The Special Needs Advisory Committee (SNAC) is a parent-led group that partners with the NFSB) to advocate for and support students with special needs. Mandated by Quebec’s Education Act, SNAC plays a vital role in shaping educational policies and ensuring that families have a voice in the services their children receive.
Advises the School Board: SNAC provides input on policies, guidelines, and funding related to students with special needs.
Hosts Information Sessions: Monthly meetings are open to all NFSB parents and guardians of children with special needs. Topics vary and may include guest speakers and experts providing information and resources.
Collaborates with Educational Services: SNAC works closely with the Educational Services Department to ensure that the needs of students are met effectively.
Attend a Meeting: Join us at our next meeting to learn more and share your experiences.
Parenting involves many emotions. There is the joy of welcoming a new addition to the family and the pride you feel as your child grows. You may also feel worried, impatient, or upset at times.
When you are the parent or guardian of a child with special needs, you might feel concerned when your child misses milestones or frustrated when typical parenting tips do not work for you. You might fear that your child’s disability will make their life harder.
As fellow parents on the path of special needs, we are here to offer another sentiment: hope! The path is not always easy, but information and support make it easier.
This guide was written, with love, by members of the Special Needs Advisory Committee (SNAC) of the New Frontiers School Board (NFSB). We hope this handbook provides you with new tools and renewed confidence. Above all, we want you to know that you are not alone.
Milestones are key skills children usually develop at certain ages. Knowing about them can help you see if your child is on track and support their growth.
Milestones cover four main areas:
Physical/Gross & Fine Motor: How your child moves and uses their body
Social/Emotional: How your child interacts with others and expresses feelings
Language/Communication: How your child listens, understands, and talks
Cognitive: How your child thinks, learns, and solves problems
Stay in touch with your child’s teachers and early childhood educators. Share any concerns, struggles, or delays you notice. Early detection means early support, which can help your child reach their full potential.
Be mindful of your child’s development. You know your child best. Explore anything that doesn’t feel right.
Share pertinent information with the school team. Gather assessments, reports, milestones, diagnoses, IEPs, and other relevant information.
Consult with your child’s learning team. Meet early in the year, share your concerns, and ask for feedback.
Follow recommendations from teachers, who may refer your child for additional support or assessment.
Consider asking about implementing an IEP. An IEP can include accommodations or modifications to support your child’s learning.
Get started with a health professional. Your pediatrician can provide referrals to psychologists, speech & language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other professionals.
Academic Assessments by Teachers: Informal and formal assessments help teachers understand your child’s strengths and challenges.
Input from Professionals: Occupational therapists, speech & language pathologists, and psychologists assist in determining support needs.
Psycho-Educational Assessments: Conducted by a licensed psychologist, these assessments provide a complete picture of your child’s learning profile.
Tip from a SNAC Parent:
Talk to the teachers. You are not bothering them, you are not asking for too much. Teachers want your child to succeed. ~ Jill S.
Planning for a child with special needs takes time, patience, and proactive involvement.
Tip from a SNAC Parent:
Keep asking questions until you understand and are comfortable. ~ Nadia P.
Understand your child’s needs and learn as much as possible about their diagnosis.
Familiarize yourself with the NFSB system. Schools support students with specialized classes, modified curriculum, learning resources, and access to professional evaluation.
Educational planning includes reviewing programs, services, and pathways within NFSB, including vocational and continuing education options.
Prepare for transitions. Talk to your child early, set goals together, revisit plans, and celebrate small wins.
Get involved and build a support network. Join committees, attend events, and connect with other families.
Tip from a SNAC Parent:
Don’t allow yourself to feel alone; get involved. Knowledge is such a great ally. ~ Candy C.
Develop a long-term plan, including financial and future planning, consulting professionals as needed.
Contributing to Your Child’s Team at School:
Provide information from external services.
Share your child’s strengths and interests.
Build relationships with the school team and volunteer when possible.
Be honest about your thoughts and concerns.
Take it one day at a time; this is a long journey.
Tip from a SNAC Parent:
Connect regularly with your child’s learning team and ask for feedback! ~ Judy C.
Communicating Effectively:
Request a meeting and provide topics in advance.
Be kind, respectfully assertive, and cooperative.
Prepare facts, questions, and concerns.
Keep notes of meetings, including recommendations and follow-up actions.
Ask how to support strategies at home.
Follow up regularly and involve your child or other support people if appropriate.
Advocating for Your Child:
Advocacy supports your child’s rights, needs, and interests.
Trust your instincts and your knowledge of your child.
Present solutions, create allies, and stay flexible.
Optimizing Your Child’s Success:
Collaborate with the school team.
Reinforce recommended strategies at home.
Monitor your child’s emotional state and focus on progress.
Prepare your child for transitions and self-advocacy.
Access community and school resources.
