Looking for an organization or website to provide you with more information on a special education or disability topic? Start here!
Support Organizations for Families
Center for Parent Information and Resources (https://www.parentcenterhub.org/)
Center for Parent Information and Resources serves the nation as a central source of information on disabilities in infants, toddlers, children and youth. You’ll find easy-to-read articles on IDEA, the law authorizing early intervention services and special education, as well as researched-based information on effective practices, programs and services.
Child Development Institute (http://childdevelopmentinfo.com/)
Our website is designed to provide the information and tools parents need to understand their unique child/children and to enable them to help each child develop into the successful human being they were meant to be.
Through the Looking Glass (http://www.lookingglass.org/)
Through the Looking Glass (TLG) is a nationally-recognized center that has pioneered research, training and services for families in which a child, parent or grandparent has a disability or medical issue. Our mission is “To create, demonstrate and encourage non-pathological and empowering resources and model early intervention services for families with disability issues in parent or child which integrate expertise derived from personal disability experience and disability culture.”
PACER (http://www.pacer.org/)
The mission of PACER Center (Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights) is to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and their families, based on the concept of parents helping parents. With assistance to individual families, workshops, materials for parents and professionals and leadership in securing a free and appropriate public education for all children, PACER’s work affects and encourages families in Minnesota and across the nation.
Parents Helping Parents (http://www.php.com/)
Parents Helping Parents (PHP) strives to improve the quality of life for any child with any special need of any age, through educating, supporting and training their primary caregivers.
E-Ready Special Education Information for Parents (http://www.pta.org/advocacy/content.cfm?ItemNumber=3713)
This page provides parents, as well as teachers, of children with disabilities with information on specific disabilities, a glossary of special education terms, and links to helpful resources.
U.S. Department of Education (http://www2.ed.gov/parents/needs/speced/edpicks.jhtml)
The Department of Education provides a list of resources pertaining to the needs of children with disabilities.
Easter Seals (http://www.easterseals.com)
Easter Seals provides exceptional services, education, outreach and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our communities.
Angelman Syndrome Foundation (http://www.angelman.org/)
The Angelman Syndrome Foundation advances the awareness and treatment of AS through education and research, and provides support to individuals and families.
TASH (http://tash.org)
TASH is an international leader in disability advocacy for human rights and inclusion for people with significant disabilities and support needs. TASH works to advance inclusive communities through advocacy, research, professional development, policy and information and resources for parents, families and self-advocates.
Special Education News (http://www.specialednews.com/)
Special education News is a newspaper that provides information on issues related to special education.
The Sturge-Weber Foundation (http://www.sturge-weber.org/)
The Sturge-Weber Foundation is a non-profit organization for parents, patients, and all others concerned with SWS.
The Federation for Children with Special Needs (http://fcsn.org/index.php)
The Federation for Children with Special Needs provides information, support and assistance to parents of children with disabilities, their professional partners and their communities. We are committed to listening to and learning from families, and encouraging full participation in community life by all people, especially those with disabilities.
Family Voices (http://www.familyvoices.org)
Family Voices aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities. Through our national network, we provide families with tools to make informed decisions, advocate for improved public and private policies, build partnerships among professionals and families, and serve as a trusted resource on health care. For example, since 1982, Support for Families of Children with Disabilities has offered information, education, and parent-to-parent support free of charge to families of children with any kind of disability, concern, or special health care need in San Francisco. Support for Families is the coordinating office for Family Voices of California, a statewide collaborative of locally-based parent-run centers working to ensure quality health care for children and youth with special needs.
Stop Bullying Parent Guide (http://www.stopbullying.gov/what-you-can-do/parents/index.html)
StopBullying.gov provides information from various government agencies on what bullying is, what cyberbullying is, who is at risk and how you can prevent and respond to bullying.
Team Of Advocates For Special Kids (http://www.taskca.org/)
Team of Advocates for Special Kids (TASK) is a nonprofit charitable organization whose mission is to enable individuals with disabilities to reach their maximum potential.
Disability Resources, inc. (http://www.Disabilityresources.org)
Disability Resources, inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization established to promote and improve awareness, availability and accessibility of information that can help people with disabilities live, learn, love, work and play independently.
A Rosie Place (http://arosieplace.org)
A Rosie Place provides a safe and nurturing haven for medically fragile children while giving family members periods of relief from the demands of full-time caregiving.
University of Illinois at Chicago’s Specialized Care for Children (http://dscc.uic.edu/)
The University of Illinois at Chicago is home to Specialized Care for Children, a network of professionals that work with Illinois families and communities to help connect children with special needs to services and resources.
Cincinnati Children’s (https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/patients/child/special-needs)
Cincinnati Children’s offers a special need resource directory for parents of children with special needs. Browse local, regional, and national websites to find the support your are looking for.
National Ability Center (http://www.discovernac.org/)
The National Ability Center is a non-profit organization that supports individuals with differing abilities and their families through sport, recreation and educational programs. People of all ages and abilities can participate in their programs, which take place in the Park City, Utah area.
Chapel Haven REACH Program (http://www.chapelhaven.org/che/)
Chapel Haven serves individuals with developmental and social disabilities with the goal of helping them to live independent, self-determined lives. They are an excellent resource for families researching postsecondary/transition programs.
Assistive Technology
Alliance for Technology Access (ATA) (http://www.ataccess.org/)
The mission of the ATA is to increase the use of technology by children and adults with disabilities and functional limitations. ATA encourages and facilitates the empowerment of people with disabilities to participate fully in their communities. Through public education, information and referral, capacity building in community organizations and advocacy/policy efforts, the ATA enables millions of people to live, learn, work, define their futures and achieve their dreams.
The Trace Center (https://minds.wisconsin.edu/handle/1793/6747)
The Trace Research & Development Center is a part of the College of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Founded in 1971, Trace has been a pioneer in the field of technology and disability. The Resources and Tools section of their website has a variety of informational products, kits, videos, databases and online tools intended for consumers, advocates, industry and educators.
Learning Disabilities
The National Center for Learning Disabilities (http://www.NCLD.ORG/)
The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) is committed to ensuring that all students with learning disabilities graduate from high school with a standard diploma—prepared for college and the workplace.
The Resource Room (http://www.resourceroom.net/)
The Resource Room provides tools, strategies and structured explorations for interesting learners, including lessons, ideas, articles and links for multisensory learning for people of all ages. The site also offers resources for people who learn differently, or have learning difficulties or learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dysgraphia or dyscalculia.
LD OnLine (http://www.ldonline.orgh)
LD OnLine.org is the world’s leading website on learning disabilities and ADHD, serving more than 200,000 parents, teachers and other professionals each month.
Learning Disabilities Association of America (https://ldaamerica.org/)
Since 1964, the Learning Disabilities Association of Ameriga (LDA) has provided support to people with learning disabilities, their parents, teachers and other professionals. Today, the LDA is the largest non-profit volunteer organization advocating for individuals with disabilities, and provides cutting-edge information on learning disabilities, practical solutions and a comprehensive network of resources.
The International Dyslexia Association (http://www.interdys.org)
The purpose of IDA is to pursue and provide the most comprehensive range of information and services that address the full scope of dyslexia and related difficulties in learning to read and write … in a way that creates hope, possibility and partnership.
Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
CHADD (http://www.chadd.org/)
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), is a national non-profit, tax-exempt organization providing education, advocacy and support for individuals with ADHD. In addition to our informative website, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting individuals with ADHD.
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (http://www.add.org/)
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information, resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives.
One Add Place (http://www.oneaddplace.com/)
At the ADD and ADHD resource place you will find information on both child and adult attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Learn the symptoms of ADD and ADHD and how to test for them, and discover the latest natural treatments, pharmaceutical medications and brain science.
Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health (FFCMH) (http://www.ffcmh.org)
The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health is a national family-run organization linking more than 120 chapters and state organizations focused on the issues of children and youth with emotional, behavioral or mental health needs and their families.
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) (https://www.aacap.org/)
The AACAP developed Facts for Families to provide concise and up-to-date information on psychiatric issues that affect children, teenagers and their families. The AACAP provides this important information as a public service.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) (http://www.nami.org)
NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI advocates for access to services, treatment, supports and research and is steadfast in its commitment to raise awareness and build a community for hope for all of those in need.
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
The Arc (http://www.thearc.org)
We are the largest national community-based organization advocating for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. We encompass all ages and all spectrums from autism, Down syndrome, Fragile X and various other developmental disabilities.
National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) (http://www.ndss.org/)
The mission of the National Down Syndrome Society is to be the national advocate for the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.
National Down Syndrome Congress (http://ndsccenter.org/)
Founded in 1973, the National Down Syndrome Congress is the country’s oldest national organization for people with Down syndrome, their families and the professionals who work with them. We provide information, advocacy and support concerning all aspects of life for individuals with Down syndrome, and work to create a national climate in which all people will recognize and embrace the value and dignity of people with Down syndrome.
Autism Spectrum Disorder/Pervasive Development Disorder
The Autism Society (http://www.autism-society.org/)
The Autism Society has a simple goal: To improve the lives of all living with autism. In order to improve lives, we focus on ensuring that all individuals with autism and their families have access to the help they need.
The Autism National Committee (AUTCOM) (http://www.autcom.org/)
Autism National Committee is the only autism advocacy organization dedicated to “Social Justice for All Citizens with Autism” through a shared vision and a commitment to positive approaches. Our organization was founded in 1990 to protect and advance the human rights and civil rights of all persons with autism, pervasive developmental disorder and related differences of communication and behavior.
TEACCH Autism Program (http://teacch.com/)
TEACH is a University-based system of community regional centers that offers a set of core services along with unique demonstration programs meeting the clinical, training and research needs of individuals with ASD, their families and professionals across the state of North Carolina. TEACCH conducts training nationally and internationally and provides consultation for teachers, residential care providers and other professionals from a variety of disciplines.
Autism Treatment Center of America (http://www.autismtreatmentcenter.org/)
Since 1983, the Autism Treatment Center of America™ has provided innovative training programs for parents and professionals caring for children challenged by autism, autism spectrum disorders, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) and other developmental difficulties.
Communication Disabilities
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) (http://www.asha.org/public/)
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association is committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. Here you will find resources to help you understand communication and communication disorders.
The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) (http://www.nidcd.nih.gov)
NIDCD is one of the Institutes that comprise the National Institutes of Health (NIH). NIH’s mission is to uncover new knowledge that will lead to better health for everyone. Simply described, the goal of NIH research is to acquire new knowledge to help prevent, detect, diagnose and treat disease and disability.
The Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (AG Bell) (http://www.agbell.org)
AG Bell helps families, health care providers and education professionals understand childhood hearing loss and the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. Through advocacy, education, research and financial aid, AG Bell helps to ensure that every child and adult with hearing loss has the opportunity to listen, talk and thrive in mainstream society.
American Society for Deaf Children (ASDC) (http://www.deafchildren.org/)
ASCD supports and educates families of deaf and hard-of-hearing children and advocates for high-quality programs and services. We believe that these children are entitled to full communication access in their home school and community; there should be access to identification and intervention by qualified providers, family involvement and educational opportunities equal to those provided for hearing children.
National Association of the Deaf (NAD) (http://www.nad.org/issues/education)
The NAD is actively involved in providing information about opportunities available for educating deaf and hard of hearing children, challenges that deaf and hard of hearing people encounter with high-stakes testing and the legal obligations of public and private schools, post-secondary programs, colleges and universities.
Visual Impairment
FamilyConnect (https://familyconnect.org/)
FamilyConnect is designed for parents of children with visual impairments, and brought to you by American Foundation for the Blind and National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments. On FamilyConnect you’ll find videos, personal stories, events, news and an online community that can offer tips and support from other parents of children who are blind or visually impaired.
The National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (NAPVI) (http://www.napvi.org/)
NAPVI is a non-profit organization of, by and for parents committed to providing support to the parents of children who have visual impairments. NAPVI is a national organization that enables parents to find information and resources for their children who are blind or visually impaired, including those with additional disabilities.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) (http://www.loc.gov/nls/)
Through a national network of cooperating libraries, NLS administers a free library program of braille and audio materials circulated to eligible borrowers in the United States by postage-free mail.
National Federation of the Blind (NFB) (https://nfb.org)
The NFB improves blind people’s lives through advocacy, education, research, technology and programs encouraging independence and self-confidence. It is the leading force in the blindness field today and the voice of the nation’s blind.
SPARKLE (http://www.sparkle.usu.edu/)
Project SPARKLE is a program of individualized learning that enhances the ability of parents of children who are deaf and blind to fulfill their roles in the development and education of their children. Through Project SPARKLE, parents will have access to information, training and resources in their homes via DVDs and the Internet.
Brain/Spinal Cord Injury
Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) (http://www.biausa.org/)
The mission of the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) is to advance brain injury prevention, research, treatment and education and to improve the quality of life for all people affected by brain injury. We are dedicated to increasing access to quality health care and raising awareness and understanding of brain injury. With a network of state affiliates, local chapters and support groups, we are the voice of brain injury.
The National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) (http://www.spinalcord.org/)
Our mission is to improve the quality of life of all people living with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D). We provide active-lifestyle information, peer support and advocacy that empower individuals to achieve their highest potential in all facets of life.
Epilepsy Foundation (http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/)
The mission of the Epilepsy Foundation is to stop seizures and SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy), find a cure and overcome the challenges created by epilepsy through efforts including education, advocacy and research to accelerate ideas into therapies.
Teacher Resources
National Association of Special Education Teachers (http://www.naset.org/)
NASET is the premier membership organization for special education teachers and offers a wealth of resources, including professional development courses, job postings, and more.
U.S. Department of Education Strengthening Teaching (http://www.ed.gov/teaching)
Articles and resources for educators.
What Works Clearinghouse (http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/)
The Institute of Education Sciences’ reviews of the research on the different programs, products, practices, and policies in education to provide educators with the information they need to make evidence-based decisions.
The Teacher’s Guide (http://www.theteachersguide.com)
A list of primarily free online teaching resources for teachers, including lesson plans and printouts.
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) (http://www.cec.sped.org/)
The Council for Exceptional Children is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of individuals with disabilities and/or gifts and talents.
E-Ready Special Education Information for Teachers (http://www.pta.org/advocacy/content.cfm?ItemNumber=3713)
This website provides teachers and other education professionals, as well as parents, with information and resources about teaching students with disabilities.
Internet Special Education Resources (ISER) (http://www.iser.com)
ISER is a directory of special education-related professionals, organizations and schools. We help parents find local special education professionals for learning disabilities and attention deficit disorder assessment, therapy, advocacy, critical teen issues and other special needs.
CARS+ (http://www.carsplus.org)
CARS+ is a non-profit organization representing the needs of resource specialists and other special education teachers.
Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) (http://www.aucd.org/template/index.cfm)
A network of interdisciplinary centers advancing policy and practice for and with individuals with developmental and other disabilities, their families and communities.
DREAMMS for Kid (http://www.dreamms.org/)
DREAMMS for Kids is an Assistive Technology information clearinghouse and search facility. Founded in 1988 by the parents of a child with Down syndrome, DREAMMS (an acronym for Developmental Research for the Effective Advancement of Memory and Motor Skills), is committed to increasing the use of computers, high-quality instructional technology and assistive technologies for children with special needs in schools, homes and the workplace.
Center for Parent Information and Resources (https://www.parentcenterhub.org/)
Center for Parent Information and Resources serves the nation as a central source of information on disabilities in infants, toddlers, children and youth. You’ll find easy-to-read information on IDEA, the law authorizing early intervention services and special education, as well as research-based information on effective practices, programs and services. We’ll also help you connect with disability agencies and organizations in your state.
Stop Bullying Teacher Guide (http://www.stopbullying.gov/what-you-can-do/educators/index.html)
Helping to establish a supportive and safe school climate where all students are accepted and knowing how to respond when bullying happens are key to making sure all students are able to learn and grow. There are many tools on StopBullying.gov specific for teachers, administrators and other school staff.
The Council for Learning Disabilities (CLD) (http://www.cldinternational.org)
The Council for Learning Disabilities is an international organization that promotes evidence-based teaching, collaboration, research, leadership and advocacy. CLD is comprised of professionals who represent diverse disciplines and are committed to enhancing the education and quality of life for individuals with learning disabilities and others who experience challenges in learning.
Teaching LD (http://teachingld.org/)
Information and resources for teaching students with learning disabilities. The Division for Learning Disabilities (DLD) is one of 17 special interest groups of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, including both students with disabilities and the gifted.
American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) (http://www.aaidd.org/)
AAIDD is an organization of professionals and citizens working to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; they promote progressive policies, sound research, effective practices and universal human rights for people with these disabilities. AAIDD offers cutting-edge educational opportunities to members; events focus on deep exploration of best practices, new policy directions and the latest research findings.
Alliance for Technology Access (ATA) (http://www.ataccess.org/)
The mission of the ATA is to increase the use of technology by children and adults with disabilities and functional limitations. ATA encourages and facilitates the empowerment of people with disabilities to participate fully in their communities. Through public education, information and referral, capacity building in community organizations and advocacy/policy efforts, the ATA enables millions of people to live, learn, work, define their futures and achieve their dreams.
Legal/Advocacy Information and Resources
National Disability Rights Network (http://www.ndrn.org/index.php)
Every single day, our Network protects and advocates for the rights of people with disabilities across the United States and the territories. We fight to end abuse and neglect where we find it. We assist people in finding and keeping their jobs and work with kids, parents and schools to combat bullying and ensure educational opportunities for students with disabilities.
Education Law Resource Center (https://edlawcenter.org/)
The Education Law Resource Center provides information to help parents, educators and other professionals understand legal requirements and meet student needs. This site contains information and resources about a variety of education law topics including physical restraints in schools, special education and No Child Left Behind.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (http://idea.ed.gov/)
The official website of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part B (ages 3 to 21) and Part C (birth to 2 years).
National Center on Disability and Journalism (NCDJ) (http://ncdj.org/)
The National Center on Disability and Journalism is located in the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. The center provides support and guidance for journalists as they cover people with disabilities.
Special Education Law Blog (http://specialedlaw.blogs.com/)
A special education legal resource discussing case law, news, practical advocacy advice and developments in state and federal laws, statutes and regulations. Postings include insight and sometimes humor from Charles P. Fox, a Chicago, Illinois attorney who is also a parent of child with special needs, and guest authors.
Wrightslaw (http://www.wrightslaw.com/)
Parents, educators, advocates and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law and advocacy for children with disabilities.