SPAN Parent Advocacy Network

March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! This month, SPAN and NACDD are committed to raising awareness about accessibility and the barriers people with developmental disabilities continue to face. The month also highlights how people with disabilities are breaking barriers and building stronger, more accessible communities. Learn more: https://nacdd.org/ #DevelopmentalDisability #DevelopmentalDisabilityAwareness #DisabilityAwareness #SPAN

Even though we’ve made strides in labor rights over the years, many disabled workers in the U.S. are still caught in an unfair system. Outdated policies, like subminimum wage laws and restrictive social security programs, keep many disabled folks stuck in poverty, unable to achieve economic independence. But, there is a business case to be made for ethical practices and ending this ableist legacy of exploitation, according to this article from Fast Company. https://lnkd.in/emPhfQ-W #WorkplaceWednesday #DisabilityInclusion #DisabilityRights

The NJ Department of Human Services, in partnership with the Motor Vehicle Commission and the Office of the Attorney General, has launched the driver’s license/State ID designation for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and/or a communication disorder and accompanying law enforcement guidance. Learn more and apply here: https://lnkd.in/eRTWhwAx

TransitionTuesday… Building friendships as an adult can be challenging and having a disability can add unique barriers. But, meaningful connections are possible. These five tips offer practical ways to navigate social situations and foster new friendships: [https://lnkd.in/e7ca5A37]) #DisabilityAwareness #BullyingPrevention #SPAN #BeInformed

#MilestoneMonday... Skills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving “bye-bye” are called developmental milestones. Children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, act, and move. Visit https://lnkd.in/e7Nykuvf to track your child’s milestones and don’t forget to download the CDC’s FREE Milestones Tracker App. #ActEarly #BeInformed #MilestonesMatter #ChildhoodDevelopment #Infant

Today is #SELday, a global grassroots campaign for social-emotional learning to support children’s academic performance, mental health, and well-being. Research shows that students with strong social and emotional skills are better prepared for future careers. Since its inception in 2020, #SELday has reached over 40 million views. Learn more: https://selday.org/ #SELWeek #SkillsforSuccess #ReadyfortheFuture #SEL

At Span, we recognize Zero Discrimination Day every day by fostering a world where belonging is the standard and all forms of discrimination are eliminated. Discrimination can stem from age, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, language, class, homelessness status, geographic location, involvement in the child welfare or juvenile justice systems, or health status—but we are committed to creating a space where everyone is valued and differences are embraced. Let’s continue working toward a more inclusive future together! #ZeroDiscriminationDay #Advocacy #Equality #HumanRights #Activism #Discrimination

Today is Self-Injury Awareness Day. About 17% of people will self-harm at some point in their lives. Raising awareness and advocating for mental health support is crucial in addressing the root causes of self-harm. By fostering understanding and promoting resources, we can help those struggling to find healthier coping mechanisms and the support they deserve. If you or someone you know needs support, text CONNECT to 741741 for free, confidential help. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gkQhDbx #MentalHealthMatters #MentalHealthAwareness #Advocacy #SelfInjuryAwarenessDay #EndTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone

We're excited for #SELDay on Monday and #SELWeek all next week, March 3-7. #SEL is preparation for future success! By supporting students’ social and emotional skills, they develop: -Curiosity -Relationship-building -Ability to consider other perspectives -Conflict resolution -Much more! To learn more and discover how you can participate, visit: https://selday.org/ #FamilyEngagementFriday #StrongerTogether #SchoolCommunity #NJFEHUB #StudentSuccess

This means that programs for low-income families like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), SNAP (food stamps), child care support and Head Start, and Medicaid are critically important for families of children with disabilities. #DidYouKnowThursday #ProtectMedicaid #SaveHeadStart