Baby LEADers: Empowering Families with Children Facing Developmental Challenges
The Parents’ Place of Maryland (PPMD) is offering an invaluable resource for families navigating the challenges of caring for young children with diagnosed or suspected disabilities. The Baby LEADers program is a free, five-week virtual course designed specifically for families with children aged five and younger who are dealing with developmental delays or disabilities. The initiative aims to cultivate a supportive environment where parents can learn about their rights and gain advocacy skills crucial for navigating educational and healthcare systems.
Kristen Paul, director of Early Childhood Programs at PPMD, emphasizes the importance of empowering parents through education. “The Baby LEADers program is structured to help families understand the resources available to them and equip them with the tools needed to advocate effectively for their children. This not only benefits the individual families but also fosters a community of engaged advocates for children with disabilities,” Paul notes.
One of the program’s graduates, LaToyia Newman-Gross, participated in the Baby LEADers course in 2022. Her experience highlights the program’s impact on building a sense of community among participants. Newman-Gross expressed gratitude for the connections she formed, stating, “Finding others who relate to your journey is invaluable. The support and shared experiences helped me feel less isolated and more empowered to seek the best for my child.”
The Baby LEADers program utilizes a blend of virtual meetings and interactive sessions, making it accessible to a wide range of participants regardless of geographical location. Families engage in discussions about various topics, including understanding developmental milestones, accessing early intervention services, and navigating the complexities of special education laws.
For those interested in participating, applications for the upcoming cohort of Baby LEADers are due on Friday, January 24th. This course represents not just an educational opportunity but a chance to build lasting relationships and gain confidence as advocates for their children.
For more details on the Baby LEADers program, including application information, families can visit the PLACEHOLDER8ca4d29681d1ed8b or follow PPMD on their PLACEHOLDER43f3b75b649b30e2. The effort to provide families with critical support and information serves as a fundamental step towards fostering an inclusive community where every child can thrive.
