As an organization serving the special needs community, we understand the value of solid special needs-related resources. We’ve curated a collection of a dozen blogs, podcasts and helpful resources geared toward special needs families to help foster everything from connection and education to advocacy and growth—and everything in between. Check out the links below to learn more!
BLOGS AND PODCASTS
Our Hidden Stories Audio Blog and Podcast
Our Hidden Stories is a special needs audio blog and podcast that shares, through raw authenticity, the often unseen world of special needs and disability. Check out posts related to advocacy, diagnosis, education, parenting, self care and much more.
The blog Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. You’re never alone in the struggles you face, and they believe once you find your people, your allies, your village…all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier.
The LOMAH Special Needs Podcast
The LOMAH Podcast is a great resource for parents of aging disabled children. Their podcasts are grouped by series, deep-diving into an issue for 10-12 episodes with interviews from expert guests, including self advocates.
Kelly Buckley: Growth through Gratitude Blog
Kelly’s mission is to have a conversation about the connection between gratitude and resilience, and how we all have the power to rise above life’s difficulties. While her story doesn’t center around special needs, the advice she offers can teach others to embrace a beautiful life in an imperfect world, and can be particularly helpful after receiving a diagnosis.
The Autism Dad Blog and Podcast
The Autism Dad blog and podcast chronicles the day-to-day life of a single father raising three kids with autism. He’s honest, transparent and very open about their family struggles. His message is one of hope, understanding and perseverance.
ARM22Q13 is a blog specific to Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS), a 22q13 deletion syndrome. They offer in-depth information for individuals making peace with the science and the syndrome.
The If We Knew Then Podcast shares honest and useful conversations about supports, therapies, education and society as it pertains to Down Syndrome advocacy and parenting.
RESOURCES
For almost a decade, A Day in our Shoes has been helping parents navigate the IEP process. With products, informative articles, support forums, live chats and more, they are a fantastic resource to be a better advocate for your child. This article, for example, helps you navigate IEP Unilateral Placement.
Are you caring for a loved one who has or is at risk of having seizures? Check out the Seizure Action Plan Coalition to get started on creating your own Seizure Action Plan (SAP), or to learn more through their educational webinars.
EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases
The EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases is an amazing resource for the rare disease patient community. They are dedicated to empowering others to advocate for impactful, science-driven legislation and policy that advances the equitable development of and access to lifesaving diagnoses, treatments and cures.
Understood is dedicated to shaping a world where millions of people who learn and think differently can thrive at home, at school, and at work. They offer an expansive library of resources for families, educators, young adults and employers.
Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy
For reliable information about special education law and advocacy for children with disabilities, check out this extensive resource. You’ll find training programs, books, an advocacy library and articles related to ADD/ADHD, bullying, discrimination, IEPs, Section 504 and much, much more.
Do you have a favorite special needs blog, podcast or resource that we haven’t mentioned? Please let us know in the comments!