Home
Special Needs

Special Needs

Sensory-Friendly & Inclusive Playgrounds in Northeast Ohio

By Northeast Ohio Parent Staff Writers
9 days ago
Playgrounds should be places where every child can play, connect and feel included. Sensory-friendly, all-abilities playgrounds go beyond basic accessibility to offer engaging, supportive spaces that meet a wide range of physical, sensory and developmental needs, from quiet retreat areas to interactive, multi-sensory play features. Find playgrounds in the Cleveland/Akron area that are intentionally designed to welcome all kids.  ...
Read more 0

‘Before You Go’ Checklist for the 2026 Transition Expo on Saturday, April 25

By Submitted to Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine
25 days ago
Starting at age 14, your child needs to start planning what the future might look like. For resources to help their journey into adulthood, attend the 2026 Northeast Ohio Transition Expo on April 25 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The free event will be held at the Independence Civic Center. For those looking to attend, here's some resources to know before you go ...
Read more 0

Helping Your Middle Schooler Feel High School-Ready: What to Prioritize for the Educational Transition

By Submitted to Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine
25 days ago
The leap from middle school to high school can feel daunting for any family. The key to a smoother transition isn’t just preparing your child for a new academic workload; it’s about fostering the social-emotional well-being that allows them to put their best foot forward in a new environment. ...
Read more 0

Local Family Shares Experience with Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy

By Submitted to Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine
25 days ago
Jackie Reyes shares their family's story about their daughter, Dani, who was diagnosed with autism and is non-verbal, and their experience with applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy. ...
Read more 0

Sensory-Friendly and Inclusive Events for Kids & Teens in Northeast Ohio

By Northeast Ohio Parent Staff Writers
27 days ago
Find activities and events for children with special needs and their parents and families. Many events provide sensory-friendly and inclusive activities for all abilities. Check out the following happenings in the region. ...
Read more 0

Education Advocates: What They Do and Why They Are Important

By Jennifer Murphy
28 days ago
An education advocate is a trained professional or experienced parent who helps families navigate the education system. Here are a few ways they ensure that students receive the appropriate support they need for success. ...
Read more 0

Autism Acceptance Month: Tools for Sensory, Social, and Daily Success

By Angela Gartner
29 days ago

April is Autism Acceptance Month, dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance, inclusion, and empowerment for neurodivergent individuals. Many educational toy companies have specific initiatives dedicated to raising awareness and

... ...
Read more 0

Preparing Your Child With Disabilities for Summer Camp

By Angela Gartner
April 2, 2026

For mom Jessica Kepich, of Parma, finding a summer program for her son Max, 7, who has autism and is nonverbal, is a big relief.  read more

... ...
Read more 0

Virtual Sessions for ‘Journey into Adulthood’ To Help Families Navigate Next Steps

By Submitted to Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine
March 20, 2026
Learn more about these free, virtual "Journey into Adulthood" Booster Sessions that offer expert guidance and practical advice on topics for navigating the transition to adulthood for families and their children with disabilities. ...
Read more 0

Opinion: One Mom’s Fight to Help Kids Feel Like They Belong

By Submitted to Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine
March 19, 2026

School can be brutal for neurodivergent kids. I know this not only because I had to watch the look of defeat in my own child’s face day after day as

... ...
Read more 0