What is Special Needs Resource Planning?
Resource Planning is the third step toward creating a comprehensive Special Needs Plan.
The ENABLE Resource Plan identifies the types of organizations, services, and individuals in your area who can help your child make progress toward your vision for his or her great life.
What this means is—your Resource Plan will first analyze the current resources you’ve connected with. Then it will assess any gaps where connecting with additional resources would help your child thrive.
Benefits of Special Needs Resource Planning:
The true benefit of creating a Resource Plan is that it will help you think outside of the box and connect with innovative therapies, in addition to essential resources, to ensure that your child is living his or her best possible life today, tomorrow, and every day in the future.
What will my Resource Plan address?
Your Resource Plan will answer the question:
Which services, organizations, and individuals should we seek out now and in the future to make your vision of a great life for your child a reality?
Every individual is unique in their abilities and needs. Thus, no two Resource Plans will be exactly the same. Also, individuals’ abilities and needs change over time. Therefore, your Resource Plan will continue evolving as your child grows and develops.
- For some individuals, physical and occupational therapies may be most important resources to connect with immediately.
- Other individuals might benefit from engaging with organizations that offer job and social skills training programs.
- Still others may benefit most by participating in innovative therapies (e.g., art, music, aquatic, or horseback-riding therapy) to improve self-esteem and emotional expression.
How often should I update my Resource Plan?
We highly encourage families to update their loved one’s Resource Plan every six to 12 months as key details are likely to change over time.
How do I learn more about Special Needs Resource Planning?
To learn more about Resource Planning, check out our blog post Resource Planning: Does Your Child have Access to All the Resources They Need to Thrive? How Would You Know?