Top 5 Arizona Resources for Families of Children with Developmental Disabilities
Navigating the world of services for children with developmental differences can feel overwhelming. To make it easier, here’s a handy list of five go-to resources in Arizona that can provide financial support, information, community, or all of the above.
1. Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
What it is:
The primary state agency that provides and coordinates services—therapies, respite care, habilitation, and more—for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Why it’s valuable:
Eligible children can receive therapies (like those from Pure Hearts Therapy) paid for by the state
Respite care gives caregivers much-needed breaks
How to access:
Visit Arizona DDD website or call their intake line at [phone number]
Apply even if unsure about eligibility—earlier blog post explains the process [link]
2. AzEIP (Arizona Early Intervention Program)
What it is:
The statewide early intervention program for infants and toddlers (birth to 3 years) with developmental delays or at risk.
Why it’s valuable:
Free evaluation for children under 3
In-home therapy services (OT, PT, speech) at low or no cost
Acts as a gateway before transitioning to DDD or local school services after age 3
How to access:
Contact the AzEIP referral line or visit the AzEIP website
3. Raising Special Kids
What it is:
A nonprofit supporting families of children with disabilities statewide, based in Phoenix.
Why it’s valuable:
Parent training workshops (IEPs, Medicaid, transition to adulthood)
Parent-to-parent mentoring program
One-on-one IEP consultation
Free services and Spanish-language support available
How to access:
Visit Raising Special Kids website or call [phone number]
4. Autism Society of Greater Phoenix & Other Disability-Specific Organizations
What it is:
Community-based networks providing support for specific disabilities. Examples include:
Autism Society of Greater Phoenix (ASGP)
Down Syndrome Network of Arizona (DSNetwork)
UCP of Central Arizona
Why it’s valuable:
Support group meetings and family outings
Sensory-friendly events (playdates, trampoline parks, virtual chats)
Online forums for advice and recommendations
How to access:
Join mailing lists or Facebook groups for updates
Visit respective websites or social media pages
5. Arizona Special Needs Trusts / Financial Planning & Adaptive Recreation
What it is:
Resources for financial planning or adapted activities:
Financial: Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC), Pilot Parents of Southern Arizona, special needs trusts, ABLE accounts
Recreation: City of Phoenix Adaptive Recreation programs, Miracle League baseball, adapted swimming lessons
Why it’s valuable:
Financial: Ensures long-term security without jeopardizing benefits
Recreation: Gives kids opportunities for fun, socialization, and inclusion
How to access:
Financial: Arizona Center for Disability Law guide or local attorneys
Recreation: Phoenix Adaptive Recreation Services website
Honorable Mentions
Other helpful resources include:
Feeding Matters (for feeding issues)
Sky Kids (airplane experiences for kids with disabilities)
Local sensory gyms or social skills groups—ask your therapist or support coordinator for recommendations
Conclusion
Arizona has a strong network of support for families of children with developmental differences. Connecting with these resources can:
Reduce isolation
Ease financial burdens
Empower parents with knowledge
At Pure Hearts Therapy, we often help families find the right resources. Reach out to us anytime—we’re happy to guide you and your child toward the support you deserve.
Want to learn more?🍎
📞 Book your free 15-minute consultation to get personalized guidance.
📚 Read more on our blog for helpful articles, sensory-friendly ideas, and real-world strategies.
🎧 Listen to our podcast for expert insights and conversations with other families.
