For Friends & Family

    You want to help.
    Here's how.

    Someone you love is raising a child with disabilities. You don't need a degree or the perfect words. You need this page.

    You want to help. That's why you're here, and it matters more than you know.

    You don't need to fix anything. Understanding goes further than you think.

    Sometimes the best thing you can do is show up and ask what's actually needed.

    Six things that actually help

    Learn the basics

    Understanding the diagnosis, even at a surface level, means the world. Start with the First 30 Days guide to see what the family is carrying right now.

    Learn more

    Offer specific help

    'Can I take the kids Saturday morning?' beats 'Let me know if you need anything.' Specific offers actually get accepted.

    Learn more

    Know what not to say

    'Have you tried...' and 'He seems fine to me' can sting, even when they come from love. Lead with listening instead.

    Celebrate the small wins

    A new word. A calm grocery trip. Sleeping through the night. These are huge. Acknowledge them.

    Keep showing up

    Support often fades after the first few months. The family still needs you in year two, year five, year ten.

    Love the child in front of you

    Not the version anyone expected. The real, wonderful kid right there. That is the whole job.

    Whoever you are to this family

    Find your starting point.

    Grandparents

    You are worried about your grandchild and their parents. You can help with MassHealth paperwork, respite, and simply being the calm in the storm.

    Help with the paperwork

    Dads & Partners

    You might process this differently, and that's okay. Practical ways to carry the load, from insurance calls to Saturday morning duty.

    Start with the roadmap

    Friends

    You don't need the right words. You need to stay. Bring coffee, send the text, sit in the waiting room.

    See what the village looks like

    Extended Family

    Aunts, uncles, cousins: learn the basics, skip the advice, and celebrate the wins nobody else notices.

    Browse the resources

    Guardians & Legal Caregivers

    Raising someone else's child comes with extra paperwork and extra heart. Here are the resources built for your situation.

    Legal & financial steps

    Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not professional medical, legal, or educational advice. Always consult qualified professionals for your child's specific needs. Full disclaimer →