South Dakota Parent Connection

02/13/2026

Parent Support Group

This Christian-based support group for parents and caregivers of individuals with special needs meets weekly on Wednesday evenings for support and connection.

6:15 - 7:15 PM
Life Fellowship Church, downtown campus
214 1st Ave, SE, Aberdeen, SD

02/11/2026

🌟 Lighting the Way Autism Conference 2026 🌟

Join us for the Lighting the Way Autism Conference, a powerful 2-day event focused on learning, connection, and growth.

📅 June 4–5, 2026
👥 For advocates, educators, and professionals
🎤 Featuring keynote speakers Jesse Horn and David S. Geslak

This conference is a place to learn new ideas, share experiences, and connect with others who care about supporting individuals with autism.

📝 Registration opens February 15
👉 augie.edu/lighting-way

South Dakota Parent Connection will again offer scholarships for parents who would like assistance with the conference cost.

Graduate credit and CEU hours will be available.

02/05/2026

💛 Know a child who could use a little extra comfort?

Feel Better Friends provides free, handmade dolls to children facing cancer and other serious illnesses — each one made with love by volunteers.

If you know a child who might benefit from a Feel Better Friend, visit www.fbfdolls.org or email fbfdolls@gmail.com to request a doll.

Sometimes a small friend can make a big difference. 🧸💛

02/03/2026

The Statewide Independent Living Council is continuing to seek input which will be utilized in developing their next three-year State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). If you, someone you care for, someone you know has a disability, please take our short survey/or share the survey - feedback is appreciated. Please share this email with others.

https://link.edgepilot.com/s/216db4ed/IiErE2_c0EygJ-wBpDGLBA?u=https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SILC_Community_Survey_2026

02/02/2026

🦫 Happy Groundhog Day!

Today we’re all waiting to see if the groundhog spots his shadow 👀—but no matter what happens, it’s a fun way to talk with kids about winter, spring, and waiting for surprises.

For some children, especially those with disabilities, keeping things simple, predictable, and playful can make days like today more enjoyable. Remember: it’s okay to explain that Groundhog Day is just for fun and to skip activities that don’t feel right for your family.

Whether winter sticks around ❄️ or spring comes early 🌷, you’re doing a great job meeting your child right where they are.

Happy Groundhog Day from all of us! 💙

01/30/2026

Parenting a child with a disability can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone.

Families Together is a free, statewide virtual parent support group where families connect, learn, and support one another.

🕖 7–8 PM CST / 6-7 PM MT
📅 Third Tuesday of each month starting February 17, 2026
💻 Online from the comfort of your own home

Come to share, listen, or just feel understood.
🔗 Learn more and register here: https://sdparent.org/event/families-together-support-group/

01/29/2026

Oh fun! RSVP and don't miss out!

Last chance to RSVP! SDSD families - check out SDSD's next family event in Brookings on Saturday, February 7th, at Gold Medal Gymnastics! RSVP by January 30 to julie.delfs@sdsd.sdbor.edu or call/text 605-270-0030. Hope to see you there!

01/28/2026

Please join us in recognizing Ken this month. He has been watching over operations for us for 7 years!

01/22/2026

You are an important part of the IEP process!

Our new training helps parents and professionals understand evaluations and IEP eligibility under Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Clear. Simple. Helpful.
Check it out today after completing a short registration: https://sdparent.org/resource/qualifying-for-an-iep-a-parents-guide-to-understanding-the-special-education-evaluation-process/

01/22/2026

South Dakota Parent Connection is excited to launch Families Together, a statewide virtual support group for parents and guardians of children and young adults with disabilities.

Each monthly session includes a short topic-based training followed by discussion and shared support from other parents across South Dakota.

🗓 Date: Third Tuesday of each month, beginning February 17, 2026
Time: 7:00-8:00 CT / 6:00-7:00 MT
📌 February Topic: Understanding the IEP Process
📧 Send IEP questions to kristau@sdparent.org

🔗 Sign up here: https://sdparent.org/event/families-together-support-group/

01/20/2026

Please join us in recognizing Betsy this month. She has been an Outreach Specialist with us for 7 years!

01/17/2026

New Training Available!
Wondering how schools decide if a child qualifies for an IEP?
Our new training, Qualifying for an IEP, explains the evaluation process step by step.

Parents and professionals will learn what to expect, what questions to ask, and how to be part of the team.

Access the recorded training here after completing a brief registration: https://sdparent.org/resource/qualifying-for-an-iep-a-parents-guide-to-understanding-the-special-education-evaluation-process/