Youth services included numerous programs and activities for children with disabilities in North East Missouri.  Staff work one-on-one with area youth to learn about building skills that will help children handle life challenges.  In addition, we teach about the independent living history and philosophy and help build necessary self-advocacy skills. 

Educational Advocacy

Educational Advocacy Services are open to children and youth from birth to 21 years old. Staff members work with youth and their families on an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other education-related issues.

IEP Services are available to children and youth from birth to 21 years old. NEILS staff works with youth and their families on IEP (Individual Education Plans) or other education advocacy issues. IEPs can include assisting families with getting better access to the school for their child or even advocating on behalf of the child that they should remain in the general classroom setting.

Youth Skills Training

With NEILS Youth Skills Training Services (ages 5-24), children with disabilities can learn incredibly valuable skills such as:

  • Independent Living History and Philosophy
  • Self-Advocacy Skills
  • Support and Understanding
  • Utilizing Assistive Technology
  • Gaining understand of one’s own disability
  • Overcoming challenges and barriers
  • Goal development and assessment of needs

Youth Transition

IEP Services are available to children and youth from birth to 21 years old. NEILS staff works with youth and their families on IEP (Individual Education Plans) or other education advocacy issues. IEPs can include assisting families with getting better access to the school for their child or even advocating on behalf of the child that they should remain in the general classroom setting.

Our Youth Transition program can help high-school aged youth prepare to transition into the post-high school world.  Our staff can help assist with

  • Locating career paths
  • Learning how to create and manage a budget
  • Locating accessible, affordable housing options
  • Preparing to live independently in the community
  • Attaining and understanding benefits
  • Exploring options
  • Self-Advocacy Skills
A teacher assists students in the classroom