Why do schools need to know when a parent deploys? Your children spend a large portion of their day in school, so teachers often notice changes or new behaviors. The value of parents and schools partnering to support military-connected children with the stressors of deployment is significant. As you know, having a parent away for Read More
Category: Health & Wellness
Information on physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Information and Resources for Families
A Brief Overview A short YouTube video by Osmosis.org provides an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A medical diagnosis of autism is not required for school-based evaluations or interventions. Read on for more information. Families concerned about a child’s development can call the state’s Family Health Hotline at 1-800-322-2588. This toll-free number offers help in English, Read More
Adolescent Health Care Act Provides Options for Families Seeking Mental Health and Substance Use Help for Young People Resistant to Treatment
A Brief Overview The Adolescent Behavioral Health Care Access Act, passed into law by the Washington Legislature in 2019, gives parents and providers more leverage in treating a young person who will not or cannot independently seek medical help for mental illness and/or substance use disorder. The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) hosts website Read More
Holiday Survival Tips For Families with Special Healthcare Needs
Holidays provide a mix of social situations and emotions, and the COVID-19 pandemic adds elements that look a little different for every family. This article provides ideas for celebrating and finding points of joy, with specific tips for those impacted by special healthcare needs. Here are the quick takeaway topics: Break the routine: Although travel Read More
Social Emotional Learning, Part 1: The Importance of Compassionate Schools
A Brief Overview: The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) provides a training program for school staff focused on Social-Emotional Learning. The SEL Online Education Modules are designed for educators, administrators, school staff, others professionals, and parents. Moments of trouble can provide insight about unmet needs. Meeting those moments with compassion helps children learn Read More
Help for Understanding Health Insurance
Tips to Organize Your Child’s Medical and School Documents
Care planning and a well-organized system to keep track of important documents can save time and create comfort during uncertain times. This article provides some tips for building a “care notebook,” which might be a three-ring binder, an accordion file, or a portable file box—whatever makes sense for your organizational style and the types of Read More
Technology Provides Options for Medical Care from a Distance
A Brief Overview During the coronavirus pandemic and statewide stay-home orders, some providers are offering online appointments. This article includes information about access to telehealth and how to prepare for a virtual visit. Federal privacy laws have been relaxed during the shutdown to allow more opportunities for on-screen healthcare. Washington’s telemedicine parity law was updated Read More