Resources for parents provide information, support
In a perfect world there would be one place where parents, caretakers, educators and anyone who cares for a child with special needs could go to find all the information they will possibly need as they journey through life together.
This utopia would have experts who share their knowledge and offer practical advice on a host of topics. In this land of bliss you would find guidance on everything from potty training to setting up trusts.
Sadly this paradise does not exist. There is no singular resource to which to turn. What does come close though continues to be the tried and true parent-to-parent network. Experienced parents sharing very real firsthand advice on what has worked for them and what they have found to be less than useful. There are also myriad books, expos, seminars, classes, websites, etc. that offer information on almost every subject one can imagine. Here are a few of those resources.
Autism & Special Needs Seminar, sponsored by Family Time Magazine, hosts a wide range of speakers on topics ranging from "early education and learning to transitioning to adulthood and sexuality and everything in between." Their goal is to bring the latest information and resources to parents and caretakers. Beyond speakers well-versed in their field, there is a vendor exhibit with more than 35 vendors offering services to families with a member living with Autism and other developmental disabilities. Details: Saturday, Nov. 14, Moraine Valley Community College, Building M, Conference & Business Center, 9000 W. College Pkwy., Palos Hills, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Autismspecialneedsseminar.com.
Mobility Expo hosts "personal wellness advocates, mobility experts and transportation solutions under one roof." The Mobility Expo can provide answers for those looking for mobility options. Additionally, guest speaker Bryan Anderson, a triple amputee from the Iraq War, is this year's guest speaker. His message is one of perseverance, determination and inspiration. Details: Saturday, Nov. 14, Tinley Park Convention Center, 18451 Convention Center Drive, Tinley Park, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., www.mobilityworks.com/mobility-expo-chicago.php.
The College of DuPage hosted an Autism Expert Speakers Series throughout the fall with a wide range of topics. The final session takes a look at how teachers can plan for students with autism. They will discuss how autism impacts both the student and the classroom. Details: Monday, Nov. 16, College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, SRC 2000, 7 p.m., www.cod.edu/student_life/student_services/expert_speaker_series/index.aspx.
Disability Scoop is a website that tracks and reports on all the latest topics relevant to the disability community. Subject matters include health, behavior, education, politics, money, jobs and more. There is a free e-newsletter that will deliver the latest news and updates to you. Details: www.disabilityscoop.com/about.
Created by a mom who has two children with special needs, this particular website boasts a wealth of good, solid information that parents find useful every day. One Place for Special Needs has developed a community of followers looking for tips on an assortment of topics. For example, one can find tips on traveling with children, how to teach tying shoes, dealing with holiday stress and much, much more. Almost any topic you can think of is covered. They also have an extensive list of products and services to search through. Details: www.oneplaceforspecialneeds.com.
Recognized as a leader in the Autism community, Autism Speaks is known for its awareness building, advocacy efforts and support for parents. Among the volume of information on their website are tool kits that help parents with everything from combating bullying to deciphering the options for after high school. Details: www.autismspeaks.org.
The National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) supports families raising a child with Down syndrome. They provide education, family support and advocacy. Their conferences, seminars and dads support group are just a few examples of what they offer. Details: www.nads.org.
If you are looking for local resources, checkout the Chicago Special Parent Magazine. Published twice a year, this free magazine features inspirational stories and parent-to-parent advice. Details: http://www.chicagoparent.com/magazines/special-parent.
Specialrecreation.org helps you find the special recreation association in your area. Parents can find seasonal programs similar to those offered by park districts and where to find inclusion services for participation in typical park district programs. Special recreation associations offer something for all disabilities and all ages. Details: specialrecreation.org.
• Sherry Manschot is the marketing/public relations manager at Western DuPage Special Recreation Association. She leads a parent network of special needs families at WDSRA. Manschot can be contacted at sherrym@wdsra.com. More information about WDSRA can be found at wdsra.com.