Neurodiversity Spotlight: Advocacy Resources for October’s Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and Dyslexia Awareness Month
October is a big awareness month. This is an exciting time to shine a spotlight on neurodiversity and celebrate the strengths and unique abilities of kids who learn differently. It’s also a great opportunity to share vital resources that can help families advocate for their children and ensure they get the support they need to thrive. Whether your child has ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning differences, this month is all about empowering families with knowledge and tools!
I’m thrilled to share an article published by Macaroni Kids Summit/Short Hills/SOMA, where I had the opportunity to talk about my experience as a parent advocate. In this piece, I dive into practical tips for navigating Special Education, from understanding 504 Plans and IEPs to advocating for the specific needs of your child. These are essential tools for families to ensure their children receive the support they deserve.
[> 👉 You can read the article here: Neurodivergent Resources and Talking with Parent Advocate Danielle Ward
]1 A heartfelt thank you to Glenda Robson, the publisher of Macaroni Kid, for giving me the chance to share my insights and for highlighting resources that are so important for neurodivergent families.
This month, let’s continue to spread awareness, share information, and work together to create supportive spaces for our children. Whether you're a parent, educator, or advocate, we can all play a role in helping kids with learning differences succeed.
For more insights and resources on supporting children with learning differences, check out some of my favorite organizations I shared in this recent article:
- Child Mind Institute
- SPAN Parent Advisory Network
- SEVA (Special Education Volunteer Advocates)
- Understood
- COPAA, Council of Parent Attorneys & Advocates
- NCLD, National Center for Learning Disabilities
- Disabilities Rights New Jersey
- U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR)
- NJ Department of Education
- NJ PRISE, NJ Parental Rights in Special Education
- NJ Department of Children and Families
- American School Counselor Association's Awareness Calendar June 2024 – July 2025
#LearningDifferences #EmpowerFamilies