A trip to Mall of America isn't just about shopping. Between riding roller coasters, exploring stores, and walking miles through the mall, everyone is going to get hungry. Thankfully, Mall of America has far more than your typical food court. Whether your family wants an exciting themed restaurant, a fun dessert stop, or a quick meal before heading back to Nickelodeon Universe, there's something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite family-friendly and teen-approved places to eat during ...
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How to Read an IEP Without Feeling Overwhelmed: A Parent’s Simple Guide
If you've ever opened your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) and thought, "Where do I even start?" you're definitely not alone. An IEP can easily be 20 to 40 pages long and is often filled with educational terms, acronyms, charts, and legal language that can make even the most organized parent feel overwhelmed. The good news is that you don't have to understand every educational term overnight. Once you know what each section means and why it's important, reading an IEP ...
15+ Best Twin Cities Water Parks & Splash Pads (2026 Family Guide)
The Best Water Parks and Splash Pads in the Twin Cities (2026 Guide) Summer in Minnesota may be short, but we know how to make the most of it! When the temperatures start climbing, nothing beats spending the day splashing in the water with family and friends. Whether your kids love thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, or simply running through fountains at a neighborhood splash pad, the Twin Cities metro area has plenty of options to keep everyone cool. One of the best things ...
How to Prepare for Your Child’s Annual IEP Review: A Parent’s Step-by-Step Guide
If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP), you'll participate in an annual review meeting each year. While these meetings may become more familiar over time, it's easy to fall into the habit of simply showing up and hoping everything goes smoothly. The truth is, a little preparation can make a huge difference. Your child's annual IEP review is an opportunity to celebrate progress, discuss concerns, adjust goals, and ensure the educational plan continues to meet your ...
10 IEP Red Flags Parents Should Never Ignore
As parents, we all want to believe our child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) is giving them the support they need to succeed. Most educators genuinely want the best for their students, and many IEP teams work hard to create thoughtful, individualized plans. However, no IEP is perfect. Sometimes an IEP contains vague language, outdated goals, or accommodations that aren't meeting a child's needs. Other times, important pieces may be missing altogether. The good news is that ...
Road Trip Tips for Teens with Sensory Issues: Reduce Anxiety, Restlessness, and Motion Sickness
Family road trips can create wonderful memories, but for teens with sensory sensitivities, they can also bring unique challenges. Long hours in the car, unfamiliar environments, changing routines, loud noises, crowded rest stops, and motion sickness can quickly turn an exciting vacation into an overwhelming experience. The good news is that with a little planning and flexibility, road trips can be enjoyable for everyone. Whether your teen experiences sensory sensitivities related to autism, ...