Disability Specific Resources Resources
Enhance Learning
At STAR NET, we believe that access to high-quality resources empowers educators, caregivers, and families to support young children in reaching their fullest potential. Search our Recommended Resources for more.
National Federation of the Blind
The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of our members and all blind people in the United States. We know that blindness is not the characteristic that defines us or our future and every day we raise the expectations for blind people because we recognize the low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. Our collective power, determination and diversity achieve the aspirations of all blind people.
Rett Syndrome Association of Illinois
Welcome to the Rett Syndrome Association of Illinois. We are dedicated to developing awareness and understanding of, and furthering the advancement of research for Rett Syndrome. Rett Syndrome Association of Illinois (RSAI) serves as a support system, and provides resources for families and friends.
RUSH Autism Resource Directory
Rush University Medical Center Autism Resource Directory is an online resource guide to help families find service and support referrals in the following Illinois counties: Lake, McHenry, Kane, DuPage, Cook, Kendall, Will, Grundy and Kankakee. Resources are searchable by group- Children, Middle and High Schoolers, Adults, and Caregivers- then by resource category. Includes Support Groups for Autism Caregivers.
Selective Mutism Association
SMA works to increase public awareness of selective mutism and related childhood anxiety disorders, to promote greater understanding of these disorders through education, support of research and to provide support to professionals, affected individuals and their families.
Selective Mutism Parent Support meetings are held periodically in Arlington Heights.
Contact Kathy Slattery at kslattery@cntrmail.org for more details.
Selective Mutism Support Group through STAR NET Region II & VI
Parent support group for families of children with Selective Mutism.
Contact: Kathy Slattery: Kslattery@cntrmail.org
Teaching Strategies and Classroom Policies to Help Students With Anxiety Disorders
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Anxiety is a common mental illness that affects not only adults but also children. According to data on children’s mental health from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 5.8 million children in America struggle with diagnosed anxiety. And, for students, anxiety disorders don’t only show up as feelings or nervousness on the first day of school; anxiety can also hinder a child’s self-esteem, academic performance and overall well-being.
The ASD Professional Learning & Universal Support Project (A+)
The ASD Professional Learning & Universal Support Project (A+) at Illinois State University assists the Illinois State Board of Education in addressing the significant behavior needs of children and youth with Autism Spectrum (ASD) and related behavior and communication disorders. The A+ project uses high-impact, evidence-based practices delivered through high-quality professional learning and individualized coaching in order to improve the behavioral and educational outcomes for children and youth with ASD.
The Autism Community in Action (TACA)
TACA is a national non-profit organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families affected by autism. The TACA website is viewable in over 100 different languages and includes information about autism, and in-depth, comprehensive information and resources to help families navigate all aspects of the autism journey. TACA offers a Parent Mentor program, conferences and events, and TACA Chapters that support families to implement solutions and take action in their communities.