Back-to-school homework time doesn’t need to be stressful if you plan ahead! Start by asking key questions like “Where?” and “When?”. Each child has unique study spaces – some thrive surrounded by activity while others prefer quiet corners.
Be Prepared Fifteen years ago, we had no voice … and didn’t even know we needed one! Boy, were we wrong! Not knowing the IEP process, the verbiage, or our rights (in the Procedural Safeguards) was a detriment. But that’s hindsight!
Summer Reading Play As summer winds down, many families focus on getting kids prepared for school. Don’t forget to keep their reading skills sharp! Apps like Epic! offer thousands of books tailored to your child’s interests and age. Read aloud together using these apps – it strengthens comprehension while making learning feel fun.
Yomi & Kofi Karade Our cover this month shines a light on Kofi Karade, 17, with autism, albinism, ADHD, and visual impairment. His mom Yomi beams, proud as ever: “Kofi can read words now!” his smile says. He dances to Zumba tunes on repeat, proving music helps him thrive.
Discover the Power of Support Raising children with unique challenges can feel overwhelming at times. It’s okay to ask for help—whether from family, friends, or specialized services. Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it strengthens your ability to support your child.
The Dawning of a Bright Future It was June 14th—the last day of middle school—and my daughter Summer waved goodbye to classmates with shining eyes. Amidst the transition, we found cherished homework from long ago tucked away, forgotten yet timeless.
Sleep challenges are real for many parents of special needs kids. Restful days boost brain power. At night, while your child sleeps deeply, their mind files new lessons from the day into long-term memory. This vital cleanup process strengthens learning and clears mental clutter. Quality sleep also fuels physical growth and immunity.
Finding special moments together is essential. Even a short hike in the park—Lorne pushing your wheelchair while you bike alongside—can be magic. And don’t underestimate simple dates at home. Cook his favorite meal together, then snuggle under a blanket with movie night planned just for two…
Running Errands Successfully When Shopping Shopping errands can be stressful for families of children with special needs. But by planning ahead and trying new strategies, you can make these trips smoother and more enjoyable. Plan Ahead Chrissa thrives when we limit her shopping outings to a few key stores each week—preferably weekends in the morning.
Preparing for an IEP meeting can ease anxiety significantly. Start by requesting a draft IEP well before the scheduled date, then highlight your key concerns to transform them into targeted questions. Know your child’s strengths and weaknesses, ensuring they’re accurately reflected in present levels – a crucial update from prior evaluations.
