Thank you for picking up a copy of Exceptional Kids. There are so many great organizations that provide services for children and young adults.
Many of the non-profit organizations who provide services for our community rely on donors like you, to help support and expand their programs.
Our Resource Directory has many nonprofits with their organizations name, phone number and website. Please go to website, click on the "Donate" button and give. Your contribution will be helping a child or young adult receive the services they need so they can grow and develop into young men and women, working and living independently in our community.
Just look for the ◆ symbol next to the nonprofit company in the resource directory.
Thank you for your support!
Should I add my Child to Interest Waiting Lists?
This is a question many parents ask themselves when their child is first diagnosed with physical, mental health care needs or a disability. Many of the waiver programs have a very long waiting list. As of the writing of this article some of the programs have a wait list up to 10+ years.
The waiver list is just that, a list that you put your child on in case they ever need the services. When they get to the top of the waiver interest list, eligibility will be determined. Many families feel like their child will not qualify due to their income, keep in mind when your child reaches 18 they are an adult. Once they are out of school and continue to need some time in a day program it will cost money. Even if you feel like your child will be able to live and work independently you should put them on the waiting lists.
Below is a list of the Texas Medicaid Waivers and a brief description. You will find their phone numbers in the Resource Directory of Exceptional Kids, listed under Medicaid Waiver Programs:
Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS): gives home and community-based supports to people with related conditions.
Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD): gives services for people who are deaf-blind or have a related condition that leads to deaf-blindness, and who have another disability.
Home and Community-based Services (HSC): gives services and supports to people with intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live with their families, in their own homes, or in small group homes with no more than 4 beds.
Medically Dependent Children Program (MDCP): gives services to families caring for children and young adults as an alternative to receiving services in a nursing facility. Texas Home Living (TxHmL): gives services to people with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live in their home or their family’s home.
Youth Empowerment Services (YES): gives home and community-based services to children who otherwise would need psychiatric inpatient care or whose parents would turn to state custody for care.
Also, here are a couple of resources that have been very helpful, I pulled some of the information for this article from www.navigatelifetexas.org. Once you add your child to these list, request a letter or email confirmation.
Kameron Chicoine, Publisher of Exceptional Kids Magazine
Gooey Caramel-Topped Gingersnaps
Prep/Total Time: 30 Min. + Chilling Yield: 3-1/2 Dozen
Ingredients
• 42 gingersnap cookies
• 1 package (14 ounces) caramels
• 2 tablespoons 2% milk or heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup chopped honey-roasted peanuts
• 12 ounces white or dark chocolate candy coating, melted
• Sprinkles or finely chopped honeyroasted peanuts
Directions
1. Arrange cookies in a single layer on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. In a microwave, melt caramels with milk in a microwave-safe bowl; stir until smooth. Stir in 1 cup chopped peanuts. Spoon about 1 teaspoon caramel mixture over each cookie; refrigerate until set.
2. Dip each cookie halfway into candy
coating; allow excess to drip off. Return to baking sheet; top with sprinkles or finely chopped peanuts. Refrigerate until set.
Transition Planning for Students with Disabilities: What’s After Public Education?
Eventually, every child leaves K–12 education. Some students with disabilities graduate from high school at 18 and move on successfully. Others need more services and support to prepare for adult life — from job training to learning daily living and social skills.
Building Skills for Independence
Students with disabilities may need extra help developing job or life skills. Some may also need assistance finding a college that fits their abilities. Learning how to budget, prepare meals, or manage transportation can be just as important as academics. Ideally, these supports begin early. Some students start vocational training in middle school, while others stay in school through age 21 or 22 in an “18+” or “Transition” program after earning a certificate of attendance instead of a diploma.
If your child receives special education services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP), transition services should be part of it. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires schools to include a transition plan in every student’s IEP by age 14 — or earlier, if the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee recommends it.
If you haven’t started planning yet, don’t worry. It’s never too late to begin thinking about life after high school.
Key Questions to Guide Transition Planning
As your child enters high school, consider these important questions:
• Does your child want to go to college?
• Would they prefer to work after high school? If so, what skills are needed?
• When will your child graduate — at 18, 19, or later?
• What diploma path fits their goals?
These questions shape your child’s IEP and transition plan, helping align school services with future goals.
18+ and Transition Programs
Many school districts offer 18+ or Transition programs for students who complete a certificate of attendance. These programs provide continued instruction in life skills, vocational training, and community involvement to help students prepare for independent living or employment.
Entry into these programs depends on local district policies and ARD committee decisions. Some classes take place in high schools; others are held at specialized campuses. Course options often include:
• Business or Marketing Education
• Health Science or Technology Education
• Family and Consumer Sciences
• Trade and Industrial Education
• Agricultural or Industrial Technology
• Military Science
These programs often combine academic review, workplace experience, and real-world skill development.
Connecting With Community Resources
Your school district can also connect you with local organizations that support transition-aged youth. Examples include:
• Work-study programs that combine school and employment.
• Supported employment for students needing job coaching.
• Training programs through the Texas Workforce Commission.
• Post-graduation services that focus on college readiness, independent living, or continued skill building.
Check your district’s website or contact the special education department for available programs. Networking with other parents of transition-age students can also be a great source of information.
Understanding Your Child’s Rights
Under IDEA, your child is entitled to transition services that are:
• Results-oriented and focused on improving academic and functional achievement.
• Designed to help move from school to postschool activities.
• Based on individual needs, strengths, preferences, and interests.
• Inclusive of job exploration, community participation, and life-skills training.
Moving Forward
Transition planning is not just about checking boxes on an IEP — it’s about preparing your child for a meaningful, independent adult life. Whether the next step is college, work, or supported living, planning early and staying involved will make the journey smoother.
Start where you are, ask questions, and use the resources available through your school and community. With the right planning, your child can move confidently from school into the next chapter of adulthood.
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com ◆Donate◆
ABA THERAPY
◆Autism Treatment Center
210-590-2107
15911 Nacogdoches Rd Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org
Mindcolor Autism
833-646-3222
8507 Culebra Rd Suite 101 info@mindcolorautism www.mindcolorautism.com
Shelby May Behavioral Consulting 210-239-7181 shelbynunn@maybehavior.com www.maybehavior.com
ACUTE/SKILLED CARE
LifeSpan Home Health Pg 2 877-434-3153 6243 IH-10 W Suite 375 www.lifespantx.com
ADAPTIVE SPORTS (COMPETITIVE & RECREATIONAL)
◆Kinetic Kids
210-748-5860
11931 Starcrest Dr info@kinetickidstx.org www.kinetickidstx.org
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Brain Therapy Clinic -San Antonio 210-926-7847
901 NE Loop 410 Suite 405 www.mipcare.com
Brain Therapy Clinic - Houston 832-271-4775 2200 North Loop West Suite 106, Houston www.mipcare.com
◆Pathways Youth & Family Services 210-733-7117 1919 NW Loop 410 Suite 201 www.pathway.org
CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE
Clarity Child Guidance Center 210-616-0300
8535 Tom Slick info@claritycgc.org www.claritycgc.org
COUNSELING PROVIDERS
Catholic Charities 210-377-1133
San Fernando Community Center 231 W Commerce
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
Wave Healthcare Pg 3
866-935-9283
121 Interpark Blvd #300 www.wavehealthcare.com
EDUCATION ADVOCACY RESOURCES
101 ADVOCACY, LLC
210-722-9974 www.101advocacy.com
uHoly Spirit Special Education Advocacy Firm 210-577-6500
10127 Morocco St #202 privateclinic@aimeducate.com aimeducate.com
Texas School, Community & Public Policy Liaison TBI SOS 4 Kids Project Center on Brain Injury Research and Training (CBIRT)
University of Oregon cmagrane@uoregon.edu
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Catholic Charities
210-293-1009
202 W. French Place www.ccaosa.org
GENERAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES
www.unitedwaysatx.org
2-1-1 Texas is a free, anonymous social service hotline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
City of San Antonio - Utility Assistance 210-207-7830
Hill Country MHDD Centers 358 Landa Street, Suite 300, New Braunfels 888-315-3277
http://www.hillcountry.org
Kerr County MH Center 955 Water Street, Kerrville 888-445-5232
http://www.hillcountry.org
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
GENERAL
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Project Warm - Bexar County Dept of Community Assistance 210-335-3666
Salvation Army 210-226-2291
226 Nolan St
San Antonio Food Bank 210-337-3663
5200 Old Hwy 90 West
Society of St. Vincent de Paul 210-225-7837
WIC Program 210-207-4906
MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAMS
CDS in Texas Pg 2 210-798-3779 Toll Free 866-675-7331 www.cdstexas.com
CLASS - Medically Dependent Children's Program 877-438-5658
DBMD-Deaf/Blind Multiple Disabilities Program 877-438-5658
Disability Services of the Southwest 210-798-0123
6243 IH-10 West Suite 114 www.dsswtx.org
HCS - Home & Community-Based Services Program 210-832-5020
MDCP - Medically Dependent Children's Program 877-438-5658
LifeSpan Home Health Pg 2 877-434-3153 6243 IH-10 W Suite 375 www.lifespantx.com
Texas Home Living Waiver 210-832-5020
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Red Cross 210-224-5151
Cerebral Palsy Foundation ucp.org 210-520-1686
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) 800-572-1717
National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), SA 210-734-3349
National Down Syndrome Society 800-221-4602 www.ndss.org
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Scleroderma Foundation www.Sclerodema.org
Spinal Bifida Association Texas Chapter 972-238-8755
Williams Syndrome 800-806-1871 www.Williams-syndrome.org
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
uAutism Treatment Center
210-590-2107
15911 Nacogdoches Rd, Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org
CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)
Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
San Rafael Healthcare Inc Pg 15 210-255-1466
4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
PEDIATRIC HOME HEALTH & PRIVATE DUTY NURSING
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care Pg 16 512-532-4800
2921 Steck Ave A-120, Austin www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care Pg 16 210-447-1650
4502 Centerview Dr, Suite 233, San Antonio www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
254-935-0450 2027 S 61st Street, Suite 121, Temple www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
16 469-827-7500
275 W Campbell Rd, Richardson www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care Pg 16 713-829-7149
24624 Interstate 45 N Suite 241, Spring www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
16 915-343-7744
1790 Lee Trevino Dr Ste 202, El Paso www.entrustedphc.com
San Rafael Healthcare Inc
15 210-255-1466 4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
PHYSICAL THERAPY
CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)
Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org
Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
PHYSICAL THERAPY
San Rafael Healthcare Inc Pg 15
210-255-1466
4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department
210-207-3018
PRESCRIBED PEDIATRIC EXTENDED CAR CENTER (PPECC)
Health Care for Kids
210-951-4840
16019 Nacogdoches Rd Suite 119 www.healthcareforkids.com
SPECIAL EDUCATION/504 ADVOCATE
uHoly Spirit Special Education Advocacy Firm 210-577-6500
Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months
Easy to refer, no medical referral needed
Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
San Rafael Healthcare Inc Pg 15 210-255-1466
4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
STATE ORGANIZATIONS
Customer Service Line (Ombudsman) 877-787-8999
www.hhsc.state.tx.us
Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services NOW Texas Work Force www.twc.state.tx.us
North Field Office 210-561-8600
12000 Network Blvd #210
West Field Office
210-522-8010 5309 Wurzbach, Suite 102
Northeast Field Office 210-590-5740 10303 Nacogdoches
South Field Office 210-927-8300 1011 Ada St
e Best Places to See Christmas and Holiday Lights in San Antonio
Twinkling Trails, Festive Parks, and Glowing River Walk Nights
Looking for the best places to see Christmas lights in San Antonio? From the sparkling RiverWalk to SeaWorld, the San Antonio Zoo, and beyond, the city shines bright with millions of holiday lights every winter. If you're visiting with family, friends, or just that special someone, here are the top spots to experience the holiday magic in San Antonio this season.
Restored by Light
November 7, 2025
Experience Restored by Light at Mission San José, a free community event celebrating the 10th anniversary of San Antonio’s World Heritage Site designation.
Enjoy live performances, food trucks, kids’ activities, and a breathtaking light show that illuminates the historic mission under the stars.
SeaWorld San Antonio’s Christmas Celebration
November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026
SeaWorld San Antonio's Christmas Celebration takes the winter wonderland aesthetic to new heights.
Enjoy sparkling holiday lights, heartwarming Christmas shows, festive treats, and a visit from Santa himself. It’s a magical experience that brings the holiday spirit to life for the whole family. https://seaworld.com/san-antonio/ events/
San Antonio Zoo's Zoo Lights
November 15 – December 31, 2025
Zoo Lights at San Antonio Zoo brings the wildest holiday magic to town! See the zoo transform into a glittering winter wonderland lled with dazzling lights, festive music, and whimsical displays around every corner.
Stroll through vibrant realms bursting with color and cheer. is year’s attractions are bigger, brighter, and more enchanting than ever. https://sazoo.org/
San Antonio Botanical Garden's Illuminate
November 21 – January 11, 2026
Illuminate at the San Antonio Botanical Garden is back, and it’s brighter, bolder, and more breathtaking than ever. Wander glowing trails lled with handcrafted lanterns and larger-than-life light sculptures that transform the garden into a magical wonderland. Perfect for families, date nights, or festive outings with friends, this one-of-akind experience is a must-see during the holiday season in San Antonio. https://www.sabot.org/illuminate/
Six Flags Fiesta Texas' Holiday in the Park
November 22 – December 23, 2026
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Fiesta Texas brings the joy of the season to life with lights, rides, and festive fun.
Stroll through sparkling displays, catch cheerful holiday shows, and enjoy your favorite coasters with a merry twist. It’s a unique way to celebrate the season in true San Antonio style. https://www.six ags.com/ estatexas/events
e San Antonio River Walk's Holiday Lights
November 28, 2025 – First Week of January 2026
e San Antonio River Walk’s holiday lights are unveiled each year during the Ford Holiday River Parade, held the day after anksgiving.
Over 100,000 lights drape the towering cypress trees, re ecting o the water for a snow globe-like e ect that feels straight out of a holiday dream, perfect for a casual evening stroll along the river. https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events/holiday-lights-on-the-riverwalk-free/
Coca-Cola Classic Christmas at Toyota Field
November 28, 2025 – December 28, 2025
Coca-Cola Classic Christmas is a larger-than-life holiday experience packed with sparkle and cheer. With over 55,000 square feet of dazzling light displays and sculptures, it’s one of the most vibrant attractions of the season.
Enjoy snow slides, ice skating, live entertainment, and even a visit from Santa himself. It’s the ultimate stop for festive fun and holiday photo ops the whole family will love. https://classicchristmas.com/san-antonio/ Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour with Old Town Trolley Tours
November 29, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Climb aboard the Holiday Sights and Festive Nights® Trolley Tour and cruise through San Antonio’s sparkling downtown in style!
Festive cheer lls this jolly 45-minute ride, which includes sing-along holiday tunes, dazzling light displays, and complimentary holiday glasses to enhance the magic of the twinkling lights. https://www.trolleytours.com/ san-antonio/holiday-tour-tickets
Natural Bridge Caverns' Christmas at the Caverns
Select Nights December 2025
Natural Bridge Caverns' Christmas at the Caverns is a must-visit! is unique festive event features a walking trail of lights, ice skating, a reindeer maze, s’mores stations, and even caroling inside the famous caverns.
e acoustics within the caverns make for a truly magical singing experience, while the outdoor activities add plenty of holiday cheer. It’s an adventure you won’t nd anywhere else! https://naturalbridgecaverns.com/ christmas/
River of Lights on the Museum Reach
December 13, 2025
Celebrate the season at the River of Lights on the Museum Reach of the San Antonio RiverWalk. At this free event, the whole family can enjoy twinkling lights, live music, and festive fun, complete with real snow, snow slides, a holiday animal display, and photo opportunities with Santa.
With food trucks, shopping vendors, and plenty of photo ops, this celebration is the perfect way to make Alamo City holiday memories on the river. https://www.sariverauthority.org/event/river-of-lights/
The Power of Volunteering —
And the Surprising Benefits for You
Volunteering isn’t just about giving your time — it’s about gaining connection, purpose, and joy. Whether you lend a hand once a month or dedicate yourself to a cause long-term, volunteering has a powerful ripple effect: it helps others and transforms your own well-being.
Why Volunteer?
Life can get busy — work, family, commitments — but carving out time to give back is one of the best investments you can make in yourself and your community. The rewards go far beyond the good you do for others. You’ll build friendships, strengthen community ties, learn new skills, and even boost your career.
But perhaps the biggest surprise? Volunteering is proven to protect your mental and physical health. It reduces stress, fights depression, sharpens the mind, and fills your days with a renewed sense of purpose. And it doesn’t take a huge time commitment — even small acts of kindness can spark major impact.
4 Ways Volunteering Can Make You Happier and Healthier
1. You’ll Connect With Others – Build friendships, community, and a sense of belonging.
2. You’ll Feel Better, Inside and Out – Boost mood, confidence, and mental clarity.
3. You’ll Grow Professionally – Learn new skills and open doors to new opportunities.
4. You’ll Add Fun and Fulfillment to Life – Enjoy experiences that bring joy and meaning.
1. Volunteering Connects You to Others
When you volunteer, you help build the heart of your community. Even small efforts — serving meals, mentoring a child, walking shelter dogs — make a meaningful difference. And the benefits flow both ways.
It’s also one of the best ways to meet people. Shared purpose builds strong bonds and lasting friendships. Whether you’re new to town or just looking to connect, volunteering strengthens your network and expands your world.
Family Bonus: When kids see you volunteer, they learn by example. It teaches compassion, empathy, and community pride — lessons that last a lifetime.
2. Volunteering Is Good for Mind and Body Science backs it up — giving your time gives back to your health.
• Reduces stress and anxiety: Meaningful human connection is one of the best natural stress relievers.
• Combats depression: Staying socially engaged keeps loneliness at bay and nurtures emotional balance.
• Boosts happiness: Helping others activates the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals — literally making you happier.
• Builds confidence: Making a difference reinforces your self-worth and purpose.
For older adults, volunteering can bring renewed meaning after retirement, loss, or major life changes — proving that helping others truly helps you.
Find a Cause That Fits You
Every volunteer experience looks different — from working with children or animals to supporting seniors or helping local nonprofits. Choose something that aligns with your passions and availability. You don’t need hours each week — even a little time can go a long way.
Here are a few outstanding organizations across Texas making a difference:
• Autism Treatment Center
• Kinetic Kids
• Epilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas
• DisabilitySA.org
• Hug Me Ink
• Marbridge Foundation
Bottom line: Volunteering isn’t just something you do — it’s something that helps you become. More connected. More fulfilled. More you.
San Rafael: Delivering Hope for San Antonio
For parents of children with complex medical needs, every day can feel like an uphill battle. San Rafael Healthcare, San Antonio’s trusted home health provider, is here to ease that journey. Specializing in high-acuity pediatric care, San Rafael brings expert nursing services and compassionate support directly into the homes of families, where it’s needed most.
One father shared his heartfelt experience: “When we rst started with San Rafael Healthcare, we were overwhelmed by my daughter’s medical challenges. e nurses quickly became part of our family, providing not just care but reassurance and hope. ey’ve made an impossible situation manageable.”
San Rafael understands the unique challenges of high-acuity care. eir specialized team works closely with families to create customized care plans tailored to each child’s needs. From ventilator management to feeding tube care, their skilled nurses deliver life-sustaining treatments with unmatched dedication and expertise.
Have you ever wished for a partner to help carry the weight of your child’s medical needs? at’s exactly what San Rafael provides. eir team doesn’t just o er care – they o er connection, understanding, and a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for their patients and their families.
Every child’s story is di erent, but the mission remains the same: to ensure children with complex medical needs receive the highest standard of care in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. For parents, this means peace of mind knowing their child is in capable hands, surrounded by love and family.
San Rafael Healthcare isn’t just a home health provider – it’s a source of strength for families navigating life’s toughest challenges. With their expert support, parents can focus less on the stress of medical logistics and more on cherishing the moments that matter most.
Let San Rafael Healthcare be your partner in care. Visit their website today to learn how they can help your family on this journey.
Providing Private Duty Nursing Services for infants, children, and adults across Central Texas.
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care is the leading provider of pediatric nursing services in Texas. Our clinical team works with physicians and case managers to ensure children transition safely home from the hospital.
Whether it is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or a few &hour shifts per week, we have you covered.
Our comprehensive approach to care includes coordinating with your team of medical professionals to implement the best possible outcomes for your child.
"You guys make an amazing team and are changing families' lives for the good! We could not be more thankful for all the e ort you put in to making the transition to Entrusted go so smoothly. Not only that, but y'all hit the ball WAY out of the park finding us excellent nursing sta . Thank you for all of the many hours in the o ce and on call that it takes to make our lives better. We couldn't be happier to call Entrusted our family."
