After the winter break, many students struggle with anxiety and tough transitions back to school. Understanding school avoidance and planning early can help make January smoother for families.

As the year ends, educators, parents, and advocates are invited to pause, reflect, and refocus. Discover how to prepare for meaningful systemic change in schools in 2026.

Guide to talking about disabilities positively at family gatherings. Tips for focusing on strengths, modeling inclusive language, and creating belonging for everyone.

Hi, I’m Barbara Sanchez - a certified educator, special needs parent, and advocate with over 15 years of experience helping families navigate special education services. As a parent of a son with level 3 autism, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to find the right support. But I also know that with the right information and encouragement, you can bring hope and stability back to your family’s life. Today, I want to talk about something that often comes up in special

Filing a formal concern or complaint before winter break ensures your child’s needs are addressed promptly. Learn the steps to communicate effectively with schools, document issues clearly, and maintain smooth routines during the holiday season.

Winter break offers rest and celebration, but sudden schedule changes can overwhelm students who thrive on routine. Discover practical tips to maintain predictability at home, support emotional balance, and help children return to school ready to learn.

Deciding between a general education or self-contained classroom is one of the most important choices parents of children with special needs will make. This guide explains how to evaluate your child’s academic, social, and emotional needs and how to ensure the right supports are in place for meaningful progress.

When a child with an IEP or 504 plan faces disciplinary action, it can be confusing and emotional. This guide helps parents understand their child’s legal protections, how to navigate Manifestation Determination Reviews, and ways to ensure discipline leads to support, not exclusion.

Vague language in IEPs can make it impossible to track real progress. Learn how to spot unclear goals, request measurable wording, and ensure your child’s plan truly supports growth because clarity turns good intentions into real results.

Navigating special education can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in plain language explaining IEPs, parental rights, evaluations, and dispute options so you can confidently advocate for your child’s education and support.

When your child is struggling in school, knowing your rights keeps you in the driver’s seat. These “procedural safeguards” are the rules schools must follow under IDEA (special education law) and Section 504. Here’s what they mean in everyday language, with Maryland resources you can use right now. Your core rights at a glance Be informed and involved: You are a full IEP team member. You must be invited to meetings, offered times that work for you, and provided with interpre

If your child has a disability that affects how they participate in school, understanding 504 plans is key. This post answers the most common questions parents have from eligibility and accommodations to how to collaborate with the school team. Learn how a 504 plan can ensure your child gets the access and support they deserve.

Your child was just diagnosed with a disability — now what? This Maryland advocate’s guide walks parents through every step, from requesting evaluations to preparing for IEP and 504 meetings. Learn how to write your request, organize your data, understand timelines, and use Maryland’s family support resources to get your child the help they need.

Learn how to evaluate a high-quality Individualized Education Program (IEP). This parent-friendly guide breaks down goals, services, accommodations, progress monitoring, and legal requirements to ensure your child gets the support they need

How do new technology laws affect special needs students? Learn what parents need to know to protect their child’s right to learning tools.

New teacher, meet my amazing kid — let’s make this the best first meeting ever! Okay, so you're getting ready to introduce your awesome...

TL;DR Personalized education plans (IEPs) are crucial for empowering disabled students in Maryland. By tailoring educational strategies...

Navigating life as a disabled adult can feel like wandering through unknown territory, especially when it comes to finding the right...

Empowering advocacy within Maryland's disability community is essential for creating an inclusive society. Advocacy ensures the voices of...

The community pathways waiver provides funding and assistance from personal care to respite care, supported employment and assistive tech.