November 22, 2024

Holiday Stress


Managing family holiday stress can be particularly challenging for families with children with disabilities, as the season often brings additional demands and expectations. It is important to acknowledge these unique challenges and approach the holiday season with empathy and understanding.


To empower families, consider implementing practical strategies such as prioritizing self-care, setting realistic expectations for holiday activities, and creating a structured environment through established family routines. Open communication among family members can foster a supportive atmosphere, helping everyone feel heard and understood.


South Dakota Parent Connection is committed to providing resources and educational materials that can assist families in navigating this busy time and ensure they have access to vital information and advocacy. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, we encourage you to reach out for personalized assistance. Our compassionate staff is ready to offer support and guidance. Visit our website or give us a call at (800) 640 - 4553.

Save the Date


The theme of this year's conference is Celebrating Strengths, Inspiring Change! Our goal with this conference is to focus on developing partnerships to improve the well-being of individuals with developmental disabilities in South Dakota. This is a joint effort across multiple agencies throughout South Dakota.


We are excited to be offering a number of excellent breakout presentations related to the following tracks:

  • Early Childhood
  • Transition
  • Mental Health & Challenging Behaviors
  • Advocacy
  • Accessibility & Inclusion


The conference is open to all and intended for people with disabilities, family members, professionals in the field of developmental disabilities (healthcare, education, mental health), and state, community, and agency providers.


Individuals with developmental disabilities and/or their family members are eligible to receive a scholarship for this conference. To get additional information or to register for a scholarship, please email Arlene Poncelet. Be sure to check back as the conference date of August 26 & 27, 2025 approaches for more information related to our keynote presenters, breakout titles and more!!

Call for Presentations 2025


Click here for the Call for Presentations form.


 RETURN BY: December 2, 2024

Read More


Here is information on some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from parents and professionals at South Dakota Parent Connection.


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.


December 7, 2024: Cookies & CocoaJoin South Dakota Parent Connection for our 8th Annual Cookies & Cocoa event! We have lots of fun planned and Santa Claus will visit for pictures. The event is in the same location with a new name, Mosaic Arts & Events at 500 North Main Ave, in Sioux Falls, SD.


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.


August 26 - 27, 2025: South Dakota Conference on Developmental Disabilities: Celebrating strengths, inspiring change! The conference is open to all and intended for people with disabilities, family members, professionals in the field of developmental disabilities (healthcare, education, mental health), state, community, and agency providers.

Office Hours:

9:00 - 5:00 CT / 8:00 - 4:00 MT

Monday - Thursday

Friday by Appointment


Call Us: (800) 640-4553


In-Person: By Appointment

Visit Our Website


Email Us: sdpc@sdparent.org


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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.