I love families with special needs!
My adopted twin sons were born with Fetal Alcohol Disorder and were later diagnosed with autism and developmental delays. They are now 22 years old and thriving! On this page I share what I’ve learned over the years about rearing and homeschooling children with special needs as well as some helpful links. If you have questions, feel free to contact me!
Links
Everything You Have to Know About Autism
Joni and Friends Family Retreats (Highly Recommended)
Picture Exchange Communication System

Communication placement to help teach your child how to communicate during meal time. Child points to the picture to indicate their needs. Click to enlarge and print or make your own!
Links for Teachers
The Teacher’s Success Guide for Special Needs Students
Teaching Students with Special Needs
Teaching Strategies for Students with Disabilities
Teaching Students with Emotional Disturbances
Don’t Give Up: Great Lessons for Kids
Disability.gov: Find Information on Education, Health, Benefits, and more
5 Important Reasons Why Your Child Needs Routine to Succeed
PBS Parents: Communication Strategies for Children with Learning Disabilities
Create Your Own Anti-Anxiety Kit for Children
5 Ways for Teachers to Help Students with Special Needs
Adapting the Childcare Environment for Children with Special Needs
More Disability Resources:
Routines and Children with Disabilities
Beneficial Activities for Kids with Special Needs
The Ultimate Guide to Flying with Autistic Children
Medicare Disability: Enrollment for disabled Americans
Homeschooling and Special Needs Children
College Assistance Guide for People with ADHD
Disability.gov’s Guide for Family Caregivers
How Caregivers Can Take Better Care of Themselves
Obesity and Children with Special Needs
A Safety Guide for Disabled Pedestrians
A New Savings Plan for the Disabled
A Guide for Disabled Homebuyers
Financial Assistance for Accessibility Home Repairs and Modifications
Protect the Rights of TBI Children: A Guide for Parents
7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design
Disability Accommodation Cost Guide
Home Modifications to Promote Independent Living
Fire Safety & Disabilities Guide
Home Safety for People with Disabilities
Guide to Traveling for the Disabled
Disability.gov’s Guide to Transportation
Physical Activity Among People with Disabilities
Swimming Pool Lifts and the ADA Lift Law
Stay Active with a Disability: Quick Tips
Personal Finance Guide for People with Disabilities
A Guide to Moving for the Disabled
Disability.gov’s Guide to Transportation
Develop a P.A.L.S. program at your church
Parents who have children with disabilities yearn for fellowship with adults as all parents do. But often, because their child’s disability is misunderstood, it’s not possible for their child to attend classes with their own age-mates so their parents to worship with the adults.
I developed the P.A.L.S. program to help families attend church together. Click below for more information.
(PALS handbook coming soon!)