Special Education Resources for Kids with CHDs

Every state in the US has its own department of Special Education. The department websites vary, but generally include multiple helpful and important links:

• contact information to request a free, voluntary mediation in order to try to arrive at a resolution between a family and a school district

• information about students' and parents' rights and responsibilities

• referrals to nonprofits, advocacy groups, and law firms that can support and guide families negotiating Special Education, usually for a reduced fee or no fee

Look below to find the department website for your state, and also some additional Massachusetts-specific resources.

In every state, groups and programs offer direct support to families seeking appropriate public education for their children. Groups vary greatly in who and how they serve, and many charge a fee. However, every state also has programs that offer free or affordable assistance.

Below are links to national programs, and to programs within Massachusetts. If you want to find programs specific to your state, try searching "free special education advocate [state name]." You can also ask your care team, state Special Education department, or local Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) for suggestions.

Through these books, videos, and websites, families can empower themselves with rich knowledge about Special Education, their rights, and processes to resolve disagreements.

• Autism: Asserting Your Child's Rights to Special Education, by David Sherman

• The Complete Guide to Special Education, by Linda Wilmhurst and Alan Brue

• The Complete IEP Guide, by Lawrence Siegel

• Differently Wired, by Deborah Reber

• From Emotions to Advocacy, by Peter Wright and Pamela Wright

• The Intentional IEP, by Stephanie DeLussey

• Off the Fence: Disability Advocacy, by Pat Linkhorn

• Special Education and the Law, by Allan Osborne and Charles Russo

• Special Education Law, by Nikki Murdick,, Barbara Gartin, and Gerard Fowler

• Special Education Law, by Peter Wright and Pamela Wright

• The Special Education Playbook for Parents, by Rose Lyons

• Your IEP Playbook, by Lisa Lightner

• Your Special Education Rights, by Jennifer Laviano and Julie Swanson

The Special Education process can be complicated, but it is based on a very simple principle: all children deserve a free and appropriate public education that allows them to make meaningful progress. As you navigate this process, you should feel confident in your rights, and trust that help is standing by if you need it.

This content was reviewed by a psychologist at Boston Children's Hospital.

Developmental care is best when it is local. Families local to Boston can seek support from the Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program or from the department of Psychiatry. Click below to find care in other regions.

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