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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Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
A Brief Overview Full Article What Is SSI? Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a monthly financial benefit from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to people…
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MIC3 Step-by-Step Checklist-Resolve School Issues with the Interstate Compact
This resource shows you specific steps to take to resolve school issues for your child, using the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. …
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The Importance of Fathers and Father Figures
A Brief overview Full Article Parents are children’s first and primary teachers. Every parent has their own way of caring for and interacting with his/her/their…
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Traumatic Brain Injury in Youth
A Brief Overview Full Article A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury that affects how the brain works. TBI can affect people of all…
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Support a Child’s Resilience by Pointing to the Positive
Transcript: Children learn best when they feel safe, relaxed, loved, and confident. Emotions that are the opposite can make learning a struggle. Researchers who study…
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Advocacy Tips for Parents
When a child has a disability, parents often learn that getting their child’s needs met requires persistence, organization, and advocacy. Advocacy is an action. A…
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Supported Decision Making is an Option for Adults with Disabilities
A Brief Overview Full Article When a young person turns 18, most decisions are now up to them. In Washington State, age 18 is the…
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Procedural Safeguards: How to File a Special Education Complaint
This training has information about parent rights and describes a process for filing a community complaint. When parents believe their child’s school has done something…
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Families Who Receive In-Home Care Services: Take Note of 2022 Changes
A Brief Overview Everyone who gets state-funded in-home care in Washington is affected by a new employment structure for Individual Providers (IPs). The Consumer Direct…
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Quick Start Your Advocacy in Two Steps
Asking for something you want or need for yourself or someone you love can take courage and inner strength. The ask is easier when you…


