Family Education
FEELING LOST? WE’RE HERE TO HELP
Every child has a fundamental human right to healthcare, education, and self-advocacy. Children with special needs have additional federally protected rights to inclusive education and healthcare access, regardless of income level. While we cannot provide behavioral intervention or support to every child in the North Idaho area, our Family Education services aim to bridge that gap for families outside of our direct intervention services.
Whether you’re beginning the diagnosis process or you need guidance advocating for your child, we can help answer your questions and guide you in the right direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS FAMILY EDUCATION?
Family Education is a Medicaid-based support service for families of children who have been approved for developmental disability services through Idaho Children’s Developmental Disabilities program. This education is provided by a certified behavior intervention provider to family members or unpaid caregivers who serve a primary role in caring for the child. In family education, we identify the behavioral needs outlined in a child’s plan of service and provide intervention strategies specific to the child’s diagnosis.
WHAT IS THE KATIE BECKETT PROGRAM?
Katie Beckett is a Medicaid program for children living at home with long-term disabilities or complex medical needs. Even if your family income is above Medicaid federal poverty guidelines, your child may still be eligible for Medicaid services under the Katie Beckett program.
For additional information on the Children’s Developmental Disability Program in Idaho, please visit the following Idaho Department of Health and Welfare pages:
WHERE CAN I GET HELP WITH LOCAL ADVOCACY AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT?
Idaho Parents Unlimited (IPUL) is a statewide organization dedicated to educating families on the rights and protections their children are legally entitled to under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Examples of resources IPUL can provide include:
Autism Society North Idaho is a local nonprofit dedicated to providing social support groups for autistic tweens and adults, as well as separate support groups for parents. They are also an information resource for parents to understand their child’s individual needs, strengths, and rights in the school system and beyond.
Schedule a Consultation
We recognize the challenge of navigating these systems and identifying resources specific to your child. If you’ve perused the above information and still have questions, please use the link before to schedule a 15- to 30-minute consultation with our Clinical Supervisor, Cathy Kowalski, M.Ed., BCBA.