Developmental Milestones

Pathways.org is a wonderful resource that has information about infant and toddler development.  It's a great resource for parents, caregivers, and providers and a great way to track milestones in all developmental areas. 

Department of Developmental Services (DDS - California Regional Center)

In California, children 3 and under can be evaluated through Regional Center and have early intervention services covered when eligible.  Referral from a physician is not required during the intake process.

Grants to Help Fund Therapies and More

Advocacy Abby provides a service for families by helping them find the right grants for their child's special needs.  She also regularly shares available grants to look into on her Instagram Broadcast Channel (to access the channel, you need to be on the app on your phone and click the link "grants" under her bio).  *NEW*-- CONNECT website!  Advocacy Abby created a Free database resource for grants to help cover costs of medical therapies, respite care, equipment, AND more.

TACA (The Autism Community in Action)

TACA's vision is that every person diagnosed with autism can lead an independent life.  Their mission is to provide education, support, and hope to families living with autism.  They have plenty of resources and hold a yearly conference in Southern California 1x/year in the Fall.  The next one is this October 18-20, 2024 (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.  Regional Center families can ask their SC's if they can help them register for the event through their Regional Center, as a parent, DO NOT register for the even on your own, talk to your SC and see if they are a vendor with TASK and your ticket will be free if they register for you.   

TASK (Team of Advocates for Special Kids)

Guidance, Education, & Support for Caregivers

TASK is a California based parent and caregiver hub of information for families with kids needing special education support.  They provide workshops and information to help families navigate the special education process from birth to age 26. 

AFFILIATE AND PARTNERSHIPS:

**I have partnered with the following companies because I personally like their product

and asked if I can get a discount code for the families I serve. 

When you purchase using the code listed, I receive a commission as an affiliate. 

Nurture Smart Developmental Toys

I have been really enjoying using the baby mirror and sensory ball from Nurture Smart.  I saw a colleague of mine use the sensory ball as part of her mommy and baby play group and I was immediately drawn to the areas that a baby can hold on to.  I wanted to try it out since the sensory ball also had a crinkly sound to it when touched.  I use a large beach ball with a lot of the kiddos I work with because it's the perfect size for teaching how to balance in standing and all the kiddos seem to love it!  I was also drawn to the contrast pictures and baby mirror and asked Nurture Smart if I could get a discount as a professional provider who works with kids.  Instead of a discount they offered me a free sample of their products.  From the first kiddo I presented the sensory ball and baby mirror to the last, each baby and child I have worked with since I started to use both products in my rotation has been really enjoying the products.  Not one has disliked it showed no interest.  Both items have a 100% success rate with babies and young toddlers interacting and smiling with the toys.  Because of this, I asked Nurture Smart if they offered any discounts and they offered me an affiliate link and discount code!  I get a small commission for every product sold using the link below and you get a discount of 20% when you use the code.  Please click below and use the code for a discount! 

**Code: PTPLAY20 for 20% off your purchase

Own Your Stigma - Mental Health Brand & Community

I am a big advocate for mental health awareness because mental health affects not just your mind but your whole body and spirit.  As someone who has struggled with anxiety and deep depression throughout different stages of my life, I have seen how my own mental health affects all my relationships.  When it affected how I mothered and was showing up (or not showing up fully) with my son, my husband, and all those I love, especially myself... I knew I needed to really get help and open up and change.

 People who were open about their struggles started to help me open up to asking for help and talking about what I was going through.

It starts with a simple conversation and I proudly support this brand and what they're about-- starting the conversation. 

**Code: SYNERGYDPT for 15% off your purchase

Force of Nature and CleanSmart Toy Disinfectant

I believe in being aware of what products I expose myself and my family to.  That is why I like to use low toxic and non toxic options for my cleaning supplies both in my home and with what I use with the toys and equipment I use for therapy sessions.  I really like using CleanSmart Toy Disinfectant spray and recently also use Force of Nature because it's a bit more cost effective for how much I am using the products.  If you are looking for a non toxic cleaning spray that is safe for your children, pets, yourself and those you love, try these options.  The main ingredient is hypochlorous acid and it is more effective at sanitizing than bleach without the harmful side effects.

I have NO affiliation with CleanSmart products, I just like their products too.

**I do have an affiliate referral link for Force of Nature where you get 40% off Bundles + free shipping 

when you use the link below.  I also get an affiliate referral compensation.**

Please consider using the link below when purchasing a Bundle from Force of Nature

and use CODE: BUNDLESAVINGS at checkout

for the month of September 2024.

Tiny Health

There is a whole world in our gut that is responsible for how our body is able to breakdown food for energy, nutrients, and overall allow for our well-being.  I have partnered as a brand affiliate with Tiny Health because of their mission to start at the very beginning of wellness from preconception to conception and on to birth and beyond, even to adult health and wellness.  If you are looking to improve your overall health and have been wondering what your child, your partner, or your own body truly needs, check out what Tiny Health has to offer.  Their testing against normal values is the only one that has age range comparison for 0-3 years old, other companies use values that compare to people ages 4 or 5 years old to adults. 

**Code: SYNERGYDPT for $20 off your purchase

Raising Healthier Kids

Raising Healthier Kids: Integrative Approaches to Children’s Health & Wellness will help you understand and address the growing concerns and challenges in children's health, especially in light of the rising rates of chronic diseases and mental health issues among our youth.

Whether you are a parent, grandparent, caregiver, teacher, pediatrician, mental health practitioner, or someone who cares deeply about kids and their future, this event will empower you with invaluable, practical, science-backed strategies that will help you raise them to thrive.