Navigating the array of resources available for children with special needs can be challenging. Below is a curated list of both Missouri-based and national organizations dedicated to supporting these children and their families:​

Dual Eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid

Missouri Resources:

  1. Missouri Parents Act (MPACT): Empowers families to advocate for their children with special educational needs, offering free training, resources, and individualized support.
  2. First Steps Program: An early intervention program for children from birth to three years old with developmental delays or diagnosed conditions, providing essential services to enhance development. ​
  3. Missouri Family to Family Resource Center: Offers information and peer support to families of children and youth with special health care needs, helping them navigate available services. ​
  4. Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education – Special Education: Provides guidance and resources to ensure all children with disabilities have access to free and appropriate public education.
  5. Child Care Aware of Missouri: Assists families in finding childcare and early learning supports, including resources for children with special needs. ​

National Resources:

  1. Center for Parent Information and Resources: A hub of information and resources to support families of children with disabilities, connecting them to local Parent Training and Information Centers.
  2. National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD): Partners with educators, students, and families to advocate for equitable policies and provide resources for individuals with learning disabilities. ​
  3. Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA): Offers support and resources for parents to understand learning disabilities and navigate the special education process.
  4. Family Voices: A national organization led by families and friends of children with special health care needs, providing support and advocating for improved policies and systems of care.
  5. Easterseals: Provides services and support for individuals with disabilities and special needs, including early intervention, medical rehabilitation, and employment services. ​

These organizations offer a wealth of information, support, and advocacy to assist families in accessing the necessary resources for their children with special needs.