The guide offers information to parents of developmentally disabled children, with special focus on services available in the State of Florida, Section 1, "A Beginning," introduces the guide and states its purposes, and serves to reassure the parents and family members. The next three sections address the needs, rights, and roles of child, parent, and family. They are: (1) "Accepting Your Child" (including a discussion of types of developmental disabilities); (2) "What You Can Do as a Parent"; and (3) "The Family." Section 5, entitled "Getting Started with Professional Help," discusses decision-making; diagnosis, evaluation, and referral; and the team approach. Section 6, "Florida Services," outlines support services in the areas of medicine, health, education, family support, community assistance, and legal aid. "Facing Your Futures Together," section 7, touches on issues involving adolescence and sexual adult relationships, employment and financial independence, and how parents can get on with their own lives. A final section consists of five appendices which include information on Florida statutes relating to rights of persons with disabilities, relevant federal statutes, and a list of resource organizations at the national level. (JW)