Special Needs Support Group

Everyone is welcome to this support group aimed at offering information, opportunities for sharing experiences, resources, and advocacy for parents of children with special needs.

Meetings are held on the
second Tuesday of every month from 7:00-8:30 p.m.
at the North Valley Regional Library located at
40410 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy

in Anthem, AZ 85086
(connected to Boulder Creek HS) 

For more information email
Kristina Blackledge, Group Facilitator,
or call at 602-402-9510.

This group is graciously sponsored by Arion Care Solutions 
"Providing the Best  Habilitation/Respite workers
in the Valley!". 
For more information about Arion Care Solutions contact Sonia Dykhuizen, Northwest Manager, at 623-238-4349. 

Meeting Topics:

January - 
SCHOOL OPTIONS -
What types of schools are in the valley?  What types of curricula are available?  What do they do?  How are private schools different than public schools?

Come learn about a new alternative, fully-inclusive, private school starting up in Anthem! 

It needs your interest and support in order help our kids!

February -
IEP "SEASON" is here!!
Tired of hearing that your child is "doing just fine"?  Worried that your child will lose another year? 

Plan now for next year by addressing inadequate progress due to ineffective strategies, poorly written and measured goals, and trying to make up in ESY.   

Come ask questions of AZ Parent Advocate, Kristina Blackledge, M.S. 

Bring your child's IEP or 504 to the meeting* for recommendations!  
This is always a popular topic, so come early!
(*If you wish to remain anonymous, please do not mention your child's name or school)

March - 
Given the popularity of last month's IEP topic, group members will have an opportunity to ask additional questions related to this important topic. 

If time allows and members wish, we will watch the movie, "Including Samuel" followed by a discussion about inclusionary practices.  It's NOT mainstreaming!

April - 
Guest Speaker, Pediatric Neuropsychologist, Dr. Amy Serin

"What is neuropsychology and how does it affect my child's learning?"

May - 
What's on your mind? - Come talk about everything and anything

June - 
Just for Dads! - Dads don't often get a chance to get out to meet other dads, listen or share experiences, and learn tips that work for parenting a child with a disability. 
This meeting is limited to Dads ONLY please!

July - 
How to help get your child ready for school: take tours, meet the teacher, have a planning meeting, etc...


EVERYONE IS WELCOME AT OUR SUPPORT GROUP!