Help your child reach their potential.
The following list includes resources that will help you help your child reach their potential, introduce supports for caregivers and assist you in mapping out your ongoing planning needs.
Education
IFSP: What It Is and How It Works: Learn about the basics of an individualized family service plan.
What Are Your Rights in the IEP Process? Understand your child’s and family’s rights when developing an individualized education program.
SERR – Special Education Rights and Responsibilities: This manual explains how to become eligible for special education, how to request and advocate for special education services, and what to do if you disagree with school districts.
Public Services
Regional Centers: California has 21 community-based, nonprofit agencies that provide services for people with developmental disabilities.
San Diego Regional Center: Any resident of San Diego or Imperial County who is believed to have a developmental disability may apply for services here.
Understood: This nonprofit organization is “dedicated to shaping a world where millions of people who learn and think differently can thrive at home, at school, and at work.”
Mental Health Services Eligibility: Get the details on eligibility for San Diego County-funded public mental health services.
Finances and Law
Self-Assessment: We designed this brief checklist to help you accelerate the process of planning for the future.
Battaglia & Waltari: This San Diego law firm has expertise in special needs trusts, estate planning, wills and trusts, guardianships, conservatorships and probate law.
Ticket to Work Program: Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program supports career development for Social Security disability beneficiaries age 18 through 64 who want to work. The Ticket Program is free and helps people with disabilities progress toward financial independence.
Books
“Planning for the Future: Providing a Meaningful Life for a Child With a Disability After Your Death,” by L. Mark Russell and Arnold E. Grant
“The Complete Guide to Creating a Special Needs Life Plan,” by Hal Wright
To help embrace neurodiversity and foster inclusion:
“The Mouth With a Mind of Its Own,” by Patricia L. Mervine, illustrated by Nayan Soni
“Giraffes Can’t Dance,” by Giles Andreae, illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees
Publications
To help you with local resources:“Flourishing Families Parent Resource Guide for Families with Special Needs,” by San Diego Family Magazine
Learn more from our blog!
New Year, New Tax Considerations: What You Need to Know Before Filing Your 2025 Taxes
The 2025 tax season brings meaningful rule changes—from higher deductions to new credits and reporting requirements—that could significantly impact how you plan, file and save.
How to Have Family Conversations About Money
Avoiding money conversations can lead to stress and confusion. Talking openly about family finances can strengthen relationships and protect your financial future.
Business Exit Strategies on Your Terms
If you’re a business owner, you’ll eventually step away from the company you’ve built. You might cash out to the highest bidder or work out a deal to sell the business to the next generation of your family or even to employees. The question is will you be able to make this transition on your own terms? The reality is that most business owners don’t have a clear, documented exit plan. And if you find yourself among them, you could find it leaves you in a tight spot when it’s time for you to step down.
If opportunity doesn’t
knock, build a door.
