Is your family at a crossroads, wondering what comes next? Is your child in need of a new learning environment? Are you navigating the complexities of an upcoming transition? Transitions can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. As a parent, you may feel the weight of countless decisions, whether your child is stepping into their first school experience or moving to a new educational setting. These changes bring both challenges and opportunities. The journey will have highs and lows, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Hope. Learn. Pause. As educators, we strive to create the best environment for every student, especially during times of transition. A team approach, built on open and effective communication, makes all the difference. No one expects you to have every answer, but your willingness to collaborate and respond with care is powerful. Hope. Learn. Pause. We have gathered key resources to support both families and educators through these transitions. There is hope in this journey for your child, for you, and for your entire community. You are seen. You are supported. And together, we can find the next best step forward. ARTICLES:  30 Essential Questions to Ask Your Child’s Teacher Starting School with Special Needs   Top 10 Things to Look for in a School for a Special Needs Child   Tips for Helping Special Needs Kids Change Schools BOOKS Raising the Sen-betweeners: the Sunday Times Bestselling Guide to Parenting the Kids Who Fall Between the Gaps (2025) Parents and Families of Students With Special Needs: Collaborating Across the Age Span (2018) Systems Thinking for Supporting Students with Special Needs and Disabilities: A Handbook for Classroom Teachers (2022) PODCASTS The Special Education Inner Circle by Catherine Whitcher, M.Ed. Tilt Parenting by Debbie Reber The Inclusive Education Project Podcast by Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie The Autism Helper Podcast by Sasha Long YOUTUBE A Day In Our Shoes by Lisa Lightner

The wondering… The questions… The uncertainty… The change… The days, weeks, and months after receiving your child's diagnosis of autism, ADHD, or speech challenges can create a ripple effect in your home. You may find yourself wondering if and when things will settle. Questions may constantly race through your mind—and at the same time, professionals ask endless questions in an effort to "help." Waves of uncertainty can cloud your heart and mind. Change is here. But so is hope. As you navigate the sudden impact of this diagnosis, know that you are not alone. Support, care, and community are available to you. Yet, finding the right resources can sometimes feel like navigating a maze with towering, impenetrable walls. But step by step, there is a way forward and you don't have to walk it alone. Here are some helpful resources to support you on this journey. Whether you're taking a break at work, preparing dinner, or reading in the car while waiting for your child, these resources are here for you—whenever and however you need them. WEB Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego | Connect families (and individuals) with disabilities to resources, services, and opportunities Eligibility | San Diego Regional Center | Learn about eligibility requirements and the process for Regional Center | Find your region on a list or map KidSTART | A program for children under 6 years old with complex needs in multiple areas of daily life. Autism Discovery Institute | Autism-focused programs include diagnostic services and individual and group therapy for children and youth ages 0-18. PODCAST TILT PARENTING with Debbie Reber BOOKS The Other Side of Special by Amy J. Brown, Sara Clime, and Carrie M. Holt Raising Twice Exceptional Children by Emily Kircher-Morris Navigating life after your child's diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. The uncertainty and change may feel daunting, but hope is always within reach. You can find clarity and strength in this journey with the proper support, resources, and community. Whether through expert insights, shared experiences, or trusted organizations, there are tools to guide you every step of the way. You are seen and supported. Most importantly, you and your child can thrive.

At Cornerstone Behavioral Health Specialists, we understand that your journey as a parent of a child with special needs is filled with both challenges and victories. You deserve to be seen and heard, and we are committed to fostering a relationship built on trust and respect with every family we serve. CBHS is here to support you every step of the way, whether you need guidance on IEPs, resources for community support, or just someone to listen. In the following tips, you’ll find valuable insights from parents navigating this journey alongside you. Their experiences and advice are meant to uplift and empower you, reinforcing that we can embrace this path together with confidence and resilience. We’re here to empower you as you champion your child’s needs. Here are three tips from real parents right now: Tip #1  “Your child is uniquely created by God, who knew you would be the perfect parents for the job. You weren’t meant to do this journey alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether from friends, family, or professional s.” A nugget for the family:  Turn chores into a game and develop a routine. Consistency is key. Parents of three children, including a 5-year-old son with autism/ADHD   Tip #2 “I would like to encourage parents to seek support on their journey of raising a special needs child. Having the right support from other parents, friends, family, and church can make a world of difference.” A nugget for the family:  One nugget of wisdom I could offer is to make time for self-care and time with your spouse, just the two of you. This has been my husband’s and my saving grace.  A mother of four children, including two young adults with unique abilities and needs Tip #3 “Your child’s education is a journey; it has many twists and turns along its path, and each turn comes with new discoveries for the entire family. So stay excited and be motivated- buckle up. It’s one incredible ride!” A nugget for the family:  My hack is simple - always ask questions! I have always worked to ask my son questions about what he is thinking, the reasoning behind his thoughts/ideas, and what his desired achievements are. Asking questions is key!” A mother of two children, including a 16-year-old with a learning disability Empowering children with special needs starts by supporting the families who advocate for them every day. While the journey can be challenging, it also presents opportunities for growth, learning, and celebration. You can create an environment where your child can thrive by building strong support systems, establishing consistent routines, and taking time for self-care. At CBHS, we’re here to walk alongside you with guidance, encouragement, and resources. You are your child’s greatest champion; together, we can turn challenges into victories.