Parenting Special Needs Kids

Things that Go Growling in the Night

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Parenting Kids with Disabilities

But you do what you have to do for your beautiful child. You endure with grace (usually) the annoying platitudes of friends and family who don’t get it, who can’t get it. And though you fight not to roll your eyes when you hear once again how strong you are to manage all that you manage, you have to admit there is truth there. You ARE, in fact, a rock star.

Are you Reaping the Benefits of an ABLE Account?

October 7, 2024

Financial planning for yourself or disabled loved one is daunting on a good day. But knowledge is power, and you need to know what an ABLE account can do for you!

7 Ways to Create an Autism-Friendly Home for Your Childy

March 13, 2024

From quiet spaces to sensory rooms, discover how your thoughtful home design can create a sanctuary where your autistic child feels secure and supported.

Meditation for Children of Every Ability

November 22, 2023

Meditation is accessible to all kids. Discover creative ways to introduce mindfulness into their lives to help cultivate calm, better sleep and enhanced well-being.

3 Tips for Creating a Bedroom for Children on the Autism Spectrum

November 9, 2023

A kid's bedroom should be their sanctuary. If your child has autism, follow this advice to ensure that you create a safe space that also meets his or her physical and psychological needs.

Mom Has Been Diagnosed with Alzheimer's. What's your plan?Mom Has Been Diagnosed with Alzheimer's. What's your plan?

August 22, 2023

It's a horrible diagnosis, but one that millions of Americans and their families are facing. These practical steps and strategies will help to guide you in this emotional journey.

3 Great Companion Pets (Other than Dogs) for Kids with Disabilities

August 22, 2023

If we've learned anything from Disney, it's that kids are naturally drawn to animals who help them in their struggles with anxiety, making connections, responsibility and empathy. If your child is having trouble coping with his or her world, consider these non-canine alternatives.

How Are Jaundice and Kernicterus Related to Cerebral Palsy?

July 25, 2023

Though common in newborns, jaundice should never be ignored. Those cases that do not resolve on their own need treatment to avoid a more dire diagnosis.

How to Motivate Kids with Disabilities

June 5, 2023

The right balance of encouragement and persuasion depends on your child and these useful insights will help keep him or her on track.

Knowing When to Switch Doctors for Your Child

May 28, 2023

Whether they are aging out or you are just not getting the necessary attention and care, you have to know when to call it quits with your child's pediatrician.

How a Caregiver Can Apply for SSI on Behalf of a Child

May 17, 2023

Applying for Social Security disability benefits for your loved ones doesn't have to be a bureaucratic nightmare. Read on to help cut through the red tape.

Dogs in School?!? What does ADA Say?

May 5, 2023

Service dogs drastically increase the independence of their human partners...that's a given. So, can they do their jobs at school, too? Learn what requirements must be met for your dog to go to class.

Empowering Kids with Disabilities Through Baking

May 2, 2023

Explore the benefits of baking for kids with disabilities and learn practical tips and strategies for making the experience enjoyable and accessible.

More Than Fundraising: Connecting Communities with Help Hope Live

April 18, 2023

Young Easton has come a long way since his spinal cord injury. At Abilities Expo, he will be gifted an adaptive bike from Help Hope Live to keep up that progress.

Lessons Learned from my Son's Rare Disease Diagnosis

November 28, 2022

Since she learned that her 4-day-old son had a rare metabolic disorder, Kala McWain has worked tirelessly to get him the best treatment and to make a difference for others affected by phenylketonuria.

How Can Pets Help Autistic Children?

September 29, 2022

Once again, the research illustrates what we knew all along. Pet therapy is real and effective for autistic kids, who experience a drop in anxiety and social stress with the help of a furry friend.

Donated Adaptive Bike to Give Gift of Hope and Play to Child with Leigh's Syndrome

July 31, 2022

Christmas comes early for little Emberly, who will receive a customized adaptive bike from Help Hope Live at Abilities Expo Phoenix this weekend.

How to Support Neurodiversity in the Classroom

June 22, 2022

As classrooms become increasingly more neurodiverse, educators must re-evaluate traditional teaching methods to ensure that more kids thrive.

Tips to Take Care of a Parent with Dementia or Alzheimer's

June 15, 2022

When the person who raised you is facing dementia, take this advice to help you smoothly transition into the role of caregiver.

Bella's Bumbas Gives the Gift of Mobility to Kids Across the Globe

May 11, 2022

Children in 59 countries are more mobile and independent thanks to the ingenious and fun-sized Bella's Bumbas. And thanks to generous donors, the families that need them pay nothing.

5 Myths and Facts about School Supports (504 Plans and IEPs)

May 6, 2022

Remember that you are the expert on you kid and the school is there to support their education. Equip yourself with the facts so that you can help craft an IEP or 504 plan that will allow your child to thrive.

High Levels of Heavy Metals Found in Popular Baby Foods Linked to Autism

April 18, 2022

A congressional report revealed that some of the most trusted names in baby food had products contaminated with heavy metals far beyond limits recognized as safe. For young children, regular exposure to heavy metals can lead to the development of ASD.

3 Ways for Caregivers to Promote Independence for Adults with Disabilities

February 17, 2022

You want your loved ones with disabilities to live fulfilling lives that are as independent as they can be. Here's are just a few tips to help make that happen.

Help Loved Ones Take Control Through Self-Determination

January 11, 2022

Opportunities for one mom's twin autistic sons have multiplied since self-determination became available to all eligible regional center consumers. Could these resources help you?

Transportation Initiatives That Improve Accessibility

October 13, 2021

Let's review the numbers. Adults with disabilities are twice as likely as those without to have inadequate transportation (31% vs. 13%). Of the nearly 2 million people with disabilities who never leave their homes, 560,000 stay put because of transpo challenges. All signs we need new, more accessible transportation options like these…

Kids with Disabilities Thrive with the Right Environment

September 17, 2021

Children whose surroundings are nurturing, engaging, empowering and accessible are better able to flourish in their development.

Get Your Business Running Strong as a Parent with a Disability

September 14, 2021

Entrepreneurship is an enticing proposition...flexible hours (but, make no mistake, not less hours) to manage the little ones as well as your disability. But how to get started? Read on...

Could an ADHD or Autism Coach Be Right for You?

August 18, 2021

Not all coaches wear whistles. Some of the best are the ones that understand how your disability impacts you, and who can equip you with strategies to more effectively leverage your skills to thrive.

Help! My Kid with a Disability is Going Back to School After a Year and a Half at Home!

July 7, 2021

With excitement and trepidation, kids with disabilities are headed back to school after the longest hiatus ever. Parents, these important tips will help you mitigate your child's fears, interact effectively with the school and make that first day back a good one.

Camp Wamp Across America

May 7, 2021

Since Camp Wamp can't host their famous summer camp for kids with disabilities, they are taking it on the road to a city near you! Bring your kiddo for their next great adventure.

Creating Accessible Remote Education

April 2, 2021

Parents and educators alike continue to struggle to structure distance learning programs that will resonate with their children with a wide range of disabilities. Consider these helpful strategies in making your kid's remote education experience a positive one.

Autism Parenting Summit is Open for Free Registration

March 24, 2021

Created for parents of children on the autism spectrum, the virtual Autism Parenting Summit is packed full of expert speakers covering behavior solutions, communication skills, sensory solutions, fitness, transitioning to adulthood and diet & nutrition and more. Plus, it's free!

Parenting with A Disability – Good Support Makes All the Difference

January 19, 2021

People with disabilities are rock stars when it comes to adapting challenging situations to work for them, parenting included. A solid support system is also integral to successful Mommy and Daddy-hood.

These 5 Exercises Will Help Your Child Learn to Write

January 9, 2021

Remote learning has put many parents in the educational driver's seat…here are some great advice to help your little one learn to write.

EP Magazine: A Trusted Resource for Families with Disabilities Celebrates 50 Years

November 11, 2020

For half a century, EP Magazine has been a go-to resource for families, helping them to navigate all aspects of life with a disability. In honor of its milestone birthday, EP is sharing its coveted content for free!

Parenting with a Disability: Reflections from a Quad Mom

July 6, 2020

Once Dani Izzie overcame her personal insecurities about expanding her family, the plot twists kept coming. Twins. Covid. Giving birth during a pandemic. Spoiler alert: There's a happy ending—two beautiful baby girls.

Go-to Homebound Therapy Tips for Your Medically Complex Child

March 23, 2020

The kids have been home for weeks and parents nationwide are scrambling to keep them entertained and e-learned. But for special needs moms and dads, there is the added challenge of continuing their support therapies. These tips can help!

Unleash Your Inner Superhero

February 10, 2020

Never underestimate the power of a cape. Tiny Superheroes gets it, and they ensure that thousands of kid with disabilities or illnesses around the world can don their own capes and feel powerful as they face their challenges.

Wild Ride from Abilities Expo to ‘Fixer Upper’ to Paying it Forward

December 12, 2019

What a rollercoaster! Meet the Copp family who have their hands full raising two active wheeling sons. Follow their exciting journey through TV fame with Joanna and Chip Gaines to giving back with their Raising Wheels Foundation.

The Secret to My Success: Swimming Like an Angelfish

November 30, 2019

The enormous impact of aquatic therapy at an early age cannot be emphasized enough. Organizations like Swim Angelfish harness the therapeutic properties of water to improve strength, motor skills and more.

Children with Epilepsy Discover the Fun of NillyNoggin EEG Caps

October 21, 2019

Standing by while your child endures test after test is heart wrenching. One mom decided to infuse some fun and is bringing smiles to the faces of countless kids with epilepsy.

7 Products Every Caregiver Should Try

August 22, 2019

These simple, inexpensive ideas will go a long way in helping our caregivers with their labors of love. And caregivers, remember that friends and family want to help. Let them!

'Simply Mae' is About the Kid, Not the Disability

May 27, 2019

Little Mae has an imagination to be reckoned with and cerebral palsy. This new children's book follows her escapades and is perfect for any child who loves a colorful, exciting story.

Accessible Playground Leaves No Child on the Sidelines

May 24, 2019

Because play is universally important, playgrounds should be universally accessible. On the outskirts of Chicago, the Sandlot is a gateway to fun for families of all abilities.

Make Nutrition Fun for the Whole Family

May 22, 2019

Step 1: Eat together as a family. Step 2: Involve the kids in the family's nutritious choice. Step 3 and beyond: Keep reading.

For Harold the Wheeling Dog, It's All Attitude

May 20, 2019

This pint-size pooch has become a powerhouse therapy dog, helping kids with disabilities to feel loved and accepted.

Let's Read Teaches Kids to Champion Disability Inclusion

February 22, 2019

Author Brenda Koch tells an empowering tale about Bobby, a little boy with disabilities who teaches his friends that they are not so different. When we introduce young children to the importance of disability inclusion, we lay the foundation for a more accepting world.

Post-Diagnosis of Autism: An Era of Engagement

February 1, 2019

Learn how families can help optimize the quality of life after their loved one has been diagnosed with Autism.

Top 10 Ways Dogs Are Perfect for People with Autism

March 6, 2019

Dogs offer companionship and unconditional love which can drastically impact the way people on the spectrum engage with the world.

Make Your Home Stress-Free for Kids with Anxiety

January 3, 2019

Managing anxiety is a tall order for your little one. These insightful cues can help you transform your home into a safe haven.