Naples Student Organizes Teddy Bear Toss to Support Children with Special Needs
Devyn Seidner was fascinated by the teddy bear toss she saw at a Florida Everblades ice hockey game at Hertz Arena in Estero. The heartwarming...
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A First-of-Its-Kind Collier County School Designed to Help Students with Autism
Autism Collier Charter School opens August 2025 with a 3:1 student-to-teacher ratio, after-school care, clubs, and programs designed for children with autism. Tuition free and life-changing for families in Collier County.
Read ArticleCollier County Public School Board Approves Autism Collier Charter School in Naples
Autism Collier Charter School is committed to providing an innovative learning atmosphere where students with autism are the primary focus.
Read ArticleA Grandparent’s Guide to Supporting Neurodiverse Grandchildren with Love and Patience
The role of grandparents in families with children with special needs cannot be underestimated. Here is a guide for how to support neurodiverse grandchildren.
Read ArticleTop Playgrounds With Shade in Collier and Lee Counties
Discover the coolest playgrounds in the Naples and Fort Myers area From castle-like structures to pirate ships and dino digs, explore inclusive designs with shade canopies & equipment for kids with special needs.
Read ArticleA Local Teen’s Dedication to Children With Special Needs Through Her Love of Horses
Lucie Norman loves horses and loves children with special needs. She combines her passions with her volunteer work at a local riding center.
Read ArticleMeet Fourth Grader Christopher Arellano Who Is Inspiring Inclusivity
Christopher Arellano is helping special needs children feel less isolated.
Read ArticleOnce Upon a Summer: Naples Author Kelle Hampton helps families of all abilities to plan an unplanned summer
New York Times bestselling author and Naples Mom Kelle Hampton gives us permission to be both a parent who loves summer and makes efforts to create fun and a parent who’s raising a white flag three days in.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Michelle Turchetta
Born and raised in Florida, Michelle Turchetta’s career in education and business has prepared her to champion the underserved members of our community as area director for Easterseals Florida, Inc.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Michelle Crombie
Meet the Mom who directs Buddy Break, the monthly program that provides an evening of respite for parents of special needs families.
Read ArticleIs Overnight Camp Right for your Kids?
Several local families have shared their overnight camp experiences with us, and the parents all agree that overnight camp has fostered confidence and independence in their children.
Read ArticlePlanning for the Future When Your Child Has Special Needs
Norell Albanis, an Estate Planning Attorney, helps you plan for the future while keeping your child with special needs in mind.
Read ArticleCollier County Deputies Receive Special Training for Encounters with People with Autism
Have you ever wondered how your child with autism might fare during a conversation with a deputy, firefighter, or medic if you weren’t there to facilitate?
Read ArticleTaking Flight With Sensory Issues
Anna Snyder helps parents learn tools to navigate air travel with children on the autism spectrum or with other sensory disorders through personal stories and expert advice.
Read ArticleKidzAct to Offer Sensory Friendly Theater Classes and Performances
The Naples Players believes that every member of our community deserves access to high-quality arts education and performance. KidzAct’s new programs are just the beginning of their initiative to serve an even wider base of the community.
Read ArticleFamily Law Issues for Children With Special Needs in Divorce
All married couples face the possibility of divorce and the presence of a child with special needs will add an element to any divorce case that must be addressed.
Read ArticleAdvice on Testing for Learning Disabilities and Gifted Identification
Advice on getting your child tested for learning disabilities and gifted identification by a private psychologist.
Read ArticleCruising with Autism on the Seas: Making Vacations Happen for Families with Special Needs
The organization Autism on the Seas helps make travel and vacations possible for families with special needs.
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