Question 1

Who runs Moms of Amazing Kids?

Accepted Answer

We're a parent-led resource built by a Massachusetts mom raising a child with special needs. Everything here is created from lived experience — we're not a corporation, agency, or clinic. Just parents helping parents. [Learn more about us](/about).

Question 2

Is this site free to use?

Accepted Answer

100% free for families — always. We'll never charge you to browse providers, use tools, or access resources. Some providers choose to pay for enhanced listings, which helps us keep the site running.

Question 3

Is this site a substitute for professional advice?

Accepted Answer

No. Everything here is for informational purposes only. We are parents sharing resources — not medical, legal, or educational professionals. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance specific to your family. Read our full [disclaimer](/disclaimer).

Question 4

My child was just diagnosed — where do I start?

Accepted Answer

Take a breath. You're already doing something by being here. Start with our [Resources page](/resources) to find help matched to your situation. If your child is under 3, check out our [Early Intervention guide](/early-intervention). If they're school-age, explore [IEPs and 504 Plans](/tools/iep-advocacy-hub).

Question 5

How do I request Early Intervention in Massachusetts?

Accepted Answer

Call the EI program in your area directly — no referral needed. Any parent, caregiver, or doctor can make a referral for a child under 3. Visit our [Early Intervention page](/early-intervention) for a full walkthrough and our [EI Toolkit](/ei-toolkit) for local program contacts.

Question 6

What is an IEP and how do I get one?

Accepted Answer

An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legally binding plan for students with disabilities in public schools. Send a written request for evaluation to your child's school — they must respond within a set timeline. Our [IEP Advocacy Hub](/tools/iep-advocacy-hub) has [letter templates](/tools/letter-templates), timelines, and [meeting prep tools](/tools/meeting-prep).

Question 7

What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan?

Accepted Answer

An IEP provides specialized instruction and related services. A 504 Plan provides accommodations (like extra time or seating changes) but not specialized instruction. Both are legal protections — the right one depends on your child's needs.

Question 8

How do I find a therapist or specialist?

Accepted Answer

Browse our [Provider Directory](/providers) by category — speech therapy, OT, behavioral health, tutoring, and more. You can filter by location and save providers to your [personal list](/saved-providers) to track your research.

Question 9

Are providers listed here endorsed by Moms of Amazing Kids?

Accepted Answer

No. Listings are community-sourced for convenience. We do not endorse, recommend, or guarantee any provider. Always verify credentials and consult professionals directly. Families can leave 'Vibe Checks' to share their real experiences.

Question 10

What does 'Spotlight' or 'Village Partner' mean on a listing?

Accepted Answer

Some providers pay for enhanced visibility — things like priority placement, a custom banner, or newsletter features. It means they've invested in reaching families, but it's not an endorsement. Free listings are always included. Interested? See our [Partner Signup](/partner/signup).

Question 11

Can my business appear in more than one category?

Accepted Answer

Free and Spotlight listings appear in one primary category. Village Partners appear in every category they serve. When submitting a free listing, just pick the category that fits best. If you'd like multi-category visibility, check out our [Partner Signup](/partner/signup).

Question 12

How do I add a provider to the directory?

Accepted Answer

Tap 'Add a Listing' on the [directory page](/providers). Anyone can submit — whether you're a parent who loves a provider or a business owner adding yourself. We review every submission before it goes live.

Question 13

How do I save and track providers?

Accepted Answer

Tap the bookmark icon on any provider card to save it. Then visit [My Saved Providers](/saved-providers) to set statuses (To Call, Waiting, Scheduled, Currently Seeing), add private notes, and share or print your list.

Question 14

What are Vibe Checks?

Accepted Answer

Vibe Checks are short, anonymous reviews from real families. After you've visited a provider, you can share what the experience was like — things like 'Welcoming staff,' 'Sensory-friendly,' or 'Long wait times.' It helps other parents know what to expect.

Question 15

How do I join the community?

Accepted Answer

Visit our [Community page](/community) to explore features like the Village Fridge, mood check-ins, and 'Anyone Else?' notes — all anonymous. You can also join our Facebook group to connect with local parents directly.

Question 16

Is my information private?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We don't require accounts or logins. Your saved providers, notes, and preferences are stored on your device only. Community features like Vibe Checks and mood check-ins are fully anonymous. See our [Privacy Policy](/privacy).

Frequently Asked Questions

About Us

Getting Started

Provider Directory

Using the Site