Advocating for your child can be emotionally draining as you try to maintain good relationships with school staff, therapists, and others, while balancing the needs of your child. Shannon Efteland, of Arc TN will be presenting a session on how to avoid conflicts and encourage positive relationships with those that work with your child. Click on the link below to register.

Attorney Shauna Collins will present “Planning for a Lifetime: Protection, Guidance and Support for your Loved Ones with Special Needs.” This special needs planning information will assist anyone exploring how to make informed decisions about ABLE accounts, special needs trusts, conservatorships or supported decision-making, and building a Circle of Support for your child.

Shauna Collins is a special needs parent who practiced primarily in juvenile court before recognizing the need for detail-oriented special needs planning after her son with autism required a conservatorship at age 18. She returned to law school to complete an LL.M. (Master of Law) in Elder Law and Estate Planning and now combines her legal education with the strength-based approach she learned in juvenile court to help special-needs parents plan for the future and maybe even enhance their present lives.

How to effectively communicate with teachers about your child's needs to ensure your child receives a high quality education in a safe and supportive environment.