EXPLAINED: 12 | Rare Historical Photos

Texas Parents Say Special Education Staffing Shortages Are Getting Worse

For many Texas families, getting special education support for a child has become more stressful, more complicated, and increasingly uncertain. Parents across the state say Texas special education staffing shortages are making it harder for students to receive consistent classroom instruction, therapy services, and one-on-one support. In some districts, families…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 28

The School Budget Cuts Parents Say Are Hitting Special Education First

When school districts face budget pressure, parents often worry about crowded classrooms, canceled activities, or staff layoffs. But across the country, many families say special education budget cuts are affecting vulnerable students first. Parents of children with disabilities report concerns about reduced classroom support, staff shortages, longer evaluations, and changes…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 28

5 Medical Expenses Families of Neurodivergent Kids Say They Never Budgeted For

Raising a neurodivergent child often comes with love, resilience, and a level of financial planning many families never saw coming. While insurance may cover some basics, parents frequently discover hidden costs that quietly pile up month after month. From therapy gaps to specialty products, these bills can strain even carefully…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 27

New York Parents Warn About Rising Transportation Issues for Special Needs Students

For many New York families, getting a child to school safely is no longer a routine part of the day. Parents of children with disabilities are raising concerns about missed pickups, long bus rides, staffing shortages, and missing accommodations tied to special education transportation. When a child depends on a…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 25

Arizona Families Report More Disputes Over Classroom Accommodations

Parents across Arizona are reporting more disagreements with schools over classroom accommodations, turning what used to be quiet meetings into emotionally charged disputes. For many families, the issue centers on whether students with ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, or medical conditions are receiving the classroom support they were promised. Special…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 24

Your Child’s IEP Is About to Get Tougher: New Rules Demand Specific Goals, Frequent Check-Ins and More Proof

Parents heading into an IEP meeting may notice something different this year: schools are being pushed to show more evidence, clearer goals, and stronger progress tracking. The days of vague language like “will improve reading skills” are fading fast. Across special education, expectations are rising around measurable outcomes, data collection,…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 24

5 Free Summer Camps In The U.S.: Here’s How You Qualify

Finding affordable summer activities can feel impossible when some camps charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars per week. The good news is that several free summer camps in the U.S. still offer life-changing experiences without the hefty price tag. From STEM adventures to leadership training and outdoor programs, these…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 24

5 Summer Camps That You Should NEVER Allow Your Children to Attend

Summer camp can be a life-changing experience for kids, offering friendship, confidence, and outdoor adventure. But not every camp delivers the safe, enriching environment parents expect. In recent years, reports involving poor supervision, unsafe activities, and inadequate staff training have raised serious concerns about summer camp safety. Knowing the warning…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 23

Florida Families Report Longer Delays for School-Based Autism Services

For many Florida parents, getting school-based autism services is no longer just a paperwork challenge — it is becoming a waiting game. Families across the state say delays involving evaluations, therapy support, classroom accommodations, and staffing shortages are stretching longer than expected. When services are delayed, children can miss critical…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 23

7 Things Veteran Special Education Parents Wish They’d Known Earlier

Getting a diagnosis, requesting evaluations, and sitting through your first IEP meeting can feel like learning a new language overnight. Many special education parents start out believing schools will automatically explain every option and protect every need. In reality, the process often requires persistence, documentation, and a steep learning curve.…

Kids Ain't Cheap · May 23