Resources for Children with Disabilities in Atlanta
Guide for Families Getting Started with Care
Was your child recently diagnosed with a developmental disability like autism, or suffer a physical injury leading to mobility issues or paralysis? Navigating the array of services available for children with disabilities in Georgia can be overwhelming. Whether you're seeking early intervention, educational support, therapy, or community programs, Atlanta offers a wealth of resources to assist families. This guide aims to provide a clear overview of both government and nonprofit services to help you find the support your child needs.
Early Intervention and Educational Services
Babies Can't Wait (BCW) & Special Needs Program: A statewide early intervention program for infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) with developmental delays or disabilities. BCW provides services such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Learn more about Babies Can't Wait.
Georgia Parent Infant Network for Educational Services (PINES): Offers support to families of children with hearing or vision impairments, including home visits and resources to aid in early development. Discover Georgia PINES.
Atlanta Area School for the Deaf (AASD): Provides comprehensive educational services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students from preschool through 12th grade. Explore AASD.
Atlanta Speech School: Offers specialized programs for children with speech, language, and learning differences, including those with dyslexia and hearing impairments. Visit Atlanta Speech School.
Healthcare and Therapy Services
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA): A leading pediatric healthcare system offering a range of services, including the Marcus Autism Center, which provides comprehensive care for children with autism spectrum disorders. Learn more about CHOA.
Achievements ABA Therapy: Provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism, tailored to individual needs and delivered in various settings, including homes and schools.
Able Kids: Specializes in intensive ABA therapy for children aged 2–6 diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, focusing on individualized learning in a preschool-like environment.atlantaparent.com
Home Care Agencies in Georgia
Some families may benefit from in-home medical care for their children, particularly when navigating programs like the Georgia Pediatric Program (GAPP).
Miralta Home Care is a Georgia-based provider specializing in pediatric home health services for children with complex medical needs. The team offers support for GAPP enrollment, caregiver training, and coordination with Medicaid providers, typically at no cost to families.
Other local agencies include:
Advance Care Partners – Offers pediatric nursing and therapy services across Georgia.
Circle of Greatness Homecare – Specializes in Medicaid home care for children and adults.
Supportive Nonprofit Organizations
Parent to Parent of Georgia: Offers emotional support, information, and training to families of children with disabilities or special healthcare needs. Connect with Parent to Parent of Georgia.
FOCUS (Families of Children Under Stress): Provides programs and support groups for families of children with disabilities, including recreational activities and parent education. Discover FOCUS.
Lekotek of Georgia: Facilitates the inclusion of children with disabilities into their families and communities by providing accessible play, adapted toys, and technology. Learn about Lekotek.
BlazeSports America: Offers adaptive sports and recreation programs for children and adults with physical disabilities, promoting health and inclusion. Explore BlazeSports.
Additional Resources
Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD): Advocates for public policies that create opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities. Visit GCDD.
Fulton County Developmental Disabilities Services: Provides individualized services, assessments, and support groups for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Learn more.
Conclusion
Atlanta offers a strong network of services and organizations dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and their families. By using these resources, families can find the assistance and community they need to navigate the challenges and celebrate the successes of raising a child with special needs.
Note: For personalized guidance and assistance in accessing these resources, consider reaching out to local advocacy groups or healthcare providers specializing in pediatric care.
