Websites of Interest to Families

Authors: Reprint from Texas Parent to Parent

Keywords: websites, disabilities, blind, visually impaired, special education

Technology can be such a great resource! So I wanted to share with you some of my top sites. These are sites that are jam-packed with important information. They address a whole range of issues that affect individuals with disabilities or special healthcare needs and their families.

Navigate Life Texas

Navigate life is a great resource for any parent of a child with disability or special healthcare need. On this page you can find videos, information, resources, and answers to many questions in both English and Spanish. There are 5 main topics on the site including: healthcare, insurance & financial help, family support, education, transition to adulthood, and finding services, groups & events. One of the parts I find useful is the Special Education 101 section where they have videos, terminology, and a breakdown of the system. It is a great tool for families who are new to the special education process.

Connectability.ca

While this site is based in Canada, the wealth of information, tools, lessons, and resources is impressive. While the site has information for parents of children and adults with disabilities and special healthcare needs I particularly liked the kids page which included a tool to make free visual supports, lesson plans on social skills and anger management, songs, and so much more. I made this sample on my phone in just a couple of minutes, although searching for images may be more difficult on the phone. The only caution I have is that because this site is based out of Canada, information on housing, parent support, and other things may not apply to families in Texas.

TexasMedicaidWaivers.com

This site is particularly helpful for parents who are new to diagnosis and/or Medicaid. Along the right side of the page is a list of programs and information that parents can click on to link them directly to the program. Or they can learn more about all of the programs and how to sign up. It also has a helpful comparison chart that shows the different max budget limits so parents can understand the benefits of the different programs.

Texas Project FIRST (family, information, resources, support, and training)

This website is a place for education information for families of children with disabilities. Has your child recently been diagnosed with a disability? Do you have concerns about your child’s learning and are trying to find help? Your child may be receiving special education services and you need to learn more. Wherever you are in the process, we’ve been there. We know the maze in which you find yourself. This website will point the way to information you can trust and understand, and people or resources you can contact for more information and assistance. Texas Project FIRST is a project of Family to Family Network and an activity of the Texas Continuing Improvement Process (TCIP) under the auspices of the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and Region 9 Education Service Center.

Parent Companion

Raising a child with a disability can feel like a lonely journey. We know—we’ve been there. Our goal is to help eliminate those feelings of isolation with trustworthy information that is comforting, inspiring, meaningful, and relevant. Parent Companion is here to help parents connect with other parents who know what you are going through, as well as help you find the support and services you need to improve the quality of life for your child and your family.