I hope to soon be writing Part Two with readers’ favorites.
So let’s get started with Louise’s list of favorite websites divided in to categories. Of course, the sky is the limit so I am trying to keep the list to “my favorites”.
For general parenting issues and conventional wisdom help:
parenting.com whattoexpect.com/what-to-expect/landing-page.aspx For help with learning about daycare and preschool options (These sites also can help you with daycare options for a child with special needs):
savvysource.com mychildcareguide.com headstart.org education.com This site is very comprehensive and you may need to check out several tabs to get all the information you wish. Don’t overlook the JustAsk portion if you have a specific question.
I need help! I think my child may have developmental or learning problems! (This is my area of expertise, thus, I have listed quite a few websites to help you)
eparent.com For parents to get support, information and resources regarding their special needs child.
nasponline.com A website for school psychologists that has a parent section to help with understanding how to identify, evaluate and treat within the school system children with special needs.
CHADD.org This website is to help parents with children with Attention Deficit Disorder. Please keep in mind that ADD or ADHD is a medical disorder with psychological and social implications. ADD/ADHD does not have “sudden” onset. CHADD is a nationally recognized organization and helps parents get support, information and learn about treatment options and behavioral techniques. There often are support groups available in local areas. Libraries are common meeting places.
Autismspeaks.org There are numerous websites that have information regarding autism. This disorder, although in the news lately, has many people “chiming” in their two cents. If you are concerned that your child may have autistic like tendencies, please contact your local school district for a meeting and possible evaluation. Also, in addition discuss this matter with your child’s physician..
Needtobeheard.org Another group for parental support and advocacy to help families with autistic children.
kylestreehouse.org Jen Westphal and her son Kyle (who has autism) have constructed a wonderful website. Loads of resources and treatment options are discussed here.
Zacbrowser.com Started by a father of a son with autism, John LeSieur, has put together a website for autistic children to use and learn. He is now adding portions for parents and educators to use as a resource and to network.
asha.org The National Organization for Speech and Hearing disorders.
deaf.com Just about EVERYTHING you need to know about the cultural world of deafness.
SigningFamilies.com If you have questions about deafness or learning sign language to use with individuals who are deaf or special needs contact ME at this website!!
nads.org National organization for information, assistance and support for families with a Down Syndrome loved one.
ARC.org Get help for learning about Down Syndrome and support networks for parents.
NAMI.org This is the national organization for assistance if your child or loved one has mental illness.
rarediseases.org There are so many disorders in this world that do not have large organizations to support families or provide information on an individual basis. Here is an excellent website to gain information regarding RARE disorders that impact development.
Websites for those who homeschool or are educators (and yes, every parent is an educator!)
pbsteachers.org and
pbs.org I use these sites often.
education.com (worth a second mention)
Animal problems?
warreneckstein.com aspca.org deafdogs.com Resources for budding actors/ actresses
(Parents I know a lot about this topic and would be happy to field individual questions, however, please, please, please NEVER pay for an audition.)
sag.org/content/young-performers groups.yahoo.com/group/BDragonuk/
