Guest Author

Cathy Purple Cherry, owner of Purple Cherry Architects, smiles warmly.

Catherine Purple Cherry

Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, founder and owner of Maryland-based Purple Cherry Architects, sees purpose through architectural design.

Every parent’s heart sinks when their child with autism goes missing—but for us, it felt like being lost at sea with no compass. This journey isn’t just about finding a missing kid; it’s about discovering something even more precious: the person buried beneath autism’s prison bars.

A pile of colorful jelly beans, including red, pink, orange, green, black, and yellow.

Easter Candy and Hyper Kids: A Colorful Connection

Why Should You Care About Easter Candy and Hyperactivity? As the sweet taste of jelly beans fills the air during Easter, it’s worth knowing the surprising link between artificial food dyes and your child’s boundless energy.

A woman holds a baby wearing a blue and white outfit with cartoon characters.

Patricia Plunkett “Everyday Heroes”

Patricia Plunkett: Everyday Hero In 1998, soon after starting her elementary education and special needs studies at the University of Connecticut, Patricia realized she had chosen social studies over special education – until ten years later when everything changed. When her son was diagnosed with Down syndrome, those neglected courses became invaluable.

A person in a wheelchair raises their arms against a blue sky.

Special Needs (or Supplemental Needs) Trusts 101

Secure your loved one’s future with special needs trusts – expertly crafted solutions that blend assets and personal care perfectly. Learn how these versatile tools can protect government benefits while funding vital long-term support.

A graphic with text that says "what is Apraxia?" on the left and a description of Childhood Apraxia of Speech on the right.

Apraxia: When the Words Just Won’t Come

Navigating childhood apraxia can feel overwhelming, but early support makes a world of difference. Understanding signs and accessing tailored interventions lays the groundwork for your child’s communication success. If your toddler struggles with speech development, this guide offers practical steps to empower your family’s journey forward.

Student kneeling on the floor to organize school supplies and papers inside a backpack.

Help Your Child Get Organized For School!

Mastering school organization: The key to academic successWhy should students, teachers, and parents care? Unorganized materials can derail bright minds—and even mask genuine learning struggles.Discover simple systems that cut through clutter, boost focus, and pave the way for lasting achievement. Get ready for transformational change!

Special education team members engaged in a collaborative meeting to improve communication.

5 Steps to Improving Communication with the Special Education Team

Unlock seamless support by embracing open dialogue. Discover your child’s unique journey through five crucial steps: introduce yourself, share strengths and challenges, collaborate on strategies, attend key meetings together when possible, and maintain consistent communication throughout the school year to ensure every member of the special education team works in harmony for optimal student progress.

Woman relaxing on a couch with a book to symbolize finding moments of calm during a stressful holiday season.

My New Year’s Resolution: No More Harried Holidays!

Embrace the Holiday Sprint: Master Stress-Free Seasonal Celebrations with Kids Why should I read this? Learn practical tips and mindset shifts to master holiday chaos while parenting a child with special needs. – Picture: The night before Thanksgiving rolls around. You take a deep breath, remembering past stress.