To apply for any of the following services, please click HERE.
The Children’s Special Services program supports children and youth with conditions that require support and services beyond those of their typically developing peers. Eligible conditions include developmental disabilities in addition to chronic health conditions. CSS staff consists of Registered Nurses and clerical support located in 12 DHS offices around the State of Arkansas.
CSS provides care coordination services (case management) to support families of children and youth in accessing community-based, family-centered, culturally sensitive services which will assist children with special health care needs to reach their maximum potential. Arkansas’ CSS program’s goals are:
- To assist families in accessing sufficient health care services
- To assist families with transition from pediatric to adult systems of care.
CSS serves children and youth from birth to age 21, with a long term physical or developmental condition. Some examples include:
- Asthma, Diabetes, Sickle Cell Anemia, Cystic Fibrosis, childhood cancers, and heart disease
- Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Hearing impairment and limited vision impairments
- Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy and
- Many other health conditions
Learn more about CSS services here.
Case Management/Care Coordination
DDS Children’s Special Services provides case management/care coordination for children birth to 21 years of age. CSS Care Coordinators will provide individuals and their families with information about the array of services that are available in their community and assist with referrals and applications for those services.
Children’s Special Services Family Support/Respite Program
This Title V Program is available to SSI and TEFRA recipients under age 18 on a first come first served basis based on need and financial eligibility. With approval of the application, families are eligible for up to $3,000. Title V does not have a registry of certified respite providers.
Parent Advisory Council
The Parent Advisory Council meets four times a year and provides input and guidance on issues related to the Children’s Special Services program staff.
- Parent Advisory Council Brochure
- Parent Advisory Council Health Care Transition Tip Sheets (Paginas de Informacion del Cuidado de Salud en Transicion)
Other Important Information for Children’s Special Services
Children’s Special Services (CSS) Supervisor List
Bright Futures
Information & Forms
| Title | Type | Posted Date |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Disability Coalition | ||
| Title V CSHCN Application – Spanish | ||
| Sometimes FRIENDS NEED HELP – Brochure | ||
| Title V CSHCN Application Info Sheet – Spanish | ||
| Children’s Special Services (CSS) Program Brochure | 02/29/2024 | |
| Children’s Special Services (CSS) Program Brochure (Español) | 02/29/2024 | |
| CSS Guidelines for Parents | DOCX | 1/01/2024 |
| CSS Guidelines for Parents (Español) | DOCX | 11/04/2021 |
| CSS Guidelines for Professionals | DOCX | 11/04/2021 |
| What You Need To Know About Your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) When You Turn 18 | 07/30/2020 | |
| Title V CSHCN Application Packet | 10/24/2019 |
