SharonKingWorldWide May Newsletter

Dear Phenomenal Parents, Advocates, and Caregivers,

As we step into the month of May, we are reminded that growth doesn’t always look loud it often shows up in quiet progress, small wins, and the resilience you demonstrate daily. Raising and supporting a child with special needs requires strength, patience, and unwavering love.

This month, we honor you. We see you advocating, showing up, and pushing forward even on the hard days. And that matters more than words can express.

With summer approaching, preparation is key not just for our children, but for our own well being too. Whether you’re looking for structured activities, therapeutic support, or simply a safe space for your child to grow and thrive, there are resources available to support your journey. Planning ahead can help reduce stress and create meaningful, enriching experiences for your child during the summer months.

Below are trusted resources, summer camps, and parent training opportunities designed to support children with special needs and their families:

🌟

Resources for Special Needs Children & Families

• Autism Speaks
  Offers toolkits, local resources, and support for families navigating autism.
• Understood.org
  Provides expert advice, personalized resources, and tools for children with ADHD and learning differences.
• The Arc
  Supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through advocacy and programs.
• Wrightslaw
  A powerful resource for understanding IEPs, 504 plans, and your legal rights as a parent.
• CHADD
  Offers education, advocacy, and support specifically for children with ADHD and their families.

☀️

Summer Camps for Children with Special Needs

In-Person Camps:

• Easterseals Summer Camps
  Nationwide inclusive camps focusing on skill-building and social interaction.
• YMCA Inclusive Summer Programs
  Many locations offer adaptive programs for children with diverse needs.
• Special Needs Network
  Local LA-based programs and summer opportunities for children with developmental disabilities.

💻 Online Summer Camps:

• Outschool
  Offers interactive virtual classes tailored to different learning styles, including neurodiverse learners.
• Connected Camps
  Focuses on social connection, gaming, and collaboration in a safe online environment.

🎓

Parent Training & Support (Online)

• Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIs)
  Free training on special education rights, advocacy, and navigating school systems.
• Child Mind Institute
  Offers webinars, guides, and resources on behavior, mental health, and parenting strategies.
• Positive Parenting Program
  Evidence-based online parenting courses for managing behavior and building strong relationships.

This month, I encourage you to give yourself permission to prepare but also to pause. You don’t have to have everything figured out. Progress over perfection will always be enough. Take breaks when needed, ask for help without hesitation, and remember that building a support system is not a weakness it’s a strategy.

Closing Thoughts:

At SharonKingWorldWide, our mission remains the same: to empower, uplift, and provide resources that help our children thrive and our families feel supported. You are not alone in this journey and you never will be.

Let’s continue to move with intention, advocate with courage, and lead with love.

With Love, Gratitude and Appreciation,
Sharon Mae King
Founder & CEO, SharonKingWorldWide