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Guides & Briefs

This section contains a variety of guides and briefs covering topics related to assessing services and supports, working with your school district, parents’ rights, and addressing transition needs prior to turning 18.

Quick Guides

Quick Guides are a collection of resources on a specific diagnosis. Click on the topic below to download the appropriate Quick Guide, fill out the form below or contact us at (800) 640-4553 or sdpc@sdparent.org.

Children & Medications

Children & Autism Spectrum Disorder

Children & Down Syndrome

Children & Hearing

Children & Concussion/ Brain Injury

Children & Diabetes

Family Resource Guide

The Family Resource Guide provides information on local, state, and national resources available to meet the needs of South Dakota families raising children and youth with disabilities and/or special health care needs.

Because programs may change in scope, delivery or availability, a convenient Notes section on each page provides space to record dates of contact, up-to-date program information, or other important details. Please contact South Dakota Parent Connection for additional resources not included in the Family Resource Guide at sdpc@sdparent.org or (800) 640 – 4553.

Note: A comprehensive listing of all available resources across South Dakota is beyond the scope of this Guide.

When Behavior is a Concern...

A Guide for Parents of School Age Children

Over the past few years, both South Dakota Parent Connection and Disability Rights South Dakota have become increasingly involved in conversations with parents around topics related to their child(ren)s behavior. This guide lists frequent questions parents ask. It also includes information for parents so they can participate as shared decision-makers as they advocate for appropriate responses to concerns about behavior at school and in working with the school team in developing appropriate supports and services for their child.

Dare to Dialogue...Reach YES!

A Resource for Families of Children Receiving Special Education

Families of sons or daughters with special needs must navigate a variety of systems–education, health care, disability-related service providers and more. Each system has its own set of rules, guidelines, and eligibility requirements. And, each system has human beings who interpret the rules, guidelines and eligibility requirements. Families may be told “No, that is not possible,” when in fact it may be possible.

South Dakota Parent Connection and Disability Rights South Dakota have collaborated on Dare to Dialogue…Reach Yes! to help families understand child and parent rights provided by special education, advocate for their children, and respond to “no” in factual and positive ways.

What Parents Should Know...

South Dakota Parent’s Guide to Special Education

“What Parents Should Know…About Special Education in South Dakota” is an easy-to-understand, comprehensive guide to federal and state laws and regulations about special education. The development of the guide was a collaborative effort and is written specifically for families.

Contact us at (800) 640-4553 or sdpc@sdparent.org for your free copy.

Online Version in Sections:

Approaching Age 18 Infographics

Information for Students

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Information for Parents & Guardians