Encircle Families - formerly Raising Special Kids

10/09/2025

Our friends at Disability Rights Arizona shared information to help families prepare for meetings with their DDD support coordinators in light of recent changes to policies for children under age 18. This includes links to the updated assessment tools and suggestions if your child’s hours are reduced for Home and Community Based Services (HCBS).

Review it here: https://ow.ly/zm7s50X9oNh.

10/09/2025

At Disability Voter Education Day, Tucson-area residents with disabilities can explore accessible voting options, connect with advocates and learn more about their voting rights.

Tuesday, Oct. 14 | 9:30am-3pm
Direct Advocacy & Resource Center, 1001 N Alvernon Way, Tucson

Light lunch provided!

Register here: https://ow.ly/7Chj50X8f1k

10/09/2025

Encircle Families staff member Laurie Shook had the pleasure of presenting to families in the Kyrene Elementary School District! She shared helpful information about the different parts of the IEP process along with problem-solving techniques to support families as they prepare for meetings. We’re grateful for every chance to walk alongside families and professionals on their journeys.

10/08/2025

Introducing Family Transition Navigation - read about this and more in this edition of Connecting Weekly. https://mailchi.mp/encirclefamilies/connecting-weekly-2025-1005

10/07/2025

Individuals with inattentive ADHD don’t always exhibit stereotypical symptoms of ADHD such as physical hyperactivity and impulsivity. They might instead struggle with organization and executive functioning. These attributes might be dismissed as carelessness or laziness.

For Tip Tuesday, here’s information from ADDitude Magazine about how to recognize inattentive ADHD: https://www.additudemag.com/what-is-inattentive-adhd-add-symptoms-signs-treatment.

Formerly called ADD, inattentive ADHD is characterized by symptoms of disorganization, poor time management, faulty working memory, and a lack of focus — all signs commonly dismissed or misdiagnosed, particularly in girls and women. Here, learn about the distinctive characteristics that should gui...

10/07/2025

Thank you The Route 66 JDM Classic for another great year!

Encircle Families' Janna Murrell had a blast and picked a 1970 Datsun 240Z as this year’s Encircle Families Choice award. Janna said, “the color was beautiful and a perfect match to our new colors and tablecloths!”

Thank you Becky and Greg Childs for all you do for our community!

10/06/2025

Talking with your child about their disability can feel heavy, but knowledge truly is power. This article from Exceptional Parent Magazine offers thoughtful guidance on when and how to have these important conversations, helping children feel understood, supported, and empowered.

Read the full article here: https://reader.mediawiremobile.com/epmagazine/issues/209403/viewer?page=28

10/04/2025

Parents: Join an evening of connection, support and ideas to help your child and family thrive.

✅ Learn strategies and resources from experts and other parents
✅ Get your questions answered by service providers
✅ Share your voice to help improve systems of care
✅ Meet other parents who get it

🍴 Light dinner and networking start at 5:45pm, followed by the event from 6-7:30pm on Tuesday, October 28.

📍 In-person options in Casa Grande, Nogales, Phoenix, Prescott Valley, Sierra Vista, Tucson and Yuma.
💻 Can’t make it in person? Join virtually!
✨ Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn and be part of a supportive community.

👉 Register here: https://ow.ly/9Xje50X5SSJ

10/03/2025

Northern Arizona families: Join the Disability Resource Fair on Saturday!

10/03/2025

A big thank-you to Jennifer and Austin from SJS Investment Services for stopping by with a generous donation in honor of their 30th anniversary! We’re so grateful to be one of the 30 nonprofits they chose to support across four states. Their kindness helps us continue serving families all across Arizona.

10/02/2025

The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) recently announced coverage of Traditional Healing services under Medicaid.

Traditional Healing supports physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness. As of October 1, these services can be reimbursed through Arizona’s Medicaid program.

Learn more here: https://ow.ly/I8MO50X5RWU
Frequently asked questions: https://ow.ly/LaIm50X5RWT

10/02/2025

Are you interested in increasing your leadership skills? Would you like to make a positive change in your community? The Engaging Families and Young Adults Program provides compensated leadership training to family members and young adults with various backgrounds. These Family and Young Adult advisors will then be matched with organizations who value their perspectives to help impact systems change.

Please check our informational session on Wednesday, October 8th from 4-4:30 pm to learn more. We are also recruiting organizations who are interested in participating in this program. Register here: https://ow.ly/QtQL50X57ol