 | Shelly Bayer has been a Parent Information Specialist for Families Together, Inc. (The Parent Training and Information Center serving Kansas) for two years. She is also the parent of young man named Blake who is 18 years old and has autism. Autism is a developmental disability which effects social interaction, communication and behavior. Shelly provides technical assistance regarding special education services and resources to families that have a son or daughter with a disability. You may contact Shelly at (316) 945-7747, or go to http://www.familiestogetherinc.org/. |
Family Living
2006-11-01 08:33:00
Support for multiple disabilities
ANSWER: Fortunately, each state has a place you can call for help. They are Parent Training and Information Centers or “PTIs”. PTIs are established by the Federal Department of Education to serve families of children and young adults from birth through age 21 with all disabilities: physical, cognitive, emotional, and learning. They help families obtain appropriate education and services for their children with disabilities; work to improve education results for all children; train and inform parents and professionals on a variety of topics; and connect children with disabilities to community resources that address their needs.
A special focus of PTIs is to offer families the security of belonging to a group of caring individuals with similar goals, challenges, and needs. Parents are informed of available resources and services throughout the state. PTIs provide training and information to parents of infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and young adults with disabilities and the professionals who work with their families. This assistance helps parents participate more effectively with professionals in meeting the educational needs of children and youth with disabilities. PTIs also offer a variety of activities for parents to network and learn with other parents who have children with special needs.
Parent Training and Information Centers are run by well-trained and knowledgeable staff. Most have children with disabilities themselves. They answer the phone prepared to hear your concerns. Staff members can help you sort through the issues and put them into perspective. Together, you can brainstorm strategies and solutions.
If you would like to learn more about the PTI serving Kansas and the services they offer to families, that include a son or daughter with a disability, please see the bio below.
