Families use disability parking placards for health and safety reasons, managing wheelchairs and other equipment, for childhood disabilities including those affecting mobility, breathing, cardiac issues, vision impairment, sensitivity to vehicle emissions or dificulties walking more than 200 feet.

Disability related news articles in mainstream newspapers and magazines help advocates stay informed and gather community support

Kathie Snow is best known for her website and eNewsletter, Disability is Natural. She is a marvelous resource for parents and professionals as well as policy makers who are dedicated to creating inclusive communities for children and adults labeled disabled.

Families of children with disabilities have greater responsibilities in planning for the future of their son or daughter as well as the parent who is the main caregiver, especially single moms who may not have investments, health coverage, savings or retirement plans to take care of herself later.

Disability advocacy and awareness helps children with special needs grow up included and supported in their neighborhoods and schools, and provides valuable lessons to their mainstream peers and community.

One of the most enlightening developments in therapies for children with complex challenges, including autism spectrum disorders, has been the DIR (Developmental, Individual-Difference, Relationship-Based) model, especially one of its most significant elements, Floortime.

Type One Diabetes Information for Classmates (and their families) explains diabetes and how to encourage or support friends who have type one diabetes, in school and after school. These helpful suggestions can also benefit staff, extended family, caregivers and neighbors who plan outings or events.

Symptoms of depression in teens and young adults with Down syndrome may be mistaken for intentional misbehavior, laziness, regression, age appropriate moodiness, and sometimes psychosis. Even close family and long-term staff may not recognize when significant changes have had a negative impact.

Although it has been a rare occurance, my family has experienced rude comments and behavior in public in response to people recognizing that my son has Down syndrome. Sometimes these unfortunate experiences can lead us to make mistakes in judging the reactions of others, who may have good intentions

Fathers of children with special needs often have compelling stories to tell about complicated pregnancies, wives on bedrest, premature childbirth or newborn diagnosis that are uplifting, inspirational, and funny.