Stay Organized & Up to Date: Stay organized and up-to-date on necessary documentation, especially if transitioning to a new school or preparing for college. This can be done by researching the school’s resource program and requirements to enter, reaching out directly to the school or even speaking with other parents who’s child also are part of the resource program. Additionally, when your child is planning to take standardized tests such as the ACT/SAT or other tests later on such as the LSAT, GRE or GMAT, ensure they have been tested within three years as this can inhibit your child in receiving accommodations for these tests.

Be Resourceful in Financial Investments: Find a psychiatrist that’s in-network with your insurance to save on testing for ADHD, Dyslexia, etc., which often requires re-testing every three years to keep documentation current. Schools sometimes even provide a list of more affordable psychiatrists as well.

Find a Support System for Yourself: Create a strong support system with other parents. Navigating the education system and life with disabilities can be emotionally taxing, so connecting with others who can support and be an ally is crucial in supporting not only your child but yourself and mental wellbeing.

Connect with Other Parents: Connect with parents through local services or nonprofit organizations that support individuals with disabilities. This allows you to form connections through a commonality while supporting your child.

Identify Tutors for Your Child: Find strong tutors, especially by consulting with other parents or specialized schools for students with disabilities.

Offer Support in the College Search: Support your teen in exploring colleges that offer strong resources and accommodations for students with disabilities. A list of leading universities with robust academic resource programs can also be found on this website.

Enable Open Communication: Encourage open communication within your family and between teachers, therapists and medical professionals to create a unified support system for your child.

Educate Yourself and Know Your Child’s Rights: Educate yourself on key laws and rights such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to advocate effectively and be equipped to handle difficult situations.

Shift Your Mindset: Focus on strengths and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Shifting your mindset from limitations to your child’s potential helps build confidence and success.

Understand Progress is Gradual: Understand that progress is often gradual and setbacks are part of the journey.

Seek Certain Activities and Programs: Seek inclusive activities and programs where your child can engage with peers who share similar experiences.

Remember Research is Lacking: Disabilities are still a relatively new concept in both academics and the workforce and therefore lacking research. Research is especially incomplete when it comes to women and LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities. This can mean it might be a longer journey and require more effort to support your child in diagnosing their disability and finding the proper resources for it so finding the right people and means to support this journey is key. However, whenever you find something very helpful, new information or even a new resource such as a program, please share with others and the internet so we can keep documenting ways to help people with disabilities.

Research Gender Differences in Diagnoses: It is very important to keep in mind that many women are misdiagnosed and or underdiagnosed. Misdiagnoses and or underdiagnoses can stem from a variety of factors including gender biases in diagnostic criteria, differences in symptom presentation and a lack of research focused on women. Due to the complex nature of diagnosing women, it is important to remember this when supporting your child during diagnostics and treatment. Don’t be afraid to question and challenge doctors if you feel the diagnosis is lacking. It is also so important to do your research and listen to many voices rather than just one regarding diagnoses and treatment plans.