Improving outcomes for special needs children and their families

Families with special needs children and youth face barriers to accessing services and need assistance to obtain supports to live the most optimal life possible. Social workers can assist families to navigate an unfamiliar world of services to improve the outcomes for children, youth, and their families. To fulfill the requirements of this practicum I explored the needs of special needs children and their families and the best way to provide services to this population through making connections to the literature, practicum placement, and social work practice. This report includes: A description of the practicum agency, learning goals, and theoretical orientation a review of the literature, my practicum activities, and learning experiences and a discussion of implications for practice. I conclude that special needs children and their families require formal and informal services and supports to live the most optimal life possible. --Leaf ii.