Parent Training & Information (PTI) Project
Family-Led Support for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs
2024-2025 Education Workshop Calendar is here!
What is the PTI Project?
One-on-one support, trainings and workshops
The Parent Training and Information (PTI) Project is at the heart of the Utah Parent Center. Since 1983, this federally funded program has helped Utah families better understand special education, disability services, and their rights—so they feel informed, supported, and confident advocating for their children.
Through the PTI Project, the Utah Parent Center serves families of more than 65,000 children and young adults with disabilities across the state by offering trusted information, practical trainings, and one-on-one parent support.
Children & Young adults served by the UPC
Utah Counties Served
Years of continuous parent training and services
Get Started
One-on-One Parent Consultations
The Parent Training & Information (PTI) Project supports families through personalized one-on-one support and practical trainings and workshops. Families can use one or both—depending on their needs.
Training & Workshops
The PTI Project offers trainings and workshops that build knowledge, confidence, and real-world skills. These sessions are designed for parents, educators, service providers, and community members who support children and youth with disabilities.
One-on-One Parent Consultations
Personalized support from parents who understand
One-on-one consultations are the foundation of the Parent Training & Information (PTI) Project. When families contact the Utah Parent Center, they connect with a trained Parent Consultant—a parent of a child with a disability who understands both the systems and the lived experience.
Consultations help families:
Support is provided primarily by phone and is free, confidential, and family-centered.
Providing Accurate, Up-to-Date Information
Clear, reliable information families can trust.
Building Advocacy & Communication Skills
Tools to speak up and be heard.
Strengthening Family–Professional Partnerships
Helping families and professionals work together.
Supporting Families Statewide
Support for families across all of Utah.
Training & Workshops
Learning, tools, and skills for families and professionals
The PTI Project also provides structured trainings and workshops designed to build knowledge, skills, and confidence.
Workshop Topics
Utah Parent Center Orientation on Services and Programs
This brief presentation introduces families and professionals to the services and programs offered by the Utah Parent Center. Participants will learn how UPC supports families and how to access help and resources.
Parents as Partners in the IEP Process
This workshop helps parents understand their role, rights, and responsibilities as members of the IEP team. Participants learn how to prepare for, participate in, and follow up after IEP meetings.
Transition from School to Adult Life
This training focuses on what changes when students leave school and move into adult services. Families learn how to plan, find resources, and navigate adult systems without a central coordinating agency.
Tools for Constructive Communication: Learning to Communicate as an Effective Team Member
Participants learn and practice key communication skills that support effective teamwork and collaboration. The workshop also introduces interest-based negotiation to help manage conflict and build strong relationships.
Section 504: What Parents Need to Know
This workshop explains the basics of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and how it applies to students with disabilities. Parents learn how this law can support their child’s educational needs.
Stress…And What To Do About It!!!
This interactive workshop explores common stressors faced by families and professionals in the disability community. Participants learn practical strategies to recognize, manage, and reduce stress.
Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports
This workshop introduces families to positive approaches for understanding and supporting behavior. Participants gain an overview of functional assessment and positive behavior interventions and supports.
Negotiation and Advocacy Skills: How to Successfully Advocate and Negotiate Within Public Service Systems Through Interest-Based Negotiation
This workshop teaches step-by-step strategies for managing conflict and advocating effectively. Participants learn how to work collaboratively to find solutions while maintaining positive relationships.
Gifts and Challenges: A Child with Special Needs in Your Family
This workshop explores the unique experiences, emotions, and perspectives of families raising a child with special needs. Participants gain insight into recognizing strengths, managing challenges, and improving family–professional relationships.
Send in a Workshop Request!
Criteria for Training Requests
Due to high demand, free trainings are scheduled based on availability and priority criteria. Priority is given to requests that align with Parent Training & Information (PTI) Project topics, represent diverse locations across Utah, include community sponsorship support, and are open to both families and professionals. Audience size and public accessibility are also considered when scheduling trainings.