YOU ARE YOUR CHILD'S BEST ADVOCATE!


Parents are their child with disabilities' lifelong advocates.  One area that requires extensive advocacy is that of education.  Children with disabilities such as Down syndrome did not have access to public school until 1975 with the passage of PL94-142, now known as the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and reauthorized in 2004.  You and your child will meet many good and helpful people along your journey through the educational system, but ultimately, it is you, his or her  parents who know your child best and are responsible for making good decisions about their education.  It is very important that parents take every opportunity to learn about their child's legal rights.

Have you attended an IEP training yet?  It is never too early or never too late!  Knowing your child's legal rights is an important part of the educational process.  You cannot advocate for your child without information.  Information is gained by going to trainings.  The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization strongly believes that parents cannot have too much training.  We provide opportunities, or will keep you informed of local opportunities, to attend trainings in areas such as the IEP process, transitioning from Early Steps to Preschool, transitioning from Preschool to Kindergarten, Legal Rights, the IDEA, etc.

The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization is a partner in Florida CEIDD (Coalition for the Education of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities).  Founded as a project of the National Down Syndrome Society, through the Institute of Systems Change Leadership, it began as a meeting and collaboration of numerous advocacy and disability groups across the state of Florida.  In June, 2007, Florida CEIDD will present at the Family CAFE.  For more information or to get involved, please email CEIDD@bellsouth.net

Links to Advocacy Organizations
Coalition for Independent Living Options
STAND-Statewide Advocacy Network on Disabilities
The Advocacy Center-Florida
Step Up for Disabilities-Florida
FND-Family Network on Disabilities of Florida
TASH
The Pacer Center