Connecting for Kids - Parent Match

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Parent Match

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Connecting for Kids’ Parent Match program connects caregivers who face similar challenges so that they can share insights, resources -- and most importantly -- support.

What can I expect?

Parent Match is an opportunity for families who are new to Connecting for Kids or new to a diagnosis/concern. They can help you connect with a volunteer family who “gets it."

Parent Match Volunteers are caregivers whose children have similar diagnoses or concerns. These caregivers are a bit further along in their journeys and have offered to share their experiences.

Your match could look like:

Sharing your story

Emotional support

Asking questions about the other family’s experiences

Exchanging ideas

How does the match process work?

Families complete a short intake survey and receive an email introducing them to their match within 1 week. The Parent Match Volunteer then sends an additional email or message to say hello or set up a time to talk.

Matches are hand-picked and can be based on a number of criteria, including:

Child's diagnosis or concern: Our Parent Match Volunteers include families with experience in a wide range of diagnoses - from developmental delays and disabilities to mental health. We can even match a family that has no formal diagnosis but is struggling in an area of concern.

For examples of some of the diagnoses or areas of concern we can match, check out the Connecting for Kids Resource Guides.

Geography/School: Connecting for Kids families are represented in many local school districts and in private schools. Learn about their experience and the pros and cons of their school decisions.
Language/Culture: We know that talking about family concerns is easier with others who understand your culture or language. You can request language and cultural preferences in the intake survey, and we'll do our best to find a parent match that fits your preferences.

Get started

If you're new to Connecting for Kids or your child has received a new diagnosis, click the button below to submit a Parent Match intake survey.

Communicating with Your Match Volunteer

Caregivers can connect by email, phone, Facebook Messenger or in person.

Some families may want to chat via email only once or twice, while others may want to meet for coffee or have on-going support.

Families can choose what type of communication they want in the intake survey.

Looking for Something Different?

Parent Match Volunteers are not experts - just another family with a bit more experience. The volunteers can’t tell you what therapists to use or what treatment options are available - though they may be able to share with you what worked for them.

If you are looking for:

A play date for your child: Connecting fro Kids Family Programs are a great way to make connections.
Help finding resources for your child: A Family Resource Specialist or an Ask Us 1:1 session can help.

Interested in Volunteering?

Families who are interested in being a Parent Match Volunteer can find more information on the Volunteer web page.

Website supported by a grant from Parker.

Call, text or email:

Phone: 1-440-570-5908
Email: info@connectingforkids.org

Post Office Box:

30628 Detroit Rd. #252
Westlake, Ohio 44145