Navigating Parent and Caregiver Burnout: Personal Journey and Resource Project
Hello, Dear Hearts. I'm Zephrine Hanson, a founder and creator, and I’m sharing an update and reintroducing myself.
The Caregiver Burnout Project
I'm currently working on a project focused on caregiver burnout resources in Denver, Colorado. This initiative stems from a deeply personal experience that has profoundly impacted my family over the past two years.
Our Family's Contrast
The last two years have been challenging for us. My family has experienced extreme burnout, which has significantly affected everyones mental health impacted both my spouse's and my careers. More importantly, it has impacted our children's ability to grow into who they are meant to be.
Connecting with Resources
Ensuring our family's needs are met is a demanding responsibility. I have gathered and utilized a range of intersectional resources in Denver. I am grateful for the funding from the Colorado Developmental Disability Council for this project, which aims to assist more families in Denver in accessing services and support for their loved ones, while also amplifying the work of organizations that are essential in meeting these needs.
Addressing the #1 Question: Where Do I Start?
As I've connected with caregivers of neurodivergent families, the most common question I hear is, "Where do I start?" To address this, let's explore two crucial tools: Family Support Plans (FSP) and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Family Support Plans vs. IEPs: What's the Difference?
Family Support Plans (FSP)
These plans focus on supporting the entire family, not just the child. They're typically used for children from birth to age three as part of Colorado's Early Intervention services. The goal is to help families meet their child's developmental needs in their natural environment - at home, in childcare, or in the community.
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
IEPs are designed for children aged 3-21 in the public school system who need special education services. These plans focus on the child's educational goals, the services they'll receive, and how their progress will be measured.
Why Your Child Might Benefit from Both
Holistic Support: Family Support Plans consider the needs of the entire family, while IEPs focus on educational needs. Together, they provide comprehensive support.
Transition Assistance: Having both plans can help smooth the transition from early intervention to school-based services.
Different Environments: Family Support Plans address needs in various settings, while IEPs are primarily school-focused, ensuring support across all areas of life.
Parental Involvement: Both plans encourage parental involvement in different ways, allowing you to actively participate in your child's development and education.
Colorado's Unique Offerings
The Colorado Department of Early Childhood offers various family support programs such as case mangement with an of the organizations like Rocky Mountain Human Services, while the Colorado Department of Education provides comprehensive IEP services.
Personal Growth and Neurodivergence
As I continue to understand my own neurodivergence as an adult, I can't stress enough how important early support is. These diagnose/descriptions and plans aren't just paperwork - they're roadmaps to help you and your child thrive.
We appreciate your ongoing interest and support. Let's continue to work towards a future where every individual is valued and supported. Thank you for following me, Hampden Farms and the Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council (CDDC) on LinkedIn. We look forward to thoughtful dialogue and insights.
Be well,
Zephrine
“Remember to take three deep breaths and be well, dear hearts.”
This content was made possible thanks to funding from Colorado Developmental Disability Council CDDC
For the latest updates from CDDC, you can explore their blog.