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Support for Washington families and self-advocates
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 New Informing Families publications available in Spanish and Vietnamese
Informing Families is pleased to share newly translated versions of two of our most-requested publications: the Informing Families Resource Guide and the Informing Families Program Flyer. These materials are now available in Spanish and Vietnamese and can be downloaded from our website.
The Resource Guide includes information about services, supports and resources available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. The Program Flyer provides an overview of Informing Families and how our network of coordinators helps connect families to information and community resources.
View and download the resource guide
View and download the program flyer
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Free and low-cost resources |
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Blue Envelope Program for drivers
The Washington State Department of Licensing's Blue Envelope Program helps drivers with autism, communication differences or other disabilities communicate with law enforcement during traffic stops. The envelope provides a place to store important documents and includes information that may help make interactions safer and less stressful. This resource explains how the program works and how Washington drivers can participate.
Blue envelopes let first responders, such as police, firefighters and EMTs, know:
- People might display repetitive body movements and unusual eye contact.
- People might show signs of high anxiety due to bright lights and loud noises.
- Give the person extra time to respond: they may need more time to come up with answers.
- Use the clearest explanation possible, speak clearly and limit unnecessary detail or jargon.
- If a person becomes upset, ask and/or consider contacting the person listed on the contact card.
Learn more on the DOL website
Learn about Vocational Rehabilitation Services in a new video
A new SPAN Parent Advocacy Network video provides an overview of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services and how they can support youth and young adults with disabilities. Learn how VR can help with career exploration, skill development and preparing for employment and adulthood. It is a helpful introduction for families and young people planning for life after high school.
Watch the Vocational Rehabilitation services overview video
New Introduction to Autism video series
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Seattle Children’s Autism Center created the “Introduction to Autism” video series to share science- and evidence-based information about autism spectrum disorder. The animated videos cover autism as a medical diagnosis, where to get a diagnostic evaluation, how to begin services and therapies, and what levels of support can mean for autistic people. The series also includes related handouts available in multiple languages.
Watch the “Introduction to Autism” video series
Caregiver Careers Workforce Spotlight Newsletter
The June 2026 “Workforce Spotlight” newsletter from Caregiver Careers Washington shares updates on efforts to strengthen Washington's caregiving workforce. Highlights include a new technology station pilot designed to improve access to training and hiring resources in rural, tribal and underserved communities, outreach efforts connecting prospective caregivers with local resources, workforce navigator support, and information about employment opportunities for 16- and 17-year-olds through the Home Care Aide program.
Read the June 2026 Workforce Spotlight newsletter
Family engagement resources from Family Voices
Family Voices offers resources, tools and training opportunities to help families partner with healthcare providers, schools and community organizations. Topics include family leadership, advocacy, healthcare systems and meaningful family engagement in programs and services. These resources are designed to help families share their experiences and play an active role in decisions that affect children and youth with special healthcare needs.
Explore family engagement resources from Family Voices
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Strong Girls, Healthy Cycles
 Join Pierce County Parent to Parent for a free online Lunch and Learn with Teddy Kemirembe, founder of Bella Smiles for DD. This session will share practical information and strategies to help families support menstrual health and hygiene for girls with developmental disabilities in a safe, empowering and developmentally appropriate way.
UW LEND Positive Parenting Parent/Caregiver Education ECHO on Challenging Behavior
This is a free 10-week virtual series for parents and caregivers of children ages 3 to 12 in the Pacific Northwest with a suspected or diagnosed delay or disability. It’s hosted by the University of Washington’s Institute on Human Development & Disability webpage. Participants will learn strategies to understand, support and respond to challenging behavior while connecting with other caregivers. The series includes live Spanish support and computer-based translation.
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KUOW shares stories from parents caring for children with disabilities
Many parents caring for children with disabilities face challenges balancing caregiving, work, finances and their own well-being. This KUOW news story shares the experiences of Washington families and highlights the realities of providing long-term care and support. The stories also explore the need for services, respite and community supports that help families thrive.
Listen to the story: Many parent caregivers are struggling with disability care. Here are their stories.
Water safety for children with autism
Water safety starts before families reach the water. This article from SPARK for Autism, featuring guidance from the Autism Society of America, shares practical strategies families can use to reduce risk and build water safety skills for children with autism. As summer begins, it is a good time for families to talk about safety, planning and prevention.
Read water safety tips for children with autism
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 Washington State DD Council
P.O. Box 48314
Olympia, WA 98504-8314
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Informing Families is a project of the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council |
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