Welcome to the UPC Parent Press! Each month you will find carefully crafted information and resources on a variety of disability topics guaranteed to help you and your family navigate community resources, advocacy and much more. See what we are working on this month!
Sibling Supports this Holiday Season Many families are gearing up for celebrations, traditions, and cherished time together as the holiday season approaches. However, for families with complex dynamics—particularly those involving…
Autism Research Project “SPARK” What is SPARK? The SPARK for Autism Study is an ongoing and free research project in which families can participate. It is one of the largest…
Animated Stories Supporting Teen Mental Health My Life is Worth Living shares five powerful stories across 20 animated episodes, following relatable teens as they face familiar challenges and learn strategies…
School Attendance Problems Understanding School Attendance Problems (SAPs) According to the U.S. Department of Education (2022), approximately 27% of all Utah students are chronically absent from school and students with…
The Medical Home Portal: A Guide on Navigating Complex Medical Systems The Medical Home Portal, a comprehensive online resource, has become an invaluable tool for families, healthcare providers, and state…
Dinner Table Syndrome: A Hidden Struggle for Inclusion Among Deaf/Hard of Hearing Individuals The holidays are coming up and that means more family gatherings around the table. These situations can…
Cultivating Gratitude While Caring for a Child with a Disability Gratitude is a powerful tool, especially when life feels heavy. For parents of children with disabilities, practicing gratitude doesn’t mean…
Meet Melissa Teemant Introducing Melissa Teemant, Utah Parent Center’s (UPC) dedicated youth-in-care parent consultant. She is vital in providing support, information, and training to youth in care with disabilities, their…
Understanding Guardianship for Young Adults: Is It the Right Choice? Guardianship is designed for individuals who are incapacitated. Incapacity is determined by a judge and is based on a person’s…
Helping Siblings to Cope with Disability Meltdowns Meltdowns can be overwhelming events for everyone in the family, especially for siblings of a child with disabilities. Often, parents focus on calming…
National Audiology Awareness Month Article contributed by Stephanie Browning McVicar, Au.D., CCC-A, Doctor of Audiology Early Hearing Detection & Intervention (EHDI); Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Public Health Initiative; Children’s Hearing Aid Program…
World Mental Health Day & Self-Advocacy Every year on October 10th, the world observes World Mental Health Day, a vital reminder of the importance of mental well-being. This year’s theme…