The Latest Breaking News from Kids Ain't Cheap

The “Secret” PTI Office Mandated by the Federal Government to Give Special Needs Parents Free Legal Training

Many parents of children with disabilities spend years trying to understand special education laws, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and their legal rights in school meetings. What many families do not realize is that a federally funded resource already exists to help them navigate these challenges at no cost. Known as…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 17

The Hidden Costs of an Autism Diagnosis: 7 Expenses Families Face

Receiving an autism diagnosis can be a turning point for families. For many parents, the diagnosis provides answers, access to support services, and a clearer path forward. However, what often catches families off guard are the autism diagnosis costs that begin to accumulate long after the initial evaluation. From therapy…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 17

Free Summer Meals: The SFSP Locations Open to Kids in Your State This Month

As summer vacation gets underway, many families face a challenge that often goes unnoticed: replacing the school breakfasts and lunches children rely on during the academic year. Fortunately, free summer meals are available across the United States through the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and related summer nutrition initiatives. These…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 17

66% of Parents Can’t Afford Summer Childcare in 2026

When school lets out for the summer, many parents face a challenge that goes far beyond planning family vacations. Finding affordable childcare has become increasingly difficult, and new data suggests the problem is reaching a breaking point. A recent LendingTree survey found that 66% of parents who require summer childcare…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 14

How Utah Families Are Rethinking Summer Screen Time

Summer break used to mean kids spending long days outside, but many Utah parents are finding that screens now compete for much of their children’s attention. As smartphones, tablets, gaming systems, and streaming services become increasingly accessible, families across the state are taking a fresh look at how technology fits…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 13

Why Children With Autism Often Struggle With Summer Transitions

Summer break is often associated with freedom, family vacations, and a break from school routines. However, for many families raising children with autism, the season can bring unexpected challenges instead of relaxation. The abrupt shift from structured school days to less predictable schedules can create anxiety, emotional distress, and behavioral…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 13

5 Free Apps That Beat the Summer Slide

Summer break is a welcome pause from homework and school routines, but it can also lead to the “summer slide,” a well-documented learning loss that occurs when students spend months away from academic activities. Research has shown that students can lose some progress in reading and math during long school…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 12

Why Some Families Are Paying Thousands for Autism-Friendly Summer Care

For many families, summer break brings excitement, travel plans, and outdoor activities. For parents of children with autism, however, summer often creates a different challenge: finding safe, supportive care when school-based services are unavailable. Across the United States, many families are paying thousands of dollars for autism-friendly summer care programs…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 12

SUN Bucks 2026: How Families of Special Needs Students Can Claim Summer EBT Grocery Benefits

When school lets out for summer, many families lose access to the free or reduced-price meals their children receive during the academic year. For parents of children with special needs, that gap can create additional financial pressure, especially when dietary requirements or specialized nutrition needs increase grocery costs. The good…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 11

5 Signs Your Child Is Struggling With the Loss of School Structure

School provides more than academics. It creates a predictable routine that helps children feel secure, manage their time, and regulate their emotions. When summer break, extended holidays, or unexpected schedule changes arrive, some children adapt quickly while others struggle with the sudden loss of structure. Research and child development experts…

Kids Ain't Cheap · Jun 11