IDEA? ASD? IEP? IFSP?  A developmental diagnosis for a child brings about concern, resolve, sometimes relief, and almost always confusion.  It can seem like there is a new law or acronym at ever turn, which is why I’m always on the lookout for websites that offer clear information and explanations about the world of disability and special education.

NICHCY.org is a great example of just such a site. Provided by the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities, the website offers information on a wide variety of topics related to disability and access. Much of the info on the site relates to IDEA, the federal law that governs special education.  The articles on the site provide a great starting point for people just getting acquainted with this complex, yet extremely important, piece of legislation.

NICHCY offers special sections with information about specific disabilities, babies and toddlers, children, laws, and research.   There is a great search feature (I did a test using “inclusion” and came up with several useful articles), and all info is available in both Spanish and English.  If you’re having trouble finding the exact information that you need,  you can use the “Ask NICHCY” feature and they will assist.

It is great to know that there is help out there for parents and caregivers who are trying to advocate and plan for their children with disabilities.