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    Michigan Alliance for Families:

    Your free guide to special education.

    Michigan Alliance for Families provides information, support, and education for families who have children and young adults (birth to 26 years of age) who receive (or may be eligible to receive) special education services. This website can help you with finding information on special education issues as well as disability specific information.

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Special Education Resources

Answers about your child's special education program

Disability Information

Information about your child's disability

Support

Hear from one of our Parent Mentors

Upcoming Events

Find an online workshop or view a recording

Need help navigating the special education system? Talk to a parent who's been there.

Connect directly with one of our local parent mentors to address your family's needs. Their perspective can not only help you navigate the system, but they can also help you be more involved in your child's education. All Michigan families are able to access an extensive collection of electronic or printed resources, informational support and referrals to local community resources. To get in touch with a Michigan Alliance for Families staff member,  Contact Us.

News & Updates

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Michigan Alliance for Families

1 day ago

Michigan Alliance for Families
Families with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers are invited to join us on Thursday mornings in February for learning more about early childhood and special education. All scheduled for 9:30AM, after the big kids leave for school but before naptime is calling.👶February 5 Early Intervention and IFSPs: A Closer LookFamilies with a child under 3 who has an IFSP, as well as parents who have a concern about their young child's development are invited. Learn to prioritize your greatest concerns and have productive conversations. Register at tinyurl.com/375udkpu👶🏼February 12 Navigating Early Childhood Special Education - PreschoolFamilies with a child in (or getting ready for) preschool can join us to learn more about preschool options, Least Restrictive Environment, and what supports and services are available. Register at tinyurl.com/yck567e8👶February 19 From Puzzled to Prepared: Present Level for PreschoolLearn the importance of the PLAAFP section of the IEP, and about sharing your insights on your child's daily routines and developmental strengths or concerns to strengthen the IEP. Register at tinyurl.com/26yk9mxpSee our full calendar at www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org/upcoming-events/ ... See MoreSee Less

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Michigan Alliance for Families

2 days ago

Michigan Alliance for Families
🐦Early birds join us Tuesday January 27 at 9:30AM for FAPE in the LRE. Register at tinyurl.com/4rjcp6n3🌷Can't make it? Register to join us on March 11, 2026 at 4:30PM. Register at tinyurl.com/52fpxp4d This online workshop will dive into two foundational concepts in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and how they apply to your child.FAPE is an important principle that ensures children with disabilities have access to a free appropriate public education that meets their individual needs.With appropriate supports and services, students with disabilities can benefit from meaningful interactions and learning experiences in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).🧐Do you know MDE has Family Matters Fact Sheets on both of these topics?Find FAPE at www.michigan.gov/mde/-/media/Project/Websites/mde/specialeducation/familymatters/FM1/FAPE_FactShe...Find LRE at www.michigan.gov/mde/-/media/Project/Websites/mde/specialeducation/familymatters/FM2/LRE-Regs_Fac...🔗Visit our website calendar for full details, easy registration, and more webinar topics. www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org/upcoming-events/ ... See MoreSee Less

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Michigan Alliance for Families

3 days ago

Michigan Alliance for Families
Are you looking for a fun winter activity for your toddler that doesn’t require bundling up or heading out into the Michigan cold?! Try Ice Cube Exploration!Freeze a few small household items in ice cubes, then let your toddler explore them using a spoon, warm water, or their hands. As the ice melts, talk together about what feels cold or warm, describe what you see (wet, slippery, hard, soft), and celebrate each new discovery. This playful experience builds fine motor skills, early problem-solving, and language development—all through everyday moments. ... See MoreSee Less

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IDEAs that Work

Funding Statement

Michigan Alliance for Families is a Michigan Department of Education IDEA Grant Funded Initiative. Michigan Alliance for Families is our state's federally funded Parent Training and Information Center. The contents of this website were developed under a grant from the US Department of Education, H328M200015. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the US Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. Project Officer, Anna Macedonia.

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