Special Education Advocacy with Ashley Barlow

Inclusion is probably the special education topic for which I'm hired as an attorney the most often. It's definitely the topic about which my network calls for help. Several years ago, I started recording myself while talking to advocates and attorneys about inclusion, because as I talked to them I'd sometimes come up with efficient, wise statements that were helpful in advocacy. Eventually I took all of that content and made one of my favorite resources, The Inclusion Workshop. In today's episode I walk you through the parts of the Inclusion Workshop in case that's a resource that may benefit your family or community. As a special bonus, you even get to hear one of Jack's meltdowns!!!

Wouldn't it be amazing if you had someone else to build your IEP Binder? Fill-in-the-blank guides to communicate with your school, the straight and narrow on legal and educational topics, and tutorials on navigating things like inclusion and behavior interventions are coming your way in the ABClub IEP Binder! In today's episode I walk you through some of the resources I have to help you build your binder! Looking to get organized this summer? I got you!

My Facebook memories have been making me feel guilty as of late. Now that I'm elbow deep in Science of Reading and Orton Gillinghma, I watch some of the things I used to do with Jack and cringe. In today's episode I talk to you a little about our past in reading and then offer the solution of decodable readers. I hope this helps you make your summer work effective and simply better!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/MnsAP72LUow

At this year's COPAA conference I met attorney, Lisa Hernandez, at the coffee bar, and in about 3 sentences, she blew my mind on the topic of employment of people with disabilities. I took her card and invited her on the podcast immediately! If your kid is transition-aged (yes, that's ALL of you in my opinion), you're going to LOVE thinking about employment through this lens. Lisa continued to enlighten me throughout this episode, and I think I'll go back and listen to it again with you all to make sure I totally retain everything she's shared with us! It's just that good! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/M2KFRAHbFbLLisa A. Hernandez is Counsel at Smith Eibeler, LLC. Lisa practices plaintiff-side employment law, representing individuals in all aspects of employment law and litigation, including claims of unlawful termination and discrimination, sexual harassment and whistle-blower retaliation. Lisa also leads the firm's education law practice, helping families and students with disabilities navigate special education disputes, school-based accommodations, and transition planning to prepare students for employment and independent living.

Today we wrap up the COPAA series with a really great conversation with David Jefferson, the President of the Board of Directors. David's journey to advocacy from the corporate world is super interesting and relatable, and you'll learn how he built a large advocacy business in a few short years. David's got a heart for advocacy - and the right tools to get results for his clients. If you've ever thought about advocacy, this episode is for you!!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/k7Y2sB9pQMoDavid Jefferson (Arizona) - As a parent of special needs children, David understands and appreciates all of the difficulties parent's face as they try and navigate the special education maze. David formed Parent Support Arizona to ensure parents have a local resource and the tools they need to ensure their children's educational needs are met. Over the past few years, David has sought administrative remedies through the State Department of Education, Office of Administrative Hearings OCR and FERPA. David uses these experiences to provide civil rights advocacy, educational advocacy, parent training and represent parents in IDEA due process hearings in the State of Arizona. In addition he offers self-help tools and resources that allow parents to advocate for themselves and on an equal footing with schools as they advocate for their children's rights.

If you've ever wanted to crawl inside my brain to have a conversation on special education advocacy, law, and practice, here's your chance. Amy Bonn, consulting attorney, with COPAA, speaks. my. language. Amy and I have a hearty conversation about our jobs as special education attorneys, and it's just too good! Sometimes while I record with guests, I write down the time that a particular quote happens or a quote itself. I had to stop writing on this one, because I'd filled two big Post Its!!!! Tune in for All Things SPED Law and Advocacy today! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/LBuZb8GKRdHAmy Bonn, Esq. - Amy is a Nebraska attorney providing legal representation to families of children with disabilities in special education matters. Amy is a summa cum laude graduate of Creighton University School of Law, where she was a member of the board of editors of the Creighton Law Review. She is licensed to practice in state and federal courts in Nebraska.Amy is also a proud parent of children with developmental disabilities. She completed a ten-month traineeship in disability advocacy and leadership at the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities at the Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, where her research focus was on parental advocacy in special education.

Today we roll out a new series on the podcast called COPAA Conversations by chatting with Denise Marshall, the CEO of the Council of Parents, Attorneys, and Advocates. COPAA's mission is to protect and enforce the legal and civil rights of students with disabilities and their families. The organization offers trainings, an amazing conference, public policy work, legal assistance, really effective committees, and more! It's seriously my one-stop shop for information and community in my work. Denise and I chat about all things COPAA in this episode, and of course, we dive into some of our favorite advocacy tools and ideas! I hope you'll join us and check out COPAA! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/Tx38ehX5c7M Denise Stile Marshall, M.S. - Denise has led the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) since 2005. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Science. Denise has over 40 years' experience in the field of disabilities in a variety of support, management, and advocacy capacities. She has a wealth of non-profit association management experience and is a dynamic trainer, experienced in leading sessions for participants of diverse abilities and experience levels. Prior to becoming the CEO of COPAA Denise was the Director of Training and Educational Outreach for the national organization TASH from 1995-2005, the Program Manager and trainer for Maryland Leaders in Disability Policy; and a Positive Behavior Support specialist and Director of the National Training Center for The Kennedy Krieger Institute in Maryland among other consulting and management positions. Denise's specific areas of interest are civil right to quality education, positive behavioral supports, prevention and reduction in the use of restraints, abolishment of seclusion and aversive techniques, family supports, grassroots advocacy, self-advocacy, and experiential learning. Denise and her husband are the parents of two children and have three grandchildren, one of whom has Down syndrome.

Ever feel like you need to up the ante on your Negotiation but feel stuck in how to do that? How about a tool that psychologists use to help people get to the root of their own struggles? In today's episode we're going to dive a little deeper into a concept I call "Tactical Empathy," and we'll work on validating the emotions of all of the people at the IEP table. For some people this is super intuitive. For others it isn't, which is okay, because there are a few things you can do to change the vibe of a meeting in a snap!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8sQAp7hltLn

We've all been there. The IEP Meeting is going well. Everyone is smiling, the computer system is working, the child is making progress. Then... (record scratch)... things go sideways. In today's episode I talk about one common IEP Pitfall, and it's so obvious. Fortunately, the solution is also super obvious and easy, so I'll walk you through that, too! This is an easy, quick listen before your annual IEP Meeting! Like stuff like this? Consider joining our ABC Course where you get my Negotiation Workshop exclusively!

One of my most favorite and successful strategies has very little to do with negotiation strategy. Rather, it is founded in a desire to make meetings as efficient as possible... but it has a huge positive impact. In today's episode I share my tried and true strategy of requesting a draft of an IEP prior to the meeting and then submitting written questions, comments, and ideas back to the school team prior to the meeting. This strategy was meant to simply be efficient, but it has had a huge impact of IEP meetings for me. I hope you find it helpful, too!

I talk to about one professional a week about an Inclusion case. Attorneys, advocates, outpatient therapists, social workers, pediatricians, and so many other professionals have questions about Inclusion. I'm not only honored that these colleagues call me, but I'm also always excited to geek out about Inclusion and to provide my insight. The only group of folks that I consistently disappoint is the attorneys. Why? Because my approach to inclusion cases is really hands-on. It's practical. It's communicative. It's sometimes even messy. In today's episode, I'll give you some of the practical tips that I've dished out to some of my friends in the last few weeks.

I like to say that the "heart and soul" of special education is the specially designed instruction. This is the instruction that is supposed to be uniquely tailored to the child's needs. This should be drastically different from the accommodations and modifications that students on IEPs get in their general education classrooms and other environments at school. When I recently spoke on Specially Designed Instruction to parents, attorneys, and advocates, I got a ton of questions:What's the difference between SDI and Tier 1 / whole group instruction. Is SDI the same as modifying work? Is SDI like tutoring? Where does SDI occur? Let's dive into these questions in today's episode. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/9ZF4KwqNrV4

Oh, the emails I got! I posted about IEEs in my stories a few weeks ago, and I got so many messages from professionals asking about them. I took those questions as a sign that we needed to spend a second more on IEEs here on the pod. So, let's take a step backwards and hammer in on a few basics on Individual Education Evaluations. Fact One: They're free. Fact Two: They're intended to level the playing field for parents in special education. Now that I have you attention, tune in to the whole episode for more!!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/Mnj8VduBVK7

Last week I attended the COPAA Conference, and a session on IEEs, presented by esteemed VA SPED attorney, Melissa Waugh, I had an epiphany about cognitive testing. Many of my clients that have kids with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities shy away from cognitive/ IQ testing. In this episode, we'll ponder (yet another) reason why this may not be a great idea. I promise to invite Melissa to be on the pod, too, because man alive, she's a wealth of information!

Last week I presented at COPAA, the Counsel for Parents, Attorneys, and Advocates, which is my favorite conference of the year. The topic of my presentation matches this week's podcast topic. Maybe soon I'll invite my co-presenter, the amazing Melissa Waugh, from Virginia's famous and wonderful firm, The Belkowitz Firm, on to the pod. But for now, i want to share an experience with you, and then I want to dive into the shallow end of SDI with you. It has been my recently experience that district's arent's providing SDI, and worse, don't know it. What can you do about it?Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8GTndSde5UP

I've been on a health journey since I broke my back at the age of 15. I quickly learned that my body responds to natural remedies really, really well. While I started with massage and movement, the onset of my autoimmune symptoms in my 30s led me to exploring nutrition, acupuncture, meditation, and so many more “alternative” medicine options. That's how I found Dr. Nina Marie Rueda, a naturopathic medicine professional, who has a wealth of information on Instagram and her website! I can't wait for you to meet her! Dr. Nina-Marie Rueda is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on health in the perinatal time. After having been trained as a doula by the midwife who is the Director at her local birth center, she went on to receive her postpartum doula training and lactation educator training from CAPPA. Nina-Marie works with mothers to determine where the imbalances in digestive function, hormones, and through blood chemistry are occurring in order educate on individualized needs to regain optimal health, which can look like regained energy after long bouts of fatigue, ridding PMS symptoms once and for all, enjoying self-control instead of moments of outrage at her toddler, strength, and fat loss, among other things like getting rid of headaches and migraines. With her expertise in nutrition and perinatal health, mothers are able to be transformed into the women they want to be.Paired with her training as a labor doula, postpartum doula, lactation educator, and private chef, Nina-Marie brings a well-rounded approach to care while working with mothers and supporting/educating other doulas to do the same.Website: https://doctorninamarie.com/

If your brain gets overwhelmed with all of the tasks, and if you soul likes lists, this episode is for you! Diagnosis, Therapies, Advocacy, Inclusion, Caregiving... Oh My! In Kelley Coleman's new book, which shares the name of this episode, she shares insights, including advice from experts, on each of those topics (and several others). Her advice includes background information, stories of others, what worked for her own family, lists, templates, and so many other tools! This is a book you'll want on your bookshelf... and Kelley's a friend you're going to want and need for the next several years! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/kVsK3cwFroT Kelley Coleman is a feature film development executive turned author and advocate for parent caregivers and individuals with disabilities. Her book Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports draws upon over a decade of advocacy, gained through her own journey parenting a child with multiple disabilities. Kelley lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two boys, and her son's trusty service dog. Website: https://www.kelleycoleman.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellokelleycoleman/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelley.coleman.56Pre-Order your copy: Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports available March 13, 2024: https://www.kelleycoleman.com/books

Not only do I love where our friend, Katie Larew, lives (#SoCal)... I love EVERYthing Katie Larew shares over at Assistive Technology for Dyslexia! AT is such a wide-ranging topic, and AT supports can positively impact outcomes for SO many students. However, there remain so many myths about and impediments to getting good technological supports at school. Thank heavens for Katie! In today's episode we talk all things AT, and we also fangirl about the sun and surf!!!! Join us in this fun, light-hearted episode! And also I promise to have Katie back when I'm not essentially mid-root-canal! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8rlqyiqG2zZKatie Larew is the founder of Assistive Technology for Dyslexia, LLC. She began working in the field of Special Education in 2007 as a classroom Special Education Teacher. As an Assistive Technology Specialist, Katie has worked with students from elementary, middle, and high school. She holds a Master's Degree in Special Education as well as additional certifications as an IMSLEC certified Orton-Gillingham Teacher, CERI Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist and RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional. Katie serves on the Board of Directors for The International Dyslexia Association, San Diego Branch and is an active member of the International Dyslexia Association, Center for Effective Reading Instruction, and Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. Katie works with students, parents, and educators by providing consultations, customized step-by-step virtual training, and professional development. Training topics focus on Assistive Technology tools to support the areas of Reading, Writing, Note-Taking, Organization, and Executive Functions. Katie's mission is to help spread greater awareness of Assistive Technology to help students build their confidence and independence. Katie is a wife & mom to two under five. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and exploring Southern California.Website: https://assistivetechnologyfordyslexia.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assistivetechnologyfordyslexia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/assistivetechnologyfordyslexia

Sometimes you meet somehow whose life parallels yours so significantly that its hard to believe. If you've had any discussions regarding inclusion at your school, you're going to want to listen to what Suzanne Lezotte has to say in today's episode. Suzanne feels so passionate about inclusive practices that she wrote a book, "Raising Owen: An Extra-ordinary memoir on motherhood." Suzanne's outlook on inclusion, life, and motherhood is important and so relatable. Hope you love this week's episode!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/kbEsgkh2M3G Born and raised in Michigan in a family of nine kids, Suzanne has been writing since she was a child. She moved to Los Angeles after college and began a corporate career in PR and marketing. When she and her husband welcomed their first child, Owen, they had no idea the new world of parenting they would embark upon. His diagnosis of Down syndrome at seven days old turned her world upside down. She became an early advocate for inclusion and adopted the motto “life will not be a special needs class.” Her son is now 20 years old and attends Ventura College part-time while applying for university programs for adults with disabilities. She has three kids, and resides in Westlake Village, CA. Her book, “Raising Owen: A Memoir on Motherhood” is published by Aristata Press.Website: https://www.suzannelezotte.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzannelezotte/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suzannelezotteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannelezotte/

We're keeping with our theme of caregiver supports this week... but today we're also focusing on supporting our children. This week's conversation is one of my favorites of all time. Lauren McKenzie is the real deal. She's a former teacher (yes, she's taught every grade from K-12... I told ya she's the real deal), and now she's a coach that helps parents and schools navigate the messiness of behavior and regulation! Lauren's approach is straightforward, respectful, humble, and effective, and I can't wait for you to learn about it! If life ever has you like

When I planned our Conference this year, I knew I wanted at least one person that could not only talk about caregiver fatigue and teacher burn out but also to provide us with strategies! And that's how I found Bryan Holyfield! Bryan's own journey as teacher-turned-trainer and his experience in helping parents that are struggling to manage all the things is so inspiring and helpful. Bryan's outlook on life is so inspiring. He believes in doing the work, celebrating the success, and listening to yourself. I can't wait to share today's episode with you! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/MEfKxAszEV0Bryan Holyfield is married to his high school sweetheart, Hannah. They met as missionary kids whose families were serving in Moscow, Russia. Together, they are raising their four sons to be men of character and faith. Bryan has a bachelor's degree in Secondary Social Sciences and a Master's in Russian and East European Studies. He was a successful social studies teacher and soccer coach before he founded Holyfit Coaching and transitioned into full time fitness and nutrition coaching. Bryan is a Certified Personal Trainer through NFPT and Certified Nutrition Coach through Precision Nutrition. Bryan played soccer in college but let fatherhood, education and career get in the way of protecting his health. He suffered a low back injury in his late 20's that made him realize he needed to start taking better care of his body to be able to be the man and father he wanted to be! When the pandemic hit three years later, he saw so many colleagues and friends allow their health to suffer. Bryan knew that he had the experience and communication skills to have an impact on a great number of people. Bryan is passionate about building strong and healthy leaders to the glory of God with a global and missional impact. Outside of work, Bryan stays active coaching his son's sports teams, hiking, duck hunting, playing soccer and disc golf, and a leader in his local church. If you ever need to know about the best coffee or hiking in North Georgia, Bryan has the inside scoop for you. Website: http://www.holyfitcoaching.comInstagram: https://instagram.com/bryanholy.fit

Inclusion Starts Now? Yes please! That's the name of my guest, Kayla Coburn's, business, and it's the name of my mantra for Jack's Kindergarten Year! I can't wait for you to meet special educator and consultant, Kayla Coburn, who is so passionate and similarly-minded about inclusive education. Her ideas and experiences are so valuable, and she's doing such a wonderful job at advocating for inclusive education and supporting districts that commit to it. Kayla and I talk IEP Teamwork (and I recommend our favorite book on Teamwork to her), roadblocks to inclusion, and even “sneaky” ways to start carving away at inclusive opportunities for kids at school. Kayla speaks my language, and I can't wait for you to hear it! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/k8x7h2ybkokMeet My Guest: Kayla Coburn is a former para, former special education teacher, former education specialist, now inclusion specialist and founder of Inclusion Starts Now, LLC. My passion for inclusion has shown thorugh my entire career.Website: http://www.inclusionstartsnow.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusionstartsnow/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusionstartsnowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-coburn-78970685/

Ever wanna hear two people that are so passionate about special education that they sometimes lost sleep over it geek out over it?! Taylor Day's energy for supporting students with autism is contagious – so contagious, in fact, that she is one of our very few repeat guests on the podcast, AND I've invited her to present at our Special Education & Advocacy Conference. In today's episode Dr. Tay and I talk about behavior supports, Pathological Demand avoidance, the concierge model of medical and therapeutic intervention, special education advocacy, and SO much more. This is the kind of conversation I have on the phone with friends while I drive my kids to swimming, take walks, and put away laundry. This is about as behind-the-scenes as it gets, and you're going to love it! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/5aT6eFG2qSJMeet My Guest: Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed psychologist specializing in neurodivergent affirming care for autistic children and their families, including very early diagnosis and early intervention. She has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is the CEO and founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care. Her practice integrates The Whole Family Approach, a process she created utilizing evidence-informed principles after seeing a gap in autism care. Her passion for child psychology and her focus on autism is in many ways tied to her own personal experience growing up with a brother who was diagnosed at 23 months of age.Website: http://drtaylorday.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.dr.tay/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.dr.tay/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-dr-tay/

Join me as I talk to Conference presenter, Abigail Moehringer of Mrs. Moe's Modifications. Abigail and I explore Trauma Informed practices at school, behavior supports, and so much more in this short-but-power-packed episode that you are not going to want to miss. There were so many times that she was talking that I wanted to interrupt and say, “Yes!!! Me too!!!!” and I know you'll feel the same way! Enjoy today's episode, our first of 2024, and consider it a preview for even more great things to come in 2024!Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/pFlaJpGM2mEMeet My Guest: Abigail MoehringerI have always wanted to be a teacher- bringing extra worksheets home and making my little sister be my student! I received my undergraduate degree in Childhood Education and Special Education with a math minor (so I tutor high school math as well). I received my masters degree in Literacy. I absolutely love learning, so I continued on to receive my BCBA certificate (Board Certified Behavior Analyst). I always love to learn and I feel as though there is always more to learn! Most recently, I have moved into a behavior specialist role and love supporting teachers AND parents!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrs_moes_modificationsWebsite: http://www.mrsmoesmodifications.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063699362515

In this episode, we're diving deep into the essential things parents and caregivers need to know about 504 plans for their amazing kids.

You know when you have that feeling at an IEP meeting? The one where you want to stomp your feet and say, “Listen to me!” Yep, that's awful, isn't it?! In today's episode I talk about the one characteristic parents that survive that moment have. How can your attitude, your spirit, your collaboration change the vibe of your IEP meeting?! That's what we're talking about today! This strategy worked for me, and it's worked for so many of my clients. Coming to you quickly this holiday month with a successful advocacy tip in our Parent Series!00:47 Surviving the Holiday Chaos01:02 The Importance of Structure01:53 The Role of Parents in Advocacy04:11 The Journey of Inclusion Advocacy07:36 The Power of Relentless Optimism09:35 The Struggle and Success of Advocacy11:54 The Importance of Collaboration14:17 The Reality of Advocacy15:35 The Need for Stress ReliefTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/KdYRvD3YiwrMentioned in this Episode: Ten Tips to Surviving the Holidays with your Neurodiverse Family: Adding Structure to Unstructured Time https://ashleybarlowco.com/ten-tips-to-surviving-the-holidays-with-your-neurodiverse-family-adding-structure-to-unstructured-time/

Coming to you live (actually recorded) from my kitchen!!! And my desk. And my bathroom. With an episode on getting it all done! In today's episode, which is the second in our Parent Series, I'm giving you one quick tip on how I pay attention to my own needs with a particular strategy. It has to do with my calendar, and you're going to want to try it, too! Maybe this will help you this holiday season or throughout the year.00:41 The Reality of Multitasking and Self-Perception03:12 Announcement about the Upcoming Conference04:52 The Importance of Scheduling Relaxation10:07 Practical Tips for Scheduling and Self-Care15:26 Applying Self-Care Strategies During the Holiday Season16:38 Conclusion and FarewellTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/PuxA11Wj0Lj

Today we welcome our outstanding tutor and Coach, Marissa Rothermel, to the podcast. Riss excels at providing behavior coaching to parents, and in this episode, she and I dive into what coaching looks like, behavior, support, parenting, ideas, and so, so much more! Riss has an energy that is contagious and uplifting, perfect for a busy holiday week!Show Notes:In this episode, host Ashley Barlow talks with guest Marissa Rothermel who works as a tutor and behavior consultant. Marissa provides insights regarding the effects of recent world events on children's behavior and coping mechanisms. They discuss the rise in problematic behavioral patterns, mainly stemming from sensory overload and the lack of healthy coping mechanisms post-pandemic. They also emphasize the importance of starting conversations with children, forming structures at home, and creating a safe environment where children feel loved and valued. Marissa shares tips for parents regarding teaching children about calmness and redirection.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:45 Meet Marissa Rothermel: Special Education and Behavior Enthusiast01:27 Understanding the Role of a Behavior Consultant02:20 The Importance of Collaboration in Special Education02:50 Marissa's Professional Background and Experience04:29 The Business Aspect of Special Education06:22 The Importance of Understanding Student Behavior06:48 The Initial Steps in Addressing Behavioral Issues08:15 The Role of Sensory Integration in Classroom Behavior10:48 The Importance of Building Trust and Relationships11:10 The Concept of 'Be the Cookie': Building Bonds with Students15:39 The Importance of Feeling Loved and Safe in School17:29 Understanding the Purpose Behind Every Behavior19:15 Discussing Client Strategies19:50 Personal Anecdotes and Reflections20:20 Coping Skills and Sensory Processing21:17 Parenting Challenges and Humorous Moments22:52 Impact of Trauma on Behavior23:41 Effects of Screen Time and Lack of Resilience24:21 Teaching Social Skills and Coping Mechanisms28:37 Impact of Pandemic on Education and Development30:09 Practical Tips for Parents35:44 Closing Remarks and Contact InformationTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/hLIzqQPswm3Connect with Riss:Marissa "Riss" Rothermel, MS. Ed. was raised and educated in New York State (Albany area) and currently holds several special education licenses and certifications in states across the US. She is passionate about helping students get their needs met and growing as individuals, while encouraging and supporting family involvement. Riss has been a special educator for over 15 years and specializes in behavior support, as well as supports for nonverbal learners. Her special interest areas also include virtual education, music in education, and sensory support. In conjunction with ABCo., Riss offers Behavior Foundations consultation - working with families to support behavior needs in the school and home setting, developing plans and support documents, and meeting with teams to discuss behavior intervention strategy. When dealing with challenging, surprising, or confusing behaviors, let Riss help you navigate your approach!

You know those moms that are so wise that you wish you could just sit at the counters and watch them, parent? Wisdom abounds with the first guest in our Parent Series, Ellen Snow! Have a listen as my friend Ellen, explains an epiphany she had in parenting her son, Henry, who has Down syndrome. This one lesson - and so many more that she shares in this episode- will relieve so much stress!!!!! Plus, Ellen is just plan fun! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/IGJk7uodRs6Connect with Ellen:Website: https://www.standupfordowns.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standup4downs/

If you don't know Mary Van Geffen, you're going to want to! This was the kind of conversation that I thought about for a week after! Mary Van Geffen is the international parenting coach for moms of Spicy Ones. She helps people who are highly competent in life but overwhelmed by motherhood to lean into the spiritual discipline of staying calm and cultivating warmth and tenderness all while trying to wrangle fiery future CEOs. Often this requires serious skill-building and the balm of self-compassion. Mary has a ministry on Instagram where she posts an inspiring parenting tip every single day. Just reading her social media will help you delight in your child and remember that you are enough. Mary believes that when a mom realizes how hard she is on herself and cracks the door open for some self-compassion, her entire family is bathed in light!She offers on-line parenting classes and her signature 8 week group program: Moms of Spicy Ones to help moms gain the confidence to choose gentle, respectful parenting especially if they weren't raised that way. Mary is a certified Simplicity Parenting Counselor® and Professional Co-Active Coach, but her greatest achievement is cultivating a calm, kind and firm relationship with her Spicy go-getter daughter (now 18), mild child son (16) and un-Enneagramable hubby. Today she's bringing her life coaching and teaching skills to our podcast, and I could not be more excited! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8j3z4faYtnCConnect with Mary:Website: https://www.maryvangeffen.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryvangeffenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/parentcoachforspicyones

We understand that this stage of your child's life can be especially challenging, and we're here to provide valuable insights and practical tips.

In this episode, we delve into the pivotal role principals play in special education, showcasing how their leadership supercharges our IEP (Individualized Education Program) teams.

Join us in our latest podcast episode as we unravel the fascinating realm of neuropsychology and how it can be a lifeline for parents navigating IEPs and special education.

The middle of the semester can only mean one thing. Parents are exhausted. Midterms and carpools and snack bags! Oh, my! I have been working on reducing my stress load recently, and one thing I have been trying to do is to find joy in the little things. And today's episode I talk about a few things that are filling my cup recently. I have experienced significant positive changes as a result of this mindfulness, so I thought I might share it with you!Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/yvSmQOgGyPQ Ever thought of becoming a Special Education Advocate? Now's the time! My digital course, Advocacy, Business, & Concepts in Special Education is officially OPEN for enrollment! This course will teach you advocacy and negotiation strategy, business start-up and management concepts, and little nuances in other special education concepts. Enroll today, and open the doors to your advocacy clients in as little as 6 months! You can do it! Promise!

We've talked about evaluations and eligibility a fair amount here, but we've never talked about the Bell Curve (I don't think!). Since it's so, so important to understanding your child's evaluation data, I'm giving you a Bell Curve 101 in today's episode!

Join us in this week's episode as we unpack game-changing strategies to keep your special education journey on track, stress-free, and empowering. From setting up a dedicated space to mastering communication logs, we've got you covered!In this episode, you'll discover: ✅ Proven filing and digital record-keeping techniques.✅ Tips for maintaining a communication log that works.✅ Clever tech tools to streamline your organization.

What is your WATNA and your BATNA? In today's episode well talk about a negotiation strategy, that is so simple that it is often overlooked. However, I have seen it benefit so many negotiations in incredible ways. This episode will help you navigate annual meetings, mediation, due process, and so many other decisions in your life.Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/H3wmmHKpoYH

In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the world of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and explore the vital role that accommodations and modifications play in helping students thrive.

I believe that song lyrics can really help us through so many of life's experiences, and this is, of course, true of our experiences in advocating for our children in special education. I was raised on Jimmy Buffett music and married a fellow Parrothead, so Buffett is a constant in the Barlow household. In today's episode, I pay tribute to Jimmy by connecting some of his powerful lyrics to special education advocacy and sharing a little Key West love with you!Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/LjcOvT72V2N

Listen. Life happens. Sure, you have the best intentions to spend a few minutes every day during the two weeks leading up to your IEP meeting, preparing for the meeting, but let's face it. You don't always have time. And today's episode we are talking about a few tips for those circumstances. And just to really hammer in the point, I deliver this podcast on my way to an IEP meeting for which I have not prepared! Life in the trenches with Ashley Barlow company!Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/rHp1fajDBD5

Hey, fabulous listeners! You might've done a double-take, thinking, "Wait, that's not Ashley's voice!" and you'd be right! I'm Rachel Starr, the Creative Director at ABCo and the mastermind behind today's plot twist!

In this episode, we explore the core principles of inclusive education. In the context of education, inclusion refers to the practice of providing equal access to quality education within a general education setting for all students, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or differences. We delve into the belief that every student has the right to learn, participate, and thrive alongside their peers in an inclusive and supportive environment. Join us as we discuss the importance of inclusive education and its impact on students' lives.Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/GppJOPLPyRc

Welcome to the world of Cs at abC! Clever, isn't it?

It's a birthday week around here… And tomorrow, our Jackman will be a TEENAGER! This is equally terrifying and exciting! In today's episode, I'll share some reflections on Jack's pre-teen years, some lessons I've learned, and some things to celebrate! Thanks for letting me share so much about our educational journey and my most amazing kid with you! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/krX6kFgz6hK

I learn something from Jack Barlow almost every day of my life. The simple wisdom that he emulates is such a blessing to our family and community. In today's episode, I will share with you. One lesson I have learned from Jack that is so effective and advocacy. Coming to you live from my living room this is an episode. You will not want to miss! Learn a little more about the Jackman and a little more about advocacy and today's episode.Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/OoUxUQQS6AY

In today's episode, we take a fascinating journey into the world of Phonological Awareness, a crucial skill often considered as the ability to 'play with language.' Our goal is to demystify this complex topic for parents, educators, and lifelong learners, emphasizing its significant role in literacy development and cognitive function. We delve into the scientific intricacies of phonetics, syllables, and rhyme, offering insights on early identification of reading difficulties and effective support strategies. Tune in as we elucidate how mastering Phonological Awareness can transform reading abilities and overall cognitive development.Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/cZONslkoBVI

No, no, no! Goodness, do we ever get tired of our children saying, “No!” I thought it was bad with toddlers… now I have (almost) two teen-agers, and I'd love to hear “Yes” just once a week!!!! It's hard to be on the other end of “no,” isn't it?In today's quick episode, we're talking about the power of saying “yes,” both on the giving and receiving ends. I'll walk you through how saying, “yes” to IEP team and school team from time to time can and will improve your advocacy outcomes.

Need more time in your week?Tired of running kids to activities and therapies?Wanna just enjoy your neighborhood pool or sit by a ball field?Want new, meaningful, insanely beneficial ways to connect with your child?Imagine the surprise of Michelle Breitenbach when she hesitantly agreed to tutor all of her students on-line and subsequently got the above results! Imagine Michelle's surprise when the pandemic happened, and she realized there was a whole landscape of on-line tutors and students needing help with reading that had little choice but to access tutoring on-line. Michelle Breitenbach joins me today to talk about on-line tutoring, its obvious and even unintended benefits, and how you can even access it from abroad! I can't wait for you to hear from this certified dyslexia practitioner and to learn all about her work!Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/BTM4oP3SggyMeet MichelleI am a certified Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner, entrepreneur, and coach. I would love to teach your wiggly, struggling readers or help you become a better teacher for your students. Whether online or in-person, I provide helpful tools and strategies to set up with less tech, connect with your student, maintain multi-sensory methods, and engage with quick games and movement. I train teachers to work online successfully by using materials they already have and incorporating engaging low-tech activities. I can't wait to see you in the Zoom Room and help you or your student today!Website: https://www.readtorewire.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readtorewire/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/readtorewireLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-breitenbach/ Contact: michelle@readtorewire.com

You've heard about - and maybe even asked for - a multi-sensory, evidence-based reading program, but what does that really mean? In this webinar we'll talk about how a multi-sensory approach looks in practice and why it works. We'll even explore a few common curricula and try to differentiate between them! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/PA5fzhLwpIJ