LINK: Programs Supporting Children with Developmental Disabilities & Their Families in Dane County's Communities

· Children who have disabilities are children first. All children need acceptance, love, nurturing, security, and recognition of their unique gifts.

· All children have a right to a home, a place in a family, and enduring relationships with committed adults with whom the child shares a home and who have decision-making power and roles adequate to pursue the child’s best interests.

· Parents are the best allies in all activity that serves the child. Parents are in the best position to know their needs, to find solutions, and to choose the kinds of supports that will help them to care for their child with a disability.

· Children with disabilities deserve a valued place in the community where they can live, learn, and grow. Our communities are enriched by the diversity and involvement of all its members.

· Community investment in offering a variety of quality human service programs has demonstrated clear success in promoting learning, achievement and a better quality of life for children with disabilities and their families.

· The best way to meet the needs of children is to support and build on the strength of their families. Families have tremendous capacity to raise a child with a disability, especially when they receive support from friends, neighbors, human service professionals and programs, and other community members.