MPACT April Newsletter I MPACT is Here to Help You!

Missouri Parents Act Website

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COVID-19 Information for Parents

Information Hubs:

MPACT has created an information hub that is specific to your unique needs of parents. This page is constantly updated with the latest information. You can find it on our website or just click here: Coronavirus Information/Updates

Further information from Center for Parents Hub is also available via our website or by clicking here: Coronavirus Information from Center for Parents Hub

Helpful Videos from PBS Kids:

How to Talk to Your Kids About Coronavirus available in Spanish

How You and Your Kids Can De-Stress During Coronavirus available in Spanish

Parenting During Coronavirus: You Are Enough

Schools Closed: How to Make a New Home Routine

"School Closed Suddenly, I Need Help!"

Resources to Help Children at Home

In response to the coronavirus outbreak, most states and cities have closed public school systems for two or three weeks, with the option of closing schools for longer periods. School closings are creating significant problems for parents of children with disabilities.

Assistance for families is variable and is likely to change as school closures continue. Some districts are providing online practice sessions so children "maintain skills."

Online educational solutions present problems for many children with disabilities. How can a school provide related services like speech language therapy, physical therapy or occupational therapy online? Read full Wrightslaw article here.

MPACT is Here to Help You

MPACT is available to help you navigate the changing educational environment. Call, email or submit a question via our website. Someone in your area will reach out to you within one business day.

Phone:

(800) 743-7634

Email:

info@missouriparentsact.org

Website:

MPACT-MissouriParentsAct

Supporting Individuals with Autism through Uncertain Times

This article from Autism Focused Intervention Resource and Models talks about strategies to help support people with disabilities.

All children and young adults require support from caregivers during times of stress and uncertainty, such as those we are facing now with the spread of the coronavirus. Coping with the unknown and navigating school closures, abrupt changes in routines, loss of connections with teachers and friends, and fear around contracting the virus- are burdens for all. Individuals with autism may need additional support to process the news and adapt to the many changes. Click here to read the full article

MPACT Mentor Volunteer Program

What is an MPACT Mentor Volunteer?

Mentors are trained volunteers who, upon request, provide support to families of children with disabilities throughout the special education process. A mentor does not represent or speak for a parent or family member, but a mentor does help empower an individual to become a strong educational advocate for his or her child. MPACT mentors are screened and receive training and supervision from MPACT staff.

Click here to learn more information about the MPACT Mentor Program

Click here to fill out an application to become an MPACT Mentor

Click the links below to register for free online special education workshops.

The Art of Effective Advocacy

April 10 @ 9:00 am - 10:00 am CDT

Understanding ADHD

April 14 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm CDT

Understanding the IEP Process April 15 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm CDT

Understanding the IEP

April 17 @ 9:30 am - 11:30 am CDT

Special Education Law

April 17 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm CDT

Transitions -ECSE to Elementary

April 21 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm CDT

Be Determined

April 23 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am CDT

Dispute Resolution

April 23 @ 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm CDT

What is MPACT Webinar

April 24 @ 9:30 am - 11:30 am CDT

Transitions – Elementary to Middle School

April 28 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm CDT

Dispute Resolution

April 29 @ 9:30 am - 11:30 am CDT

Understanding the IEP Process

May 4 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm CDT

Understanding the Evaluation Process

May 5 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm CDT

Click here for a full list of upcoming webinars!

MPACT is funded in part or whole by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs Grant No. H328M090020-10. The contents of the website, however, and any documents cited herein do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S Department of Education.