTunes gift certificates and allowances can be great rewards and motivators for kids with special needs. If you want to set up an account for your child but don't want to provide unlimited access to your credit card, you can use a gift card or certificate to get the account started. Here's how.
iTunes gift certificates and allowances can be great rewards and motivators for kids with special needs. If you want to set up an account for your child but don't want to provide unlimited access to your credit card, you can use a gift card or certificate to get the account started. Here's how.
504 FAQ
If your child doesn't qualify for an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) but still requires some accommodations and modifications to fully participate in the classroom, a 504 plan may be called for. Learn more about this tool for enforcing your child's right to a Free and Appropriate Public Education.
If your child doesn't qualify for an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) but still requires some accommodations and modifications to fully participate in the classroom, a 504 plan may be called for. Learn more about this tool for enforcing your child's right to a Free and Appropriate Public Education.
Emotional Disturbance
A fact sheet from the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) offers the IDEA definition, incidence, characteristics, and educational implications for the classification of emotional disturbance.
A fact sheet from the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) offers the IDEA definition, incidence, characteristics, and educational implications for the classification of emotional disturbance.
Give Thanks for Your Child
As if you need a reason! But on those days when there doesn't seem much to be thankful for, or others are suggesting that your child must be just a burden, check this list for a smile and a little inspiration.
As if you need a reason! But on those days when there doesn't seem much to be thankful for, or others are suggesting that your child must be just a burden, check this list for a smile and a little inspiration.
Gluten-Free Fruitcake
Being able to avoid fruitcake might seem like the rare good thing about a gluten-free diet, but these recipes let you leave out the wheat and opt for treats rich in dried fruit and low on dry cake.
Being able to avoid fruitcake might seem like the rare good thing about a gluten-free diet, but these recipes let you leave out the wheat and opt for treats rich in dried fruit and low on dry cake.
GFCF Pumpkin Bread
From "The Kid-Friendly ADHD and Autism Cookbook" comes a recipe for pumpkin bread that's free of gluten, milk, soy, corn, and nuts.
From "The Kid-Friendly ADHD and Autism Cookbook" comes a recipe for pumpkin bread that's free of gluten, milk, soy, corn, and nuts.
Writing an Essay: Example 3
Example of the third step of creating an outline.: good paragraph paragraph c how to write a paragraph good sentence essay example
Example of the third step of creating an outline.: good paragraph paragraph c how to write a paragraph good sentence essay example
Writing an Essay: Example 4
Example of the final step of writing an essay.: good paragraph how to write a paragraph good sentence essay example writing an essay
Example of the final step of writing an essay.: good paragraph how to write a paragraph good sentence essay example writing an essay
Writing a Research Paper: Example 2
Example of the first step of outlining a research paper.
Example of the first step of outlining a research paper.
Write an Essay
Writing a standard five-paragraph essay can be difficult for children with learning disabilities. But how to do you help without just writing the whole thing? Here's how to help your child make an outline and turn it into a well-organized paper.
Writing a standard five-paragraph essay can be difficult for children with learning disabilities. But how to do you help without just writing the whole thing? Here's how to help your child make an outline and turn it into a well-organized paper.
Get an IEP for Your Child
Whether you've requested an Individualized Educational Plan for your child or have been asked to consider one by school or state personnel, these are the steps you'll go through, from initial referral through provision of services and triennial reevaluation.
Whether you've requested an Individualized Educational Plan for your child or have been asked to consider one by school or state personnel, these are the steps you'll go through, from initial referral through provision of services and triennial reevaluation.
Help Your Child Sit Still
If your child's teacher constantly complains that he's out of his seat or squirming in it, suggest one of these techniques for increasing desk-chair comfort and control.
If your child's teacher constantly complains that he's out of his seat or squirming in it, suggest one of these techniques for increasing desk-chair comfort and control.
At-Home Occupational Therapy
Professional occupational therapy, at school or in a private office, can be invaluable to a child with fine motor problems. But what do you do when school's out, or the therapist is unavailable? Try these five ideas for being an at-home occupational therapist -- and keep them up even when therapy's in session to maximize your child's progress.
Professional occupational therapy, at school or in a private office, can be invaluable to a child with fine motor problems. But what do you do when school's out, or the therapist is unavailable? Try these five ideas for being an at-home occupational therapist -- and keep them up even when therapy's in session to maximize your child's progress.
What Is IDEA?
Definition of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, with links to more information.
Definition of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, with links to more information.
Who Attends an IEP Meeting?
Description of the Child Study Team.
Description of the Child Study Team.
Emergency Behavior Chart
Most behavior charts are intended to improve your child's performance over time, or provide weekly motivators for staying in line. Sometimes, though, you need to reward behavior in the short-term. Using a chart to break down a challenging activity into small rewardable increments can make it easier for your child to get it done.
Most behavior charts are intended to improve your child's performance over time, or provide weekly motivators for staying in line. Sometimes, though, you need to reward behavior in the short-term. Using a chart to break down a challenging activity into small rewardable increments can make it easier for your child to get it done.
What Is Speech Therapy?
A definition of speech therapy, with a link to more information.
A definition of speech therapy, with a link to more information.
Improve Your Child's Behavior
From choosing realistic goals to picking your battles, here are ten strategies for making your child more manageable.
From choosing realistic goals to picking your battles, here are ten strategies for making your child more manageable.
Write a Research Paper
Organizing and writing a research paper can be difficult for children with learning disabilities. But how to do you help without just writing the whole thing? Here's how to help your child make an outline and turn it into a well-structured report.
Organizing and writing a research paper can be difficult for children with learning disabilities. But how to do you help without just writing the whole thing? Here's how to help your child make an outline and turn it into a well-structured report.
504 Accommodations
In this excerpt from "A Parent's Guide to Special Education," the authors describe 504 Plan accommodations for students with asthma, ADHD, bipolar disorder and epilepsy, and those who are emotionally disturbed.
In this excerpt from "A Parent's Guide to Special Education," the authors describe 504 Plan accommodations for students with asthma, ADHD, bipolar disorder and epilepsy, and those who are emotionally disturbed.
Is a 504 plan necessary?
Why you may want to pursue a legal document specifying the accommodations that will be given to your special-needs child rather than making agreements informally with the school.
Why you may want to pursue a legal document specifying the accommodations that will be given to your special-needs child rather than making agreements informally with the school.
Dairy-Free Brownies
If milk or eggs are a problem for your child, you don't have to put brownies off-limits. Whip up one of these recipes that use soy milk, tofu, oil, fruit puree, and other ingrediates as substitutes for dairy products.
If milk or eggs are a problem for your child, you don't have to put brownies off-limits. Whip up one of these recipes that use soy milk, tofu, oil, fruit puree, and other ingrediates as substitutes for dairy products.
CP at School
School can be a difficult place for children with cerebral palsy -- physically, socially and academically. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
School can be a difficult place for children with cerebral palsy -- physically, socially and academically. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
The Explosive Child
Help your child get "unstuck" from bad behavior with this calm, practical guide to reducing frustration -- yours and your child's.
Help your child get "unstuck" from bad behavior with this calm, practical guide to reducing frustration -- yours and your child's.
Pick a Student Planner
It's simple: If your child doesn't bring home information on the assignment, he or she can't do the homework. Planners are important, but what kind will work best for your student? Here are six options to consider.
It's simple: If your child doesn't bring home information on the assignment, he or she can't do the homework. Planners are important, but what kind will work best for your student? Here are six options to consider.
Writing a Research Paper: Example 1
Example of the first step of outlining a research paper.
Example of the first step of outlining a research paper.
Holiday Survival Kit
A roundup of ways to make the holidays happier, from strategies for family get-togethers to child management techniques to gift ideas to personal de-stressing tools.
A roundup of ways to make the holidays happier, from strategies for family get-togethers to child management techniques to gift ideas to personal de-stressing tools.
Behavior ABCs
Learn how to improve your behavior management and handle specific behaviors and situations with an ABC primer of parenting tips, and links to helpful articles and books.
Learn how to improve your behavior management and handle specific behaviors and situations with an ABC primer of parenting tips, and links to helpful articles and books.
Nut-Free Fruitcake
Nutty as a fruitcake? Not these fruitcake recipes! Instead of adjusting recipes to accommodate your nut-allergic child, try one of these variations that leave the nuts out from the start.
Nutty as a fruitcake? Not these fruitcake recipes! Instead of adjusting recipes to accommodate your nut-allergic child, try one of these variations that leave the nuts out from the start.
Pick a 3-Ring Binder
Your child's school binder may be a wonder of organizational technology or a wreck held together by duct tape and cardboard fibers, but whatever's getting stuffed in that backpack each morning, make sure it suits your child's special needs.
Your child's school binder may be a wonder of organizational technology or a wreck held together by duct tape and cardboard fibers, but whatever's getting stuffed in that backpack each morning, make sure it suits your child's special needs.
Set Get-able Goals
Whether setting goals for your special child, your family or yourself, thinking small and short-term can help you find big, long-lasting success.
Whether setting goals for your special child, your family or yourself, thinking small and short-term can help you find big, long-lasting success.
What Is Mosaic Down Syndrome?
A definition of Mosaic Down syndrome, with links to more information.
A definition of Mosaic Down syndrome, with links to more information.
Research a Disability
The About Parenting Special Needs is full of information on specific disabilities and general behaviors and issues that apply to kids with special needs. Here's how to find the information you're looking for, and more.
The About Parenting Special Needs is full of information on specific disabilities and general behaviors and issues that apply to kids with special needs. Here's how to find the information you're looking for, and more.
What Is DSI?
A definition of DSI, with links to more information.
A definition of DSI, with links to more information.
Head Lice and School
No Nits policies aim to keep lice infestations under control, but can keep kids out of school, and parents out of work, for extended periods. This is a particular concern for kids in special education, who may miss out on needed services and therapies, suffer for lack of routine, and have a hard time tolerating head lice treatments. Is No Nits necessary, or no good?
No Nits policies aim to keep lice infestations under control, but can keep kids out of school, and parents out of work, for extended periods. This is a particular concern for kids in special education, who may miss out on needed services and therapies, suffer for lack of routine, and have a hard time tolerating head lice treatments. Is No Nits necessary, or no good?
Sugar-Free Brownies
Taking the sugar out of brownies doesn't have to make them less of a treat. These recipes from around the Web use sugar substitutes and fruit to help you keep your child in chocolate.
Taking the sugar out of brownies doesn't have to make them less of a treat. These recipes from around the Web use sugar substitutes and fruit to help you keep your child in chocolate.
Relieve School Anxiety
School can be a stressful and fearsome place for children, especially those with special needs. If your child is upset about school, here are some good ways to start a dialog and lessen the load.
School can be a stressful and fearsome place for children, especially those with special needs. If your child is upset about school, here are some good ways to start a dialog and lessen the load.
Picking the Perfect Pencil
Does your child's pencil suit his needs? Before you stock up on school supplies, be sure to pick a pencil that really works for your child.
Does your child's pencil suit his needs? Before you stock up on school supplies, be sure to pick a pencil that really works for your child.
Make a Teacher Info Packet
You've looked at our "Preparing the School for Your Child with Special Needs" pages. Now what? Here's how to put them together with a personalized note in a package that will get the teacher's attention.
You've looked at our "Preparing the School for Your Child with Special Needs" pages. Now what? Here's how to put them together with a personalized note in a package that will get the teacher's attention.
IEP FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the Individualized Education Plan
Frequently asked questions about the Individualized Education Plan
What Is NCLB?
Learn more about No Child Left Behind and how it applies to your child's special education program.
Learn more about No Child Left Behind and how it applies to your child's special education program.
What Is FASD?
Learn more about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects, and the many ways they can impair a child's development.
Learn more about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects, and the many ways they can impair a child's development.
What Is ASD?
Definition of ASD, with links to resources for getting more information.
Definition of ASD, with links to resources for getting more information.
What Are Motor Skills?
An explanation of the term "motor," with links to more information.
An explanation of the term "motor," with links to more information.
ODD at School
School can be a difficult place for children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder -- and difficult for those who try to work with them. Let the school know what your child needs to be successful with these tips and printouts.
School can be a difficult place for children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder -- and difficult for those who try to work with them. Let the school know what your child needs to be successful with these tips and printouts.
At-Home SI Therapy
Occupational therapy with a Sensory Integration approach often has a strong element of parental involvement, with Mom and Dad asked to perform tasks like brushing and joint compression. There's more you can do, though, whether filling in for the therapist during school breaks or just augmenting the work being done. Here are five ways to start.
Occupational therapy with a Sensory Integration approach often has a strong element of parental involvement, with Mom and Dad asked to perform tasks like brushing and joint compression. There's more you can do, though, whether filling in for the therapist during school breaks or just augmenting the work being done. Here are five ways to start.
Less-Sweet Sweet Potatoes
Reduced-sugar and no-added-sugar recipes make yams and sweet potatoes safer for kids who need to limit sugar intake.
Reduced-sugar and no-added-sugar recipes make yams and sweet potatoes safer for kids who need to limit sugar intake.
Breathing Techniques
An excerpt from "The Floppy Sleep Game Book" tells how breathing techniques can reduce anxiety and improve behavior for children with special needs.
An excerpt from "The Floppy Sleep Game Book" tells how breathing techniques can reduce anxiety and improve behavior for children with special needs.
Special Needs Gifts
Listing of Internet gift shops that benefit charities related to children's disabilities or make reference to special needs.
Listing of Internet gift shops that benefit charities related to children's disabilities or make reference to special needs.
Special-Needs School Tools
Help your child sit stiller, write better, and read easier with these cool school tools for students with learning disabilities, fine motor delays, sensory integration challenges, or a bad case of the wiggles.
Help your child sit stiller, write better, and read easier with these cool school tools for students with learning disabilities, fine motor delays, sensory integration challenges, or a bad case of the wiggles.
Start a Thanksgiving Tradition
If your child has problems with eating or socializing or speaking up or sitting still, it may seem hard to fit him or her into the traditional family Thanksgiving picture. Make your own traditions instead, with activities that draw on your child's unique strengths and sensibilities.
If your child has problems with eating or socializing or speaking up or sitting still, it may seem hard to fit him or her into the traditional family Thanksgiving picture. Make your own traditions instead, with activities that draw on your child's unique strengths and sensibilities.
Notes for the Teacher
The best way to make sure that teachers have all the information and resources they need to work with your child is to provide those things yourself. Here are suggestions, tips and fact sheets on a variety of special needs you can copy, rewrite, print out, and send in to give your child and his or her teacher the best chance at success.
The best way to make sure that teachers have all the information and resources they need to work with your child is to provide those things yourself. Here are suggestions, tips and fact sheets on a variety of special needs you can copy, rewrite, print out, and send in to give your child and his or her teacher the best chance at success.
What Is OT?
A definition of occupational therapy, with a link to more information.
A definition of occupational therapy, with a link to more information.
Boost Your Child's Self-Esteem
Children with special needs can be bad at feeling good about themselves. Here are five ways to boost your child's self-esteem, and make yourself a more effective parent.
Children with special needs can be bad at feeling good about themselves. Here are five ways to boost your child's self-esteem, and make yourself a more effective parent.
Special-Needs Swim Gear
Children with special needs may face special challenges when it comes to water play -- from keeping ear tubes dry to finding extra-large swim diapers. Here's the gear they'll need to stay cool in the pool.
Children with special needs may face special challenges when it comes to water play -- from keeping ear tubes dry to finding extra-large swim diapers. Here's the gear they'll need to stay cool in the pool.
Video: Down Syndrome 365
Photos of children taken for a Down syndrome calendar prove that "not all children with Down syndrome look the same!"
Photos of children taken for a Down syndrome calendar prove that "not all children with Down syndrome look the same!"
What Is Fine Motor?
An explanation of the term "fine motor," with a link to more information.
An explanation of the term "fine motor," with a link to more information.
Set Up an iTunes Allowance
An iTunes allowance lets you provide a monthly reward for your child, without worrying about where cash might be going. First, though, you'll need to set up an iTunes account using the allowance instead of a credit card for payment. Here's how.
An iTunes allowance lets you provide a monthly reward for your child, without worrying about where cash might be going. First, though, you'll need to set up an iTunes account using the allowance instead of a credit card for payment. Here's how.
Differentiated Instruction
An excerpt from "The Teacher's Guide to Inclusive Education" illustrates a method for tailoring classroom instruction to the needs of special-education, regular-education, and gifted students.
An excerpt from "The Teacher's Guide to Inclusive Education" illustrates a method for tailoring classroom instruction to the needs of special-education, regular-education, and gifted students.
Teaching Self-Care
You want your child to learn things like shoe-tying, tooth-brushing, bed-making, food-cutting, but how on earth do you teach it to kids for whom those things don't come naturally or easily? "Steps to Independence" has the tips and techniques you need.
You want your child to learn things like shoe-tying, tooth-brushing, bed-making, food-cutting, but how on earth do you teach it to kids for whom those things don't come naturally or easily? "Steps to Independence" has the tips and techniques you need.
Last-Minute Costumes
Your child decides at the last minute that he wants to go trick-or-treating after all, or chooses bedtime to inform you that there's a pageant tomorrow and she's in it. You have no time and no special supplies to make a costume, but a costume is quickly called for. Here's how to throw together something, using items you have around the house, that will do in a pinch.
Your child decides at the last minute that he wants to go trick-or-treating after all, or chooses bedtime to inform you that there's a pageant tomorrow and she's in it. You have no time and no special supplies to make a costume, but a costume is quickly called for. Here's how to throw together something, using items you have around the house, that will do in a pinch.
What Is Gross Motor?
An explanation of the term "gross motor," with a link to more information.
An explanation of the term "gross motor," with a link to more information.
After the Diagnosis
Information on the next steps to take after you receive a diagnosis for your child with special needs. Includes listing of fact sheets on the First Five Things to Do for specific disabilities.
Information on the next steps to take after you receive a diagnosis for your child with special needs. Includes listing of fact sheets on the First Five Things to Do for specific disabilities.
Sensory Integration at School
School can be a difficult place for children with sensory integration problems -- academically, behaviorally and socially. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
School can be a difficult place for children with sensory integration problems -- academically, behaviorally and socially. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
DS at School
School can be a difficult place for children with Down syndrome -- academically, behaviorally and socially. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
School can be a difficult place for children with Down syndrome -- academically, behaviorally and socially. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
IEP Meetings
What to expect when you attend an IEP meeting, at various stages of your child's education.
What to expect when you attend an IEP meeting, at various stages of your child's education.
Nut-Free Goodies
Find safe sweets for your child who's allergic to nuts at these online retailers, run by parents and family members of children with food allergies.
Find safe sweets for your child who's allergic to nuts at these online retailers, run by parents and family members of children with food allergies.
What Is ADD?
A definition of ADD, with links to more information.
A definition of ADD, with links to more information.
Special Needs Children's Books
Explaining a disability to your child or his classmates, friends and young relatives can be a challenge for parents. These five books discuss special needs in a kid-friendly way that can shine a positive light on a tricky topic.
Explaining a disability to your child or his classmates, friends and young relatives can be a challenge for parents. These five books discuss special needs in a kid-friendly way that can shine a positive light on a tricky topic.
What Is APE?
An explanation of the term "Adapted Physical Education," with a link to more information.
An explanation of the term "Adapted Physical Education," with a link to more information.
DSI Resources
Start with these recommended resources for finding facts, strategies, and advice on parenting children with Dysfunction of Sensory Integration.
Start with these recommended resources for finding facts, strategies, and advice on parenting children with Dysfunction of Sensory Integration.
Latkes for Restricted Diets
Latkes, the delectable potato pancakes fried in oil, are a favorite Hanukkah tradition, but traditional recipes contain ingredients that children with diabetes, Celiac disease, or allergies to wheat or eggs will need to avoid. These recipes from around the Web can cater to those restricted diets while keeping the crispy classic on the holiday table.
Latkes, the delectable potato pancakes fried in oil, are a favorite Hanukkah tradition, but traditional recipes contain ingredients that children with diabetes, Celiac disease, or allergies to wheat or eggs will need to avoid. These recipes from around the Web can cater to those restricted diets while keeping the crispy classic on the holiday table.
Keep a Big 'Bag of Tricks'
Amuse. Bribe. Comfort. Distract. Having items at your fingertips that can do one of more of these things for your kids can make the difference between success and disaster. Here's how to make sure you've always got plenty of tricks up your sleeve.
Amuse. Bribe. Comfort. Distract. Having items at your fingertips that can do one of more of these things for your kids can make the difference between success and disaster. Here's how to make sure you've always got plenty of tricks up your sleeve.
How Should I Prepare?
Research and readiness are important to IEP meeting success.
Research and readiness are important to IEP meeting success.
Eye Contact
In this excerpt from "Freaks, Geeks and Asperger Syndrome," 13-year-old Luke Jackson explains how kids with AS feel about eye contact.
In this excerpt from "Freaks, Geeks and Asperger Syndrome," 13-year-old Luke Jackson explains how kids with AS feel about eye contact.
Parent's Book Club
No time to read long book reviews? We'll distill the most important information on those special-needs parenting books you've been hearing about and let you know if they're worth your precious free time.
No time to read long book reviews? We'll distill the most important information on those special-needs parenting books you've been hearing about and let you know if they're worth your precious free time.
At-Home Speech Therapy
Professional speech therapy, at school or in a private office, can be invaluable to a child with speech and language problems. But what do you do when school's out, or the therapist is unvailable? Try these five ideas for being an at-home speech therapist -- and keep them up even when therapy's in session to maximize your child's progress.
Professional speech therapy, at school or in a private office, can be invaluable to a child with speech and language problems. But what do you do when school's out, or the therapist is unvailable? Try these five ideas for being an at-home speech therapist -- and keep them up even when therapy's in session to maximize your child's progress.
Writing an Essay: Example 2
Example of the second step of creating an outline.
Example of the second step of creating an outline.
What Is Early Intervention
A brief definition of the services offered for young children with special needs.
A brief definition of the services offered for young children with special needs.
Sample Letter of Intent
If you were to die suddenly, would those left behind know all the details of your child's everyday life -- doctors, school programs, activities, medications, behavior strategies, routines? Put down all those things you handle so well in a Letter of Intent to guide your child's guardians.
If you were to die suddenly, would those left behind know all the details of your child's everyday life -- doctors, school programs, activities, medications, behavior strategies, routines? Put down all those things you handle so well in a Letter of Intent to guide your child's guardians.
Wish List
Humorous look at the things parents of children with special needs really want.
Humorous look at the things parents of children with special needs really want.
31 Ways to Say "I Love You"
Children with special needs may be unable to respond to our declarations of love the way we'd like. Sometimes you can get the message through easier if you show rather than tell, or find fun and disarming ways to sneak your feelings through. Here are 31 ways to start.
Children with special needs may be unable to respond to our declarations of love the way we'd like. Sometimes you can get the message through easier if you show rather than tell, or find fun and disarming ways to sneak your feelings through. Here are 31 ways to start.
Alphabet Soup
Wondering about all those alphabet letters that seem to define your child these days? Check our alphabetical acronym listing to learn the meaning behind the characters and find resources to help you help your child.
Wondering about all those alphabet letters that seem to define your child these days? Check our alphabetical acronym listing to learn the meaning behind the characters and find resources to help you help your child.
FASD Resources
Start with these recommended resources for finding facts, strategies, and advice on parenting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
Start with these recommended resources for finding facts, strategies, and advice on parenting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
What Is ARND?
Defines the acronym ARND, describing fetal alcohol impairment.
Defines the acronym ARND, describing fetal alcohol impairment.
IEP Meeting Alert Levels
What alert level do you hit before going to your child's IEP meeting? Measure your risk of outrage and deception with this handy chart.
What alert level do you hit before going to your child's IEP meeting? Measure your risk of outrage and deception with this handy chart.
Lying vs. Truthiness
Is your child really lying, or just dealing in truthiness? The term used by Stephen Colbert to satirize politicians and public figures applies equally well to kids who, without malice or intent, state what they wish or believe to be true rather than what actually is.
Is your child really lying, or just dealing in truthiness? The term used by Stephen Colbert to satirize politicians and public figures applies equally well to kids who, without malice or intent, state what they wish or believe to be true rather than what actually is.
Write a Note to the Teacher
When you spend a lot of time battling Child Study Teams and fighting for your child's rights, it can be hard to dial back and write a simple note to the teacher over a matter of minor import. Follow these steps to produce some friendly correspondence for a change.
When you spend a lot of time battling Child Study Teams and fighting for your child's rights, it can be hard to dial back and write a simple note to the teacher over a matter of minor import. Follow these steps to produce some friendly correspondence for a change.
First Five: DSI
A handful of easy, quick suggestions to help you get a fast start on helping your child diagnosed with sensory integration problems.
A handful of easy, quick suggestions to help you get a fast start on helping your child diagnosed with sensory integration problems.
Before You Sign an IEP
Don't approve your child's Individualized Education Plan before you check these items.
Don't approve your child's Individualized Education Plan before you check these items.
Special Needs Kids in Church
Making it through a worship service with a child with special needs can be a spiritually trying experience, but setting appropriate expectations and incentives can give you a prayer of success.
Making it through a worship service with a child with special needs can be a spiritually trying experience, but setting appropriate expectations and incentives can give you a prayer of success.
First Five: Asperger's
A handful of easy, quick suggestions to help you get a fast start on helping your child diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome.
A handful of easy, quick suggestions to help you get a fast start on helping your child diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome.
Asperger's at School
School can be a difficult place for children with Asperger syndrome -- academically, socially and behaviorally. Let the school know what your child needs to be successful with these tips and printouts.
School can be a difficult place for children with Asperger syndrome -- academically, socially and behaviorally. Let the school know what your child needs to be successful with these tips and printouts.
Sample Teacher Letter
Giving teachers the information they need to help your child is an imporant part of school advocacy. Here's how to translate our "preparing the school" resources to your child's specific situation.
Giving teachers the information they need to help your child is an imporant part of school advocacy. Here's how to translate our "preparing the school" resources to your child's specific situation.
You Are Strong
Artful notes of support and encouragement for parents of children with special needs, suitable for printing and framing or giving.
Artful notes of support and encouragement for parents of children with special needs, suitable for printing and framing or giving.
RAD at School
School can be a dangerous place for children with an attachment disorder -- and for the families that send them there. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe with these tips and printouts.
School can be a dangerous place for children with an attachment disorder -- and for the families that send them there. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe with these tips and printouts.
Seizures at School
School can be a difficult place for children who have seizures -- academically, behaviorally and socially. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
School can be a difficult place for children who have seizures -- academically, behaviorally and socially. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
Homework Help
It's normal for a child to hate doing homework, but for children with special learning, motor or developmental needs, that hatred can blow up into tantrums, meltdowns, and endless nag-a-thons. It doesn't have to be that way. Here are six ways to make the homework experience less painful for all involved.
It's normal for a child to hate doing homework, but for children with special learning, motor or developmental needs, that hatred can blow up into tantrums, meltdowns, and endless nag-a-thons. It doesn't have to be that way. Here are six ways to make the homework experience less painful for all involved.
Dairy-Free Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are an Easter favorite, but if your child or other family member can't tolerate milk or cheese, your traditional recipe may not work. Try one of these dairy-free adaptations to keep the dish on your table.
Scalloped potatoes are an Easter favorite, but if your child or other family member can't tolerate milk or cheese, your traditional recipe may not work. Try one of these dairy-free adaptations to keep the dish on your table.
Listen to Me!
If what you really want is for your child to listen, stop saying "Look at me!" Eye contact can get in the way of the verbal message you're trying to get through.
If what you really want is for your child to listen, stop saying "Look at me!" Eye contact can get in the way of the verbal message you're trying to get through.
Help for Special Occasions
Advice on how to make it through family get-togethers with children with special needs.
Advice on how to make it through family get-togethers with children with special needs.
Take a Day Off
Inspiration for parents to take a day off and give themselves a break from responsibilities.
Inspiration for parents to take a day off and give themselves a break from responsibilities.
Work Out with Your Child
Getting out of the house long enough to get some decent exercise can be hard for parents of children with special needs. These products can help you get moving right where you are -- and have fun with your child at the same time.
Getting out of the house long enough to get some decent exercise can be hard for parents of children with special needs. These products can help you get moving right where you are -- and have fun with your child at the same time.
Intellectual Disability/School
School can be a difficult place for children with intellectual disabilities -- academically and socially. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
School can be a difficult place for children with intellectual disabilities -- academically and socially. Let the school know what your child needs to be safe and successful with these tips and printouts.
Play the "Dots" Game
Here's a quick distraction to get fidgety kids through boring events like car rides, restaurant waits and, alas, church services. It's quiet, it's attention-grabbing, and it can expand to fill as much time as you need.
Here's a quick distraction to get fidgety kids through boring events like car rides, restaurant waits and, alas, church services. It's quiet, it's attention-grabbing, and it can expand to fill as much time as you need.
Backward Chaining
A definition of backward chaining, a technique for teaching life skills to children with special needs.
A definition of backward chaining, a technique for teaching life skills to children with special needs.
Site of the Day Index
Looking for a site that appeared in past years as a Parenting Special Needs Site of the Day? Check here for sites featured in 2008.
Looking for a site that appeared in past years as a Parenting Special Needs Site of the Day? Check here for sites featured in 2008.
Allergy Alert Shirts
How do you let people know that your child has food allergies and needs to be fed carefully? Dress him or her in one of these cute T-shirts that gets the message across in a fun way.
How do you let people know that your child has food allergies and needs to be fed carefully? Dress him or her in one of these cute T-shirts that gets the message across in a fun way.
What Is ADHD?
A definition of ADHD -- Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder -- with links to more information.
A definition of ADHD -- Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder -- with links to more information.
Nurtured Heart
This excellent behavior-management approach helps focus intense, energetic kids into more positive patterns, and gives parents something to feel good about too.
This excellent behavior-management approach helps focus intense, energetic kids into more positive patterns, and gives parents something to feel good about too.