SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, Inc.

06/17/2026

Career Exploration Opportunities.

Watch this video on career exploration opportunities for young adults with disabilities, including apprenticeships, informational interviews, job shadowing, internships, volunteering, and work-based learning experiences:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v6XgnrcC_g

-RAISE

06/16/2026

: This video from the U.S. Department of Education looks at the history and impact of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

It is a helpful reminder of why rights, family engagement, transition planning, and strong supports matter as students prepare for life after high school and adulthood.

Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEuCdzoAnME

06/15/2026

: When you have concerns about how your child plays, learns, speaks, acts, or moves, talking with your child’s doctor is an important first step.

The CDC’s “How to Get Help for Your Child” tip sheet helps families understand what to do next and why acting early matters. It is available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Brazilian Portuguese, and Simplified Chinese, so more caregivers can access clear guidance.

Learn more here: https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/resources/how-to-get-help.html

06/10/2026

Check out this video overview of Vocational Rehabilitation services and learn how VR can support youth and young adults with disabilities in exploring careers, building skills, and preparing for employment and adulthood:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kvrBommR-A

-RAISE

06/10/2026

June is Pride Month, and communities across the country are gathering around themes that speak to safety, freedom, action, and the right to be valued for who you are.

Together, these events remind us that Pride is both a celebration and a continued call to support LGBTQ+ young people, families, and advocates.

Learn more about Pride and how to get involved: https://www.hrc.org/campaigns/celebrate-pride-with-us

06/09/2026

: The path after high school does not have to look the same for every student.

In this NTACT:C episode of Beyond the Bell: From Research to Real Life, YETI members share perspectives on postsecondary options, planning, and pathways to adulthood for students with disabilities.

Families, caregivers, young adults, and educators can use this conversation to think about what support, choice, and preparation can look like after high school.

🎧 Listen now: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6ZDuU7iHTGBACrUYiI4uUQ?si=lRLO-usLQyyRaReVPu3aGg

06/08/2026

: The CDC’s free Milestones in Action library shows examples of skills many babies and young children show from 2 months through 5 years.

Families and caregivers can use this resource to support developmental monitoring, celebrate progress, and know when to ask questions.

Learn more here: https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/milestones-in-action/index.html

06/06/2026

Parents as Champions (PAC) Learning Series (IN PERSON)

📅 Aug. 12, 19 & 26 | ⏰ 10:30 AM–2:00 PM
📍 Clifton Public Library, Room A

This enhanced PAC series focuses on two key pillars of student success, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Literacy, woven throughout the entire series.

By strengthening these areas, the series equips families with practical tools and strategies to support children’s academic, social, and emotional growth at home and in school.

Register: https://spantainquiry.tfaforms.net/36?trainingID=a2CUg000003hLqf

06/05/2026

"The Trump administration is unveiling long-awaited details about how new, more stringent Medicaid eligibility rules will be applied and raising fresh concerns about implications for people with disabilities."

https://tinyurl.com/2x9epnxt

The Trump administration is unveiling long-awaited details about new, more stringent Medicaid eligibility rules and raising fresh concerns about implications for people with disabilities.

06/04/2026

Today, DCF announced the "Keep Me Safe" water safety campaign, as part of our efforts to raise awareness around life-saving tips to prevent tragedy, whether at the pool, down the shore, or in the tub.

Being vigilant is “especially important because water accidents and swimming fatalities, while preventable, can happen in the blink of an eye, even when there are lots of people nearby, or even when you may consider yourself or your child an experienced swimmer,” said NJ DCF Interim Commissioner Carmen Diaz-Petti, LCSW.

Learn more about the campaign and connect to resources via the links in the comments.