Caring for a child with developmental disabilities can sometimes feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are a number of support groups throughout both the nation and the state of California designed to help the families of developmentally disabled children. These can be a powerful source of support and can help foster a much-needed sense of community. Here are some of the top support groups for parents in California.
Support Groups Within the Department of Developmental Services
The first place to start is the California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”). As the state’s agency committed to serving and caring developmentally disabled individuals and their families, the DDS has access to a broad range of services, resources, and supports. Specifically, DDS Family Resource Centers (“FRCs”) provide excellent support for parents and other family members.
FRCs are primarily designed to help parents of infants, toddlers, and young children with developmental disabilities. FRCs may operate directly out of a DDS regional care center or out of a different community space. Typically, FRCs are staffed and operated by other parents who also have children with developmental disabilities. For many, the shared lived experience of parenting developmentally disabled children creates a strong sense of understanding and solidarity in which parents can support one another.
If your child receives services through the DDS, start your search for parent support groups by talking to your regional care center about getting in touch with the nearest FRC.
Other Support Groups for Parents and Family Members
Beyond FRCs, California has a number of other support groups. Examples of support groups include:
- UC Davis MIND Institute Family Navigator Program
- The Family Resource Center Network of California (FRNCA)
- Harbor Regional Center Parent & Family Support Groups
- Family Focus Resource Center
- ADS Parent Mentor Program & Strengthening Special Families
- Family Empowerment Centers on Disability (FEC)
- Parent to Parent USA, California chapter
- Family Voices, California chapter
- The Arc, California chapter
Some of these support groups operate statewide, others are more local. Consult with your regional care center to learn which support groups are near you and which ones might be most helpful for you and your family.