Parents of children with special needs, whether they are young or grown, are one of the best sources of information and emotional support for other parents of children with special needs. By virtue of having “been there,” a unique bonding occurs between parents, establishing an almost immediate rapport and sharing of common feelings and experiences.
To help those looking to connect with a group of parents who are on the same journey, Sally Stigall, Parent Peer Support at Richland Newhope and the Parent Mentor Team from Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center, Cindy Wrobleski and Lindsey Schonauer-Howard, are collaborating to host Parent to Parent on October 14 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at MOESC. This is an informal gathering where parents can talk with parents who have been on the journey for years and years, sharing information, resources, and strategies in an atmosphere of acceptance. Social distancing guidelines will be observed.
The Parent Mentors support parents in their understanding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and how the requirements of the law with Ohio’s guidelines relate to the rights of their child with a disability. This support and understanding offers parents the ability to effectively communicate on behalf of their child’s specific needs. Additionally, the Parent Mentor offers training opportunities for parents and the community to become more informed on topics related to diverse learners, parenting a child with special needs, and developing appropriate transition opportunities for their child.
Parent Mentors also support the work of special education by conveying the parent perspective to the districts and helps the parents to understand their district’s responsibilities and perspectives, and works as a technical assistant to educator partners, A Parent Mentor is also a partner to community agencies that support children with exceptionalities. They help connect families to local resources and to build networks of support for the child, school and community.
The Parent to Parent meeting is free to attend, but registration is recommended. Pizza, chips and pop will be provided. Parents and caregivers can RSVP to Sally at [email protected], Cindy at 419-774-5520 ext. 2800, or Lindsey at 419-774-5520 ext. 2018.
Source: MOESC; Image by ambermb from Pixabay
