The COVID-19 lockdown brought the topic of loneliness—among everyone from middle-aged men to teenage girls—to the forefront of our national conversation. Sadly, we know these feelings of isolation are also widespread among parents and caregivers. For those of us raising a child with high-support needs, the sense of isolation can feel even more profound. Our journey is different from that of other parents. Caring for a child with a disability is demanding and time-consuming. We often serve as teacher, therapist, advocate, nurse, and direct caregiver—all at once.

Finding other parents who truly understand can make a world of difference. Sharing our joys and frustrations, our good days and bad ones, helps us feel less alone. These connections provide emotional support, build resilience, and open doors to new resources.

Formal and Informal Connections

You can make connections happen in different ways. There are programs like Connecting Families and Parent to Parent of Wisconsin, or support groups either in-person or virtual that let you focus on a topic that’s important to you. However, informal connections matter too—a quick conversation with another parent at school drop-off or in a therapist’s waiting room can brighten your entire day.

• Connecting Families is a Wisconsin-based peer support network for families of children and youth with special health care needs. Current areas of support include:
  • • Children with Hearing Differences
    • Black Families
    • Children with Medical Complexity
    • Rural Communities
• Parent to Parent of Wisconsin helps parents find one-to-one connections with someone who understands the realities of raising a child with special needs. These relationships can be short-term—during a transition or crisis—or long-term, depending on what each family needs. P2P also offers training for parents who want to become support partners.

Why Connections Matter

Connecting with other families can be transformative. It strengthens advocacy efforts and empowers us to improve programs and services for our children and communities. Whether you’re working to change a school policy or influence legislation, having other parents by your side can make the difference. Support can include attending public hearings together or writing letters to decision-makers.

The Wisconsin Family Leadership Institute (WiFLI) offers in-person and virtual sessions to help parents gain confidence and skills to participate in community decision-making. Applications for the Spring 2026 WiFLI Foundations program are now open, and a virtual leadership series will return next fall.

Connections also help with resource sharing. Often, the most valuable tips come from other families—whether you’re looking for a new provider, a respite worker, or a summer camp. Talking with other parents can prepare you for navigating programs, requesting services, and overcoming challenges.

Families can also connect for recreation and self-care. Local and virtual support groups, disability-specific agencies like the Autism Society of Wisconsin, GiGi’s Playhouse, and organizations such as the Down Syndrome Association, Arc Wisconsin, and Special Olympics offer events and activities. Sibling-focused programs like WisconSibs provide opportunities for brothers and sisters to build connections too.

Additional Resources

Nurture Network of Southeast WI Families

• This is a project supported by Family Voices, for moms in southeastern Wisconsin raising children with high support needs. They host in-person and virtual events to foster authentic friendships and improve mental health and well-being.

Wisconsin Wayfinder and Children’s Resource Centers

• This statewide resource connects families to support groups, recreation, and activities. They offer one-on-one referrals and host events and learning sessions for families.