Special Needs

A teacher helps a young student with her schoolwork. 0

What Special Education Teachers and Professionals Want You to Know

Discover how special education teachers see parents: empower yourself with proven strategies for advocating effectively in IEP meetings, avoiding hidden plans, letting kids shine through independence, and proactively addressing red flags to ensure your child thrives both at school and home.

Karen Bowersox and a young girl with Down syndrome, who is wearing a backpack and waving. 0

Making a Difference: Karen Bowersox and Downs Designs

Downs Designs: From Challenge to Purpose When adversity ignited a transformative purpose for Karen Bowersox’s family, it sparked a new path—one filled with determination, creativity, and compassion. Fueled by the urgent need for accessible clothing options for her granddaughter Maggie, who has Down syndrome, Karen embarked on an unexpected journey that defied industry norms.

Michelle Rocker and her family in a black and white portrait. 0

Real Moms Share: Michelle Rocker

A mother’s music therapy for navigating special needs with laughter and resilience: Michelle Rocker shares her family’s journey managing bipolar disorder and ADHD diagnoses while balancing parenting challenges. Discover how embracing humor turned overwhelming moments into opportunities for growth and connection among four diverse children, fostering resilience and creative coping mechanisms within the Rocker household.

Calendar with "IEP Meeting 3:30" written on it. 0

Your First IEP Meeting

First IEP Meeting: Your Child’s Journey Begins Embarking on your first Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone—meet others who share this path with you. Together, find comfort in shared challenges and hope for brighter days ahead.

Woman and child walking and talking outdoors. 0

Play I Notice Newness

Find something not noticed before on path to school, Discover hidden designs flowers or signs along the way

Back to School Tips for a successful school year 1

Special Education & Disability Acronyms / Abbreviations {Tip 23 of 31}

Discover Special Ed terms and how to navigate them with our quick-reference guide! From AAC to AYP, unlock the language of special education. Equip yourself with knowledge for clearer parent-teacher meetings and better outcomes for your child. Don’t miss out on empowering insights that’ll change your approach forever.

Chalkboard with "BACK TO SCHOOL" and "Start Preparing Now for" text. 0

Ask Angie ASL + Tips: Back to School

Back to School Essentials for Your Deaf and Hard of Hearing Child Preparing your child’s hearing aids, keeping extra batteries stocked, and having secure cases can make all the difference. Routines like alarms and device management are key—check out ADCOhearing.com and Harris Communication for supplies, plus ASLized.org, deafchildren.org, and Hands and Voices for supportive resources.

Logo for Downs Designs Dreams: Special Clothes for Special People, a non-profit organization. 0

Sharing! Updates: Downs Designs Dreams Launches “Adopt-A-Jean Friday”

Raising children means juggling so much—sometimes it feels overwhelming when fitting in self-care seems impossible. Yet, small steps can make a big difference. Try setting aside just 15 minutes a day for yourself; maybe it’s enjoying your coffee alone or taking a quick walk around the block. Remember, you’re doing an amazing job.

Cecilia Rabe relaxing in a lounge chair. 0

2015 Cover Winner: Cecilia Rabe

Cecilia’s smile brightens our days as she dances under the warm sun, her love for swimming and coloring blossoming like flowers after rain. Though DiGeorge Syndrome makes life a bit tough, every small step shows remarkable progress—like mastering words or holding a crayon with pride.

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