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Parents of children with disabilities sometimes worry if their child’s needs are being met at school. Many parents feel overwhelmed, alone, and do not know what to do.​

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How can parents navigate a complicated education system and advocate for their child? 

What if they need something different than what the public school can provide?

This website is for you, if you:

  • Are the parent of a child with a disability who is struggling in school and you aren’t sure how to help your child​

  • Don’t know what alternative programs or schools are available​

  • Are wondering if it’s time to consider a residential placement—a decision that can be highly emotional for parents​

  • Already have a child/adult child in a residential setting and want emotional and practical support for the unique stress of this experience​​

  • Are a professional working with children with complex learning profiles and want to better understand the experiences of families​

What is Available by Law?

teacher reading to 4 young students

Children's

Rights​​

What Parents Should Know About Special Education Laws

multi-ethnic students doing robotics

Importance of Inclusion

Finding A Balance with the Need for Alternate Placements

Range of Educational Placements

Range of Placements
math teacher engaging with class

In-District Placements​​

Classrooms within the

Public School District​​

teen students doing HW together

Out-of-District/ Private Schools​

Special Education Day and Residential Placements

2 teachers helping 3 students in wheelchairs

Other Placements

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Alternate Options for Children

with Unique Needs​

Considering a New Placement?

mom helping son with HW

Steps that Parents Can Take​

10 Suggestions

teacher helping small class

Researching Schools

Questions to Ask

Potential Schools

dad with upset teen son

When is it Time for Residential?

Emotional Decisions

for Families & Professionals

Helping Families Cope with
Residential Placement

mom comforting sad son

Preparing for Residential

Practical and Emotional Tasks;

 Ensuring Safety

adult and teen on couch

Coping after Your Child's Move

Managing the Loss of

Your Child at Home

smiling parents with teacher

Relationships with Teachers & Staff

Tips for Positive Communication with New Caregivers

Learn More

family of 4, girl on dad's shoulders

Family Stories

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laptop on stack of books

Additional Resources

Website logo: drawing of hands holding an open book, small heart above

About Us &

Contact Info

© 2026 by Linda Helmig Bram, PhD and David Shapiro

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