Moving Forward Towards Independence, a California-based nonprofit organization founded in 1998 by a group of parents, is a unique residential program where young adults with disabilities learn to enjoy productive, fulfilling and healthy lives within a caring, responsive community made up of fellow residents, trained staff members, parents and…

Parents of children with special needs compose a community of kindred spirits. Sure, there are differences: Even when there are multiple issues involved, a family dealing with primarily medical challenges will have different concerns from another caring for a child with mostly developmental disabilities, behavioral issues, learning disabilities,…

There is a growing concern about the connection between many chemical exposures and learning and other developmental disabilities (LDD). National and local groups are developing new programs around the country that are making this connection--and taking action with regard to policy, education and research efforts. They are working towards reducing…

In 1983, Massachusetts passed a law mandating that developmentally disabled students applying to state colleges and universities did not have to take standardized admission tests. An evaluation of the law's effectiveness and implementation indicates that other states should consider possible ramifications and confer with all concerned parties…

In this article, the author shares her experience having a son with Klinefelter Syndrome. Klinefelter Syndrome, also known as 47,XXY, is estimated to occur in 1 out of 600 males, making it the most common chromosomal disorder. Babies with Klinefelter Syndrome rarely have any physical differences that are detectable, which is the reason that so few…

In this article, the author talks about three special needs camps--Camp Kirk, Camp Talisman and Camp Caglewood. Camp Kirk's philosophy is to encourage their children to take risks in a structured setting, like high ropes courses, rock climbing wall, martial arts, and traditional activities like swimming, arts and craft, drama, and others. Once…