Transitions and Challenges: Building a Support Network

Six ideas to build a support network for parents expecting a child with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD)

Parents often tell us that one of the keys to their success in navigating the world of intellectual and developmental disabilities was connecting with other parents who are in the same boat. Connecting with others who have faced similar situations can help you make informed decisions to reach your loved one’s goals, plan for the future and assure you that you’re not alone. If you’re looking to connect with other parents as well as service providers, check out some of the resources below.

Facebook Support Groups

It’s important to build yourself a network of support and connect with families who you can learn from and grow with. Facebook support groups are a great way to do this. People will often share IDD resources within these groups, including referrals to special needs services, behavior support, music, art and occupational therapy, and more.

LBSA’s Family Navigation Services

Schedule a FREE consultation with a Laura Baker Family Navigator to see if Family Navigation Services are right for your family’s resource needs. Our Family Navigation program offers assistance with regional and state developmental disability programs and services options, as well as local special needs resources for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Prader-Willi Syndrome and more.

Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Minnesota

Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Minnesota offers various support services for all kinds of families, including a free virtual weekly support group.

Gillette Children’s Parent Resources and Support Page

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

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.

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