In a perfect world, going back to school would be a breeze. Here are some resources to keep on hand in case you need them this school year:
1. 10 Things Teachers Should Know about Down syndrome: http://www.gillianmarchenko.com/10-things-a-teacher-should-know-about-down-syndrome/.
2. Join the Inclusive Education Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/131744783563993/.
3. Join the IDEA and IEP tips Facebook page: IDEA and IEP Tips Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/IDEATIPS/.
4. Find your way through Indiana’s Special Education Rules by downloading, Navigating the Course at: http://www.doe.in.gov/sites/default/files/specialed/navigatingthecourse.pdf.
5. Dive in deeper by taking online courses through INSOURCE. Visit their online course library at: http://training.insource.org/.
6. With over a thousand apps now available to help individuals with special needs it has become increasingly difficult to find and choose the right special needs app. The Friendship Circle App Review gives you the ability to find the perfect special needs app for your child. http://www.friendshipcircle.org/apps/
7. Think college isn’t for your son or daughter? You may rethink that after learning about postsecondary education programs available at: http://www.thinkcollege.net//
8. Down Syndrome Education USA works with parents and teachers to improve education for children with Down syndrome. http://www.dseusa.org/en-us/.
9. IPAS staff includes disability rights advocates and attorneys who have the authority to pursue appropriate legal and administrative remedies on behalf of people with disabilities, to ensure the enforcement of their constitutional and statutory rights: http://www.in.gov/ipas/2452.htm.
10. 10 Ways to help your Child with Special Needs Make a positive Start to the new year: http://www.chicagoparent.com/magazines/special-parent/summer-2014/school-days.
11. Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. http://www.wrightslaw.com/
Also, please remember that Down Syndrome Indiana offers resources for parents and educational professionals to better serve children with Down syndrome. We offer a variety of publications and trainings to assist educators. Check out our resource page at: http://www.dsindiana.org/Educators.php.
Sending you love and good luck this year!
Lisa Wells, Executive Director