The River: Resources for Familes

Family Resources for Families of Children with Disabilities

At The River, we celebrate children of all abilities and know that families often need support beyond our programs. We’ve compiled a list of trusted local Houston resources as well as national organizations that serve children and families with a wide range of disabilities, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, and more.

These resources are offered to help families find support, connection, and services.

Houston-Area Resources

The Arc of Greater Houston

Advocacy, education, and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Easter Seals Greater Houston

Therapy, early intervention, camps, and support services for children and families.

Family to Family Network (Houston)

Special education training and peer support for parents navigating school systems.

Texas Parent to Parent

Statewide nonprofit providing peer support, information, and advocacy for families of children with disabilities.

Briarwood School

Specialized education for students with learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, and related learning disabilities.

Volunteers of America Texas

Programs supporting individuals with disabilities and their families through housing assistance, employment services, behavioral health programs, and independent living resources.

Houston Children’s Charity

Provides specially modified wheelchair-accessible vans to families of children with disabilities to support mobility and independence.

Coral Care (Houston Free Resource Guide)

Curated list of free and low-cost disability resources for families in Houston.

Camp For All

A barrier-free camp near Houston serving children and families with special needs and chronic illnesses.

Texas Children’s Hospital – Developmental Pediatrics & Autism Respite Care

Provides diagnostic evaluations, treatment planning, and support services for children with developmental and behavioral differences, including autism.

Kids Out and About

Online directory highlighting events, activities, camps, and community resources for families of children with special needs in the Houston area.

University of Houston PEP Resource Guide

A comprehensive guide created through the University of Houston’s Parent Education Project (PEP) listing services, programs, and supports for families of children with disabilities.

Houston Recreational, Arts & Sports Programs

K2 Academy - Adaptive Gymnastics

Adaptive gymnastics classes designed for children with physical, developmental, and sensory differences, helping build strength, confidence, and coordination in an inclusive environment.

Special Olympics Houston

Year-round sports training and athletic competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, promoting inclusion, teamwork, and personal achievement.

SIRE Therapeutic Horsemanship

Therapeutic horseback riding and equine-assisted programs that support physical, emotional, and cognitive development for individuals with disabilities.

Little League Challenger Division

An inclusive baseball program that gives children and teens with physical or intellectual disabilities the opportunity to experience teamwork and play in a supportive league environment.

Fun Fair Positive Soccer (FFPS)

Inclusive soccer programs designed for players of all abilities, focusing on fun, skill development, and teamwork in a supportive environment.

Texas Adaptive Aquatics

Adaptive swim instruction and aquatic therapy programs designed to improve water safety, physical fitness, and confidence for individuals with disabilities.

Epic Center for Dance

Adaptive dance classes that promote creative expression, coordination, and confidence for children and adults with a wide range of abilities.

En Avant Studio

Inclusive dance classes designed specifically for students with special needs, focusing on creativity, movement, and joyful participation.

Campbell Learning Center – Soaring!

A therapeutic recreation program that builds social skills, independence, and confidence through structured activities for children with special needs.

Discover Gymnastics

Adaptive gymnastics classes that provide a structured and supportive environment where children with special needs can build strength, coordination, and confidence.

SafeSplash Swim School (Houston locations)

Swim lessons that offer individualized instruction and adaptive techniques to support swimmers of all abilities.

Star Skaters – Adaptive Ice Sports

Adaptive skating programs that allow individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities to participate in ice sports and build confidence on the ice.

YMCA of Greater Houston

Inclusive recreation and wellness programs designed to ensure children and adults with disabilities can participate in sports, fitness, and community activities.

Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center (ERJCC)

Adaptive arts, sports, and recreation programs designed to provide inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Houston Condition-Specific Resources

Autism Center at Texas Children’s Hospital

Comprehensive diagnostic, treatment, and
support services for children with autism spectrum disorder.

Autism Society of Texas

Houston Chapter – Local affiliate providing support groups, advocacy, and community programs for children and families affected by autism.

Down Syndrome Association of Houston

Offers educational programs, family events, and
resources for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Easter Seals Houston

Cerebral Palsy Support Services – Provides therapy, resources, and advocacy for individuals with cerebral palsy as part of broader disability services.

CHADD Houston (Children and Adults with ADHD)

Local support group meetings, resources, and education for families navigating ADHD.

The Center for Hearing and Speech (Houston)

Specialized educational and therapy programs for children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Children’s Craniofacial Association (Houston Connections)

Support and resources for families of children with craniofacial conditions.

National & Condition-Specific Resources

Autism Society of America

Advocacy, education, and local affiliate support.

Autism Speaks

Toolkits, resources, and family support.

National Down Syndrome Society

Resources, advocacy, and community connections.

Cerebral Palsy Foundation

Research and family-centered resources.

Cerebral Palsy Hub

A free educational website that supports families, caregivers, and community members navigating cerebral palsy and related developmental motor disabilities.

Hands & Voices

Parent-driven organization supporting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

National Federation of the Blind

Programs and advocacy for children and adults with vision loss.

Learning Disabilities Association of America

Resources for families of children with dyslexia and other learning disabilities.

CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD)

Education and peer support for ADHD.

Muscular Dystrophy Association

Care centers, resources, and research updates.

The River welcomes children with all types of disabilities while meeting the abilities of our staff for servicing, and we are proud to share these resources with families.

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