Some parents and disability advocates characterize the Today Show segment about Sequenom's MaterniT21 PLUS test for Down syndrome as impartial as an advertisement, promoting negative stereotypes and misinformation; insensitive in tone, language and attitude; and lacking real parent representation.

Understanding the spectrum of experiences possible when students qualify for an IEP helps prepare parents to be strong advocates no matter what challenges they experience with school administrators, teachers or staff. It is better to hold on to high expectations and fall short than to give up.

What has been described as the "Disability Hierarchy" can also be seen as the multiculturalism of our advocacy community. As diverse as individuals are within disability labels throughout cultures and ethnicities, we are also within coalitions. Equity is critical for advocacy groups and individuals.

The correct diagnosis of a child´s learning disability can bring great relief to students and their families when the best support is offered for their learning style and special needs

Children with disabilities celebrate Thanksgiving with the same traditions and expectations as their mainstream siblings and cousins. Families already make accommodations for many individuals who have no diagnosis but have histories of behavioral, personality or culinary idiosyncrasies.

Children may develop anxiety or even post traumatic stress syndrome and have special needs for support and accommodations after terrorist attacks

Our deepest sympathies go out to those involved in or affected by the terrible tragedies in London July 7th, 2005

The diversity in development of children born with the same diagnosis may be even greater than the differences among mainstream children. Differences in early development do not predict the true potential of an individual. Every opportunity for support and encouragement should be given each child.

Children with special needs often have the same transition issues, instincts and preferences as their mainstream peers, and benefit from programs that address these as well as their individual needs

Teenagers and children in transition to adolescence who are growing up with Down syndrome often face the same challenges as their mainstream peers, and may also experience additional struggles that are just as important to evaluate and understand. Reliable resources are available for families.