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Family Network on Disabilities

@fndfl.bsky.social
72 followers 7 following 573 posts

FND is a Florida grassroots organization for persons with disabilities and their families that is family-centered and family-driven. www.FNDUSA.org

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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 09/10/2026
Flooding and severe weather are affecting parts of Florida. Know your flood risk, have a plan, follow evacuation instructions, and move to safety early. Never drive or walk through floodwater or around barricades. www.floridadisaster.org/weather/haza.... #FloodSafety #FloridaWeather
FND-branded infographic titled “Flood Safety Tips for Florida Families.” It lists eight reminders: know your flood risk, make a family emergency plan, evacuate if told, move to a safe area before roads are cut off, never drive or walk through floodwater, do not go around barricades, keep children away from floodwater, and stay updated with local emergency and weather information. The graphic includes simple safety icons, rain and floodwater illustrations, palm trees, homes, and the Family Network on Disabilities logo. Source: FloridaDisaster.org.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 09/10/2026
Tropical Storm Isaias is a reminder to check your hurricane plan. FND’s short video shares tips for emergency supplies, water, pets, and family preparedness. Watch, save, and share, and follow official weather updates. #HurricanePreparedness #FloridaFamilies
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 09/10/2026
FND was proud to join the FCC 13 Family Empowerment Day on Oct. 3. Soren Richardson represented PEN and PSN, connecting with families and sharing information about FND programs and resources. #FloridaFamilies #ParentResources #DisabilityResources
Photo of Soren Richardson standing behind an FND information table at the FCC 13 Family Empowerment Day. The table displays Family Network on Disabilities materials, brochures, resource flyers, pens, and other informational items. An FND banner is displayed behind the table.Photo of a presentation screen at the FCC 13 Family Empowerment Conference displaying a “Thank You Vendors!” slide. FND FL is listed among the participating vendors, along with the Florida Center for Inclusive Communities, Florida Voices for Health Advocacy Collaborative, and Harmony Living Health Care.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
October is ADHD Awareness Month. Greater understanding can help challenge misconceptions and create more supportive schools, workplaces, homes, and communities for people with ADHD. What do you wish more people understood about ADHD? #ADHDAwareness #Neurodiversity
Graphic for National ADHD Awareness Month in October. An orange silhouette of a child’s head appears inside a black circle, with a white awareness ribbon near the top of the head. Below, large black and orange text reads, “National ADHD Awareness Month October.”
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
Last day for Prime Deals! Check out FND’s list of products that may support accessibility, independence, sensory needs, communication, and daily living. fndusa.org/blog/amazon-... #Accessibility #DisabilityResources
A mother leans over her daughter as they use a laptop together at a table. The child points toward the computer while the mother guides her, suggesting they are browsing or shopping online together.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
FND and Project 10 are hosting The Road to Graduation, a free 6-part Zoom series for families covering diploma pathways, accommodations, transition planning, and college and career readiness. Starts Oct. 21 at 1 p.m. EST. bit.ly/4hoRdFK. #SpecialEducation #TransitionPlanning
Flyer for “The Road to Graduation,” a free six-part virtual webinar series from Project 10 Transition Education Network and Family Network on Disabilities. The flyer features a smiling graduate in a wheelchair wearing a black cap and gown and holding a diploma. Sessions are held on Zoom at 1:00 p.m. EST. Dates and topics are: Oct. 21, 2026, Getting Started: Navigating the Road to Graduation; Nov. 18, Understanding Standard Diploma Pathways; Dec. 16, Courses, Accommodations, Assessments & Diploma Designations; Jan. 20, 2027, Planning Beyond the Diploma: Deferral & College/Career Readiness; Feb. 17, Tools for the Journey: Graduation and Transition Resources for Families; and March 17, Putting It All Together: A Family Roadmap to Graduation. Registration is available through a QR code or at bit.ly/4hoRdFK. The webinars are free and will not be recorded.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 06/10/2026
FND created a Prime Deals guide featuring products that may support accessibility, independence, sensory needs, communication, safety, and daily living. #Accessibility #IndependentLiving Explore it: fndusa.org/blog/amazon-.... FND is not sponsored by Amazon.
FND graphic titled “What to Buy During Prime Deals for Accessibility and Independence.” The image lists suggested shopping categories under two sections. Accessibility includes communication, mobility, sensory supports, and learning and education. Independence includes smart home technology, home and kitchen items, personal care and health, and organization and daily living. The FND Family Network on Disabilities logo appears in the upper right.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 05/10/2026
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Let’s celebrate people with Down syndrome and continue building schools, workplaces, and communities where everyone has opportunities to participate, contribute, and belong. #DownSyndromeAwareness #Disability #OctoberAwareness
Graphic recognizing October as Down Syndrome Awareness Month. A blue and yellow awareness ribbon appears on the left. On the right, large blue and yellow text reads, “October Down Syndrome Awareness Month.” Yellow and blue curved shapes decorate the top left and bottom right corners.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Tickets are on sale for the 10th Annual Connecting the Dots Conference! Friday, October 16, 2026 | 8:30 AM–3:30 PM The Schultz Center, Jacksonville Join us for sessions, expert presenters, agency connections, and practical family takeaways. Register early: www.eventbrite.com/e/10th-annua...
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Need a quick IEP overview? This short animated video covers goals, services, accommodations, progress updates, transition planning, and how parents can participate in their child’s IEP team. #IEP #SpecialEducation #ParentResources
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Planning for life after high school? FND will be at the Transition Resource Fair at Palm Beach State College on Oct. 7 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Families can explore resources for education, employment, independent living, and more. fndusa.org/event/palm-b... #TransitionPlanning #DisabilityResources
A young man with Down syndrome and a woman stand at a Palm Beach State College resource table speaking with college representatives. The young man holds an informational brochure while smiling and talking with a staff member. Other attendees and resource tables are visible in the background.Flyer for a free Transition Resource Fair supporting families of children with disabilities ages 12 to 22 as they prepare for life after high school, including education, employment, independent living, and community involvement. Events are scheduled for September 30, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Palm Beach State College’s Loxahatchee Campus, Room LGA 139, and October 7, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Lake Worth Campus, Room PSD 108. Logos for the School District of Palm Beach County, Exceptional Student Education, and Palm Beach State College appear at the bottom.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Central Florida families, the Family Care Council Area 13 Family Empowerment Conference is this Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Clermont City Center. Free admission, family connections, guest speakers, and community resources. #FamilySupport #DevelopmentalDisabilities
Free Family Empowerment Conference by Family Care Council Area 13 for parents and caregivers of children or adults with developmental disabilities offering connection, learning and resources — Saturday, Oct 3, 2026, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Clermont City Center.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
FND CEO Richard La Belle is in Texas, presenting at the National Association of State Directors of Special Education conference about Parent Training and Information Centers and their role in supporting families. #SpecialEducation #ParentSupport
FND CEO Richard La Belle speaks during a conference panel presentation. A large screen behind the panel displays a slide titled “Parent Training and Information Centers,” with information about IDEA funding, Community Parent Resource Centers, nonprofit parent organizations, and board membership requirements. Other panelists are seated nearby.FND CEO Richard La Belle speaks at a conference podium wearing a suit, tie, glasses, and conference lanyard. He gestures with one hand while speaking into a microphone during his presentation.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
Join FND on Oct. 17 for our Open House and 2026 Academic Summit in Clearwater. Come for food, games, info, learning, resources, and connection. RSVP: bit.ly/2026FNDOpenH.... #DisabilityResouces #DisabilitySupport
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 26/09/2026
Bullying at school can be especially challenging for children with disabilities. This FND Tips for Families video shares practical steps for working with the school to support your child. #BullyingPrevention #SpecialEducation
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 26/09/2026
Public school or private school? This month on the FND PEN Podcast, Luz and Aileen share their personal experiences and the factors they considered when choosing a school setting for their children. Listen: app.smore.com/n/hqw2z-pen. #SpecialEducation #ParentPodcast
Promotional graphic for “RealTalk with FND” featuring a podcast microphone background and text inviting listeners to join hosts Luz and Aileen for conversations about disability stigma, special education in Florida, and parent support. The lower section shows a light box reading “New Podcast Episode” surrounded by podcast equipment, headphones, a keyboard, notebook, coffee cup, and plant.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
FND is sharing a new Autism Society resource for families concerned about wandering. The toolkit includes rail safety guidance, emergency planning, identification tools, and prevention strategies. autismsociety.org/wp-content/u... #Autism #Safety
Promotional graphic for the Autism Society’s “Safety on the Spectrum” Safety Toolkit on rail safety and wandering. A young boy lies on the floor playing with a red toy train. A purple text box reads, “Safety Toolkit: Rail Safety and Wandering,” with the Autism Society and CN logos at the bottom.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Florida is implementing Workforce Pell, which expands Pell Grant funding for eligible short-term career training programs that lead to recognized credentials and in-demand jobs. Learn more: www.fldoe.org/academics/ca.... #CareerEducation #WorkforcePell
Florida Department of Education graphic promoting Workforce Pell Grant funding. The image shows a person wearing a welding helmet while working, illuminated by a bright blue welding light. Large text reads, “Get Paid to Train,” with smaller text below stating, “with Workforce Pell grant funding.”
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
FND POPIN spent the weekend with future early childhood educators at the College of Central Florida, sharing personal stories, answering questions, and talking about the family perspective. We loved seeing so many future educators ready to listen and learn. #EarlyChildhoodEducation #FutureEducators
FND staff member leads a classroom training while participants sit at tables listening and reviewing printed materials. Notebooks, handouts, water bottles, and other supplies are spread across the tables, with educational posters displayed on the classroom walls.Group photo of FND staff and training participants gathered in a classroom. Several people are seated at tables with notebooks and materials while others stand behind them, all facing the camera. Educational posters and classroom displays are visible on the walls.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
This Motivation Monday, we are celebrating disability representation. “Love on the Spectrum” won the Emmy for Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program, along with awards for casting and editing. #MotivationMonday #Autism
Promotional image for Netflix’s “Love on the Spectrum” showing four smiling cast members in separate portrait panels. The title “Love on the Spectrum” appears across the bottom of the image.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
SSI and Social Security benefits could increase in 2027. The current estimate is a 3.5% COLA, but the official increase will not be announced until October. #SSI #SocialSecurity
Close-up photo of a Social Security benefits form on a desk with a black fountain pen and a pair of eyeglasses resting above it. The words “Social Security Benefits” are prominently displayed on the document.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
Preparing for the move from Early Steps to preschool special education? FND shares tips to help families plan for the transition and understand the supports and services their child may need. #EarlySteps #Preschool #SpecialEducation #ParentResources
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
Preparing for a conversation with your child’s school? FND is sharing this CADRE resource with practical communication strategies for families and school teams. Read more at cadreworks.org/resources/ca... #SpecialEducation #ParentResources
A family with two young children sits across a table from a professional during a meeting. The adults are smiling and engaged in conversation while a laptop sits open between them, suggesting a school, support, or family planning meeting.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
FND PSN spent Saturday at the MCR Health Fair in Arcadia, connecting with families, answering questions, and sharing resources. We love getting out into Florida communities and meeting families face-to-face. Where should FND visit next? #FloridaFamilies #ParentSupport
FND Parent Support Network (PSN) Parent Training Coordinator Jeanne Petit stands beside an FND PSN information table at a community resource event. The table displays FND and PSN branding, brochures, flyers, a laptop, and a sign with a QR code. Other community organizations and attendees are visible at booths in the background.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
FND POPIN spent the weekend connecting with families at Family Fun Day at the Tallahassee Automobile Museum. We loved sharing resources, answering questions, and meeting families in person. Keep following FND to see where FND POPIN will be next. #POPIN #FloridaFamilies
Family Network on Disabilities POPIN information table at an outdoor community event. The table is set up under a blue canopy with FND and POPIN branding, informational materials, QR codes, and a laptop. Families and representatives from other community organizations are gathered at booths across the grassy event area.Outdoor community event booth where several adults are gathered around a small animal enclosure under a canopy. A staff member speaks with attendees while an animal rests inside the pen. A table in the foreground holds informational materials, hand sanitizer, and a green tote bag.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
Do you know about FND's event mailing list? Get updates about upcoming workshops, webinars, family activities, and community events delivered to your inbox. Join the list and stay connected: mailchi.mp/fndfl.org/fn... #FloridaFamilies #ParentResources
A hand draws a black envelope beside the handwritten words “Mailing List” on a white background. The FND Family Network on Disabilities logo appears in the lower right corner.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Today, we remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and honor the families, survivors, first responders, and communities forever changed by that day. We will never forget. #September11 #NeverForget
9/11 remembrance graphic featuring an American flag against a darkened background. White text reads, “9.11.2001. We will never forget,” followed by the quote, “If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate.” attributed to Sandy Dahl.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Reading together can help children strengthen literacy skills while creating meaningful family time. FND shares practical strategies for building strong reading foundations and encouraging a love of reading. #Literacy #ReadingSkills #ParentResources
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Accessible fire alarms can include both audible and visible notifications. This ADA National Network fact sheet explains requirements for different spaces and accessible alarm pull stations. adata.org/d7/doc/fire-... #ADA #FireSafety
Close-up photo of a red wall-mounted fire alarm pull station with instructions reading “Push In, Pull Down.” The alarm is mounted indoors beside a dark window or glass panel, with the background softly blurred.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
The Opportunity Center is helping Central Florida adults with disabilities build skills, volunteer, and prepare for employment. More than 130 people participate in its adult training program. Read the full article: www.wesh.com/article/oppo.... #DisabilityEmployment #CentralFlorida
WESH 2 news graphic showing several people working together at tables in a warehouse or production setting. Large text reads, “Opportunity Center recognized for empowering individuals with disabilities in Central Florida.” The WESH 2 logo appears at the top.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
“Being Heumann,” a new film about disability rights leader Judy Heumann and the historic 1977 Section 504 sit-in, is coming to theaters on Nov. 6 and to Apple TV on Nov. 13. #DisabilityHistory #JudyHeum
Scene from a film showing a woman using a wheelchair in the middle of a city street with both arms raised. Several people around her also have their hands raised as they face a large vehicle stopped in front of them, suggesting a protest or demonstration.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Happy Labor Day from our FND family to yours. Today, we recognize the parents, caregivers, educators, professionals, and community partners whose work helps strengthen families and communities across Florida. #LaborDay #FloridaFamilies #DisabilityCommunity
Labor Day graphic from Family Network on Disabilities showing a child sitting on an adult’s shoulders while holding a small American flag. The FND logo appears in the upper right. Text at the bottom reads, “Happy Labor Day. From our FND family to yours.”
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
FND PEN spent last weekend connecting with families at Miami-Dade’s largest disability resource fair of the year. Want to know where FND will be next? Join our email list or check upcoming events at fndusa.org #FloridaFamilies #DisabilityResources
Photo of the Family Network on Disabilities booth at a busy community resource fair. An FND table in the foreground features a “Coffee is Brewing, Come Chat, Connect, and Share with Us!” banner, coffee service, informational materials, and QR codes. FND staff are seated nearby speaking with attendees while families, organizations, and resource tables fill the event space in the background.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
IEP or 504 Plan? We break down a few of the key differences in under one minute. Both can support students with disabilities, but they serve different purposes. Learn more: fndusa.org/IEPvs504 #IEP #504Plan #SpecialEducation
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
IEP or 504 Plan? FND’s new resource compares eligibility, supports, goals, reviews, and more. Good grades do not automatically prevent a student from qualifying for either one. Find out more at fndusa.org/IEPvs504. #SpecialEducation #IEP #504Plan
FND educational resource titled “504 Plan / IEP: What’s the Difference?” comparing IEPs and 504 Plans for students with disabilities. The chart explains differences in purpose, eligibility, supports, goals, and review. IEPs provide individualized special education under IDEA and may include yearly goals, related services, accommodations, and progress tracking. 504 Plans provide accommodations and access protections under Section 504 and typically do not include annual goals. A reminder notes that good grades do not prevent a student from qualifying for either plan. More information is available at FNDUSA.org/IEPvs504.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
LA28 is preparing for L.A.’s first Paralympic Games in 2028. The goal is bigger than competition: better access and a stronger experience for athletes and fans with disabilities. #Paralympics #LA28 Read the article: www.paralympic.org/news/la28-pa...
Graphic promoting the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games with a photo of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum under a blue sky. Large text reads “Mark Your Calendar,” with the Olympic Opening Ceremony listed as July 14, 2028, and the Paralympic Opening Ceremony as August 15, 2028. The LA28 Olympic and Paralympic logos appear in the upper right.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
Do you know about FND's event mailing list? Get updates about upcoming workshops, webinars, family activities, and community events delivered to your inbox. Join the list and stay connected: mailchi.mp/fndfl.org/fn... #FloridaFamilies #ParentResources
A hand draws a black envelope beside the handwritten words “Mailing List” on a white background. The FND Family Network on Disabilities logo appears in the lower right corner.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 28/08/2026
Lyft removed the personal payment requirement for eligible riders on its Medicaid-funded Lyft Pass, which could help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who lack bank accounts or credit cards. #Medicaid #DisabilityResources #TransportationAccess
A young person wearing a blue jacket and red shirt sits buckled into the back seat of a car. They are leaning back and looking out the side window toward a sunny street with trees, buildings, and parked vehicles.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 28/08/2026
New diagnosis? You don’t have to go it alone. FND is here to help — resources, answers, and support all over Florida. #CaregiverSupport #DisabilitySupport #ParentSupport #SupportForFamilies
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 26/08/2026
A national autism-specific missing person alert system is in development. The initiative aims to improve coordination, first responder preparedness, search practices, and safety efforts related to wandering. The alert is not active yet. #AutismSafety #WanderingPrevention
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
Social media may be helping teens discover careers in the skilled trades. Videos can spark interest, but families can help teens take the next step by exploring apprenticeships, certifications, training programs, and other pathways. #CareerExploration #CTE #TransitionPlanning
Four teenagers sitting on outdoor steps, laughing and sharing smartphone screens as they scroll and show each other content, enjoying a moment of friendship.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
A Pennsylvania school bus is becoming a mobile sensory room for Head Start students ages 3 to 5. With calming lights, sensory toys, quiet spaces, and more, it will help children practice managing big emotions and focusing on learning. #SensorySupport #SensoryFriendly #EarlyChildhood
Image description: The inside of a school bus has been transformed into a sensory-friendly space for children. Blue padded mats cover the floor and lower walls, with small couches, child-sized tables and chairs, toys, sensory materials, and glowing fiber-optic lights throughout the space. Colorful light patterns and small green dots are projected across the ceiling, creating a calming atmosphere. Large bus windows on both sides bring in natural light and views of trees outside.
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
Books can help children name big feelings, discover healthy coping strategies, build empathy, and feel less alone. FND is sharing book ideas for younger readers and ages 8 to 12 that can support self-regulation and social-emotional development. #SelfRegulation #ChildDevelopment
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 20/08/2026
Hurricane season is here. Make sure your family is informed, prepared, and safe with these essential tips. From water storage to pet safety, small actions now can make a big difference later. Watch and share. #HurricanePreparedness #HurricaneTips #FamilySafetyTips #HurricaneSeason2026
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 20/08/2026
August is National Immunization Awareness Month. Talk with a trusted health care provider about recommended vaccines for your family. Learn more from the CDC: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/php... #PublicHealth #ImmunizationAwarenessMonth #FamilySafety
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
Meta is funding organizations exploring how AI glasses could support people with disabilities, from documenting accessibility barriers to providing workplace guidance and campus support. What do you think about this? #Accessibility #AssistiveTechnology #Disability #AI
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
Families are invited to FND’s Open House and 2026 Academic Summit on Oct. 17 in Clearwater. Join us for connection, resources, learning, food, and games. Save your spot: bit.ly/2026FNDOpenH... #FamilySupport #SpecialEducation
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday ends Aug. 20. Before it wraps up, consider qualifying school supplies, backpacks, clothing, shoes, headphones, tablets, computers and learning aids your child may need this year. Full guide: floridarevenue.com/taxes/tips/D... #BackToSchool #FloridaFamilies
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 14/08/2026
Back-to-school safety check: Is your child’s IEP emergency-ready? Review communication, medical, sensory, mobility, transportation, and reunification needs with the IEP team. #FamilyNetworkOnDisabilities #IEP #SpecialEducation #BackToSchool #SchoolSafety #ParentResources #FloridaFamilies
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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
As routines shift with the return to school, take a moment for yourself. Caregivers often give their all. Let this be your reminder to pause, regroup, and seek support if needed. Tips for self-care and support: www.nia.nih.gov/health/careg... #CaregiverSupport #BackToSchool#ParentingSupport
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