The Informed,
Educated Parent
A newsletter about special education for Michigan families
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Greetings!
For some individuals with disabilities, behavior is how they communicate a need or frustration. But when challenging behavior interferes with the learning process, it has to be addressed. Special education law allows for an evaluation to determine why the behavior is happening and to develop a plan to teach alternative behaviors.
If you have concerns about your child's behavior, I invite you to join one of these upcoming free webinars to learn more about this important topic.
Kanika Littleton
Director, Michigan Alliance for Families
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Leaders in Policy Advocacy (LIPA) is a leadership development program for adults with developmental disabilities and parents of minor children with developmental disabilities.
Over a combination of virtual and in-person weekends, 19 participants learned about disability history, inclusive education, assistive technology, self-determination, alternatives to guardianship, person centered planning, access to housing and employment, disability benefits, and systems change.
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This was the first LIPA cohort hosted by Michigan Alliance for Families. The Arc Michigan had previously hosted the training, and combined this is the tenth group of LIPA graduates.
These new leaders are now part of a larger network of LIPA graduates who have gone on to help create a more inclusive world for individuals with developmental disabilities through organizing, advocating, and systems change efforts.
Congratulations to our LIPA 2023 graduates! Watch for information on how to apply for the next LIPA session in early 2024.
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Our transition webinars aim to provide families of students with disabilities the tools, knowledge, and support they need to navigate a successful transition from school to adult life. Register today to save your spot.
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The data obtained from evaluations is important, and is used to determine eligibility and develop the IEP.
If a parent does not agree with the results of the district’s evaluation of their child, they have the right to obtain another evaluation done by an independent person at no cost to the family. This is called an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).
Michigan Department of Education Office of Special Education has released new guidance on the IEE process. As with any request a parent makes regarding their child’s education, it’s best to put it in writing and to keep a copy of the letter. This guidance clarifies that if a request is made verbally, the school district must assist in documenting the request and proceed without delay.
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Paving the Way to Self Determination |
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Paving the Way to Self Determination offers free, online educational opportunities for families with children with disabilities (ages birth – 12) to empower thinking that leads to living an independent and self-directed life.
Let’s raise the bar of expectations so our children can look forward to a brighter future – one of their choosing.
October 11 - Building Resilience
October 12 - The Power of Disability Language
October 17 - IEP: A Closer Look
October 26 - Section 504: What Parents Need to Know
Visit the Disability Network of Southwest Michigan website for full details and to register. Questions should be directed to Mary Fortney at fortneym@dnswm.org or 269-345-1516 x 201.
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As parents, we play an important role in our child’s development and 0-3 is a critical stage in their growth. There are five main areas of a child’s development: Social emotional, Cognitive, Physical, Communication, and Adaptive.
- Physical Domain: a child's ability to interact with the world around them, including mastering movement and balance as well as seeing and hearing
- Cognitive Domain: a child's ability to think, react and learn about the world around them
- Communication Domain: a child's ability to exchange information, understand and express ideas
- Social and Emotional Domain: a child's ability to interact with others and self-regulate emotions
- Adaptive Domain: a child's ability to adapt to various demands of normal daily living, such as eating, toileting, dressing, and following a routine
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Monitoring developmental milestones is a great way for parents to support their children, but it can also be a fun family activity. In this video, two families share how CDC resources have helped them to keep track of their child’s development.
CDC has a free app to track developmental milestones, tips on positive parenting, and free materials about child development. If you have any concerns about your child's development, contact your Michigan Alliance Regional Parent Mentor to get some help on where to start! |
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Upcoming Michigan Alliance for Families Events |
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November 14 Youth Self Determination Series 2 with Stacie Rulison - for students and young adults ages 14 and up who have an active IEP. Four Tuesdays, from 5:00pm-6:00pm. Must have attended Series 1 to register for Series 2. Register at https://tinyurl.com/2ye4wve2
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Michigan nonprofit Lori's Voice is helping families by giving away well-equipped new wheelchair accessible vans.
To qualify for entry, a child must be under 21 years old, a legal resident of Michigan and have a neurological or degenerative disease that results in significant and permanent mobility issues, according to the nonprofit.
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Each year, DRM reevaluates their priorities. Your input will help DRM design advocacy services that will enable people with disabilities to live independent and productive lives.
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Have a special education question?
Ask us! 1-800-552-4821
En Español 313-217-1060
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Michigan Alliance for Families is our state's federally funded Parent Training and Information Center. We are a Michigan Department of Education IDEA Grant Funded Initiative. The efforts of Michigan Alliance for Families align with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to help improve results for children with disabilities. Michigan Alliance for Families can assist you in knowing your rights, effectively communicating your child's needs, and advising how to help your child develop and learn.
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