Parent Resources
At Mindful LEP, we believe informed parents are empowered parents. This page is our way of making sure the tools and information you need are never more than a click away. From trusted statewide resources to free downloadable guides written specifically for families like yours, this page is for you.
Free Resources
Tools to help you feel prepared
Download these free guides to walk into any school meeting or evaluation with clarity and confidence.
Free Download
Legalese Cheat Sheet
School meetings and evaluation reports can feel filled with unfamiliar language. This free resource translates common terms into clear, parent-friendly explanations so you can feel more confident and prepared every step of the way.
Download Here
Free Download
Questions to Ask a Potential Evaluator
Choosing the right evaluator starts with asking the right questions. Download this free guide and bring it to your next consultation so you walk in prepared and walk out confident.
Download HereWe’ve gathered free, currently active resources for families navigating disability services and special education. Each are organized by region to help you find support close to home.
Statewide California Resources
California Regional Centers
California's statewide network of 21 regional centers provides free assessments, case management, and individualized services to children and adults with developmental disabilities. Once your child is found eligible, most services are free regardless of family income. Find your local regional center by zip code — it's the starting point for many California families navigating a new diagnosis.
Visit WebsiteDisability Rights California (DRC)
DRC is California's official protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities — and all services are free. They offer legal help and advocacy for families navigating IEPs, regional center services, and disability rights. Their Special Education Rights & Responsibilities manual is a must-read for any parent, available in multiple languages with auto-translation. Call 1-800-776-5746.
Visit WebsiteCalifornia Department of Education — Special Education Family Resources
The CDE's family partnership page is a one-stop hub for parents of children in special education. It includes the PHP E-Learning Library (500+ free videos), your rights under IDEA, procedural safeguards, early intervention resources, and how to navigate IEP disputes. The Constituent's Office is available by phone Monday–Friday at 1-800-926-0648.
Visit WebsiteWrightslaw — Special Education Law & Advocacy
One of the most trusted free online resources for special education law in the country. Parents use it to understand IDEA, IEP rights, school district obligations, and how to advocate effectively for their child. Browse the A-to-Z topic library, read real legal cases, and subscribe to the free newsletter. A go-to bookmark for any SPED parent.
Visit WebsiteCalifornia Early Start Program
If your child is under 3 and you have concerns about their development, Early Start provides free evaluations and early intervention services statewide. Administered through regional centers and local education agencies, this program supports children with developmental delays or disabilities from birth through age 3. Early support makes a real difference — and there is no cost to your family.
Visit WebsiteCampbell / South Bay Area
Parents Helping Parents (PHP)
A nonprofit serving families in Santa Clara County, PHP offers free IEP support, workshops, parent-to-parent matching, and a library of 500+ disability videos. They are also the county's Family Resource Center for children ages 0–3 through California's Early Start program. Staff are available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese — and their online directory lists 3,000+ Bay Area disability services.
Visit WebsiteNorthwest SELPA Community Advisory Committee (CAC)
The CAC is a free parent and educator group representing 11 school districts in Santa Clara County, including Campbell Union School District. Parents can attend meetings to learn about special education rights, connect with school staff, and help shape services for students with disabilities. A great first step if your child is enrolled in a CUSD-area school.
Visit WebsiteSanta Clara County Office of Education — Enroll Santa Clara
Helps families in Santa Clara County find and enroll children in early education programs that meet their child's unique needs, including those with disabilities. This free resource connects parents with inclusive childcare programs, early intervention services, and special education supports for young children throughout the county.
Visit WebsiteFresno and The Greater Central Valley
CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disorders)
A leading provider of evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for individuals on the autism spectrum, offering personalized treatment plans for children and families in the Fresno area.
Visit WebsiteCentral Valley Regional Center (CVRC)
One of California's 21 nonprofit regional centers, coordinating services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities, including Early Start services for infants and toddlers, case management, and lifetime planning.
Visit WebsiteExceptional Parents Unlimited (EPU)
A nonprofit serving families of children with disabilities since 1976, offering early intervention, parent-to-parent support, home visitation, developmental assessments, and help navigating the systems that serve your family — all at no cost.
Visit WebsiteCalifornia Autism Center & Learning Group
A center-based ABA provider serving Fresno, Clovis, Merced, and surrounding Central Valley communities, offering individualized treatment plans and caregiver training led by Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
Visit WebsiteReady to Take the Next Step?
If something on this page resonated, or if you've been sitting with a question about your child for a while, a free consultation is the best place to start.
There's no pressure and no commitment. Just an honest conversation about what you're seeing and how we can help.