What We Do
Special Kids, Inc. works tirelessly to support Houston-area parents and caregivers of children with all disabilities. Consulting one on one with parents, facilitating meaningful workshops to train professionals and service providers, or providing hands-on training for parents and assistance to meet the surmounting needs of children and their families. We promote and cultivate the ultimate long-term success of our families which is the driving force in our organization.
So how can we help you?
Join us in our quest to build the capacity of our community and empower the families of children with disabilities through support, training, and information. Contact us today for a One-on-One Consultation or allow us to support and assist you with obtaining relevant information to meet the needs for your child/children.
Training for Parents
SKI endeavors to assist and empower parents to advocate for the development Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) meeting strategies, effectively communicate with teachers, administrators, and service providers, and navigate school systems. We also provide training for educators and surrogate parents to help them better assess the needs of their child/children, set attainable goals, and assistance in realizing the capabilities which cultivates an atmosphere where all children are equipped with skills to reach the maximum potential. SKI provides consultations and/or attends IEP-ARD meetings with the parents/caregivers at no cost to the families.
For help with your IEP-ARD meetings, contact us at least one week prior to meeting with the school. Bring all documents related to your child’s disability and education. One of our specially trained staff members will assist you in understanding what the documents mean and suggest courses of action appropriate for your child’s needs.
Support Groups for Parents
Our organization was founded by two women with personal experiences and passion for raising with children unique needs. SKI truly understands the emotional and physical implications of being a parent of a child with disability. Parents are their child’s first line of defense in getting the services needed to be successful in school and in their community.
SKI in Public Schools (SIPS) is a group run by parents for parents. SIPS meetings provide parents of children with disabilities with an outlet for share information, experiences, resources, and support. SIPS meetings are a great way to maintain contact with school officials, increase parent involvement on school campuses, obtain up to date information from the Department of Education and TEA in regards to special education services.
Please contact us if you are interested in starting or joining the SIPS support group on your child’s school campus or in your child’s community.
Advocacy Training
Special Kids, Inc. attends conferences, training sessions, and meetings around the nation to maintain updated information about the Individuals with the Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We are also affiliated with Technical Alliance Parent Programs of the Alliance Project and other parent centers across the country and utilize these resources to assist parents/caregivers in Houston and surrounding areas.
Our organization speaks out about regulations and laws that are not in the best interest of children with disabilities, poor teaching environments, school districts that are not complying with state and federal regulations, and inadequate funding for organizations that provide services in traditionally under-served communities. We participate in public events like Autism Speaks, community health fairs, and school sponsored activities.