While I've spent over 35 years in the publishing industry, the last 11 years working directly with the special needs community have felt the most meaningful. I've had the privilege of connecting with thousands of families, educators, doctors, therapists, and self-advocates. As we all know, diagnoses and experiences are incredibly diverse, so I truly value publishing unique voices and perspectives. In each issue of Exceptional Needs Today, we serve as a bridge, fostering better understanding so we can collaborate and ultimately support one another. Sometimes, however, clearing up misunderstandings proves to be more challenging than it sounds.
Generally speaking, building understanding is gaining or creating knowledge about a subject. But there is much more to consider. Let’s broaden this definition to not only include learning about one another but accepting each other’s challenges while making everyone feel welcome to the table. When we broaden our worlds within the special needs community, we can better unde
