Kids First NJ Advocacy LLC

08/04/2026

August is here... and that means the countdown to the school year has officially begun. This brings a lot of emotions for our special needs families. Sometimes excitement. Sometimes worry.

The freedom and flexibility of summer start giving way to routines, schedules, and transitions. For many of our kids, that's hard. And for us as parents, it can feel extremely overwhelming.

We sit and wait to find out who the teacher will be, who the para may be, when transportation will finally be confirmed... Just trying to prepare our children while still waiting for answers ourselves.

So here's your reminder: Breathe. 💙

Take it one day at a time. Advocate when you need to. Ask questions. But also give yourself, and those working to get everything in place, a little grace. We've made it through back-to-school season before, and we'll get through it again.

You're not alone!

07/04/2026

05/13/2026

IEP meetings can feel overwhelming, but preparation makes a difference. 💙

Advocating for your child starts with being informed, prepared, and confident in your voice. Every child deserves meaningful support and opportunities to succeed.

05/04/2026

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! 🍎

This week we celebrate the incredible teachers who go above and beyond every single day! The small moments, the extra time, and the unwavering dedication all makes a lasting impact.

Thank you for supporting our kids, believing in them, and meeting them where they are. We appreciate you more than words can say! 💙

04/28/2026

Happy Bus Driver Appreciation Day! 🚌

Today we celebrate the incredible drivers and bus aides who safely transport our students each and every day. Your patience, care, and commitment do not go unnoticed, especially for our littles and students with special needs who require that extra layer of support.

From helping with routines, to creating a calm and safe ride, to building trusting relationships… you make a difference. Thank you for all that you do! 💙

04/28/2026

Reminder: Annual IEP season is here! A few important reminders about ESY:

🚩Just because your child is in an inclusive general education setting during the school year does not mean they are not eligible for ESY.
🚩Just because a district says they only offer programs aligned to LLD, MD, or ASD classes in the summer, and your child doesn’t neatly fit into one, does not mean they don’t have to provide an appropriate option.

Yes, your child may be grouped with students of varying ability levels over the summer, and that is expected. ESY is designed to prevent regression, not replicate the exact school-year placement.

Have questions or need support advocating for your child? Reach out!💙

04/04/2026

As of April 1st, families in New Jersey can now file for guardianship six months before their child’s 18th birthday.

This is a big win for families, especially considering how long the guardianship process can sometimes take. Being able to start earlier can help reduce stress and avoid gaps in support.

That said, the inclusion mindset in me will always encourage families to carefully consider guardianship options and think about what their child may truly need. Whenever possible, involve your child in the process and the conversations surrounding these decisions.

In New Jersey, the state offers:
• Guardianship for health and safety needs
• Guardianship for financial decisions
• Full guardianship covering both areas

For more information and guidance, families can contact their county surrogate’s office, which can provide assistance with the process.

You can also read the New Jersey S2332 bill below for more details on this change.

Bill Text (2025-12-23) Allows complaint for guardianship of minor to be filed six months before minor reaches age 18 under certain circumstances; establishes certain standards for filing guardianship complaints. [Approved P.L.2025, c.179.]

04/01/2026

To the paraprofessionals who support, encourage, advocate, and celebrate every small win with our students, thank you! What would our kiddos do without you?! Happy Paraprofessional Appreciation Day! 🩵

04/01/2026

April is widely known as Autism Awareness Month, while many also call it Autism Acceptance Month. 💙

Awareness helps people learn what autism is. Acceptance goes a step further to embracing differences, creating inclusive spaces, and ensuring autistic individuals are valued.

Recognizing this month matters for today’s children and adults who deserve understanding, supports, and opportunities to thrive. It also matters for future generations, so they can grow up in communities that celebrate neurodiversity.

The more we learn, the more we include. The more we include, the stronger our communities will become. ♾️