Down Syndrome Innovations is committed to vetting and mobilizing resources for our families, and this specific resource we are recommending is from MPACT. MPACT, Missouri's Parent Training and Information Center, has a  mission to empower families to advocate for themselves so that children with special education needs can reach their full potential in education and life – through support, training, and education.

MPACT is offering this video series:10 Steps of The Special Education Process Video Series

Navigating the special education process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Missouri Parents Act (MPACT) created this 10-part video series to help families understand each key step of the special education journey under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Each short video breaks down a specific part of the process. From evaluation and eligibility to IEP meetings and progress tracking—so you can become a confident partner in your child’s education.

Watch the full series below to learn how to advocate effectively and ensure your child receives the support they need to thrive in school.

To access this video series, click here:

https://www.missouriparentsact.org/school-age-services/special-education-what-you-need-to-know/

Caregiver Connection: DS – ASD is a virtual gathering of caregivers to discuss resources, strategies, community supports, and challenges related to a child or adult’s current or potential dual-diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

This group is facilitated by Down Syndrome Innovations staff, and we will occasionally invite special guests with expertise in this area.  This is a complimentary caregiver education opportunity, provided in addition to the individualized services we provide directly for individuals with DS-ASD for the purpose of skill-development, improving self-regulation and behavior, and increasing independence.

We are providing this group virtually to ensure we are being inclusive of families throughout the region and those who are not able to access transportation, as we understand that facing a dual-diagnosis can already feel isolating in and of itself.  We understand this is a subgroup of the entire population we serve, with unique challenges and experiences, and we hear how important it is for you all to feel connected. We hope that meeting one another in this group will organically open up opportunities for you all to spend time together face to face as you develop meaningful connections with one another.

All registered participants will receive a Zoom link from the instructor. 

As a fellow special needs parent, Kacy Seitz knows the importance of crafting a whole story plan that considers the complexity of each family's unique situation. In 2013, she created her wealth management practice Whole Story Planning, devoted to helping Special Needs families like hers. In this short workshop, Kacy guides parents, guardians, and family members like you to better understand the planning your children may need during each stage of life.

Topics included:

• Legal Planning Considerations: Special Needs Trusts, Letter/Memorandum of Intent, Guardianship

• Financial Planning Considerations: How to Fund a Special Needs Trust & ABLE accounts

• Benefit Planning Considerations: Finding & accessing federal benefits like SSI & SSDI, Medicaid, Waivers, etc.

Join us at Down Syndrome Innovations on November 11 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm to, ask questions, and talk with a fellow parent in a non-threatening, non-pressure environment. Let's craft the next chapter of your Whole Story together.