Evaluation is a process that helps parents and schools determine whether a child has a disability. Under IDEA a "child with a disability" is one who qualifies for special education and related services. A child cannot receive special education without an evaluation. Evaluation is completed in all areas of suspected disability. The…

This booklet is designed to give parents practical suggestions for guarding against their children's use of illegal drugs and to help them identify children who are already drug users. The drugs most children start out with are the two most dangerous drugs in our country, alcohol and nicotine. These drugs are dangerous because they are legal, and…

This paper outlines practical information on children with attention deficit disorder (ADD). Guidelines for identifying ADD are presented, followed by a summary of what parents and students can expect from special education and related services in public schools. Pros and cons of medication are noted, and recommendations for managing the child's…

The experiences and thoughts of numerous parents who have raised severely handicapped children are shared in this pamphlet. The pamphlet describes the life changes brought about by the birth of a severely handicapped child; stages in the grief process; coping strategies; the impact on siblings; the reaction of family members and the importance of…

The handbook is designed to explain to parents of handicapped children in Wisconsin their roles and responsibilities in special education procedures of identification, evaluation, and placement. Specific aspects of Wisconsin state law are explained as well as federal statutes (P.L. 94-142 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973). The…

The document describes Lowe's syndrome, a hereditary condition that affects only males and is typically diagnosed during the first year of life. Effects of Lowe's syndrome on the eyes (cataracts, glaucoma, corneal degeneration, and strabismus) are discussed, as well as related problems with the central nervous system, muscles, kidneys, bones, and…

This brief paper summarizes what is known about sensory integration and sensory integration dysfunction (DSI). It outlines evaluation of DSI, treatment approaches, and implications for parents and teachers, including compensatory strategies for minimizing the impact of DSI on a child's life. Review of origins of sensory integration theory in the…

This brochure presents current knowledge and theories regarding the causes and treatment of dyslexia. Psychological, biological and educational factors thought to contribute to dyslexia are outlined, as are common approaches to treatment and long-term prospects for individuals with dyslexia. Efforts by the National Institute of Child Health and…

This digest was adapted from D.W. Russell, D.G. Hayes and L.B. Dockery's book, "My Child is Gifted! Now What Do I Do?". The digest is intended to give parents of gifted students an overview of characteristics of gifted children and terminology used in this field. Several definitions of giftedness are offered including one from a parent…

This handbook for parents and professionals describes Alabama's early intervention and preschool educational system for young children with disabilities. A list of common special education acronyms precedes the guide's four main sections. Section 1, on the state's early intervention system for infants and toddlers, includes the program's purposes…

From time to time, every parent must evaluate a child's symptoms of illness or developmental problems and decide what action to take. This reference book is designed to help parents distinguish minor everyday problems from more serious conditions, and to suggest a reasonable course of action. The book is divided into two major sections: an A to Z…

This book is a guide to parenting in an increasingly multicultural world. Combining stories, research findings, and analysis, it provides a contemporary snapshot of the range of multicultural experiences. The book offers parents the tools to instill in their children an appreciation of their multicultural heritage, while adequately preparing them…

In this interview, concern is expressed regarding the low number of students being served in gifted programs. Giftedness is defined in terms of above average ability, creativity, and task commitment. The parents' role in stimulating their children's creativity and intelligence is discussed, as are ability grouping versus tracking, and curriculum…

The mother of an extremely gifted boy relates her emotional response upon learning of his giftedness, especially her excitement at his potential and her fear that his uniqueness harbors hidden pitfalls. (JDD)

Despite problems encountered by the characteristics of rural education districts, successful and appropriate programs to teach gifted students can thrive by utilization of nontraditional techniques for student identification and by delivery of services through acceleration, technology, advanced placement classes, mentors, community resources, and…