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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 18h

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

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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

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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

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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 · 03/09/2026

Bay County families, join FND POPIN for Breakfast, Bytes & Books on Sept. 5 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in Lynn Haven. This free event brings together stories, creativity, technology and family learning for Pre-K through 5th grade. Learn more at app.smore.com/n/c4gwr #DisabilitySupport #FamilyLearning

app.smore.com

BBB w/FND PTC Glenesha Milner

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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

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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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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Returning to school can impact a child’s emotional health. New schedules, academic stress, & peer pressure all play a role. Parents & caregivers can help by creating calm routines and offering a listening ear. Learn more at: mhanational.org/back-to-scho... #BackToSchool2025 #MentalHealthMatters

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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

Getting ready for a new school year? FND shares practical back-to-school tips to help families of children with disabilities prepare for new routines, get organized, and connect with their school team. youtube.com/shorts/Mbjl0... #BackToSchool #FamilySupport

youtube.com

Back-to-School Tips

Back-to-school season can bring excitement and stress, especially for families of children with special needs. In this short video, we share helpful tips to support a smoother transition for both…

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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

August is SMA Awareness Month. SMA affects motor nerve cells and can affect breathing, eating, crawling, and walking. We recognize people living with SMA, as well as the families and caregivers who support them. www.curesma.org/sma-awarenes... #SMAAwarenessMonth #CureSMA

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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

August is Psoriasis Action Month. Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated disease, not a contagious condition. Learn the signs, ask questions, and talk with a health care provider about skin or joint concerns. #PsoriasisActionMonth #ThisIsPsoriasis

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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

Add dental checkups to your family’s back-to-school checklist. This short video offers tips for preparing a child with a disability for a dental visit, including visual supports, practice, comfort items, and communication with the dental office. #DentalHealth #BackToSchool

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Family Network on Disabilities @fndfl.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month. Add a vision screening to your child’s back-to-school checklist and talk with a health care provider about squinting, frequent blinking, head tilting, or avoiding reading. #ChildrensEyeHealth #EyeSafety

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