Where Can I Find Resources for My Special Needs Child?

Editor's Note: Some of us childless people seem to think parents just wake up one day knowing how to be parents. Chemicals coursing through your blood tell you how to choose the best babysitter, and whether to buy your three-year-old daughter dolls or toy trucks. Most parents know differently. I’ve talked to many parents who describe that moment of holding their vulnerable, tiny child in their arms for the first time, a being totally dependent on them, and thinking “Uh-oh. What now?” Those “What now?” moments don’t seem to go away, either.  From the first day of school to meeting your teenager's first boyfriend, the chances to test your nurturing mettle don’t let up.

That’s where Parent Patch Q&A comes in. Every week, we’ll post a question that Elk Grove parents are talking about. Our team of local moms, dads and guardians will tell you what they know about it. (We’re still assembling this expert council. Email felicia.mello@patch.com to join.) Then you, members of the Elk Grove parenting community, get to put your thinking caps on and find the answer with us. Ready?

Welcome to the Parent Patch! Today’s question has to do with special needs children, a significant group here in Elk Grove. Lori Porter gives her tips on where to find help.

Where Can I Find Resources for My Special Needs Child?

There’s so much to know and understand when raising a special needs child.  I know firsthand because my husband and I have a daughter with special needs.  It’s a whole other world and at times it seems to be a completely different language.  Having the resources available when we need the extra support has made a huge difference in our day-to-day lives.  Maybe they can help your family as well.

The Elk Grove Unified School District has a one-stop-shop resource for parents of special needs children.   The Community Advisory Committee (CAC) is made up of parents, EGUSD special education program staff, and regular and special education teachers.  It’s a place to have conversations, ask questions and attend parent education programs and workshops that can benefit your special needs child.   

CAC meets the second Tuesday of each month from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Robert Trigg Education Center, 9510 Elk Grove-Florin Rd.  

Let’s be honest, having some respite is a necessary line item for the sanity of the family as a whole.  My Friends Specialized Daycare Services accomplishes exactly that for my family.  My Friends is a pediatric medical daycare facility that affords us the peace of mind that our special needs daughter is getting the best care possible with qualified staff that listen to what’s important to us.  We are so thankful that our daughter enjoys going to see her friends!

Your turn: Do you have a child with special needs? Share your tips with other parents here.