Check out our Disaster Preparedness page!

A worker gathering donations for a natural disaster.

Family Connection understands many of our families and friends have been impacted by Hurricane Helene and may still be unsettled or recovering from physical and emotional stress.

Family Connection along with organizations and communities across the state have been coming together to offer support to those affected. Please visit our web site to find details on many of the resources and services available for South Carolina individuals, parents, and children. You may also call our Support and Information line at 1-800-578-8750. Our staff is committed to assisting you with finding the help your family may need. Our thoughts and our hearts are with you through this difficult time.

Take me to the Disaster page!

Study with The Early Social Developmental Lab with USC

A baby getting his head measured at a doctor's appointment.

The Early Social Development Lab at the University of South Carolina is holding a study led by Dr. Jessica Bradshaw from the Psychology Department. This research focuses on early infant development, particularly for infants at a higher risk of social or language delays, including autism.

Through this study, families can benefit from:

Free developmental assessments to identify any early signs of developmental delays.
Financial incentives for participation.
Free feedback on how their infant is progressing.
Assistance with early intervention services if any concerns are identified.

Right now, the lab has openings for:

Infants born pre-term.
Infants under 1 month old with a typically developing sibling and no family history of autism.
Infants with an older sibling who has autism or is pending an autism evaluation.

This is a valuable chance for families to learn more about their infant’s development and access helpful resources early on. If you're interested, click the button below!

Disability Rights New Jersey Launches ASPYIR Transition Tool for Students: A Resource for SC Families

Although launched by Disability Rights New Jersey, the ASPYIR Transition Planning Tool is a valuable, no-cost resource that can benefit students with disabilities in South Carolina as well. ASPYIR (Accessing Strategies to Prepare Youth for Independence and Responsibility) is designed for students aged 13 to 21 to help them plan for their futures by identifying personal goals in education, employment, and independent living.

This tool generates a customized document that students can use in IEP meetings, job interviews, and other key settings. SC families can leverage this resource to help their students take an active role in transition planning as they prepare for adulthood.

To learn more, please go to Disability Rights New Jersey's website.

U.S. Department of Education Releases New Resources on Mental Health Disabilities

Rehabilitation spelled out in Scrabble letters surrounded by doctor toys.

On September 24, the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights issued four new resources aimed at supporting students with mental health disabilities, their families, schools, and stakeholders. These fact sheets clarify the rights of students with disabilities, particularly those with conditions such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or bipolar disorder, under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

The resources emphasize the responsibility of elementary, secondary schools, and colleges to:

Treat students with mental health disabilities free from discrimination.
Provide appropriate modifications, supports, and services to ensure equal access to education.

These fact sheets serve as an important reminder for schools to meet their legal obligations in supporting students with mental health needs.

For more information and to access the fact sheets, visit the U.S. Department of Education's website.

Caregiver Resource Fair Across the State

Join SC Respite at their regional fairs with local and statewide community partners that includes vendors, networking, presentations, and companionship. Event dates are listed below if interested in learning more.

Midlands on November 1, 2024 from 9 AM - 2 PM
Lowcountry on November 6, 2024 from 9 AM - 2 PM
Upstate on November 8, 2024 from 9 AM - 2 PM
PeeDee on November 15, 2024 from 10 AM - 3 PM

Click to register!

Sensory-Friendly Trick-or-Treat at TCMU on October 27

A toy skeleton standing next to a box of candy pumpkins and a spider.

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate (TCMU) is excited to host its Sensory-Friendly Trick-or-Treat event again this year at both the Greenville and Spartanburg locations on Sunday, October 27. This event offers a quieter and more sensory-friendly Halloween experience for children and their caregivers, with opportunities to trick-or-treat and explore museum exhibits modified for sensory accommodations.

Event Details:

Timeslots: 10AM-12PM and 1PM-3PM (The museum will close after each timeslot).
Bib’s World outdoor playground in Greenville will be open (weather permitting).
Community partners will be on-site to provide resources for families.
Limited capacity to ensure a comfortable environment.

This event is specifically designed for children who benefit from sensory accommodations. If you work with families who might be interested, please help spread the word! For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the TCMU webpages for Greenville and Spartanburg.

What's coming up?

Curious about current trainings, events, or activities--or just want to be in the know? Check out the Family Connection calendar for the all the details!