Caregivers and care recipients develop unique rhythms and relationships. Sometimes, both need to press pause and reset. Pathways to Respite, an online booklet published by several Washington agencies, provides guidance Read More
Category: All Articles
This is a page listing in order of latest article written or recently updated. All articles are sorted by the topics above: Learning in School, Parent and Family, Health & Wellness and Youth. Use the drop-downs in each category to further sort and find articles. Or enter the topic in the Search bar above.
Help for Military Families: Tips to Navigate Special Education Process in Washington State
For families new to Washington State, this article includes state-specific information about special education systems. PAVE wants to extend a warm welcome to your entire family and to let you know Read More
Are There Changes to My and My Family’s Healthcare Due to Federal Legislation?
This article covers changes to health care eligibility and requirements to keep their healthcare for people who get their health care through Apple Health (Medicaid) and the WA Healthplan Finder Read More
Parent to Parent (P2P) Connects Caregivers Statewide for Support
A Brief Overview Parent to Parent (P2P) connects families to trained parent volunteers whose children also have disability conditions and special healthcare needs. The Arc of Washington provides a list of Read More
Self-Care is Critical for Caregivers with Unique Challenges
Caring for individuals with disabilities or complex medical needs can be emotionally and physically draining, making intentional self-care essential for long-term well-being. Simple practices like mindfulness, getting enough sleep, going Read More
Evaluations Part 1: Where to Start When a Student Needs Special Help at School
When a student is struggling in school and may have a disability, families can request a formal evaluation to explore eligibility for special education services. The process includes submitting a Read More
Evaluations Part 2: Next Steps if the School Says ‘No’
Families may feel uncertain or discouraged when a school denies a request for special education evaluation or finds a student ineligible for services. Fortunately, there are steps families can take Read More
PAVE Provides Sample Letters to Support Families in their Advocacy
PAVE offers a collection of downloadable sample letters, available in multiple languages, to help families advocate for their children’s educational needs. These letters support clear and effective communication between families Read More
Disability History Month Provides Opportunities for Reflection
The history of disability rights shows how people with disabilities have worked hard to get equitable access, fair treatment, and meaningful inclusion. Key laws and strong community voices have helped Read More
Sample Letter to Request a Functional Behavioral Assessment
Families can formally request a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) when a student’s behavior interferes with learning. This process helps schools identify the root causes of behavioral challenges and develop a Read More
Sample Letter to Request an IEP Meeting
Families can request an IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting at any time—not just during the annual review. A sample letter is available to help parents and guardians formally make this Read More
Sample Letter to Request Evaluation
Anyone with knowledge of a student may request a special education evaluation, and Washington State law requires that referrals be made in writing. Schools must respond within specific timelines and Read More
Childcare-What to Know When Your Child has a Disability
When a parent or family caregiver needs care for their child with a disability, finding safe, appropriate, and affordable care will be a priority. There are resources for children with Read More
Get Ready for School with IEP Essentials
Every student deserves a strong start to the school year. For families of children with disabilities, preparing for school includes reviewing the Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP is a Read More
School Support Plans for Deployment-Tips for Parents
When a military parent deploys, children—especially those with disabilities—may show changes in behavior, emotions, or learning. With the right support at home and school, these transitions can become opportunities to Read More