What We Do
Special Kids, Inc. works hard to support Houston-area parents of children with special needs. Whether lobbying in Washington, holding workshops for special interest groups, or providing training for parents, the needs and ultimate long-term success of our families 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 special needs through support, training, and information. Contact us today for a One-on-One Consultation or let us help you find the information you need.
Training for Parents
SKI works hard to help parents develop Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) meeting strategies, communicate with teachers and administrators, and navigate the HISD system. We also provide training for educators and surrogate parents to help them better assess children’s needs, set goals, and help them achieve the absolute best for their children. We have several upcoming child advocacy training events. View our news & events page.
Special Kids, Inc. also provides one-on-one Consultation for parents and will attend IEP and ARD meetings with the parents or serve as surrogate parents for children in the foster care system at no cost to the families. This service is provided as extended support to parents attending IEP and ARD sessions with their child’s school.
For help with your IEP or ARD meetings, contact us prior to the 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
As our organization was founded by two women with personal experiences raising special needs children, we truly understand the emotional and physical implications of being a parent of a disabled child. Parents are their child’s first line of defense in getting the services needed to be successful in school.
SKI in Public Schools (SIPS) is a group run by parents for parents. SIPS meetings provide parents of disabled children to meet, share information, experiences, resources, and to support each other. SIPS meetings are a great way to get updates on the Department of Education and TEA in regards to special education services and other news Childcare and refreshments are provided.
The SIPS coordinator at each school sets the schedule and activities for each meeting. Please contact us if you are interested in joining the SIPS group for your school. We would love to help you connect with other parents and family members to give you the support and extra information you need.
If you are interested in starting a SIPS program in your school, contact Diona Poledore at 713-734-5355.
Special Needs Advocacy Training
Special Kids, Inc. attends lobbying sessions, conferences, training sessions, and meetings around the nation to maintain updated information about 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 the resources to assist parents 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 Cure for Autism Now (CAN), Health Fairs, and School Rallies.
We train parents and professionals in state and federal laws that regulate special education. Contact us to see how we can help you make your voice heard.