Transitions during the elementary school years can be well planned and supported so that children with special needs may concentrate on educational opportunities, maintaining self confidence and developing healthy relationships.

The philosophy, strategies and techniques behind the Universal Design for Learning have created new opportunties in engagement, learning and expression for students with special needs

The terrible events at Virginia Tech and news coverage that includes reminders of previous school violence episodes will cause deep anxiety and traumatic stress for children and their families throughout the country.

Families of children with special needs prepare for every day emergencies as well as using new plans from government agencies and first responders who consider individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions

Some children with autism have food allergies or digestive disorders that require medical treatment. Families who are investigating and trying out dietary interventions claimed to treat autism spectrum disorders by eliminating specific kinds of foods should have their child followed closely by a doc

Young children with temporary speech delays, hearing impairment or language disorders are finding sign language is a wonderful bridge to satisfying communication.

Planning the transition from preschool to kindergarten can include visiting available classrooms before summer break, considering an extra year of preschool in a transition or mainstream program, private kindergarten or homeschooling

Babies who learn to communicate with sign language before they are able to say words may be more inspired to communicate with us, and feel less frustrated due to unmet needs and desires

Help in understand evaluations, planning, options and resources involved in transition from early intervention or home-based services to preschool can be found through local early intervention centers, school districts, parent groups and advocacy organizations

A woman who has autism, Amanda Baggs, posted a video on You Tube about how she interacts with her environment and communicates