What is Special Needs Accommodation Process (SNAP)?

The Special Needs Accommodation Process (SNAP) is a multidisciplinary team established to ensure the most appropriate placement of children with special needs. The team meets to review any new applications that indicate any possible special needs to review concerns regarding children already placed in Child and Youth Services (CYS) programs.

Who may be referred to the SNAP?
Any child who has a special need is eligible to use CYS. Categories of eligibility include: children of contractors, civilians, employees, active duty military, and military retirees.

Children who have:

  • asthma
  • attention deficit disorder
  • diabetes
  • autism
  • epilepsy
  • down's syndrome
  • seizure disorders
  • physically challenged
  • learning disabilities
  • sensory impairment (hearing/vision)
  • developmental delays
  • speech/language impairment

Who are SNAP members?
Exceptional Family Member Program Managers, Army Public Health Nurses, Child and Youth Training and Curriculum Specialists, CYS Coordinators/Program Directors/Trainers, and Appropriate Experts Parents/Sponsors/Guardians.

May I be present when my child is reviewed?
Yes! It is mandatory that a least one parent or legal guardian attend. According to the EFMP regulation (AF 608-75, 22 Nov 2006) children will not be able to start in any CYS program until the review is completed. You will be informed of the date, time, and location of your SNAP meeting. In order to assist the team, you may be asked to bring specific information such as:

Medical documentation detailing developmental delays, illnesses, the severity of allergies (exposure, reactions, and treatments), prescription medications, and your expectations of services to be provided by the CYS staff and Educational and Developmental Intervention Program. The review will cover developmental evaluations, services provided etc.

Normally, a SNAP review will take between a half-hour to 45 minutes. A SNAP review needs to be held only once a year unless there are changes in the child's special needs, i.e. medications, treatment, diagnosis, etc.

If I am not happy with my child's placement in childcare programs, may I request another meeting?
Certainly! The team reconvenes if a child's needs change, if the parents desire a different program placement, or if a child seems to be experiencing difficulties in the current placement. Parents may request a SNAP meeting at any time. Contact the Exceptional Family Member Program Manager.

Are providers trained to care for my child's need?
All CYS providers are trained and experienced to meet the needs of children with special needs. If your child presents a situation new to the staff, they will receive specialized training before your child is entrusted to their care.

When does SNAP meet?
Once a month. Call the Exceptional Family Member Program Manager for dates and locations.