Where Do We Begin?

When it comes to planning for a loved one with special needs, most families don’t start with a checklist. They start with a concern.

 Usually, it sounds something like:

• "I'm overwhelmed - where do I even start?"
• "Who and what programs are out there to help us?"
• "How do I make sure I don't mess up their benefits?"

These are important questions—and we’ll get to them. But they’re not where a care plan should begin.

The Choice Overload Connection

Planning for your child’s future often feels like navigating the Choice Overload Paradox—a phenomenon where too many options or an unknown outcome due to inexperience leads to indecision, decreased satisfaction, and even regret. Instead of feeling empowered, people become overwhelmed, exhausted, or avoid making a choice altogether.

Sound familiar? Many families experience the same emotions when planning for a child with disabilities. The key to breaking through this bottleneck is narrowing the focus—clarifying what truly needs to be done so you can take the next step with confidence.

Asking the Right Questions, In the Right Order

Narrowing the focus starts by asking the right questions, in the right order to create a long-term, sustainable plan:

1. In which areas—social, vocational, financial, and residential—is your child able to manage independently?

2. What day-to-day activities do you currently do to support your child?

3. Which of these activities can your child learn to do on their own?

4. Which activities will they need ongoing support for?

5. How much assistance will realistically come from family and friends?

6. What government programs can help fill the gaps?

7. What people, systems, and safeguards should be in place to protect your child and their benefits?

Most families start with Question 6. It makes sense—that’s where the rules, deadlines, and forms live. But here’s the truth: Questions 1 through 4 brings everything into focus. They clarify which areas your child actually needs support so you can focus on what people, systems, and safeguards need to be put in place to fill the gaps and protect them.

What’s Next?

Over the next few months, we’ll walk through each question in depth. We’ll show you what to consider, what to avoid, and how to organize the professionals, resources, and documents that will support your child well beyond your lifetime.

Because that’s the goal: not just to plan—but to plan with purpose.

Next month, we’ll begin with Questions 1–4.

Until Then, Reflect on This:

What’s the main emotion or fear that’s preventing you from creating a plan?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember this: choice overload fades when clarity grows. By breaking this process into bite-sized steps, you’ll move from uncertainty to empowerment—and create a plan that truly works for your family.

Let’s Talk

If this all feels like a lot to sort through, that’s because it is. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Whether you're unsure where to start or stuck on a single question, a quick conversation can bring more clarity than hours of research. I’ve walked this road with other families, and I’d be honored to help you walk yours—with empathy, step-by-step guidance, and a plan built around your child’s unique needs.

Let’s talk about what matters most—and how to protect it.