Just as football quarterbacks have to forget an interception or other unfortunate outcome to continue on to a big win, moms who advocate in the best interests of their children may need to employ serial amnesia to put aside setbacks in the moment and create the best possible opportunities every day.

Children with disabilities should have ample opportunities to engage in decision-making, developing preferences, and engaging in power struggles with parents, just like their mainstream peers. They need options, extra time to practice, and a safe and forgiving relationship to express defiance.

Families of children with Down syndrome and behavior issues may not understand the challenges of executive functioning difficulties. Our sons and daughters need to take the time they need to respond to requests or comments, prepare for new situations, or have other special needs accommodated.

Women who are pregnant and new mothers of babies may experience anxiety, depression or even post traumatic stress symptoms with a difficult birth, due to prenatal diagnosis of medical challenges, or while adjusting to news of a birth injury, childhood disability, or developmental delay.

Women whose babies experience a traumatic birth can be challenged by symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder for months and even years later. Although up to ten thousand women a year are seriously affected, most are unaware of resources, information and support available for them to manage it.

Alternate forms of communication for children with speech delays or disabilities include body language, behavior, facial expressions, and informal sign language or shorthand words as well as standard sign language, icon based communication systems, handwriting and typing.

Families of children with developmental disabilities, chronic health conditions or other special needs faced disproportionate challenges due to the effects of the 2009 Swine Flu (A1N1 Influenza) outbreak, in reducing risks, maintaining medications during illness and routines during school closures.

Young children with temporary speech delays, hearing impairment or language disorders are finding sign language is a wonderful bridge to satisfying communication.

When my son was born with Down syndrome, I could not imagine his kindergarten year in a mainstream classroom, with friends and birthday parties, learning to read and write, or sharing his thoughts during story time. I thank all the moms looking forward, who are always reaching back to help others.

Type One Diabetes Information for Classmates (and their families) explains diabetes and how to encourage or support friends who have type one diabetes, in school and after school. These helpful suggestions can also benefit staff, extended family, caregivers and neighbors who plan outings or events.