Podcasts about IEP

If you are a parent who cannot unschool or homeschool your PDA child, or who needs practical support navigating the school system, this episode is for you. I am joined by Dr. Destiny Huff, a licensed professional counselor, non-attorney special education advocate, and neuro-affirming trainer who is also late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD and a mother of neurodivergent children.Dr. Huff shares the most common patterns she sees as PDA families navigate schools, how she frames the nervous system lens in IEP meetings, the specific accommodations she advocates for most consistently, her approach to functional behavioral assessments, and practical steps parents can take right now.Key TakeawaysTwo Patterns Dr. Huff Sees Advocating for PDA Families | 00:05:06 The first is families who have learned about PDA but are still defaulting to the demand avoidance frame when explaining it to schools, which makes it easy for administrators to push back by saying the child just needs to deal with demands. The second is schools latching onto the term PDA itself, either saying they do not recognize it or using it superficially, without understanding the nervous system mechanisms underneath it. Dr. Huff's approach is to move past the label entirely and focus on the root cause: what is happening in the nervous system, what does dysregulation look like for this specific learner, and what changes in the environment and approach can support access and safety.How to Frame the Conversation in an IEP Meeting | 00:13:53 Dr. Huff focuses on three areas that school staff are almost never formally trained on: sensory needs, communication access when regulated and dysregulated, and executive functioning, of which regulation is a component. She always starts with a profile letter that describes the whole learner before getting into accommodations or concerns, and she prefers working with teachers directly because they are often the most unheard people in the room and the most open to trying something new when asked what they are actually seeing.Accommodations Dr. Huff Advocates for Most Consistently | 00:29:43 The first is declarative language, documented with a concrete example of what it actually looks like in practice, because most teams have heard the term but are not using it correctly. The second is a nonverbal communication plan, for when the learner is dysregulated, that could include a designated safe space and trusted person, identified by the learner rather than assigned by the school, paired with a low-profile signal like a hand gesture or an email so the learner can access that space without drawing attention.Her Approach to Functional Behavioral Assessments | 00:40:11 Dr. Huff sees FBAs as useful primarily because they reveal the school's perception of the learner, even when the terminology reflects a behavioral lens she does not share. Once she understands what the school believes is driving the behavior, she goes into rewrite mode with her families: adjusting the language, shifting the approach toward relationship, safety and trust, and pushing back on behavior intervention plans that default to token economies and compliance strategies.What to Do When a Child Is Too Burned Out to Access School | 00:37:27 Dr. Huff has successfully advocated for truncated days and reduced schedules. Her consistent position is that a reduced schedule does not let the school off the hook for providing free and appropriate public education, but it does acknowledge where the child's nervous system is right now and creates a starting point that can be adjusted over time based on what is actually working.Relevant ResourcesYour FBA Is a Fantasy — Book by Rick and Doris Bowman on how to approach functional behavioral assessments through a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming lens rather than a behavior modification lens, recommended directly by Dr. Huff in this episode.Collaborative & Proactive Solutions — Ross Greene's framework for addressing the root causes of challenging behavior through collaboration rather than compliance, referenced by Dr. Huff as a resource for reframing FBAs.The Affirming Village Podcast — Podcast hosted by Dr. Destiny Huff and Lisa Baskin Wright on neuro-affirming approaches to education and parenting.Neuro-Affirming Special Education Handbook — Dr. Huff's book on navigating special education in the US from a neuro-affirming standpoint, including guidance on IEPs, FBAs, and supporting PDA learners.Advocacy and Consultation With Dr. Destiny Huff — Dr. Huff's direct services for families, including IEP meeting attendance, drafting parent input statements, and consultation on supporting PDA and neurodivergent learners in schools.Dr. Destiny Huff on Instagram — Follow Dr. Huff for ongoing content on neuro-affirming special education advocacy, IEP navigation, and supporting neurodivergent learners in schools.Paradigm Shift Program — My signature program for parents of PDA children and teens taught across twelve weeks of live coaching.

Welcome to "The Other Side of Midnight," hosted by the ultimate midnight misfit, Walter Sterling. Tune in for an eclectic late-night ride that swings wildly from the serious to the surreal. In this episode, Walter is joined by international military affairs expert Edward Jones to break down the complexities of a potential new US geopolitical deal with Iran. Then, educator and author Marilyn Carter steps in to share her powerful, deeply personal journey of advocating for her special needs child in the public school system. The episode also features a gritty breakdown of New York's juvenile crime laws with retired NYPD detective Vic Ferrari. Whether you're worried about global issues, your kid's IEP, or space invaders, Walter has you covered! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the ultimate late-night audio ride where the serious meets the surreal! Hosted by "midnight misfit" Walter Sterling, this eclectic podcast swings wildly from gritty breakdowns of geopolitical deals and heartfelt special-needs parenting advocacy to the absolute fringes of conspiracy. Buckle up for unfiltered conversations covering everything from shape-shifting, bowling-ball-sized UFO orbs attacking nuclear sites to the suppressed free energy of the erased Tartarian civilization. Add in a generous helping of bizarre true news—like naked men stealing police cars, thrill-seekers petting Great Whites, and teenagers fiercely guarding their Walmart vests—and you have a truly unpredictable midnight mix. Whether you're worried about corporate greed, your kid's IEP, or interdimensional space invaders, Walter has your late-night cravings covered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!In this episode, Wendy sits down with Karen Mayer Cunningham, special education advocate and author of Epic IEP, a framework that transforms the complicated federal special education law into actionable steps. After years of doing 500 IEP meetings annually, Karen realized her greatest pain in motherhood had become her biggest calling: helping families navigate special education when the system feels impossibly complicated.They explore:What it means to advocate WITH schools, not against them, and why that partnership mattersWhy children with disabilities have capacity, but they need the right intervention and support to reach equityThe scope of need: why individual advocacy alone isn't enoughKaren's approach is fundamentally collaborative: she works alongside teachers, administrators, and families because she knows they're all navigating a system that's overwhelming for everyone. Her conviction is simple: when we start seeing each other as partners working toward the same goal, that's when children actually get what they need. Connect with Karen:Get her book, The Epic IEP: amazon.com/Epic-IEP-Educators-Advocates-Navigating/dp/1637635125?tag=syty-20SpecialEducationAcademy.comInstagram: instagram.com/specialeducationboss________________________________________________________________________________________Connect with Wendy:LinkedinInstagram: @wendy.harropFacebook: Phineas Wright HouseWebsite: Phineas Wright House PWH Farm StaysPWH Curated Experience and TravelInterested in being a guest on the show? Send your pitch to podcast@phineaswrighthouse.comPodcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

VOV1 - Theo ước tính của Viện Kinh tế và Hòa bình (IEP), nếu căng thẳng Trung Đông tiếp tục ở mức hiện nay, kinh tế toàn cầu sẽ thiệt hại khoảng 1.300 tỷ USD mỗi năm. Và nếu xung đột bùng phát trở lại trên diện rộng, mức thiệt hại có thể lên tới 3.500 tỷ USD mỗi năm.Trong đó, các nền kinh tế nhập khẩu năng lượng, đặc biệt là những nước có mức nợ công cao và nền tảng kinh tế dễ tổn thương, có nguy cơ chịu ảnh hưởng nặng nề nhất từ tình trạng bất ổn kéo dài tại Trung Đông. Từ giá năng lượng, chi phí vận tải cho tới tâm lý thị trường, nhiều yếu tố đang chịu ảnh hưởng từ những bất ổn kéo dài tại một trong những khu vực có vị trí chiến lược hàng đầu thế giới.Trong bối cảnh kinh tế thế giới vẫn đang đối mặt với nhiều thách thức về tăng trưởng, lạm phát và nợ công, câu hỏi đặt ra là, liệu những cú sốc từ Trung Đông chỉ mang tính ngắn hạn hay đang tạo ra những thay đổi sâu sắc hơn đối với triển vọng kinh tế toàn cầu. Tiến sĩ Nghiêm Tuấn Hùng, Viện Nghiên cứu châu Âu và châu Mỹ  cùng phân tích vấn đề này. Khu vực châu Phi cận Sahara chịu sự ảnh hưởng nặng nề do gián đoạn nguồn cung lương thực.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, co-hosts Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams engage with Paula Yost, an attorney and licensed clinical medical health clinician, who shares her journey of advocacy for children in foster care and those with special needs. The conversation explores the impact of personal experiences, such as preeclampsia, on advocacy work, the complexities of navigating the foster care system, and the importance of education and support for both children and their advocates.Paula emphasizes the need for unconditional love and the power of hope in transforming the lives of kids in foster care, while also addressing the hidden traumas they face and the systemic failures that often hinder their progress. The episode concludes with a call to action for foster parents to see themselves as advocates and to provide the love and support that these children desperately need.Pickup a copy of her book: "Tumbleweeds: How to Be an Advocate for Your Children and Yourself in a Failing System"https://a.co/d/07naKZELTakeawaysPaula Yost blends legal advocacy with therapeutic support.Preeclampsia changed Paula's perspective on health and advocacy.Foster parents need to be informed about children's backgrounds.The foster care system often fails to support children's needs.Advocacy is essential for navigating educational systems.Unconditional love is crucial for foster children.Trauma impacts foster children's development and relationships.Education and support can change the trajectory of foster kids' lives.Building trust with foster children is vital for their healing.Hope is a powerful tool in advocating for foster children. Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.Meet kids awaiting adoption.Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.

Today we're diving into what it really looks like to advocate for our neurodivergent kids in school in a way that's truly aligned with who they are. My guest is Dr. Destiny Huff, a trauma therapist, advocate, and educator whose work is deeply informed by her own lived experience as a late-diagnosed autistic mother. In our conversation, we explore the limitations and pitfalls of traditional IEP processes, what a genuinely neurodiversity-affirming approach can look like in practice, and how families can build more effective, collaborative relationships with schools. Destiny shares both big-picture reframes and practical strategies, offering a grounded, honest look at how to navigate systems that weren't designed with our kids in mind, while still holding onto possibility and meaningful change. About Dr. Destiny Huff  Dr. Destiny Huff, LPC, is a late-diagnosed Autistic and ADHD mental health therapist, non-attorney special education advocate, and national speaker. She is the founder of Destiny Huff Consulting, where she supports families and schools in implementing neuroaffirming practices and navigating the IEP process. As the mother of two neurodivergent learners in public school special education, Dr. Huff brings both lived and professional experience to her work. She focuses on dismantling deficit-based narratives in education and addressing the intersection of race, disability, and trauma. Dr. Huff has presented nationally and co-hosts The Affirming Village Podcast, where she explores advocacy, disability justice, and the realities of navigating special education systems. Things you'll learn from this episode  How Dr. Huff's journey from parent to advocate informs her approach to neurodiversity-affirming support Why individualized, meaningful IEPs matter more than compliance-driven plans How systemic barriers like underfunding and lack of training impact school support for neurodivergent students What distinguishes traditional IEPs from neuroaffirming ones—and how that shows up in real life How documenting data at home can strengthen advocacy for accommodations and services Why supporting kids in understanding themselves and building self-advocacy is essential, alongside leveraging community and advocacy to create change Resources mentioned Neuroaffirming Advocacy: A Neuroaffirming Guide to Special Education Advocacy Destiny Huff Consulting Advocating for Kids, Inc. (Cheryl Poe) Affirming Village Podcast with Lisa Baskin-Wright Dr. Destiny Huff on Instagram Dr. Destiny Huff on Facebook Lisa Baskin Wright Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A tangled ball of spaghetti. That's how aspiring therapist Rebecca Gonzalez-Ojeda describes her ADHD brain. Diagnosed with ADHD in fifth grade, Rebecca grew up hearing messages to “just try harder” while struggling with school and self-esteem. It felt like giving 110% still wasn't enough.  Rebecca reflects on painful IEP meetings, discouraging comments from teachers, and the emotional drain of being misunderstood for years. She also shares what it was like “raw-dogging” life after losing access to treatment, then getting re-diagnosed with ADHD after college — and how ADHD medication changed her life. For more on this topic Listen: The “devastating” findings of a decades-long ADHD study Read: ADHD and self-esteem: What to say to kids Watch: Psychologist explains the biggest challenges of adult ADHD For a transcript and more resources, visit ADHD Aha! on Understood.org. You can also email us at adhdaha@understood.org . Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Transition IEP meetings are essential when your child transitions from elementary to middle school, middle school to high school, and high school to college/vocational school. If you haven't had a transition IEP meeting for the end of this school year, you can still get one scheduled as soon as the new school year begins. We are breaking it down in today's episode. Join us!Show Highlights:What the law provides for parents regarding transition IEP meetingsThe transition IEP meeting is NOT just a box to check.Waiting 30 days into the new school year means 30 days of missed opportunities for the student to be successful.From middle to high school, the student's diploma track has to be determined.From elementary to middle school, executive functioning skills are put to the test; we need to prep the student.The transition IEP meeting is a chance to “think outside the box” to meet a student's needs.How can we “front-load” a student for success in each transition?Each transition is a chance for a fresh start for students, parents, teachers, and the IEP team.Streamlining communication with the IEP teamResources:Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show.Connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns: Facebook, Instagram, X, IEP Website, and Email.

In this episode of The Forgotten Podcast, Jami sits down with Candace Smouse, a TFI advocate from Spokane, Washington, who is a foster, adoptive, and birth mom to six kids. Fostering as a family for five years, Candace shares her journey of opening her home to children with special needs and navigating the unique joys and demands of raising her now-adopted son who has autism. She explores the common fears foster parents face when considering a special needs placement and offers insight on moving forward through the unknown with faith and expectation. Candace candidly details the realities of bringing her son home just before his fourth birthday as his fourth placement in a short span of time. She describes the initial challenges of caring for a child who was completely nonverbal, not potty trained, and struggling with behavior and severe dietary restrictions. Through her family's story, she highlights the exhausting early months, the complex dynamics and feelings of parental guilt that can surface with biological siblings, and the turning point of finding the right in-home therapeutic support. The conversation also breaks down the different levels of autism to help listeners better understand the wide spectrum of care children may require. Candace shares practical advice on how to become a "squeaky wheel" and fiercely advocate within the school system, utilizing resources like Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and special education accommodations. Ultimately, this episode provides deep encouragement for any caregiver feeling isolated or overwhelmed in the thick of special needs parenting. Candace points listeners toward a profound hope rooted in the Lord, reminding foster and adoptive families that they are never truly alone and that stepping into the hard places can expand a family's world with unexpected blessings, deeper empathy, and unconditional love. About the Guest Candace Smouse is a TFI advocate based in Spokane, Washington. She has been married for 18 years and is a mother to six children through birth, foster care, and adoption. With five years of active fostering experience, Candace is deeply passionate about serving the foster care community, supporting families, and sharing the lessons she has learned through years of dedicated care for her adopted son with autism. In This Episode An introduction to Candace's background and how a recurring dream prepped her heart to accept a special needs placement. The realities of navigating the foster care licensing system and handling the emotional weight of saying no to difficult placements. A look into the early days with her son Anthony, including the challenge of being his fourth placement in less than six months. Understanding the three levels of autism, ranging from high-functioning traits to intense, around-the-clock physical care needs. Navigating the hidden challenges of special needs parenting, such as public outbursts, sibling jealousy, and the pressure of public judgment. Learning to advocate in the school system by utilizing therapeutic partners, tracking data, and calling IEP meetings. How special needs parenting expands a family's perspective, fostering deep empathy, awareness, and immediate acceptance within biological children. A message of hope and perseverance for caregivers enduring seasons of parenting exhaustion and spiritual despair. Resources + Links Learn more about The Forgotten Initiative - https://theforgotteninitiative.org/ Follow TFI on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theforgotteninitiative/ Full Spectrum Parent by Christian Parenting (podcast) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/full-spectrum-parent-christian-autism-support-special/id1589016732 The Warner Boys by Ana and Curt Warner (book) - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40552513-the-warner-boys Ten Things Every Child With Autism Wishes You Knew by Ellen Notbohm (book) - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/163659.Ten_Things_Every_Child_with_Autism_Wishes_You_Knew  

Rick Lesser is back at the bar — snowbird tan and all — and this one runs from a 2012 trash-can fire to a city-manager form of government nobody fully understands. Under all of it sits one question: who actually runs this town — the mayor or the city manager? Along the way we get into the windscreens that turned West Park into a wall, a $170K no-bid tech contract, and the beach concession scorecard the city still won't release.We document. You decide.

Justin Bowman had a dream his son would be autistic before the boy was born. Years later, after his son Sawyer was diagnosed with level 1 autism, Justin did what a lot of dads only wish they could do. He built something to help. Justin is back for a deeper dive than his Seen and Heard episode earlier this season. He's the founder and CEO of VizyPlan, a visual routine and planning app he built for Sawyer and then opened to the whole neurodivergent community. Rob and Justin go deep on the dad-as-fixer instinct, what actually comes after an autism diagnosis, and why you can't fix autism but you can support your kid. What you'll hear: - The dream Justin had before Sawyer was born - Why waiting on evaluation results feels like waiting on the SATs - The fixer instinct dads struggle with, and a healthier reframe - The grocery-store meltdowns that inspired VizyPlan - The moment Sawyer saw himself as the hero character and it clicked - How VizyPlan handles IEP transcription, social stories, visual schedules, and advocacy - Why one app beats juggling six - Privacy: VizyPlan does not train its models on your child's data "I would have paid any amount of money to help him. Any amount of money." Justin Bowman Try VizyPlan: 30-day free trial with code theautismdad at vizyplan.com/app. Just $9.99 a month for your whole family. About Justin: Justin Bowman is the founder and CEO of VizyPlan and Associate Director of Product Management at Chewy. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, he's a varsity hockey coach and autism dad. He and his wife Danielle, a speech-language pathologist, have two kids: Sawyer, turning six and diagnosed level 1 autism, and Peyton, four. Sponsors this week: This episode is presented by Best Part Kids, a sensory-friendly multivitamin for selective eaters created by dietitian Brittyn Coleman. Use code THEAUTISMDAD for 10% off at BestPartKids.com. Mightier emotional-regulation games (code theautismdad22, mightier.com) About Rob: Rob Gorski is the founder of The Autism Dad, a blog and podcast dedicated to supporting parents raising kids on the autism spectrum. As a dad of three autistic sons with over 25 years of experience, Rob brings lived experience, honesty, and heart to every conversation. My book, So Your Child Was Just Diagnosed with Autism is out on Dec. 29, 2026. Updates and preorder: theautismdad.com/book You can find me at theautismdad.com, on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at The Autism Dad, and on YouTube at The Autism Dad. New episodes drop every week at listen.theautismdad.com.

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah sits down with autism advocate and certified autism coach Roshenna “Ro” McHaney for a powerful conversation about rethinking how we support neurodivergent children. Together, they discuss the importance of shifting away from deficit-based thinking and focusing instead on children's strengths, emotional safety, and individualized support needs.Ro shares her son's journey to diagnosis, including early signs of advanced learning abilities paired with social struggles, school misunderstandings, suspensions, and the difficult process of advocating for proper educational support through ARC meetings and IEP planning. She opens up about the emotional toll families experience when children are misunderstood and emphasizes the importance of persistence, research, yearly IEP revisions, and meeting children where they are.The conversation also explores Ro's upcoming app, Superhero Summit, launching in August. Designed to bridge communication between home, school, and community, the platform will include tools such as a “Knowledge Vault” for diagnoses and IEPs, calendars, trigger tracking, educator communication features, parent forums, and future “Superhero Certified” training for businesses seeking to create more inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals and families.In this episode, we discuss:00:00 Badass Moms Welcome01:04 Episode Mission 02:36 Meet Roshenna04:27 Diagnosis Journey Begins07:15 Early Social Clues09:04 Fighting for Support12:10 Advocacy Armor On14:17 Tailored School Plan18:48 IEP Meetings Strategy23:02 Pivotal ARC Moment24:26 Superhero Summit App26:13 Features Vault Forum30:00 Kryptonite Triggers Tab31:42 Teacher Access Explained32:49 Beyond Autism Use Cases33:46 Building the App Team35:09 August Launch 37:28 Business Certification Tab41:41 Scaling Global Access44:51 Top Three Rethinks48:12 Letting Go of Norms50:14 Wrap Up 54:21 Guest Application Connect with Roshenna:Be sure to head over to the Superhero Summit website to learn more about the app and how this platform aims to better support neurodivergent children and their families.Website: https://superherosummit.onlineInstagram: www.instagram.com/superhero_summit22Facebook: Superhero SummitIf this episode resonated with you:• Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast on your favorite platform• Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community• Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstoodInstagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcastYouTube: autismforbadassmomsJoin us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions that empower and uplift.

Moving out of state with a child who has an IEP can feel like starting from scratch, but federal law says otherwise. The problem is that while IDEA travels with you, the procedures, criteria, and even the language used to classify your child's disability can shift dramatically depending on where you land. Today, I'm breaking down what actually happens to your child's IEP when you cross state lines, and why that 30-day transition meeting is often too soon for anyone to make informed decisions about your child's services. I walk you through the federal protections that still apply, the truth about whether a new evaluation is actually required, and why the specificity of your child's eligibility classification matters more than most parents realize. The focus of this conversation is making sure you don't lose ground during a high-stakes transition. Remember, a new state doesn't mean starting from zero - but it does mean you need to be paying attention! My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child's document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: What can be influenced by your new state on top of the federal foundation, and why knowing your state's specific special education regulations matters [3:18] Key reasons that transition IEP meetings around the 30-day mark don't give schools enough time to truly know your child, and why you shouldn't feel rushed to sign anything [3:52] The truth about re-evaluations when moving out of state: you don't automatically need a new one just because you crossed state lines [5:06] The critical difference between "SLD dyslexia" and just "SLD," and why specific eligibility language matters for every teacher working with your child [6:09] The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) for military families navigating out-of-state moves, and what support is available at your installation [8:16] Why your child's complete records are your most reliable constant through every move, and what documents you need before transitioning to a new state [9:21] Key Takeaways: IDEA is federal, but states build their own procedures on top, and some build much more than others. A new evaluation isn't automatic just because you moved states; if it's within three years, it should still be valid. "SLD dyslexia" is far more protective than just "SLD"; specificity follows your child through every transition. Links & Resources Mentioned: Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) EFMP - Exceptional Family Member Program #77 My Dyslexic Child Is Changing Schools: Will Their IEP Stay the Same When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

In this inspiring episode, Tracey Lyons-Tozier joins host Robert Plank to discuss her mission of helping families navigate the world of special education, neurodiversity, and self-advocacy through her powerful children's book series, Mama Bulldog Books. Drawing from her experience as a master's-level clinical social worker, professional education advocate, and parent of children with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities, Tracey shares how personal struggles, including a devastating legal battle with a school district, inspired her to empower other families facing similar challenges. https://youtu.be/mVcPLgoPCBs?si=0FIy3JNFI57NVS3h Whether you're a parent, teacher, advocate, or simply someone passionate about inclusion and education, this episode delivers practical insights, emotional encouragement, and hope for families navigating special education and neurodiversity. Throughout the conversation, Tracey explains how books like Benny Speaks Up, Fiona Finds What's Fair, and Mikey Can't Help It help children better understand autism, ADHD, dyslexia, IEPs, 504 plans, bullying, fairness, and emotional regulation. She reveals why teaching children to advocate for themselves is one of the most important life skills parents can nurture and why compassion and understanding are critical for both neurodivergent and neurotypical kids alike. Tracey also opens up about the emotional realities of parenting children with special needs, the challenges families face in the education system, and the importance of having advocates during IEP meetings. She shares details about her upcoming ADHD-focused book, Abby and Jack Aren't Bad Dogs: Mama Bulldog Tackles ADHD, which explores hyperactive, inattentive, and combined ADHD presentations through relatable family storytelling. Quotes: “Fair isn't everybody getting exactly the same thing. It's everybody getting what they need to learn.” “Not being timid and silent, not being angry or aggressive, but being calm and assertive—even when you're scared—that's how children learn to advocate for themselves.” “I promised myself at that moment that if I could keep anybody from hearing ‘Google it,' I would.” Contact Details: Connect with Tracey Lyons-Tozier on Facebook Follow Tracey Lyons-Tozier on Instagram Connect with Tracey Lyons-Tozier on LinkedIn Fiona Finds What's Fair (Mama Bulldog Book) on Amazon Tracey Lyons-Tozier Official Website

For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Jacie and Barbara cover Phase Two (part two of five) of the Shoemaker Protocol for CIRS, focusing on foundational steps before starting binders:  Lipid replacement therapy (primarily fish oil) to lower inflammation and help prevent common binder side effects like fatigue, constipation, and overall dryness, with Shoemaker-recommended omega-3 dosing (EPA 2,400 mg and DHA 1,800 mg daily) and cautions about blood-thinning;  Limbic retraining to address errant threat signals from chronic illness, with nuance that intensive programs can be too difficult early on and may work better once out of exposure and/or on binders, while also warning against symptom suppression without addressing root causes;  And the critical priority of getting out of exposure through testing (dust tests for mold, endotoxins, and actinos), remediation or moving, and exploring hidden, internal exposures that can cause plateaus or backslides in your health. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode, all about Phase Three, removing the toxic burden! For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Phase Two of the Shoemaker Protocol 01:25 Why this foundational phase matters 02:54 What is Lipid Replacement? and why is it important? 06:17 Fish Oil / lipid dosing tips 08:04 Limbic Retraining explained 10:51 When Limbic Retraining backfires 14:23 Hyperreactivity Catch-22 18:25 Get out of exposure 20:42 Hidden exposures and healing stalls 22:27 Key takeaways and next phase 24:08 Wrap up and resources For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Check out these episodes mentioned in this episode: Interview with Michael Schrantz about remediation: https://youtu.be/_BEwFVdpRcY?si=mzNeGslwGjaYhWqi Interview with Bill Weber about testing your home: https://youtu.be/RlKjTqVAeNU?si=Eymfvcdk4G6kzylV Interview with Kendra Seymour on choosing a remediator or IEP: https://youtu.be/zmt9e42LLac?si=cTTvunobvEt8YL_n Dust testing 101: https://youtu.be/nRrZs7xbXcc?si=55oXFRCV5kO_p0JD Endotoxin episode: https://youtu.be/O0iKndNzfYA?si=X-iX1NoRO2U7U-QV Actinos episode part one: https://youtu.be/yf9EoTbyAEo?si=d2KUSzNpX2cs0DKE and Part two: https://youtu.be/2rCXhUP6dbY?si=wDHiSy58Vw5fZ5fa Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie's book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

If you're a high school senior heading to college, or already a freshman who's hitting some academic walls, this one is for you. There's a stretch of skills your teachers probably aren't teaching, your parents may not have had to learn the same way, and that nobody is sitting you down to walk you through. They're the skills that decide whether your first year of college feels manageable or completely impossible. Today's guest is Dr. Tara Williams, owner and founder of Innovative Collegiate Consultants, an organization that helps neurodivergent students with IEPs transition from high school to college and thrive in a neurotypical environment. Dr. Tara has been teaching for over 20 years and is currently a chemistry professor at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, California. She works with students every single day on the exact skills you're about to hear about. In this episode you'll hear what self advocacy actually looks like and why it's the single most important skill to start practicing now, why time blocking in 60 to 90 minute chunks works better than trying to white knuckle a four hour study session, the chunking method for breaking down a paper or huge assignment, why writing your own notes by hand makes the information stick, and the real reason office hours are your best friend in college (even if walking in feels intimidating). Plus the email habits that quietly separate students who thrive from the ones who fall behind in their first month. What self advocacy really means and why it's the single most important skill to practice in high school Why time blocking in 60 to 90 minute chunks works better than trying to study for four hours How body doubling and study groups help your brain focus even when nobody is forcing you to The chunking method for breaking down papers, essay questions, and huge assignments Why writing your own notes by hand makes information stick (and why highlighting everything doesn't) How to read before class so you actually understand what's happening when the professor lectures Why office hours are your best friend in college and what to walk in and say The professor relationships that turn into job and internship recommendations later How to manage email so you do not miss critical college transition information The calendar, planner, post it, or color coding system that actually works (the one you'll actually look at) Parents: This is one of the most actionable episodes for any parent of a high school student, especially if your teen has an IEP, has ADHD, or struggles with executive function. Dr. Tara breaks down exactly which habits are worth practicing before college, how to scaffold them in a way that builds independence (not dependence on you), and why the email and self advocacy gap is the single biggest blind spot most families don't see coming. Listen with your teen if you can. Then pick one habit you'll start practicing together this month. Ready to support your teen's transition to college, both academically and emotionally? Book a free clarity call with Leslie at leslierosecoaching.com/chat to talk through where they're at and what would actually help.   Connect with Dr. Tara Williams: Website: https://innovativecollegiateconsultants.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-williams-phd/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iccedservices# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/your_innovative_consultants   Connect with Leslie: Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with Leslie here to help your teen or young adult resolve weight and unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem. Grab Leslie's free guide: The Ultimate College Move-In Checklist  Sign up for the Freshman Formula    Website: leslierosecoaching.com Instagram: instagram.com/leslierosecoaching Facebook: facebook.com/leslierosecoaching   Disclaimer

The IEP meeting is supposed to be about your child. Have you noticed that it often feels like it's about everyone else's comfort?  Dr. Diana Fannon spent 24 years inside public school systems as a bilingual school psychologist and director of special education. She now works with families. And in this podcast, she shares with us a few red and green flags of special education.   

In this powerful episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah speaks with Jessica Pereira from the Bronx, NY, about raising her daughter Ja'Niyah, who was diagnosed with autism at age 2.5. Jessica shares how her bond with her sister, Chasity, evolved into a deeply connected co-parenting partnership rooted in unconditional love, advocacy, and autism acceptance.Together, they have created a home where stimming is welcomed, communication in all forms is honored, and Ja'Niyah is embraced exactly as she is. This heartfelt conversation explores sisterhood, support, neurodiversity, and helping autistic children thrive without forcing them into conventional molds.In this episode, we discuss:00:00 Badass Moms Welcome00:55 Why Moms Need Support03:02 Meet Jessica Pereira04:52 Bronx Beginnings05:53 Early Signs and Referral08:27 Diagnosis Day and Next Steps10:44 Mom Guilt and Sister Steps Up14:38 Single Mom Survival Mode15:57 School Trauma and Homeschool Choice19:04 Aggression and Communication Tools21:51 Sister Co Parenting System28:05 Acceptance Stimming and Public Stares30:13 Future Fears and Big Love33:52 Routine Changes and Respite35:45 Sister as Lifeline38:28 Dating and Limited Support40:35 ADHD and Mental Health43:45 IEP and School Struggles46:38 Gratitude and Softening Up49:02 Mourning Expectations53:16 Badass Mom Reality57:08 Advice to Keep Going01:00:58 What Makes Her Badass01:03:38 Closing and Call to ActionConnect with Jessica:Instagram: www.instagram.com/crzyfantasy128Facebook: Jessica JanetteIf this episode resonated with you, don't forget to:-Follow the podcast-Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform-Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe-Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear thisInstagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

When a student refuses to eat at school, it affects everything—academic performance, regulation, social interactions, and the afternoon meltdown that follows.In this episode, @Jayson Davies sits down with Alisha Grogan, MOT, OTR/L, founder of Your Kid's Table, to talk about feeding challenges in school-based OT. Alisha brings over 20 years of experience working with extreme picky eaters and shares what school-based practitioners need to know about supporting students who struggle with lunch and snacks.You'll learn how to identify when picky eating crosses into extreme territory, why the cafeteria environment can be so overwhelming for sensory-sensitive students, and what accommodations actually help. Alisha also clarifies the often-confusing scope question: what can school-based OTs reasonably address versus what requires outside support?Whether you're freezing up when feeding comes up in an IEP or wondering how to support a student who won't eat at school, this conversation offers practical, realistic guidance grounded in both clinical expertise and respect for the school setting.Listen now to learn how to make lunchtime less stressful and more successful for the students on your caseload.Learning ObjectivesBy the end of this episode, learners will be able to:Learners will identify the clinical indicators that distinguish extreme picky eating from typical developmental selectivity, including the 20-food threshold and sensory-behavioral red flags (Remember/Understand)Learners will identify and address environmental barriers in the cafeteria that prevent students from eating at school—including sensory overwhelm from noise, lighting, smells, and peer interactions—and implement appropriate accommodations such as quiet eating spaces, noise-canceling headphones, weighted lap pads, and regulation strategiesLearners will identify scope of practice for feeding intervention in schools by understanding what is appropriate for school-based OT (supporting participation in lunch/snack routines, environmental modifications, family education) versus what requires outside clinic-based or medical feeding therapy (expanding food repertoire, intensive feeding protocols, home mealtime culture changes)Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!  Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.comSee you in the next episode! 

Elyse Scheeler spent years inside the public school system as a speech language pathologist. She had a classroom full of kids making real, measurable progress. The district shut it down — not because anything was wrong, but because her program made their compliance numbers look bad.That's when she knew she had to leave.In this episode Elyse pulls back the curtain on what school staff see every single day but aren't allowed to say out loud. She couldn't tell parents what she suspected. She couldn't refer kids to outside specialists. The system had a rule for that too.We also get into the airway health connection to ADHD and behavior that nobody in a school can mention, how COVID masking quietly set back an entire generation of language development, and how Elyse now helps families with kids who have additional needs homeschool successfully — without doing it alone.In this episode:— Why your child's school limits services even when kids need more— The data vs. children problem hiding inside every IEP meeting— Airway health, sleep, and the hidden root causes of ADHD and behavior issues— How COVID masking impacted language development— Using AI to build a custom curriculum for any learning style— How to homeschool a child with additional needsLinks:→ Free 30-Day Homeschool Quick Start Guide→ What Do I Actually Teach? ($17): thehomeschoolhowto.com/what-do-i-actually-teachCONNECT WITH ELYSE

In this episode of the ADHD Parenting Podcast, hosts Mike and Ryan tackle a provocative but critical topic: why high expectations are the most loving thing you can do for a child with ADHD. They respond to a listener's experience in which an effective classroom point system—backed by decades of research—was canceled after other parents of children with ADHD complained. Mike and Ryan break down the difference between evidence-based structure and popular social media narratives, explaining why removing consequences and lowering the bar can lead to learned helplessness, prompt dependence, and failure to launch. They cite leading ADHD researchers like Dr. Russell Barkley, clarify what the science actually says about connection vs. consequence, and offer practical advice for IEP meetings, home life, and navigating parent group chats. Above all, Mike and Ryan argue that high expectations combined with high empathy aren't the opposite of love—they are love.Find Mike @ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.grownowadhd.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Find Ryan @ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhddude.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠{{chapters}}[00:00:00] Start[00:05:29] Debunking the "connection, not consequence" myth[00:08:14] Dr. Russell Barkley: ADHD as a self-regulation problem[00:10:39] The cost of removing structure: Learned helplessness[00:14:05] "It's not fair": Neurology explains but does not exempt[00:15:30] Setting kids up for failure to launch[00:16:53] Research-backed classroom policies that work[00:21:26] What parents can do at home and in IEP meetings[00:25:05] Confidence is earned by meeting standards[00:25:44] Closing: High expectations + high empathy = loveCitations:Gaastra, G. F., Groen, Y., Tucha, L., & Tucha, O. (2016). The effects of classroom interventions on off-task and disruptive classroom behavior in children with symptoms of ADHD. Consequence-based approaches showed the largest positive effect.Barkley, R. A. (2015 / 2022). ADHD: A Handbook for Diagnosis and Treatment. Self-regulation model and "point of performance" principle.Power, T. J., Mautone, J. A., & Soffer, S. L. Family-School Success for Children with ADHD: A Guide for Intervention. Guilford Press. From the Center for Management of ADHD at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia — research-based home-school partnership intervention.Pelham, W. E., Fabiano, G. A., and colleagues. Daily Behavior Report Card evidence base.Rosenthal & Jacobson lineage. Pygmalion Effect / adult-expectation research in education.Milich and colleagues; 2024 review on learned helplessness in ADHD populations.

You've finally reached a place of peace with your child's IEP, only to have a school move throw everything back into question. In the middle of a transition meeting, a new team member uses the word "comparable," and while it sounds like a promise of continuity, it often acts as a trapdoor for the very services you fought so hard to secure. Today, I am exposing the "comparable services" trap and explaining why that single word can lead to a drop in the frequency and intensity of your child's literacy support. I walk you through the federal protections under IDEA that keep your current IEP active, the specific red flags to look for when moving between districts, and why your home records are the ultimate evidence when sitting across from a team that has never seen your child struggle. The focus of this conversation is putting the power back in your hands during a high-stakes transition. We're talking about how to conduct a line-by-line audit of your child's new plan, why you should never sign a document on the spot, and how to ensure the individual child doesn't get lost in the administrative shuffle. Remember, your child's progress shouldn't be the price of a new zip code or a new building! My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child's document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: The legal reality of the "federal floor" and why your child's current IEP stays in effect until a new one is developed and signed by you [1:55] Why moving schools within the same district often has a smoother infrastructure, and what to expect when shifting from elementary to middle school [3:05] The risks of moving to a new district, where different resources and service delivery models can lead to your child's IEP being questioned or changed [3:47] The critical difference between "identical" and "comparable" services, and how that linguistic room for interpretation can lead to a drop in the intensity of your child's support [4:56] Why your child's records are your primary evidence, and the importance of having evaluations and progress notes in hand before the transition meeting begins [6:44] Key Takeaways: Federal law requires "comparable" services when a child changes schools, but this serves only as the floor. The move to a new district is a significant transition where a new team may question previous services or eligibility. The term "comparable" is open to interpretation and often shifts toward what is convenient for the school. Links & Resources Mentioned: Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

For years, parents have been told to focus on managing behavior, following plans, and fixing their child's struggles. But what if that approach is missing the most important piece? We talk about why true progress for special needs families starts with the parent—our mindset, our emotional health, and our ability to lead our homes with clarity and strength. Dawn shares practical resources, including life skills tools, IEP support, and a community built specifically for families walking this path. If you've felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like nothing is really working long-term, this conversation is going to challenge you—but also give you a completely different way forward. Contact Dawn Fleming-Kendall Dawn's Links Life Skills Digital Download for Purchase Life Skills Paperback for Purchase SCHOOL TO HOMESCHOOL RESOURCES:  Janae's Links for Vintage Books Sign Up for the School to Homeschool Newsletter School to Homeschool YouTube Channel CONNECT WITH US! Instagram Facebook janae@schooltohomeschool.com

Episode 75 of the Unspoken Words podcast features Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Dr. Jenna Blum answering some of the most commonly submitted listener questions received at the SMart Center — covering peer engagement, school transitions, and a topic that doesn't get nearly enough airtime: grief.Dr. E and Dr. Jenna tackle why children with SM can speak freely at home yet go completely silent around peers, break down the critical difference between responding and initiating, and make the case for why facilitation — not waiting — is the most important thing parents and school professionals can do. Through real case examples, they illustrate how pairing children around high-interest activities like chess clubs and baking projects creates the comfort and connection that must come before communication can follow.The second half turns to grief — specifically, how to process the sadness of not having received proper SM treatment as a child, and what it feels like to watch younger generations succeed while carrying the weight of years of ineffective therapy. Dr. E and Dr. Jenna offer clinical perspective and genuine reassurance, and introduce gratitude journaling as a practical tool for shifting focus from deficits to wins.The episode closes with a timely reminder that the end of the school year is the right time to start planning for the next one — from 504 and IEP updates, to summer peer pairings, to building transitions — and why the tone parents bring to that process matters more than they may realize.--Chapters: (03:23) Introducing the Initiation Gap and Why Facilitation Can't Wait(08:53) How High-Interest Activities Build the Comfort and Connection That Precedes Communication(18:03) What If My Life Had Been Different? Processing the Grief of a Late or Mismanaged SM Diagnosis(29:54) Why Focusing on Wins — Not Deficits — Is the Key to Lowering Anxiety and Building Momentum(39:47) How to Plan School Transitions, Peer Pairings, and Summer Preparation Before the Window Closes- ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: https://selectivemutismcenter.org/resources/ Ask Dr. E a question of your own! Learn more about the host, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum Explore our SMart Center success stories! Get started at the SMart Center Listen to other Unspoken Words episodes here. For the best clips from every episode, follow the podcast on Instagram & YouTube Learn more about our 6-Week Virtual Group Series for children and teens!Learn more about CommuniCamp, our 3+ day intensive group treatment and ALL DAY parent training & support program- For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced and published by New Edition Productions (neweditionconsulting.com)

Jonathan Hines from Vancouver dissects Washington's education funding crisis, arguing that union demands, administrative bloat, and unfunded IEP mandates are consuming billions while classrooms suffer. He details how districts cannibalized levy funds for salary increases and face a $500 million special education gap that forces cuts to general student programs. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/letter-the-cracks-in-the-foundation-why-washingtons-education-system-is-faltering/ #WashingtonEducation #SchoolFunding #McClearyDecision #TeacherUnions #SpecialEducation #Opinion #ClarkCounty #Vancouver #EducationReform #PublicSchools

ur guest today, Vicki Christensen in her own words:  I am passionate about advocating for families of special needs children through the IEP process always with a child-centered approach. Equally important is educating parents/guardians on the rights of a person with a disability and on communication strategies to allow for a positive and open relationship with the IEP team, school & district. My background is a unique combination of 15 years of special education advocacy both as a parent and a professional with a Certificate of Special Education Advocacy from USD, a small business owner giving back to the special needs community and over 10 years as a professional in the healthcare field allowing me to utilize my degree and experience in Communication Studies. I am a mother of a 21 year old (who wears Blue Glasses) with global developmental delays and am experienced in early intervention, the IEP and 504 processes as well as working with the Regional Center. I am widely networked with both parents of special needs children and professionals in the San Diego area and look forward to continuing to provide advocacy services to many more families. I am currently on the Special Education Advisory Committee in the Carlsbad Unified District working to increase awareness and inclusion for our special education students.  In this episode, Vicki Christensen shares her journey parenting a neurodiverse son, Luke, with a rare chromosome disorder, offering insights, practical strategies, and emotional support for parents navigating similar challenges. Enjoy! 01:09 - Intro and welcome Vicki Christensen 01:11 - Vicki's journey from her son's diagnosis to adulthood 02:15 - Initial reactions and how we process a diagnosis 04:09 - Overwhelm of early medical and therapy appointments 05:19 - Living life amidst caregiving responsibilities Ref: what is IEP? 06:24 - Why Vicki wrote her book and its purpose 07:45 - Practical advice for parents 09:44 - On the importance of protecting your marriage 11:49 - Balancing caregiving and personal boundaries 13:05 - On building your support village 14:44 -  How can people find you? • Website: https://www.blueglassesadvocacy.com/ Socials: @BlueGlassesAdvocacy on INSTA Uniquely, Fully, Enough: The Neurodivergent Parenting Journey - A Memoir and Handbook on Amazon Thank you for being here- give us a shout anytime! https://linktr.ee/petershankman Substack:  petershankmanofficial.substack.com Email: peter@shankman.com Podcast: Faster Than Normal Thank you for staying tuned-in; more episodes coming up soon! Do you happen to know anyone who is doing wonderful things with #ADHD or their neurodivergent brain? We would love to have them on to learn how they are using their #neurodiversity to their advantage. Shoot me an email and we will get them booked! My link tree is here if you're looking for something specific. https://linktr.ee/petershankman

Most parents walk into IEP or 504 meetings hoping to advocate for their child, but unfortunately, many of them walk out feeling unheard, overwhelmed, and unsure of what just happened. In this  episode of The Soaring Child podcast, Dana sits down with attorney and licensed clinical mental health clinician Paula Yost to break down exactly why these meetings feel so difficult and what you can do to change that. Paula brings a rare and deeply valuable perspective, combining legal expertise with real-life experience as a mom navigating the system herself. She is the author of Tumbleweeds: How to Be an Advocate for Your Children and Yourself in a Failing System. You'll learn the critical differences between IEPs and 504 plans (and why many children with ADHD are often placed in the wrong one), how to recognize when your child isn't truly being supported (even if their grades look "fine"), and what to say in the moment when you feel dismissed or unheard. This conversation is packed with practical strategies, real scripts you can use immediately, and empowering insights to help you walk into your next school meeting with clarity and confidence. Most importantly, it will remind you that you have the right to advocate for your child every step of the way. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW Paula's Website - https://paulayost.com Paula's book, Tumbleweeds - https://amzn.to/3O2ej9y CONNECT WITH PAULA YOST Website: https://paulayost.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulajyostauthor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulayostauthor  KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:01] Why parents often leave school meetings feeling unheard [04:34] The real reason IEP meetings feel so difficult [06:08] The mismatch between parent and school goals [06:47] What FAPE means and why it matters [07:17] Key difference between IEP and 504 [09:13] Why IEPs matter long-term for your child [10:20] High IQ masking ADHD struggles [13:00] Signs your child isn't properly supported [16:18] Common mistakes parents make in meetings [19:36] What to say when you're not being heard [21:11] What to do if your child doesn't qualify [24:13] Why after-school crashes matter [26:39] 3 things to prepare before a meeting [27:47] Emotional reality of advocacy [29:31] You always have the right to another meeting MEMORABLE MOMENTS "It's not a fair fight." "That IEP is a legal document that follows you all the way through your life." "The height of the IQ is masking the ADHD." "I feel like I'm not being heard." "We have to let them fail until they're nine." "You are paying for your attorney and their attorney." "I have never left anything as upset as I was when I have left an IEP meeting." "Some days are just going to be like that." "You always have the right to another meeting." DANA KAY RESOURCES

This week, the long-awaited part two about Tess's IEP for this year.

A child's diagnosis can feel like a lifeline and a weight at the same time. When your child struggles with attention, learning, anxiety, behavior, or social connection, the question isn't only “What is it?” It's also “What will a diagnosis change for my child, for school, for insurance, and for how they see themselves?” On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy is joined by pediatric neuropsychologist Dr. Rebecca “Dr. F” Fontanetta to talk through why diagnoses like ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, anxiety disorders, Tourette syndrome, ARFID, and developmental coordination disorder often overlap. Dr. F explains why the DSM shifted to allow more co-occurring diagnoses, how that can improve access to the right services, and why the real value is usually the full neuropsychological evaluation report that links test data to everyday life. We also dig into the “overpathologizing” trap, what a meaningful change from baseline looks like, and when a wait-and-see approach is reasonable versus risky. You'll hear practical guidance for public school and homeschool families, including how IEP and 504 accommodations work, why insurance reimbursement often drives the need for formal documentation, and how to choose the right clinician for your child's age and needs. We close with a reminder that no word on paper changes who your child is, and that understanding barriers and building support matters more than chasing the perfect label.Subscribe for more parenting and learning science, share this conversation with a friend who's wrestling with testing, and leave a review telling us: what's the hardest part of deciding whether to seek a diagnosis?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Are you a grandparent or kinship caregiver navigating the maze of IEPs, 504 plans, and medical decisions while advocating for a child impacted by trauma and neglect? Do you feel overwhelmed by failing systems, mislabeled as a troublemaker simply for demanding the support your grandchild needs to heal? You're not alone.I'm Laura Brazan, host of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' In this powerful episode, legal social worker Paula Yost joins us to break down the essential legal framework every kinship caregiver needs. Discover how to confidently advocate for your grandchild's educational and medical rights, overcome the isolation and guilt of fighting the system, and turn “troublemaker” into a badge of honor.Hear real stories, actionable advice on IEP and 504 meeting survival, and learn why your advocacy is the most vital document in your grandchild's life. For more information on Paula Yost please visit her website. Purchase a copy of Paula's new book "Tumbleweeds", which I believe everyone should have in their resource library! Also! For Paula Yost's- "Tools For Knowledge From A Seasoned Mother" visit our Resource Library.Join our supportive community—because you deserve more than just survival. You deserve to thrive while cSend us Fan MailJolene Thiessen has been with us since the beginning of our podcast. She wrote in to thank us for our 100th episode! She looked for help online and found us- the only podcast that came up when she searched for help. I live to help these children have better lives and to be sure that all our pain doesn't go to waste for you grandparents and kinship caregivers out there! I love hearing your stories and comments. Keep sharing! Your stories make a difference. In this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

What is an IEP? What does it mean for your child? How do IEPs and IEP meetings differ across school districts? What is my recourse if the teacher who relates best to my child is moved to another school? We're answering these questions and more in today's solo episode with Vickie and Amanda!Show Highlights:The IEP outlines services, accommodations, and placements, but does not guarantee specific personnel to implement them.A general rule for any concerns about your child's IEP: Always ask!Getting creative and specific in the IEP, regardless of the teacherAdvice to parents when “that one great teacher” goes elsewhereDebate over different types of interventions (The law says they must be “appropriate.”)Clearing up confusion over expert opinions and evidence-based programsThe most valuable teacher on your team is the one who is willing to try an intervention without becoming combative, defensive, and egotistical.What to do right now for next yearResources:Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show.Connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns via Facebook, Instagram, X, the IEP Website, or Email.

In this final episode of our “What I Wish I Knew” series, we're taking a step back to reflect on advocacy—what it's looked like for us over the years, what's changed, and what we wish we understood earlier.We talk honestly about the emotional weight of advocating for our kids with Down syndrome, the tension of speaking up in systems that don't always listen, and the growth that comes from learning to trust your instincts.From early parenting moments to IEP meetings and navigating social media, this conversation explores the complexity of advocacy—how it evolves, where it gets messy, and why it's never just one moment, but a lifelong process.We also dig into how advocacy has shifted in the age of social media—the connection it brings, but also the pressure, comparison, and confusion around what it's supposed to look like.If you've ever felt overwhelmed, unsure, or alone in advocating for your child, this episode offers perspective, honesty, and encouragement.Why advocacy is unavoidable as a parent of a child with Down syndromeLearning to trust your gut—even when “experts” disagreeThe emotional reality of speaking up and pushing backHow advocacy evolves over time and gets more complexSocial media: connection, pressure, and comparisonRedefining what advocacy actually looks likeAdvocacy isn't about doing more or being louder—it's about staying grounded in your “why,” trusting your instincts, and showing up for your child over time. What We CoverKey Takeaway

In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Sha'mya Jones, a graphic designer and entrepreneur who was diagnosed as Autistic in early childhood — but didn't learn about it until she was a teenager.Sha'mya shares what it was like to grow up knowing she was different but not understanding why, navigating school, relationships, and identity without the language to describe her experience. From early academic success to social challenges and bullying, her story reflects the complexity of being both supported and left in the dark.Together, Angela and Sha'mya explore masking, college burnout, creative identity, and what it means to build a life and business that reflects who you truly are.

You're sitting in your child's spring IEP meeting, and the team moves through the Extended School Year (ESY) section in about 30 seconds. They mention that regression isn't a concern, check a box, and move on. You might not have pushed back in the moment, but that's usually because you didn't realize there was anything to push back on, and that is exactly what we are fixing today. In this episode, I reveal why ESY is so much more than just summer school or a reading camp, we dive into the legal foundation of IDEA, the logistical hurdles that often lead schools to avoid recommending summer services, and more. My goal today is to give you the language and the framework you need to open that door back up. ESY is not an afterthought or a "nice to have"; it is an individualized service designed to ensure your child has a free, appropriate public education. It's time to make sure that 30-second check-box actually reflects what your child needs to succeed. My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child's document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why ESY often gets only 30 seconds of airtime during a spring IEP meeting, and the logistical reasons the school might move through this section quickly [2:45] Understanding regression and recoupment and why it's not just about what a child loses over the summer [3:41] How fragile, hard-won momentum in reading often can't survive a 12-week gap without continued support [4:07] Why emergent skills and breakthrough opportunities are critical windows that shouldn't be derailed by a long summer break [4:26] The Matthew Effect in reading and how gaps in services and long breaks without support can significantly widen the distance between struggling readers and their peers [4:59] The ways in which medical, behavioral, and individual factors play a role in making the continuity of services critical [6:17] Why addressing interfering behaviors during the summer is essential to prevent escalation and ensure a smoother transition into the fall semester [6:30] A reminder to check your specific state regulations to understand the language used at your IEP table [6:46] Key Takeaways: Extended School Year is a specialized service designed to meet your child's specific IEP goals, not just a one-size-fits-all summer school. While schools often look at whether a child will lose skills, they must also consider "breakthrough opportunities" where a long break could derail fragile, emerging momentum. While federal law sets the foundation, every state has its own specific regulations and standards for how ESY eligibility is determined. Links & Resources Mentioned: Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Host: Dr. Bill Lampton, The Biz Communication Guy Guest: Keith Nabb, President of Affordable Medicare Solutions Dr. Bill Lampton: Hi there! Welcome to the Business Communication Show. I’m your host, Bill Lampton, the Biz Communication Guy. Our goal, as you know, is to provide you with communication tips and strategies that will boost your business. Today, we’re talking about a topic that confuses almost everyone: Medicare. If you've ever tried to navigate the jargon, the “parts,” and the “plans,” you know exactly what I mean. My guest today is a true expert in making the complex simple. Joining us from North Georgia is Keith Nabb, President of Affordable Medicare Solutions. Keith has been helping people navigate the insurance world for over 30 years and is a top producer in the industry. Keith, welcome to the show! Keith Nabb: Bill, it is an absolute pleasure to be here. I've looked forward to this for a long time. Dr. Bill Lampton: Keith, let's jump right in. When people hear “Medicare,” they often think of a massive, confusing government machine. From a communication standpoint, what is the biggest hurdle people face when trying to understand what Medicare actually is? Keith Nabb: You hit the nail on the head with the word “jargon”. In our industry, we love our acronyms—CMS, GEP, SEP, IEP. When a consumer hears these, their eyes just glaze over. The biggest hurdle is that the government uses letters for everything. You have Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D. Then, to make it even more confusing, we have Plans A through N. People mistake a “Part” for a “Plan” all the time. My job, and the job of any good communicator in this field, is to translate that “government-speak” into plain English. Dr. Bill Lampton: That is so true. It's like a different language. How do you approach that first conversation with a client who is clearly overwhelmed? Keith Nabb: I use analogies. I tell people to think of Medicare like a house: Part A is your hospital coverage. It's the foundation and the walls. You've paid for this through your taxes while working. Part B is your medical coverage—doctors, tests, outpatient stuff. This is the roof. You pay a monthly premium for this. Part D is your prescriptions. Part C (Medicare Advantage) is like a condo. Someone else manages the exterior, and it bundles things together. If I can give them a visual or a concept they already understand, the “jargon” becomes less scary. Dr. Bill Lampton: That's a brilliant strategy. It's about finding common ground. Now, what about the timing? I hear people talking about “Enrollment Periods” and getting penalized if they miss them. That sounds like a communication nightmare. Keith Nabb: It is. There is so much misinformation out there. People get bombarded with mail—sometimes 50 pieces a day—when they turn 65. The most important thing to communicate is the “When”. You have a seven-month window around your 65th birthday to sign up. If you miss it, and you don't have other “creditable” coverage, the government can charge you a late enrollment penalty for the rest of your life. Our job is to be the “signal in the noise” and give them the exact timeline they need to follow. Dr. Bill Lampton: Keith, you mentioned you have a team of agents. How do you train them to maintain that high level of clear communication? Keith Nabb: We focus on listening. A lot of agents want to show how smart they are by using big words. I tell my team: “You have two ears and one mouth for a reason”. We ask questions: “What are your specific doctors?” “What medications are you taking?” “What is your budget?” If we don’t listen first, we can’t communicate a solution that fits. We also use a “Teach Back” method. After explaining something, we ask the client to explain it back to us. If they can’t, it means we didn’t communicate it clearly enough. Dr. Bill Lampton: That “Teach Back” method is a classic communication tool, and it's wonderful to hear you’re using it in such a technical field. Keith, before we wrap up, what is one final piece of advice for someone who is about to start this journey? Keith Nabb: Don't do it alone. You don’t pay a broker or an agent anything—the insurance companies do. Find someone who is an “independent” broker who can look at all the plans, not just one. And most importantly, find someone who speaks your language, not the government’s. Dr. Bill Lampton: Excellent advice. Keith, how can people get in touch with you and your team at Affordable Medicare Solutions? Keith Nabb: The best way is our website: affordablemedicaresolutions.com. You can also call us at 770-945-5261. We're here to help you decipher the jargon. Dr. Bill Lampton: Keith Nabb, thank you for being a fantastic guest and for shedding light on such a complex topic. And to our viewers, remember: clear communication is the key to any successful business transaction. I’m Bill Lampton, the Biz Communication Guy. We’ll see you next time!

Join co-hosts Peter Argondizzo and Patrick Daley as they push back on the LinkedIn “AI echo chamber” and explain why so many AI translation solutions miss the point. They share real examples of problem-first AI, including IEP translation for school districts, breakdown warning signs of tool-led thinking, and offer questions to ask any provider who leads with their tech stack instead of your business challenges.

In Episode 143 of Let's Talk Learning Disabilities, Laurie speaks again with Christine Levy of the Levy Educational Advocacy Group for an "IEP 101" deep dive, covering what an IEP is, how it's structured, and the most common pitfalls families encounter. Christine walks through the core components of an IEP — parent input statements, present levels of performance, measurable goals, progress monitoring, extended school year services, and transition planning — while highlighting how increasingly template-driven, dropdown-based IEP software has made these documents less individualized and less specific about how skills will actually be taught.Resources:Levy Educational Advocacy: https://www.levyadvocacy.comContact info for the podcast: letstalklearningdisabilities@gmail.comE-Diagnostic Learning Website: https://ediagnosticlearning.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/eDiaglearning/Twitter: @diaglearningLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/diagnostic-learning-services/Instagram: @diaglearning

Ensure your child's IEP is ready for the move to middle or high school. IEP Coach Tonya Wollum shares a 5-step checklist to secure services and smooth transitions before the school year ends.

From colonoscopies to Breckenridge, episode 211 covers a lot of ground. The crew checks the math on whether the No Kings protests have the numbers to matter, relitigates the country music discourse, and swaps first-concert stories that range from Genesis to Pantera to, yes, Air Supply. The back half goes deep on education: what's actually going on with autism diagnoses, why ADHD might just be a mismatch between how kids learn and how schools teach, and whether any of this gets fixed if we keep paying teachers $38,000 a year. Patty from the IEP trenches joins to set everyone straight.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Recess is often the first thing to go when kids are struggling at school. But what if taking it away is actually making things worse?In this episode, we break down why recess is not a reward and should never be used as a punishment. From a sensory and nervous system perspective, movement is one of the most important tools kids have to regulate, focus, and learn throughout the day.We talk about what a typical school day looks like today and how different it is from previous generations. Many kids are spending hours sitting, working on computers, and getting very little movement. For some students, recess may be the only time all day they have the opportunity to run, play, socialize, and reset their nervous system.This episode walks through what's actually happening in the brain and body during recess, including the role of movement, social play, emotional regulation, stress reduction, and even digestion. We also discuss why the kids who “struggle the most” are often the ones who need recess the most, and how removing it can create a cycle of more dysregulation, more behavior challenges, and more frustration for everyone involved.We'll also share practical ways to think differently about discipline and motivation in the classroom, along with simple strategies that support regulation without removing movement. From adding movement into the school day to advocating for your child through an IEP or 504 plan, this conversation is all about supporting kids in a way that actually works.Thanks for listening

On Today's show Shannon Penrod gives ten tips for working with teachers when your child is on an IEP or 504 plan.  Setting up a collaborative environment with your child's teacher is almost as important as the IEP itself. Tune in to hear Shannon's easy tips to foster trust and teamwork so your child can have the best possible educational experience.

In this episode of The Lucky Few Podcast, we continue our “What I Wish I Knew” series with a real and honest conversation about AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) - Supporting Communication Without Limiting ItMicha shares her journey with her son Ace and how her understanding of AAC has evolved over time—from treating it like a therapy tool to recognizing it as a language and a way of life. Along the way, we talk through common misconceptions, frustrations, and the mindset shifts that can make all the difference.If you've ever wondered whether AAC is “right” for your child—or felt unsure where to start—this episode is a grounded place to begin.What We CoverWhat AAC actually is—and why it's for more kids than people thinkThe shift from testing communication → modeling communicationHow to get started (IEP, evaluations, and real-world barriers)Key Mindset Shift + TakeawaysAAC isn't a tool you bring out for practice—it's a language you live in.That means modeling instead of requiring, assuming competence even when it's hard to see, and remembering that communication is about connection—not just requests. For many kids, the challenge isn't understanding—it's motor planning. And like any language, AAC only works when it's used consistently in everyday life, not just during therapy or structured time.Links: AbleNet https://www.ablenetinc.com/ Torganization mentioned in the episode for helping families get AAC devices (including working with insurance).Mercedes' “third class Titanic” photo reference (watch here):https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVMSIy0EsI5/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==Let's Keep the Conversation GoingAre you using AAC with your child? Thinking about it? Struggling with it?We'd love to hear what's working—and what's not.Find us on Instagram: @theluckyfewpod

As the school year winds down, this is a critical window for families and educators. If there's anything you've been meaning to put in motion before summer, now is the time to act. Planning ahead is essential, and school districts often operate on fixed timelines, leaving limited flexibility for scheduling assessments and services. In today's episode, we're diving into the challenges many families face in kindergarten and transitional kindergarten classrooms when it comes to getting students evaluated and connected with the support they need. Tune in as we break it down and share what you should know.Show Highlights:The reality of expectations for TK students measured against kindergarten standardsWatch out for the “typical peer” trap.What we are seeing from schoolsAn example to support this question: “Which group of typical peers is my child being compared to?”Does the level of support prove that the child needs services?Understanding the functional component of education (lining up, transitioning to other classrooms, grasping routines and procedures, etc.)The purpose of an IEP is to provide consistent implementation from year to year.It's not appropriate to rely on the “COVID baby” designation to excuse a student's struggles.Early intervention is everything!Resources:Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show.Connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns via Facebook, Instagram, X, the IEP Website, or Email.

Send us Fan MailIf your child has hearing loss, good grades do not always mean they have full access at school. In this episode, Dana Ann Hawkins, MS, CCC-SLP, shares her family's real-life journey navigating a Section 504 plan for her daughter after getting hearing aids.We break down what a 504 plan for hearing loss actually is, how it differs from an IEP, and why schools sometimes wrongly deny accommodations when a child appears to be doing “just fine” academically. Dana walks through the exact school accommodations that can make a difference for children with hearing loss, including preferential seating, teachers facing students when speaking, repeated directions, classroom audio support, and testing accommodations.You'll also hear what happened when Dana was initially told hearing loss was not a qualifying medical condition, how she advocated effectively through documentation and email, and why even approved 504 plans can still fail without proper follow-through.This episode is essential for: parents of children with hearing loss  parents navigating school accommodations  educators and school administrators  speech-language pathologists  pediatric audiologists  disability advocates Topics covered: how to get a 504 plan for hearing loss  school accommodations for kids with hearing aids  hearing loss and classroom access  Section 504 rights for students  standardized testing accommodations  Bluetooth streaming and classroom technology challenges If you are trying to make sure your child has equal access in the classroom, this episode offers practical advice, advocacy tips, and real-world insight to help you navigate the process with confidence.Subscribe to Hearing Matters for more conversations on pediatric hearing loss, hearing aids, advocacy, and hearing healthcare. If this episode helped you, please share it with another parent or educator and leave a review.Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

It's Autism Awareness Month, and while awareness of autism has never been higher, our actual understanding of the diagnosis is still far behind where it needs to be. In this episode, Lisa Candera draws on her 18 years as an autism parent, her background as a certified life coach, and her work with over 100 autism moms to break down three things every autism mom needs to know right now: why the experts don't have it all figured out, why your judgment as a parent matters more than you think, and why you deserve real support — not just platitudes about oxygen masks and superpowers.Lisa shares candid personal stories about navigating conflicting medical advice, the limitations of ABA therapy for her teenage son, and the real-world consequences of SSRIs prescribed without autism-specific knowledge. She also highlights examples from her coaching clients — including mothers whose children were diagnosed with everything except autism for years, and a mom whose own observations led to a PANS/PANDAS diagnosis that doctors had missed entirely.This episode is a grounding, no-nonsense look at where we actually are in our understanding of autism, and what that means for you as the person closest to your child.Key Takeaways1. We are still in the early stages of understanding autism. Like other complex neurological conditions, we don't fully know what causes autism or why it presents so differently from person to person. Autism is not a simple spectrum — Lisa describes it as more of a "soup," where the interaction between autism, anxiety, sensory processing, ADHD, and OCD changes everything. Treatments that help one child may not help another, and the experts themselves frequently disagree on the best course of action.2. Your parental judgment is one of the most important tools you have. When the professionals don't agree and the science is still catching up, the parent's proximity to their child becomes a critical source of information. You are the one who sees the full picture — before school, after therapy, after a medication change. Lisa urges autism moms to build the muscle of trusting their own observations, pattern recognition, and instincts, while being clear that this is not about blaming yourself for past decisions with the benefit of hindsight.3. You need support — and you don't need a permission slip to get it. There is almost nothing in the current system designed to support the parent who is coordinating therapies, handling meltdowns, sitting in IEP meetings, and making high-stakes decisions every day. Lisa explains why she built her coaching practice to fill this gap, and why real support means something more substantive than being told you're a superhero or that God gives special kids to special parents.Timestamps[00:00] Introduction — Autism Awareness Month and why awareness is not the same as understanding[02:30] Lisa's updated podcast intro and coaching philosophy[04:45] Announcement: The Autism Mom Coach 2.0 rebrand and new website[07:00] Why we are in the "dark ages" of understanding autism[08:30] Autism is not a spectrum — it's a soup[10:15] Why the experts disagree: Lisa's experience with ABA therapy at age 13[13:45] Conflicting medication advice: SSRIs and autism[17:00] The disconnect between autism specialists and OCD specialists[19:30] Why your judgment as a parent matters[22:00] Mothers who suspected autism years before their child was diagnosed[24:30] Client story: How a mom's observations led to a PANS/PANDAS diagnosis[27:00] Why autism moms need real support, not platitudes[30:00] The gap in the system — and what Lisa's coaching practice is built to address[32:30] Closing: Visit theautismmomcoach.comResources MentionedThe Autism Mom Coach website: theautismmomcoach.comAbout Your HostLisa Candera is a lawyer, certified life coach, and mother to an 18-year-old son with autism. After years of searching for support that actually addressed what she was going through as a parent — and not finding it — she built The Autism Mom Coach to help other mothers of autistic children stop white-knuckling it and start parenting from a grounded, regulated place. She has coached over 100 moms through meltdowns, impossible decisions, and the daily reality of raising a child with a complex diagnosis.If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to The Autism Mom Coach wherever you listen to podcasts. And if you can spare a minute, please leave a review — it helps other autism moms find the show.

In this episode, Lisa breaks down the idea of being unbothered and why it matters so much in autism parenting. Using an example from a true crime trial, she explores what it looks like to stay focused, regulated, and clear-headed when other people are escalating, pushing, whining, or pulling for a reaction.In This Episode, You'll Learn:How being unbothered helps you stay focused on what actually matters in the moment.Why defending yourself to a dysregulated child usually adds fuel instead of helping.How extra talking, explaining, and reacting can escalate tension at home.Where this mindset can help most, including meltdowns, boundary-setting, public situations, IEP meetings, and tense interactions with providers.How emotional detachment can lower your stress and help you access the most rational part of your brain.Lisa's Takeaway:When I talk about being unbothered, I am talking about staying focused on my role instead of getting pulled into every reaction, accusation, or emotional spike around me. That shift gives me more access to my rational brain and helps me lead with more steadiness in the moments that matter most.If this episode hit home, share it with another autism mom who is tired of getting pulled into every hard moment. For more personalized support, visit The Autism Mom Coach and learn how to work with Lisa.

Today we share a fun, real-life update filled with everything from emergency snack stashes and trip planning to home projects, car ride chaos, college prep, and the excitement of the Scholastic Book Fair. They also touch on more meaningful updates, including health progress, the ongoing juggle of IEP meetings, and insights from Temple Grandin, leading into a deeper conversation about puberty, anxiety, and learning styles in autistic individuals—reminding us, as always, to focus on strengths, keep a sense of humor, and turn challenges into understanding. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.