Navigating the landscape of resources available for children with disabilities can be overwhelming for parents. This guide serves as a starting point for families in Babylon, New York, and across the state, offering a curated list of valuable programs and organizations dedicated to supporting children and young adults with disabilities and their families. These resources aim to enhance health, independence, and overall quality of life, complementing benefits from programs like Medicaid and SSI.
Financial Planning for the Future: NY ABLE Program
The New York Achieving a Better Life Experience (NY ABLE) Program offers a tax-advantaged savings and investment plan designed to help individuals with disabilities and their families save for qualified disability expenses. Similar to a 529 college savings plan, earnings in a NY ABLE account are not subject to federal income tax if used for qualified disability expenses. This program allows families to save for important needs without jeopardizing eligibility for crucial benefits.
Click here to visit the NY ABLE website.
Adult Career and Continuing Education Services (ACCES) in NYS
The New York State Adult Career and Continuing Education Services (NYS ACCES) plays a vital role in overseeing the development of adult education programs throughout the state. These programs encompass a broad spectrum of needs, from adult literacy and English language learning for Limited English Proficient individuals, to preparation for the NYS High School Equivalency diploma, and career and technical education opportunities for both out-of-school youth and adults. ACCES is committed to fostering lifelong learning and career advancement for all New Yorkers.
Click here to go to the NYS ACCES website.
Vocational Rehabilitation Support through ACCES-VR
For individuals with disabilities seeking employment and independent living, ACCES-VR (Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation) provides crucial support. This program offers a range of services including training, education, rehabilitation, and career development assistance, all tailored to help individuals with disabilities achieve and maintain meaningful employment and lead independent lives within their communities.
Click here to go to the ACCESS-VR website.
Explore New York State Parks with the Access Pass
The New York Access Pass opens doors to recreation and leisure for residents with disabilities. This pass provides free or discounted access to numerous state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities managed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Eligible residents can enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of New York State at reduced or no cost.
Click here for the NYS Parks Access Pass page.
Parent to Parent of NYS: Building a Support Network
Parent to Parent of New York State (P2PNYS) is a valuable organization dedicated to creating a strong support network for families of individuals with developmental disabilities or special healthcare needs. P2PNYS aims to reduce feelings of isolation and empower parents and caregivers through various resources. These include free webinars covering diverse topics, personalized 1:1 support via their parent matching program, and parent support groups, fostering a community of shared experiences and mutual assistance.
Click here to visit the Parent to Parent website.
Understood.org: Resources for Learning and Thinking Differences
Understood is a non-profit organization committed to empowering individuals with learning and thinking differences. They provide extensive resources and support to help these individuals thrive in all aspects of life – in school, at work, and within their communities. Understood offers valuable insights, practical tools, and a supportive community for individuals and families navigating learning and thinking differences.
Click here to visit the Understood website.
Understanding Special Education Rights: NYS Parent’s Guide
The New York State Parent’s Guide to Special Education is an essential resource for parents of students with disabilities. This guide clearly outlines the procedural rights and protections guaranteed to parents under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), related federal regulations, New York State Education Law, and NYS Commissioner’s Regulations. It ensures parents are well-informed about their rights and how to advocate for a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment for their children.
A Parent’s Guide to Special Education – English
A Parent’s Guide to Special Education – Spanish
Additional Helpful Resources:
- Autism Speaks
- Center for Parent Information and Resources
- Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)
- Family Caregiver Alliance
- Learning Disabilities Association of America
- National Down Syndrome Society
- NYS Office of Mental Health
- NYS Testing Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
- Office for People with Developmental Disabilities
- Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights (PACER Center)
- PBS Misunderstood Minds
- Suffolk County Directory of Behavioral Health Services
This Babylon Parents Guide provides a starting point for navigating the resources available to support children with disabilities in New York. Exploring these programs and organizations can empower parents to advocate effectively for their children and access the services they need to thrive.
