Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction: raising the bar of expectations for children with special needs -- Welcome to breakthrough parenting for children with special needs: Judy Winter's special needs bill of rights for children and young adults -- The perfect-baby dream -- First you cry -- No labels, yes hope -- Guidelines for the preschool through college years: Judy Winter's special needs bill of rights for parents -- The pre-K and elementary years -- Middle school, junior high, and high school -- Advocating for techniques and programs that work -- Focusing on the family: Judy Winter's special needs bill of rights for siblings -- Embracing a new definition of family and planning for the future -- Preserving your marriage, caring for yourself, and surviving the death of a child -- Meeting the needs of siblings -- Honoring special needs excellence: Judy Winter's special needs bill of rights for professionals -- Honoring special needs excellence -- About the author.