The Parent IEP Lab

Does the eligibility category matter? My knee-jerk reaction is "NO!" BUT...there are several reasons why it can sometimes relate to what services and supports your child receives.  Listen to this episode if you have an iniital eligibility meeting or a re-evaluation meeting coming up! BLACK FRIDAY DEAL! New Course! If you are new to the IEP process and want to kickoff your advocacy on solid ground, check out The IEP Basics Mini-Course! From now until Saturday (11/26/2023) the course is 50% off with the code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout!  For just $44 you get an overview of the legal basics, the eligibility and re-eligibility process, the IEP process, and the IEP Paperwork! Learn more and snag your deal at https://TheIEPLab.com/Basics  BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE Add a month of The Parent Advocacy Club on at checkout and receive 50% off your first month as well! Get the support you need as a parent advocate so you can help your child get supported this year! PODCAST GUIDE  Need a guide to find the episodes most helpful for your situation? Download the free Podcast Listening Guide! https://TheIEPLab.com/LISTEN 

Ever wonder what these "dyslexia schools" are all about? How do you find one? Get into one? How much do they cost? And will your current district pay for them? Today our guest, Lisa Parnello of Parnello education, has all the answers for us (including outside placements that aren't for dyslexia challenges, too!) Connect with Lisa: https://ParnelloEducation.com  Dyslexia Devoted Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-74-the-iep-process-with-beth-from-the-iep-lab/id1628010878?i=1000633113014 Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode151  Download your Free IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide: https://TheIEPLab.com/IEP  Check out all the free resources through The IEP Lab: https://TheIEPLab.com/freeresources 

Are you stairing at your child's progress reports and wondering what the heck is happening and trying to figure out if they are actually making progress? Tume into this episode to get a behind the scenes peek at progress reports and some common challenges.... ...as well as a discussion on HOW to fix those progress reports and goals both in the short term as a quick-fix, and in the long term! This is essentially how you ensure your child is learning...so a little on the important side! PLEASE take time to rate and review the podcast! This helps other parents just like you find the podcast! Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/365033878323074/?mibextid=oMANbw  Free podcast listening guide: https://theieplab.com/listen  Goals episode with Matt (episode #58): https://theieplab.com/episode58  

Are you tired of everyone talking about self-care and how important it is to be level-headed when advocating... ...but needing help in having some tools to actually DO that? It's so much harder to put into practice.  Today, Denise Kleinman is helping to introduce an actual tool you can use to process your advocacy emotions to have them stop getting in the way of effective advocacy.  Topics we address on this episode: 1) Why advocating is so emotional 2) How using tools (similar to tapping) help you advocate with more clairity 3) A real-time tapping example that directly relates to school meeting stress! New to the podcast? Download free tools at https://TheIEPLab.com/freeresources  Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode149  Connect with Denise and have a fee tapping experience: https://tapintuition.com/fatigue

It's time we talk about 504's... Because this under-rated and often misunderstood learning plan is pretty amazing when it works and it's being implented!  ...but pretty useless if it's not.  Topics we cover today are:  1) 504's vs IEP (let's review the difference!) 2) Can you have BOTH an IEP & 504? (hint: I see this answered incorrectly alll the time!) 3) Common issues with 504's (ex: it not being implemented).  FREE Accommodations 101 Guide: https://theieplab.com/accommodations shownotes: https://theieplab.com/episode148 

The #1 thing I help parent advocates do is to focus in on WHAT their advocacy should be focused on.  SO! It's not suprising that we have to back up and ask ourselves some questions about the plan in place, and how it's working and how it isn't!  This is the recording of the free webinar we held last week to help parents answer 3 questions to determine if their child's IEP/504/other learning plan was effective, and YOU can listen to it today! Join The Parent Advocacy Club before Thursday: https://theieplab.com/CLUB  Free Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/365033878323074/?mibextid=oMANbw  Shownotes: https://theieplab.com/episode147

Ever wonder what evaluation test questions are like? Ever wonder if your child's knowledge is being truly captured in the evaluation report? Dr. Tinita Kearney, a speech language pathologist and PhD, discusses the importance of culturally relevant and dynamic evaluations and what that actually looks and sounds like. Here are some keys to the epidoe: 1) Find out why evaluations should go beyond standardized testing, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of your child's language and social skills. 2) Tinita outlines 4 aspects to an evaluation to look for in the report to truly repesent your child well 3) She discusses how evaluations naturally flow into good accommodations, goals, and services! Register for the FREE training this Friday! Come get support for deciding if your child's IEP/504 is working or not and what to do about it! https://TheIEPLab.com/FREE  Follow Tinita on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.t_slp/  Tinita's Website: https://www.tinitakearney.com/  Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode146   

I overheard some teachers talking in a coffee shop a while ago...and I while I sat listening to them...offended...I also thought about how we (meaning you...and me!) can persuade them to think a little deeper. So today on the podcast, it's a bit different-because it's story telling time! Both in how staff learns behavior management (-or not-), and my own story of creating some change with a kiddo with "behaviors." We also tackle: -Why ABA in the schools is such a big deal. -What is PBIS? -And how we can actually have changing ideals from behavior being "dealt with" to changing the perspective to equal more and unique support needs? So is this week's episode excusing the archaic nature of schools and behavior? Absolutely not! Will it create an "ah-hah" moment that allows you to craft your questions and support requests in a way that makes staff question if "what they've always done" is really the best way? I sure hope so! Sign up for the FREE October 13th Parent Training: Is My Child's IEP/504 Working? https://TheIEPLab.com/FREE Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode145 

In this episode, we dive into the topic of advocating when you are in a separated or divorced situation, and we have a fantastic guest joining us, Billie Tarascio of Modern Law. 5 keys that you'll learn: Understanding your child's educational rights: We'll discuss the concept of educational rights, both at the federal level (think IDEA!) and in terms of legal decision making rights for parents. Navigating consent for evaluation and services: Learn how to handle situations where one party in a separated or divorced situation may be resistant to seeking evaluations or accessing services for a child. Dealing with the emotional impact: Discover how the emotional turmoil of separation or divorce can affect your perception of your child's struggles and the challenges that arise when both parents are in conflict. Strategies to overcome challenges: Gain insights into effective ways to advocate for your child's needs, even in difficult circumstances, such as obtaining an independent evaluation when the school declines, and potentially seeking legal intervention if necessary. Building a strong support system: Learn the importance of seeking support from professionals, such as attorneys and advocates, as well as from other parents who have gone through similar experiences. And now, for a fun fact from the episode: Did you know that our guest, Billie, is not only an experienced attorney but also a mom to four kids, three of whom have IEPs? Her personal experience adds a unique perspective to her expertise in family law. LAST CHANCE to sign up for Penny Williams' summit happening THIS WEEKEND https://TheIEPLab.com/schoolstrugglessummit  FREE Empowered Parent Bundle (yep-more free resources!):  https://TheIEPLab.com/bundle Billie of Modern Law: https://mymodernlaw.com  Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode144     

We all hear that we need to have our child's strengths in the IEPs...but what does that actually look like? Here's the main topics we are covering today: -Explanation of why IEPs are typically negative Importance of incorporating a child's strengths into the IEP Frustrations with Current IEP Practices How trengths can be pulled down into accommodations, goals, and services Three Steps for Promoting Strength-Based IEPs School Struggles Summit: https://TheIEPLab.com/schoolstrugglessummit Parent Advocacy Club: https://TheIEPLab.com/CLUB  Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode143   

Behavior has many different underlying layers -- and one often overlooked is trauma. Join me in learning from Angie Grandt, an adoption coach as she takes us through her advocacy journey and how to advocate for looking at that layer underneith behavior! In this episode we cover: The importance of recognizing behavioral issues rooted in trauma within the IEP process. Angie's journey from starting with a 504 plan to eventually transitioning to an IEP for her son. How collaboration and goal-driven strategies can make a world of difference in building a successful IEP. The challenges faced by small school districts in providing comprehensive resources for children with behavioral issues. The significance of coordinating outside therapy services with the child's IEP to ensure holistic support.Did you know? One fun fact from the episode: Angie's small town school district houses students from early childhood through 12th grade, all under one roof! Talk about a close-knit community! Angie's website: https://www.connectedparentswithangie.com/ LIMITED TIME Access 30+ FREE resources with Scotti from Reframe Parenting's Bundle (including my School Support Orientation Guide!) https://TheIEPLab.com/BUNDLE FREE SUMMIT The School Struggles Summit from Penny at Behavior Revolution is open for registration! September 28-30th with FREE and Fast Pass Options (upgrade to Fast Pass to see the Assistive Technology Workshop mentioned in the episode!) https://TheIEPLab.com/SchoolStrugglesSummit  Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/TheIEPLab  Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode142 

In this episode, we dive into progress reports and discuss what you need to look for and how important they are for your child's education. Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect in the episode: -An overview of the importance of progress reports and how they help gauge the effectiveness of your child's IEP. 5 keys you'll learn: When to expect progress reports and how often you can advocate for additional ones, if needed. What progress reports include and how they are typically structured. Common issues parents face with progress reports and how to address them. Insight into the information provided in the progress reports and its significance. Tips on how you can take an active role in understanding and utilizing progress reports effectively. Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know that progress reports are usually released around the same time as grades? So, keep an eye out for them during that period! LIMITED TIME Access 30+ FREE resources with Scotti from Reframe Parenting's Bundle (including my School Support Orientation Guide!) https://TheIEPLab.com/BUNDLE FREE SUMMIT The School Struggles Summit from Penny at Behavior Revolution is open for registration! September 28-30th with FREE and Fast Pass Options (upgrade to Fast Pass to see the Assistive Technology Workshop mentioned in the episode!) https://TheIEPLab.com/SchoolStrugglesSummit  Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/TheIEPLab  Shownotes with Transcript: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode141    

Did you know that your state likely has a state parent center? I've heard from many parents that they are connected to theirs, and it's a great way to connect to your local resources! Join me on this week's episode with Erin Camper from Colorado's Peak Parent Center letting us know what State Parent Centers are all about! Hurry and get 10% off your Parent Advocacy Club Membership prior to August 31st -- just in time for our Semptemebr theme: beginning of the school year advocacy! Shownotes including a link to the Parent Center Hub: TheIEPLab.com/episode140 

From freebies to courses to summits, here is the plan to support you as a parent advocate this 2023-2024 school year! HAPPENING NOW The Ultimate Parent IEP Prep Course is open for fall enrollment until Thursday, August 24th, 2023! Go to https://TheIEPLab.com/COURSE to find out more! Freebie & Resource Page: https://TheIEPLab.com/freeresources  Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode139   

Do you know it's possible to have more than one IEP meeting (otherwise an "IEP continuation meeting?"  Now you do! But do you want 1? Or 2? Or 5? Maybe there isn't a magic number, but there are certainly advantages and disadvantages of multiple meetings, and we are going to discuss them all! We cover: 1) The parent right to have more than one IEP meeting 2) When to ask for a continuation meeting 3) Case Manager personality and meeting numbers 4) Finding your "sweet spot" of IEP meetings Don't forget to sign up for the FREE Advocacy Focus Workshop this Thursday evening OR Friday morning! More information at https://TheIEPLab.com/August Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/800719414225685/  Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode13 

Do you know that it's within your Parent Rights to bring someone to your IEP meeting? Yes? Awesome! But wait...who should you bring? Is it a friend? Fellow parent? Family member? Or maybe an advocate or lawyer? In this episode we discuss 5 different reasons why you would want to bring someone to your IEP meeting. BUT WAIT...there's more! We also dicuss the advantages AND disadvantages of bringing someone with you (and yes-there ARE clear disadvantages!) Sign up for the August Training: Advocacy Clairity: What Do I Focus on This Year? TheIEPLab.com/August Join Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/800719414225685/ Shownotes: TheIEPLab.com/episode137

You've tried everything -- and that relationship is just not awesome. How can you get un-stuck in your advocacy this year? In this episode we cover: 1) The reasons why you may be feeling like you are hitting a brick wall when it comes to advocating with some school IEP team members 2) 5 options for small actions that skirt you over under or through that barrier to advocacy Check out the newly updated free resources page! https://theieplab.com/freeresources Shownotes: https://theieplab.com/episode136

CPS (Collaboritive Proactive Solutions) is a model that takes it a step deeper than "behavior" to find support needs or difficulties, and is also a model that teaches problem solving and buiding rapport.  Santana Ficken is a mental health provider and autustic adult that works as an advocate with Minasota NEAT, Minnesota Neurodivergent Education, Advocacy, and Therapy Services (MnNEAT), a non-profit group that specialized in supporting neurodivergent people to be included across the livespan. In this episode we cover: 1) What the CPS model is and why it's worth it to invest time into learning 2) The "lens change" that can help get to the root of difficulties your child is experiencing (rather than everyone focusing on behavior) 3) How Santanna has used the model within the context of IEP advoacy 4) How the CPS method can help with identifyng accommodations and goals for your child Minnasota NEAT: https://mnneat.org/ Minnasota NEAT email: info@mnneat.org Download the Podcast Listening Guide: https://TheIEPLab.com/listen Shownotes: https://TheIEPLab.com/episode135   

Sitting on the "school side" of the IEP table gave me a TON of insights into what approach to the team (suprisingly regardless of case manager personality!) was the most effective.  Feel like a "bulldog" at IEP meetings? Chances are, behind the scenes your child isn't getting truly the best service.  Feel like you have no input to share and you are lost in the process? We can give you some confidence to know what to ask and what your role is. Because the most effective approach, is of course, somewhere in the middle.  In this episode, we cover the 3 different approaches to advocacy and how you can get to a place of "middle of the road" and why it's so important to get there! Download the free IEP Step-By-Step Process Guide: https://theieplab.com/iep Download the Podcast Listening Guide: https://theieplab.com/listen Shownotes: https://theieplab.com/episode134   

It keeps coming up again and again...to share your vision statement with your school IEP team is a MUST-DO to have a great year this year! So if you need some examples and a free guide to boot, this is your episode to brush up on how to write one and refocus for this coming school year!   Download the Vision Statement Guide: TheIEPLab.com/guide 25% OFF workshops and courses with code SUMMER TheIEPLab.com/products Join the Facebook group and share your vision statement!  https://www.facebook.com/groups/365033878323074/  

Is your child shortly turning 3 years old? Are they going to be transitioning from early intervention (or birth to 3 years old services) to school based services over the summer or into next year? Are you wondering if the approaches are different between an IFSP and an IEP? In this episode we cover: 1) The process for your child being evaluated for qualification for an IEP step-by-step 2) Differences in approaches between the Individual Family Service Plan and an Indivualized Education Program 3) How to take advantage of the parent survey and input sections of this evaluation to ensure the team has the correct all complete information to determine eligibility and the appropriate supports to start with 4) 3 Questions to ask before leaving that evaluation FREE Parent IEP Lab Listening Guide: www.TheIEPLab.com/listen Shownotes: www.TheIEPLab.com/episode132  To join the Facebook group: button at www.TheIEPLab.com/podcast 

Have you ever throught your child got a medical diagnoses because of their qualification for an IEP? Did you ever stop to think that the educational label (ie. what the school used to qualify your child for an IEP) does not mean that they have a medical diagnoses? This episode details out the differences and what you need to know about each situation to get the best support for your child at school! In this episode we discuss: 1) What an outside evaluation looks like an does for your child 2) What the intention of an educational label is, and how it's different 3) Deciding if you need one or both of these to get your child what they need Download teh NEW Podcast Listening Guide! www.TheIEPLab.com/listen Join the Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/365033878323074/ Shownotes with Transcript: www.TheIEPLab.com/episode131  

Moving schools? Moving districts? Moving states? It may be a pain, but you actually have a clear advantage of moving from one situation to the next (even though it may be scary, too!) In this episode we discuss: 1) The typical process of records exchange from one school to the next 2) How to set the tone with the next school to create an atmosphere of effective parent advocacy 3) The imporantace of making sure you understand what's in your child's IEP paperwork 4) Knowing what questions to ask the new school/district to make sure the transition is as smooth as possible Need some personalized support this summer? Take advantage of 20% off the NEW 1:1 Advocacy Power Hours! This is 60 minutes of focused sessions to get next steps in your advocacy. It includes a recording of our session and a PDF session recap. Check out more information and schedule your time at www.TheIEPLab.com/PowerHour Snag your FREE IEP Process Step By Step Guide: www.TheIEPLab.com/IEP Shownotes: www.TheIEPLab.com/episode130    

What if you've gone through this whole evaluation process, trying to get your child an IEP...and thinking you are going in the right direction... And then you come to the eligibility meeting and your child is denied an IEP.  So...what next??  In this episode we discuss: 1) Examining your reasons for an IEP to make sure you're on the right path 2) What you learned from the process (eligibility checklists, school culture, etc) 3) What supports WITHOUT an IEP could look like (using flex scheduling as an example) 4) What your next steps could be (IEE and/or how to go about asking for another evaluation) Still need more help? Check out the NEW offering by The IEP Lab: 1:1 Advocacy Power Hours! 60 minutes of clear-outcome, focused attention on your paperwork, story, ending in clear action steps to move you towards your individualized goal.  Check out more information and get 20% OFF this summer www.TheIEPLab.com/PowerHour Shownotes: www.TheIEPLab.com/episode129  

Does this sound familiar? Your child "keeps it together" during school hours...and then when arriving home for the day they fall apart emotionally and energetically.  This isn't them being manipulitive, or tricky at all...they are what's termed "masking" at school, something that has been described in the autistic community as a very stressful experience.  On this episode, we have guest Tara Marshall, an autistic adult and speech language assistant. She shares her experiences with masking and how to advocate for their support within school walls as well as when they come home. TRIGGER WARNING Tara describes a traumatic event about a special object to her and what was done to it. It may be triggering to some people. [Around ______] Tara's email: azautisticadvocate@hotmail.com IEP Process Step By Step Guide: www.TheIEPLab.com/IEP Shownotes: www.TheIEPLab.com/episode128   

I mention this in every intro...and it's time to not only break it down, but actually have examples from a real live person of what focusing on these 3 areas has meant for a real parent advocate! As you will learn today, Chellor Crossley, parent advocate and resident guide for the self-care session included in The Parent Advocacy Club is here to guide us through her journey so far! (sumemr enrollment is open NOW for The Parent Advocacy Club! Check it out at www.TheIEPLab.com/club) In this episode we cover: 1) The 3 pillars of parent advocacy Beth observed in over 400 IEP meetings 2) Chellor's journey, pointing out that this can really be a rollercoaster of successes and challenges 3) The support offered in The Parent Advocacy Club and the extra bonus announced at the end of the episode! The Parent Advocacy Club: www.TheIEPLab.com/club Connect with Chellor on Instagram: @ChellorsHouseofLight

Do you want your school team talking to an outside provider? And what would they talk about? And is it helpful? How do we get them to talk to each other? Just like so many other things about IEP advocacy, this episode is going to be focused a LOT about communication. And this one in particular is helpful to hone in on, because allowing the school to talk to any other provider is your sole right to decide. In this episode we cover: 1) What is a "release of information" and how does it work? 2) Personal experiences of use of the release (from an outpatient OT perspective as well as a school OT perspective) 3) Some pro's and con's of using this system for communication! Sign up for the FREE Webinar THIS FRIDAY (yes, replay will be sent out afterwards!) www.TheIEPLab.com/webinar Shownotes: www.TheIEPLab.com/episode126 Join the Facebook group (link right at www.TheIEPLab.com/podcast at the top!)

Does your child struggle with math? Having a hard time identifying why it's so hard or how to help them get over the anxiety, tears, and frustrations when their math just doesn't make sense to them?  We are changing that TODAY with Laura Jackson From Discovering Dyscalulia! In this episode we cover: 1) What is Dyscalculia or Specific Learning Disability in Math 2) Some CLEAR signs that your child may be struggling because of this disability 3) What's happening in researching this challenge 4) Clear strategies to advocate for within IEPs to assist them in actually making progress in their math skills 5) Amazing resources to check out through Discovering Dyscalculia AND educators specializing in the field from all over the world.  Register for the FREE Parent Webinar happening live May 26th: The ONE Strategy that Will Decrease Your IEP Metting Stress and Change Your Parent Advoacy Life Forever!:  (recording provided but bonus for showing up live!): Register at: www.TheIEPLab.com/webinar Shownotes (with live links): www.TheIEPLab.com/episode125 Laura's website: https://discoveringdyscalculia.com/

Have you ever disagreed with your school team's educational evaluation? Did you know there is something in your parent rights/procedural safeguards that you can choose to exercise in this case? They are called Independent Educational Evaluations, or IEE's. And they can help you get a second opinion for your child -- at the public expense. In this episode we discuss: 1) What is an IEE and where to find more state-specific information about them 2) What the steps would be to exercise that right 3) Some FAQ's and funky things to be aware of 4) Why it is MUCH more preferable for you and your child if you don't have to get to the IEE stage!   (Copy and Paste the links into your browser if they aren't hyperlinked :) ) Grab your FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step guide at: www.TheIEPLab.com/IEP Find the Shownotes with all the links at: www.TheIEPLab.com/episode124 Link to Colorado IEE guidelines mentioned in this podcast: https://disabilitylawco.org/sites/default/files/uploads/Q%26A%20-%20Independent%20Educational%20Evaluations%202021.pdf

One thing I realized with parents who were really successful advocates in the schools was how they framed their concerns, their child's strengths, and how they set the tone for the meeting that naturally led to the parents getting to know what was possible...and what to ask for. This week, we have Scotti Weintraub from Reframe Parenting. In this episode we cover: 1) 4 reframes to help you center yourself and the IEP team to focus on solutions and strengths 2) Specific examples of taking challenges and turning them into what to ask for in the school environment Join the Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/365033878323074/ Scotti's Website: https://www.reframeparenting.com/ Download Scotti's Freebie: https://www.reframeparenting.com/summer Shownotes: https://theieplab.com/episode123/

Is your team a bit stressed because they are short staffed? It can feel like you have no power to enforce the IEP, and it can also feel even harder to ask for additional support for your child! But in this episode, we are exploring actions you can take to help the school help your child! In this episode, we discuss: 1) Why schools are experiencing staffing shortages 2) What you can do to help those that are doing their best in the schools 3) Options for what you can do to help by getting them staffed 4) How to help your team get support from the "higher ups" in the school administration Check out the NEW Parent Advocacy Club! (founding member pricing through April 30, 2023) Join the Facebook Group Shownotes

Some of the most brilliant minds also need adaptations to the ways our public schools are set up to address learning differences. This week, Dr. Matt Zakreski helps peal back the layers of how advocating for giften/2e aka twice exceptional learners can be best tackled. In this episode we cover: 1) What gifted or 2e qualifications are 2) The range of programs and what they look like inside schools 3) Myths (such as "but they are so smart, why are they having behaviors?) 4) Resources for gifted advocacy Grab your FREE 30-day trial of The Parent Advocacy Club that includes a training of the month, live Q&A session, and Guided Processing Group as well as 2 additional tools or templates to use right away in your advocacy! Join the Facebook Group Download your FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Connect with Dr. Matt Shownotes

When you are already on edge with an IEP meeting coming up, nothing is worse than not knowing what to expect when it comes to scheduling the meeting itself! Well, all that stress of scheduling is over after today, because we are breaking down how the process SHOULD go when it's easy-peasy, and several things that are in your control (aka staying ahead of the process) that makes the whole process less stressful. In this episode we cover: 1) The steps that should happen to have a happy scheduling of an annual IEP meeting 2) Common FAQ's when it comes to the school staff's availability, not making deadlines for the start of IEP meetings, and how you can anticipate the meeting months in advance 3) One of Beth's mantras for life that absolutely applies to scheduling IEP meetings! Download the FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Check out your FREE 30 day trial of The Parent Advocacy Club Shownotes

If you are hearing "but their grades are so good, they are fine!" then you certainly aren't alone. This week, guest Valerie Cantella shares her own journey of advocating for her daughter and how her eyes were opened to district resources when she sat on a school board later in her advocacy journey.  In this episode we cover: 1) The ups and downs of advocacy 2) How advocating for social emotional supports is changing (and still needs to change more!) 3) Valerie's top tips for parent advocates April is FREE 300 day trial of The New Parent Advocacy Club Membership! FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Valerie Cantella's website Read 1st Chapter of Valerie's Book HERE Shownotes  

Let's talk about a group of parents I found in my research when starting The IEP Lab that had this passion for advocacy but didn't let it control them...they used it as a power within them to work the system and get the best support for their child.  What we cover in this episode: 1) Why controlling intense emotions is helpful in parent IEP advocacy 2) What it looks like when parents are able to master this skill 3) 5 ideas for emotional regulating activities you can fit into your routine that may help you get to the place of powerful emotional advocacy energy! LAST DAY TO SIGN UP FOR THE ULTIMATE PARENT IEP PREP COURSE until August, 2023! Snag your 30 day free trial of the Parent Advocacy Club (PAC for short!) to celebrate OT month! Shownotes  

THE DOORS TO THE ULTIMATE PARENT IEP PREP COURSE ARE OPEN! It's negative out there. Like depressing. But you need to search for resources and make connections because this IEP journey can be a bit lonely and intimidating, right? So how do you take negitive experiences of others and make sure that doesn't happen? Because the truth is...that SOME IEP EXPERIENCES ARE AMAZING!!! And how do we get THAT amazing experience...for you?   In this episode we cover: 1) Where you will find negitivity in parent advocacy 2) How to take what you need, and leave what you don't 3) How you focusing on your circle of influence actually has a bigger impact than focusing on big news stories or other people's experiences in the past. If you want help prepping y THE DOORS TO THE ULTIMATE PARENT IEP PREP COURSE ARE OPEN! Join the Facebook Group Shownotes

BONUS IEP Prep Series! We are answering the question of the MOST EFFECTIVE advocacy approach to IEP meetings. It's called the Goldilocks Approach to Advocacy.  In this episode we cover: 1) The three main advocacy approaches (passive, aggressive, and just right) 2) What it looks like AFTER the IEP meeting for each of these approaches from inside the school walls 3) Keys to finding your "just right"  Don't forget to snag your IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide! Shownotes Hint The Ultimate Parent IEP Prep Course is opening up again in the next week! Don't forget to follow The IEP Lab on socials and get on the email list (by downloading the guide!)  Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook  

Of course people with disabilities get degrees all the time? But does the IEP just translate into the college environment? As Dan from Accessing College discusses, it's best to start telling your child about their disability, building self advocacy skills, and trial-and-error process of accommodations as soon as possible! In this episode we cover: 1) If an IEP translates into the college environment 2) If a 504 translates into the college environment 3) What to shop around for when looking for colleges with a disability 4) A story about Dan's own child with a disability and how they approached this transition Download your FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Shownotes  Dan Jordan of Accessing College website

Your child's day at school likly includes some "specials" (aka music, PE, art, etc!). So what is the inside scoop on if your child needs accommodations in these specials classroom?  In this episode we cover: 1) What "specials" teachers include 2) What the "specials" teachers experience is with encountering accommodations in 504's and IEPs. 3) How parents can shortcut systems that prevent specials teachers to have a copy of the IEP 4) Approach to inclusion in specials classrooms 5) Bryson's trial and error process and why he thinks some teachers are hesitant to use it 6) Specials teachers and paraprofessionals relationship Download your Free IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Need more help with Accommodations? Check out The Accommodations Mini-Course for Parents! Shownotes Connect with Bryson

Does your child struggle with school refusal? This podcast is a collection of themes that Beth has seen within the schools in working with children in multiple settings. But it also is a connection to resources as well.  In this episode we cover: 1) Why school refusal is often unsupported in schools 2) Why school refusal is only what you are seeing as a result of the real issue 3) How to figure out what that issue is 4) How to approach the school team to get support FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Join the Facebook Group! Accommodations Mini-Course for Parents Shownotes  

How do you work with your kids to find the right accommodations for them? Megan Buck from Empower Academic Coaching, certified ADHD coach and former middle school classroom teacher, is here to share her process of empowering students to identify how their brain works and how to build skills in self advocacy!  In this episode we cover: 1) Why understanding how our brains work at an early age is so beneficial.  2) Changes in demands and expectations when transitioning into middle school or high school 3) 5 questions Megan asks at intake to discover where to start building on kids' strengths and identifying what works for them Check out the NEW Accommodations Mini-Course for Parents Get your FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Join the Facebook Group Shownotes   Connect with Megan Buck: Instagram @empoweracademic https://www.empoweracademiccoaching.com/ 

Welcome to the fanalie episode of The IEP Team BONUS Series! This week we are tlaking about special education administration, which includes special education directors and coordinators.  In this episode we discuss: 1) Qualifications of Special Education Admin using Colorado state guidelines as an example 2) The long list of what Special Education Directors and Coordinatiors actually do 3) The reasons why you would want to pull them into your IEP meeting/sutuation, and a few hints of when you wouldn't want them to be involved directly in your IEP! Download your FREE IEP Process Step By Step Guide Join the Facebook Group Shownotes

Parent rights (officially called Procedural Safeguards) should be your complete guide to your options for knowing what you can do as a parent. BUT they can be hard to read, and it's hard to not get overwhelmed and forget what's in them!  In this episode we cover: 1) Where to find a copy of your parent rights 2) Top 8 highlights of most common and helpful parts of the parent rights document 3) Common procedures or school staff knowledge of parent rights FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Join the Facebook Group Shownotes  

In this IEP Team BONUS Series, we are outline Adaptive Physical Education Teachers! In this episode we cover: 1) Qualifications of Adaptive Physical Education Teachers 2) What they actually do! 3) What other professions they overlap with 4) A review of why advocating for the NEED is so much more effective than advocating for a specific service! FREE Download: IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Join the Facebook Group! Shownotes

In this episode, we are breaking down some amazing barriers to understanding dysgraphia (more commonly known as handwriting challenges!) Kelli Fetter from Handwriting Solutions helps us: 1) Define dyslexia and the types of barriers to writing a student would face 2) How to break down the part of handwriting that's difficult 3) How goals should be written to address handwriting 4) What the most effective help looks like for those with dysgraphia! Download Your Free IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Join the Facebook Group Contact Kelli for your FREE 15-minute consultation Shownotes  

Why are principals so important to your advocacy efforts? Simply because they lead the culture of the school! So if you have any questions about what principals do behind the scenes, this episode is so helpful for knowing when to draw them in! In this episode we cover: 1) Qualifications of School Principals 2) What they actually do in the school 3) If you want them at your child's IEP or not! Download the FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Join the Facebook Group Shownotes

So...what is an IEP Season? It's a naturally grouped clump of IEPs due all at once. Why does this matter? Because there are distinct advantages and disadvantages to having your child's IEP at a certain time of the year, and today we are talking about what you can do to capatalize on the advantages, and counteract some disadvantages, too! IEP Bootcamp (to understand how to read your child's IEP!) Join the Facebook Group Snag the Free IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Shownotes

Did you know that social workers are listed as someone to do functional behavioral analysis? Curious, as they aren't in every district! There are some suprises in this role, so let's see if you have it available! In this episode we cover: -qualifications for school social workers -what they actually do -what other professionals they overlap with Join The IEP Bootcamp Join the Facebook Group Shownotes

We ALL need to listen to this episode, because the culture clash between schools and their developmental expectations may not line up with your own home culture, and it creates tenstion and conflict in your advocacy journey. Today's guest is Maria Davis-Pierre of www.autisminblack.org! She speaks not only about her own advocacy experience and the biggest barriers to advocacy for black families, but also barriers to cultural conflicts seen by immagrints or people with different cultural expectations for their children then the majority.  Check out /Register for The IEP Bootcamp starting this Friday, January 27th! Join the Facebook Group Shownotes

Can School Counselors be on your child's IEP? Yes! But can they serve your child even if they aren't on the IEP? Sure can! In this episode of The IEP Team BONUS Series we cover: 1) Qualifications of a School Counselor using Colorado state's qualifications as an example 2) What their responsibilities and expertise are 3) Suprising things about their role you may not realize (like who they overlap with professionals and if they would be your district's 504 coordinators!) Learn More about the IEP Bootcamp! Join the Facebook Group Shownotes

Do you really know what's in your child's IEP and why it's so imporant for you to be able to understand it? Tune into this episode where we talk about why it's imporant before you even start advocating to know what's in the document, and also 6 things you should be looking for when you look at your child's IEP to understand it! Register for IEP Bootcamp Join Facebook Group Shownotes