Disabilities/Special Needs
The term "special needs" acknowledges that all children have strengths and challenges, and that children's challenges translate into special ways we can support them to develop to their full potential. If the special needs of your child or a child you care for are greater than average, it can be overwhelming. Having support and understanding how to build on each child’s strengths are essential tools in your toolbox. This section will point you to strategies and support systems that can help you through this process.
Related Websites
- Star Center (Sensory Therapies and Research)
- Mile High Down Syndrome Association (MHDSA)
- Center for Early Literacy Learning - Practice Guides with Adaptations
- Center for Early Literacy Learning
- Child Care Centers and Americans with Disabilities Act
- Child Care Plus -- Inclusion
- Children and Adults with ADHD
- Circle of Inclusion
- Division of Early Childhood
- Do2Learn Educational Resources for Special Needs
How do I find out about...
+ What to do if I am concerned about the development of my child, or a child I care for?
Click on the age of the child to find agencies that will provide a developmental evaluation for a child who is birth to age 3, or age 3-5.
+ How to communicate with special educators about my child's disability?
Here is information about what parents would like special educators to know and what special educators want parents to know about working together.
+ Where to go if I have questions about my child's disability?
Click to find resources in Colorado about your child’s disability. This site will give you information on all disabilities; they are arranged in alphabetical order and include local resources.
Top Downloads
- Hearing Loss Fact Sheet
- Autism Fact Sheet
- ADHD Fact Sheet
- Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens: A Parent's Guide
- Depression in Preschoolers -- Study
- Parents guide to the process of child disability evaluation and treatment
- Sensory Issues Checklist
- Asperger Syndrome & Autism Toolkit
- Do You Know Me? Sensory Processing Disorder Handout
- ADHD Booklet

