Guides for California Families
Written for California families navigating Regional Center, IHSS, and IEP services. Updated 2026.
California has more available for your family than most parents realize.
Access Navigator helps you understand what your family may qualify for, in plain language, at no cost.
Know My Next Step, It's Free and Private ›March 15, 2026 · 7 min read
Early Intervention Is Ending. Here's What Happens to Your Child's Services at Age 3.
Early Start ends when your child turns 3. Here is what the transition looks like, what services may continue, and how to avoid a gap in support.
March 15, 2026 · 6 min read
How to Request a 1:1 Aide for Your Child in a California School
In California, 1:1 aide support at school goes through the IEP process and must be based on your child's individual needs. Here is how to request one and what happens next.
March 15, 2026 · 7 min read
IHSS Protective Supervision for Elopement. What It Is, Who May Qualify, and How to Document It.
IHSS Protective Supervision is a California service category for children who cannot be safely left alone. Here is what it covers, who may qualify, and what documentation the county looks for.
March 15, 2026 · 6 min read
Starting the Regional Center Process in California: What the First 90 Days Actually Look Like
Not sure how to start with Regional Center in California? Here is what the intake process looks like, what documentation helps, and what timelines to expect.
March 14, 2026 · 5 min read
California Health Plans Can No Longer Require a New Autism Diagnosis to Keep ABA Coverage
As of January 2026, California health plans cannot require a child who already has an autism diagnosis to go through re-diagnosis in order to continue behavioral health treatment. Here's what changed.
March 14, 2026 · 7 min read
The School District Reduced Your Child's IEP Services. Here Are Your Rights in California.
California parents have the right to challenge IEP service reductions. You don't have to accept what the district proposes. Here's what the process looks like and where to start.
March 14, 2026 · 5 min read
What to Do If IHSS Denied Your Child in California
An IHSS denial in California is not the end of the process. Here is what the denial letter means, why denials happen, and the steps families take to push back.