This toolkit helps make sense of an often confusing system and educates families of newly diagnosed children with special needs on how to get the best special education, services and resources available to them.

Getting Started: An introduction to the Special Education process and how to advocate for your child.

From Pre-K to Graduation: Transitioning your student throughout his or her school career and preparing them for college or the workforce after graduation.

Understanding Federal Policy: An overview of federal disability and special needs policies, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

A Parent’s Dictionary: Key terms to know when getting started in special education.

Acronyms: An overview of acronyms used in special education and disability policies and programs.

Resources: A directory of tools and organizations that families can access for assistance.

Material presented on the National PTA website is intended for information purposes only. It is not intended as professional advice and should not be construed as such. National PTA is not engaged in rendering legal or other professional services by posting said material. Professional services should be sought if legal or other specific expert assistance is required.