This is my fourth baby.

I have 2 daughters and a son, but this is the baby that makes everything possible.

iPhone

This is my iPhone, but a refurb'd Touch will work just as well (sorry, I'm not familiar with a non-Mac product, like a Droid device, to recommend - if you are, please mention it in the comments.) You can get a refurb iPod Touch at the Apple store for $149. For the Touch, you can do anything you can with the phone (except calling) with a wi-fi connection. As most schools that have Wi-Fi will not give out the WEP key (sucks when you've saved links and realize you can't access them at an ARD) - make sure to save your documents by syncing your Awesome-Notes with google docs (where you have helpfully copy/pasted the relevant information).

I use the included Calendar (very functional!) to keep track of our therapy appointments, IEP and ARD meetings, Big Sister outings, doctor appointments, and medication refill reminders. The included note system is limited, however, and I prefer the app "Awesome Notes". I have my gmail synced to the phone so that I am ding'd every time I get an email (often from a teacher, doctor, or therapist); and I have my notes as above synced to google docs. It is amazing how much information you can have on you that fits in your pocket.
The Facebook app allows me to check for notifications to posts or questions I've made to various networking groups or people.

What do you use to keep yourself organized in the overwhelming scheduling of caring for a special needs child?

Important resources for advocating

Please don't miss the carousel links at the bottom of the page; they are handpicked books by me that I've found to be most helpful in dealing with schools or at home. You may be able to find them at your local library - mine even carries several in e-book format (which can be a lifesaver when downloaded on my iPhone so I can consult it during an IEP/ARD meeting!).

I'll be adding a list of helpful links to the blog this evening on the left hand sidebar. Please let me know if there is a great one I should add!

I don't want a keyring around her neck or arm

 I'm really grateful for these necklaces that Caitlyn can wear to school. The other kids don't notice as much. The breakaway clasp comes in handy during a meltdown, and makes them playground safe as well. I do hope they will continue to expand their range of colors and shapes (Guitar? Skull with a Hairbow? Peace Sign? - the sky is the limit, designers!). Unfortunately, they are rather expensive compared to the typical sensory jewelry and are only available from Canada. If you are a retailer reading this, please consider carrying these in your store!

These are available from Kid Companions at a cost of $17.49 each, plus shipping.

Caitlyn really likes hers; it was a gift from a very, very special lady on a cloth diapering board I was a member of. We are extremely grateful to her. I plan to purchase a pink one next; maybe for Christmas!