Parent Resources


The FDLRS/Westgate Parent Newsletter is published quarterly and provides information for parents of ESE students.

FDLRS/Westgate maintains a subscription to the Parents Make the Difference Newsletter. A link to the current month's edition and past editions are posted for access.

Parent Information Brochures
Informative brochures on topics of interest for Parents. Can be downloaded and printed.
*Contents of the IEP
*How Parents Can Help
*Independent Educational Evaluation
*LRE: Placement and the Least Restrictive Environment
*Steps in Problem Solving
*The IEP: Individual Education Plan
*Uses of the IEP

FSU CARD serves Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Taylor, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington counties. Click this link to view their services.

UNF CARD serves
Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Suwannee, and Union Counties. We post this site to provide easy access to view videos posted on UF CARD's website that are helpful to parents exploring the use of visual schedules and seeking help with toilet training. The site also connects to the Autism Speaks Video Glossary and the University of North Carolina M.I.N.D. project.

Links to six Internet sites that might be of interest to parents of Gifted students.

Online Tutorials for Parents
Wonders of WORD - provides an overview of the many features in Microsoft Word
Phonological Awareness for Parents - provides an overview of phonological awareness

A non-profit site, winner of the WEBBY Awards 2007 "Best Family and Parenting Site." Includes links to parent groups and suggestions for helping your child succeed in school.

Learn more about the Just Read, Florida! initiative.

Learn more about the Special Olympics in Florida.

Here are some more resources for teachers of ESE students.

TSLL is the premiere resource in Florida for information on Assistive and Adaptive Technology.

FND of Florida provides access to disabilities resources and support for parents and professionals.

The Association for Retarded Citizens supports a huge Web site with links to many resources.

This site provides practical tips, general access guidelines, lists of resources, and inclusion success stories.

A statewide, toll-free line that provides a listening ear and information and referral services for grandparents and other relatives raising children in Florida. Kinship Care provides emotional support, a listening ear, support group information, and information about local, private and public resources that serve kinship caregivers in Florida, such as community programs, financial assistance, child care, parenting concerns, and more. Professionals and Service Providers are also welcomed to contact Kinship Care for more information. We are making a difference for relatives raising children!

This agency sponsors the annual Family Cafe event in Central Florida.


