January 24, 2025

Understanding and Supporting Your Child

As a parent, it can feel overwhelming when your child’s behavior seems unusual or challenging. The good news is, there are steps you can take to understand what’s happening and find support. Start by asking yourself some important questions. Has anything changed at home? Is this behavior new, or has it been happening for a while? Pay attention to when and where it occurs—are there patterns in the time of day or situation? Sharing these observations can help you and others uncover possible reasons for the behavior.

Next, consider reaching out for help. If the behavior happens only at home, talk to your child’s doctor, teacher, or school counselor. These professionals can share ideas for strategies to try at home. If the behavior occurs at school or daycare too, you may want to schedule a meeting with the Special Education Director or your child’s teacher to discuss your concerns. Schools are required to identify children who may need extra support for learning or emotional challenges, so they can help evaluate your child and determine what kind of support might be available.

Remember, you are not alone, and making a plan is a powerful first step. Be sure to document your child’s behaviors and the strategies you’ve tried, both at home and at school. Together, you and your child’s team can build a positive and consistent approach to address challenges. Your love and effort can make all the difference in helping your child grow and thrive.

If you have questions or concerns and want to talk with one of South Dakota Parent Connection's Outreach Specialists, we are here to help! You can call us at (800) 640-4553 or send an email to sdpc@sdparent.org. You can also find lots of helpful resources and information on our website. We’re here to support you and your family!

Additional Resources

• When behavior becomes a challenge at school, knowing where to start can make all the difference. When Behavior is a Concern is a guide designed to empower parents with information and tools to be active partners in their child’s education. It equips families with insights to advocate for appropriate services and supports, ensuring their child’s unique needs are met. By participating as shared decision-makers, parents can help create effective solutions that enable their child to grow and succeed in the classroom.
• For parents navigating special education, What Parents Should Know...About Special Education in South Dakota offers vital guidance. It explains key federal laws, how South Dakota’s rules align or differ, and what parents need to understand to advocate effectively. From behavioral concerns to individualized learning plans, these resources provide knowledge and encouragement, helping parents champion their child’s right to a supportive and successful education.

Let's Talk Work

Mark your calendars for an educational gathering on February 26, 2025 from 9:00 - 2:30 at the Sanford Center in Sioux Falls. This one-day workshop is for middle and high school students who have a disability and want to learn more about careers, job expectations, and the skills it takes to get a job! Highlights include mini sessions with employers and various employment topics.

This exciting event is sponsored by Employment Disability Resources, the South Dakota Department of Human Services and Transition Services Liaison Project. The one-day workshop is open to special education teachers, school counselors, parents, students aged 14 and up, and other interested parties who care about supporting individuals with disabilities or special healthcare needs.

A working lunch will be provided, and the cost to attend is just $5 per person. To reserve your spot, please REGISTER by February 14. If special accommodations are needed, be sure to register by February 5. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with others dedicated to making a difference!

Call For Art

Artists with disabilities are invited to showcase their work at the 12th annual Artability event in Sioux Falls. The entry deadline is April 4, so submit your creations soon! Full details and entry forms are available at HERE. If ADA accommodations are needed, reach out today to ensure everyone can fully participate.

Come celebrate the power of art to connect and inspire April 25, 2025. Save the date and join us for a truly unforgettable event!

Upcoming Events

Here are some educational opportunities offered by South Dakota Parent Connection and by other organizations that can help support South Dakota families. A complete list of events can be found on our website at ww.sdparent.org or Facebook page.

February 22, 2025: Helping Youth & Families Navigate the Transition Process: South Dakota Parent Connection has partnered with South Dakota Statewide Family Engagement Center to offer an information series intended for educators who are teaching middle or high school transition-age youth who are looking to strengthen their understanding of the transition process and collaborate with fellow teachers across the state.

February 25, 2025: "Disability Awareness Day" at the South Dakota Capitol: This event is hosted to recognize the progress South Dakota has made in supporting its citizens with disabilities, as they seek to equally experience and fully participate in the daily life of our great state. It provides an opportunity for us to explore what steps we need to take to ensure progress continues. It is also a time for us to say, “Thank You” for your work on behalf of South Dakotans with disabilities and their families.

March 19, 2025: South Dakota Special Education Conference: The annual Special Education Conference provides a unique experience to gather with South Dakota educators, related service providers, and parents. This in-person event allows participants to learn about evidence-based innovations, and educational trends leading toward best practices, and provide practical solutions for special education classrooms.

March 25, 2025: Community Health & Wellness Fair: Come visit with South Dakota Parent Connection and the other vendors at this event offered by the Sioux Falls School District. Learn more about this event on our website.

This e-publication was developed under grants from the U.S. Department of Education Project Grant H328M2000666 and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Grant H328M140021, Family to Family Health Information Center, $96,750; and approximately 5% financed with non-governmental resources. The contents should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by U.S. Department of Education, HRSA, HHS, or the Federal Government.