ANNUAL EDUCATION ISSUE BY LAUREN AGORATUS In each state there is a Parent Training and Information (PTI) Center which provides technical assistance to families as well as professionals. PTIs provide information about the rights of the students and the responsibilities of the districts. Research shows that children with disabilities are even more likely to be the victims of bullying than their peers without special needs. Special initiatives have been created to address this issue. Families […]
BOOK REVIEW This book is intended to provide parents of children with disabilities with the information they need to “make special education work.” Overall, I was very impressed with the theme and presentation. Chapter 1 was extremely helpful in describing the special education process. There is an explanation of referral, evaluation, IEP (Individualized Education Program), triennial evaluation etc. However, missing from “related services” were sensory integration and social skills, which are becoming increasingly common. There […]
BY LAUREN AGORATUS, M.A. Families and individuals need to visualize what they want as goals to see if the program is a good “fit” and if they can picture the person in that environment. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) just published “Out of Home Placements for Children and Adolescents with Disabilities.” This document provides compassionate but incomplete guidance on a difficult decision for families, and presents out-of-home placement as a last resort. Some placements […]
BY LAUREN AGORATUS, M.A. Families may be concerned about what the future holds for their child with disabilities. Parents may be fearful if the child will be able to live independently and make decisions for themselves. Children with special needs must have input, based on their abilities. Families and professionals need to start at a young age to help the child develop decision-making skills and maximize their potential as adults. Is Guardianship the Only Way? […]
BY LAUREN AGORATUS, M.A. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THEY AGE OUT OF CHILDREN’S PLANS? Parents may not be aware of all the choices available for insurance coverage for their children with special needs as they become young adults. Options can include continuing dependent coverage, as well as public and private insurance. It is important to note that children with special health care needs may be eligible for more than one type of plan. Parents and their […]
