Special Needs Child Question
We have enjoyed several excellent au pairs for our special needs son. Has anyone wondered why the cut-off age for childcare has to be 18 years old when the child has special needs, or is cognitively impaired? The public school system allows for these students to receive fair and appropriate education until they are 21 years of age. I was wondering if there is enough interest to petition the U.S. State Dept. regarding this issue. It will affect my family personally in the next year so I am anxious for some feedback. Thanks, Kimberly D. Boyer
- By jokibo, at 02/23/2009 - 16:05
- Edina Stone's blog
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Hi - I apologize, I didn't see your comment and question here until now! I guess it was embedded into the blog, or was created for your "own" blog, I don't know (I will find out). But, I am sorry!
To answer your question: the 18-year-old "child" is now, legally, an adult and the au pair programs are only allowed (by the U.S. Department of State) to provide chilcare for "children." So, the cut-off reflects our legal definition of an "adult" and a "child."
I hope that answers your question?
Best,
Edina