Archive by Category Blog

Video Spotlight: Key Special Education Terms to Know

Just when you thought you understood the world of special education, you hear a new acronym or term that has you looking through different books or websites. Sound familiar? No worries! Special Education Support Services (SESS) Consultant and Trainer Renae Forchione is the narrator for this month’s video and breaks down the key special education […]

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Covered Care: Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) Services Supported Through Medicaid

Texas’ Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) program provides vital support for children from birth to 36 months with developmental delays, disabilities, or certain medical diagnoses. This comprehensive program ensures early identification and intervention during critical developmental periods. It is a statewide program within the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, and Medicaid covers ECI services. ECI […]

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Managing Holiday Sensory Overload: A Guide for Parents of Sensory-Sensitive Children

The holiday season brings joy, excitement, and cherished family moments, but it can also include overwhelming challenges for children with sensory sensitivities. From bright lights and loud music to unfamiliar foods and crowded spaces, the holidays can trigger holiday sensory overload and present unique sensory experiences that can be difficult to navigate. As parents, understanding […]

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Navigating Your Child’s Special Needs Journey

Being a parent of a child with special needs brings unique challenges, profound joys, and growth opportunities. Understanding your child’s needs and becoming their strongest advocate can initially feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. We’ve highlighted struggles most caregivers have experienced and identified resources where you can find insight from others who have journeyed down […]

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The Exceptional Family Member Program and Brighton Center

Juan Hernandez, Director of Special Education Support Services (SESS) at Brighton, recently recalled his excitement and expectations when he joined the US Army as a young man. “I had it all mapped out in my head. With a career path identified, I’d planned to serve 20 or 30 years. I said they’d have to kick […]

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Best Development Toys for Toddlers: Supporting Early Growth and Special Needs

There’s nothing better than watching children’s eyes light up on Christmas morning as they open their gifts. With the variety of toys (both low and high-tech) on the market, parents can quickly get overwhelmed finding toys that are that good balance between fun and educational, safe and engaging. This is especially true when looking for […]

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Why Early Childhood Intervention Services Work

As parents, we all want to give our children the best possible start in life. Sometimes, this means recognizing when our little ones need extra support and knowing where to turn for help. Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) services can be a game-changer for families, providing crucial support during the most formative years of a child’s […]

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“I Have an ECI Referral. Now What?”

Hearing that your child might need Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) services can feel overwhelming. In fact, you might have a mix of emotions – concern for your child, uncertainty about what lies ahead, and perhaps even a touch of guilt. Rest assured, you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking early intervention is one of […]

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Video Spotlight: Purpose of a Special Education Evaluation 

Starting school is exciting but also anxiety-inducing for students and their parents. This is even more true for children who may require special education and related services. Special Education Support Services (SESS) Consultant and Trainer Jamie Espada is the narrator for this month’s video and explains why children with a disability or delay must undergo […]

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Physical Therapy: A Path to Mobility and Independence for Children with Special Needs

October is National Physical Therapy Month. The Brighton Center is blessed to have some of the best and most dedicated physical therapists working with our children and their families. Brighton’s licensed and clinic-based physical therapists (PTs) treat children experiencing delays in gross motor skills by developing their range of motion, flexibility, strength, posture, gait, balance, […]

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