By Sandi Rosenbaum, Special Education Advocate
Some students who receive special education services are indistinguishable from their typical peers once the school day is over. Others have physical, medical, or neurodevelopmental differences that affect their lives, and those of their families, every day. They require far more supervision and support than their same-aged peers, and these needs are expected to continue for their lifetimes. If your child has a developmental disability and requires significant supervision and support beyond the school day, they may be eligible for services from the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).
What Supports are Available?
The most common OPWDD services provided to school-aged children and adolescents are caregiver respite in the home or at a programming site (including specialized recreation programming and overnight respite); Community Habilitation, a 1:1 service to assist them to develop skills for home and community living; and behavioral and crisis supports. OPWDD also funds durable equipment such as wheelchair-adapted vans, home elevators, or beds with safety rails or specialized door locks for individuals at risk of wandering or elopement.
