Transitions and Challenges: Birth and Infancy

Embark on your parenting journey with community support

If your infant, newborn or expected child was recently diagnosed with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD), such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) or Prader-Willi Syndrome, you may be wondering what to do next and starting to seek support. Remember: Others have been in your situation, and you’re not alone. Take a look at the following tips and resources to get started.

Primary Care and Milestone Tracker

Consult your primary care physician on any information that may be helpful during a well-child visit and establish a timeline of check-ups and care. Download the CDC Milestone Tracker App to keep well-documented and concise records of your child’s milestones to show to physicians and future educators.

LBSA’s Family Navigation Services Program

Consider a FREE consultation with a Family Navigator at Laura Baker Services Association to see how we can help you plan for your family’s needs. This program offers a wide range of disability support services including assistance with planning for a family member with special needs, early intervention support, connecting with a personal care attendant, finding local resources and much more. We also offer LBSA Family Support meetings.

Help Me Connect

Pregnant or caring for a child under eight? Help Me Connect offers disability navigator services. They also refer families with children (birth to eight years old) to services in their local communities that support healthy child development and family well-being.

Family Voices of Minnesota

Family Voices of Minnesota offers parent-to-parent networking opportunities as well as parent training, insurance information and peer support. Being well-connected with other parents can increase your confidence in caring for your child and family as well as decrease emergency room visits.

Gillette Children’s Parent Resources and Support Page

The Gillette Children’s Parent Resources and Support Page provides a curated list of resources to help you connect with other parents of children with IDD, as well as community forums you can join.

More Information and Support

If you’re interested in a FREE consultation with our Lead Family Navigator to see what support and services are available to you, you can get in touch right now.

Family Navigation Services