Utah Parent Center

06/18/2026

One of the mantras we tell our Youth Advisory Board often is "My Future. My Voice. My Choice."

If you need support advocating reach out to us for help at [email protected] ❤️

06/17/2026

Utah Parent Center's Statement in response to the U.S. Department of Education (ED) transferring special education and vocational rehabilitation programs and oversight of these programs from the Education Department to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

We are deeply concerned that less than a year after the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a decision has been made that puts at risk the longstanding federal commitment to protect the educational rights of students with disabilities.

The transfer of the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), including oversight of IDEA and the Vocational Rehabilitation Act, to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services moves these critical programs to an agency whose mission is healthcare, not education. This is a bipartisan issue for the education rights of Utah students and all other students with disabilities in America. It's common sense: children's education should be in an education agency.

Under this change, students and adults with disabilities risk becoming a lower priority within an agency that has no established expertise in ensuring schools deliver a free, appropriate public education. That is not a system set up to serve kids well.

Separating federal special education and vocational rehabilitation programs from other K-12 and higher education programs disconnects students with disabilities from the same opportunities available to every other child. At a time when the academic achievement and employment of individuals with disabilities already lags significantly behind their peers, adding bureaucratic distance is a step in the wrong direction.

The Utah Parent Center works every day alongside Utah families navigating these systems. We urge decision-makers to pause implementation and reaffirm the commitment this country has upheld for over 50 years, that every child, regardless of ability, deserves access to a quality education.

While our leadership team is closely following these issues, please remember that special education laws and policies remain intact.

If you are a Utah parent of a child with a disability needing support, please contact us at [email protected] ❤️

06/17/2026

Thank you , for being one of our top Family Festival sponsors! NBCG offers expert therapy services for individuals and families navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional challenges, developmental differences, and more. With tailored care, integrated psychiatry, and trusted professionals, we help you take the next step with confidence.

There are 6 clinic locations across Utah and Utah Telehealth coverage statewide!

06/15/2026

"What happens when the bus stops coming?"

That can be an overwhelming question for parents and caregivers, but with supported decision making and a Transition IEP, the sky really is the limit.

Check out Beck's inspiring story, the son of the Colorado Parent Center's Executive Director. Beck Williers is a 23-year-old young man with an exciting life ahead of him. His transition into adulthood did not happen overnight but came through a journey of self-advocacy and community-building. PEAK Parent Center

Beck Williers is a 23-year-old young man with an exciting life ahea...

06/13/2026

June is Men's Health Month 💙 and we want you to slow your scroll to appreciate the fathers, brothers and other male supports in our community.

You show up. You advocate. You love fiercely. You carry responsibilities most never have to face.

Your mental health matters. Your struggles are valid. Your feelings deserve support.

Send this message to a man in your life who is doing an amazing job.

Learn more about mental health support at the Utah Parent Center and beyond by visiting the link below.

06/12/2026

LIVE 📍 from Tracy Aviary! Setting up for our 4th annual Family Festival. We're excited to see everyone there!

If you've been to this event in the past, what was a highlight for you?

06/09/2026

You don't have to choose!! Come to our Family Festival this weekend at the Tracy Aviary & watch the world, which will be streaming on the top floor of the Chase Mill building.

We weren't lying when we said this event is family fun for the WHOLE family and focused on community connection!

We hope to see you there!

06/09/2026

Register at: bit.ly/UPCFamFest2026 🦜

06/08/2026

First week of summer down... how we doin'?? 😅

We love this from : Let Them Be Bored
Quick question: Do you scroll during dinner? Check your phone while already watching TV? Leave background noise on constantly?

We've forgotten how to be bored. And we're teaching our kids the same.

But here's the thing:
Your best ideas don't come while scrolling.

They come in the shower. During a quiet drive. In that half-awake moment before sleep.

Our brains need white space to create, not just consume.

Your kids need it too.

When they say "I'm bored, there's nothing to do," that's not a problem to fix. It's their brain shifting into creation mode. The idea is forming. The game is about to be invented.

Research shows boredom creates a "knowledge gap" that motivates children to explore and imagine. Curiosity bridges boredom and creativity.
This summer, let them be bored.

The next backyard adventure is waiting on the other side of "there's nothing to do." 🌟
Jirout, J., Evans, N., & Hirsh-Pasek, K. (2023)

06/07/2026

We're so grateful to ABS Kids for being one of our Family Festival sponsors. 💙 ABS Kids is a therapy option for families with loved ones with Autism.

ABS Kids providers see the strengths of the children with ASD and empower them with individualized strategies. The goals and milestones meaningful to each family are just as unique as every child they meet.

Their child-centered approach recognizes the individual needs, strengths, and challenges each child has and empowers each person to unwrap the gifts of neurodiversity.

Check out the ABS Kids booth at our 2026 Family Festival on June 12th at the Tracy Aviary.