Parent & Family
This section offers resources, guidance, and tools specifically for parents and family members supporting children, youth, and young adults with disabilities. Family engagement is vital to child’s development and a student’s success. Topics include understanding special education, navigating IEP and 504 plans, accessing community services, building advocacy skills, and supporting children at home and in the community.
Parent & Family – Including Military Families
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Lifespan Respite WA for Professionals: Social Services and Medical
What Lifespan Respite WA does: We offer interpretation if arranged in advance for almost any language. Email us in a preferred language to set this…
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Respite Offers a Break for Caregivers and Those They Support
Respite offers a short-term break for caregivers and those they support. This article provides information and resources to get started seeking respite services. Resources and…
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Help for Military Families: Tips to Navigate Special Education Process in Washington State
For families new to Washington State, this article includes state-specific information about special education systems. PAVE wants to extend a warm welcome to your entire family…
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Telling Your Story with a Purpose: How to Inspire Action in Two Minutes
You can make a real impact by sharing your personal stories with lawmakers and community leaders. By clearly describing a challenge and offering a solution, you help others understand…
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Parent to Parent (P2P) Connects Caregivers Statewide for Support
Family caregivers for children with disabilities and special healthcare needs may feel isolated or uncertain about where to seek help for their children and themselves.…
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Self-Care is Critical for Caregivers with Unique Challenges
Caring for individuals with disabilities or complex medical needs can be emotionally and physically draining, making intentional self-care essential for long-term well-being. Simple practices like…
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Childcare-What to Know When Your Child has a Disability
When a parent or family caregiver needs care for their child with a disability, finding safe, appropriate, and affordable care will be a priority. There…
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School Support Plans for Deployment-Tips for Parents
When a military parent deploys, children—especially those with disabilities—may show changes in behavior, emotions, or learning. With the right support at home and school, these…
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Five Tips for a Smooth PCS
Planning ahead and staying organized can make a military move much smoother, especially for families with children who have special needs. These key strategies and…
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Understanding Epilepsy: Facts, History, and Support
Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes people to have seizures. There are many different types of seizures, and each person’s experience with epilepsy can…
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Dating on the Spectrum
This article is written for older youth and young adults who are neurodivergent, with an emphasis on autistic neurodivergence. It is based on research and…
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How to Have Good Communication with Your Child or Youth’s Doctor
When your child is impacted by chronic healthcare needs or disability it can be very important to learn to talk with the healthcare professionals that…