Podcasts about iep meeting

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.

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

My daughter's latest update! From resource room reduction to high honor roll, dental milestones to lifeguard dreams - hear what's possible when you focus on one step at a time. This is the hope you need if you're wondering about your child's future.

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

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 

This week, the three letters that have often invoked dread in many a parent are instead making me feel positively gleeful about our girl.

You know that sinking feeling in your stomach when you walk out of an IEP meeting, drive home, and realize you aren't actually sure what you just agreed to? You aren't imagining it, you aren't being paranoid, and you definitely aren't alone. For years, I've watched smart, capable parents get talked into "waiting" or backing down. Why? It's because the system has a very specific playbook designed to protect their budget and their schedule and not necessarily your child's needs. Today, I'm exposing the hidden language and tactics used in those meeting rooms. We're talking about how to spot goals that sound professional but measure absolutely nothing, what to do when your advocacy is labeled as "anxiety," and why the phrase "let's see how they respond" is often just a delay tactic dressed up as thoroughness. Trust me, once you see these plays, you can't unsee them and that is the moment you stop being reactive and start being the strategic advocate your child deserves. 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 you aren't being paranoid or demanding for asking for the specific interventions your child actually needs [1:52] How to spot professional terminology that hides a complete lack of meaningful data or growth targets [3:38] What to do when the school team tries to make you feel like you're overreacting just to avoid addressing your legitimate concerns [4:25] Why waiting another grading period for in-class interventions is often just a delay tactic the system uses [5:09] A reminder that you should never feel forced to sign paperwork just because the team has "another meeting" to get to [5:58] How walking into an IEP meeting recognizing the "plays" before they're run changes your entire strategy as an advocate [7:29] Key Takeaways: If you leave a meeting feeling confused or second-guessing yourself, it's because the system's "playbook" is working as intended. Just because a goal sounds professional doesn't mean it's effective. If it doesn't have a clear baseline and target, it measures nothing. You are never required to sign paperwork under time pressure. Taking that paperwork home to process it is one of the strongest strategic moves you can make. 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

Learn what to expect at your first IEP meeting as a parent. Get practical tips, understand team roles, and download our free 15-question checklist today.

There's no handbook on how to advocate for your child at school, especially when things get hard.Navigating IEP meetings can feel overwhelming, intimidating, and downright confusing. You know your child needs support, but between the legal jargon, emotional stress, and resistance from schools, it's hard to know how to show up as a strong advocate for your child, no matter their age.That's why I invited Andrea Svendsen to join me for this conversation. Andrea has decades of experience in both public education and advocacy, and she brings an incredible combination of insider knowledge and heart. In this episode, she shares 10 practical tips to help you show up confidently at your child's next IEP meeting, even if you're feeling totally unprepared.We talk about what your rights actually are, how to organize and present your concerns, and how to stay kind and collaborative while still standing firm in your values.I know you'll walk away feeling more equipped, less alone, and ready to advocate for your child in a way that builds trust and gets results.In this episode on how to advocate for your child at school, we discuss:Why your role as a parent is just as important as anyone else at the IEP table;What to do before the meeting to feel prepared (and what to bring);How to write an effective “parental concern statement”;The difference between working with an advocate vs. a lawyer;Why kindness is a powerful advocacy tool;How to stay grounded during emotional meetings;How to involve your teen or young adult in their own support plan;What to do after the meeting to ensure your child's needs are truly being met;And more!You can connect with Andrea on her website, send her an email at Andrea@svendsenllc.com, or send a text or call her at 6309155776.Looking for support?

Planning an IEP can feel like a whirlwind—deadlines, data, collaboration, and student needs all rolled into one big meeting. In this episode, Caitlin and Audra walk through a practical timeline for IEP prep, from parent check-ins to drafting goals and reviewing behavior plans.Whether you're a teacher, BCBA, or case manager, this one's packed with real-talk and ready-to-use tips to make your IEPs more effective and less stressful.

IEP season is upon us, and I realize that there's so much to prepare during this time. If you're feeling overwhelmed and not even sure where to start, then this episode is for you. Today, I look at what you'll need in order to be ready, and I break it all down week-by-week over a 6-week timeline so you know exactly what to focus on at each specific point of the process. Before we dive in, I want to make sure you know about our IEP snapshot and 12 Questions to Ask at your IEP Meeting resources that you can download here or on our website, literacyuntangled.com. I've also created a new resource to help you with this process, our 6-Week IEP Meeting Preparation Checklist, which you can download here, and this checklist breaks down all the steps we're going to discuss today into manageable tasks. Topics Covered: - The reason why most annual IEP meetings occur in late January through March of each year [2:10] - Weeks Six through Five: Data collection and documentation [3:06] - Weeks Four through Three: Review and Research [4:12] - Weeks Two through One: Preparation and Planning [5:16] Key Takeaways - You don't have to panic if you're working with less than a 6-week timeline - Maintain open communication with your child's teachers and service providers at all times - If you're feeling overwhelmed, focus on what matters most for your child right now - Start this process early if you can and focus on gathering concrete examples and data - Keep your child's needs at the center of your preparation and stay organized in a way that works for you When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again! Subscribe to my 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

Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit our very first IEP meetings! Let's be honest—those initial meetings can be a whirlwind of emotions: overwhelming, confusing, and sometimes even a bit intimidating. As we reflect on our experiences, we'll dive into the questions we wish we had asked, the support we didn't realize we needed, and the valuable lessons we've learned along the way. Whether you're preparing for your very first IEP meeting or you're a seasoned pro, we hope our stories bring you comfort, knowing you're not alone in this journey. And, of course, you might even share a few laughs with us as we look back on our IEP adventures! Friends, you're doing an amazing job, we got this!! --- SHOW NOTES More episodes like this: 39. Back to School w/IEP Experts Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie 78. Building Trust (Not Barriers) w/Your Child's IEP Team 94. IEPs during Covid-19, ft. IEP Lawyers Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie 131. BTS Pt 2 - Preparing for the School Year.. IEPS + Special Education w/Ashley Barlow 270. IEP Success: How to Plan, Communicate, and Collaborate (w/April Rehrig) Learn more about Ashley Barlow Downloadable Resources from Rise Educational Advocacy JOIN THE MOVEMENT Join us in celebrating and supporting The Lucky Few Podcast! For just $0.99, $4.99, or $9.99 a month, you can help us continue shouting worth and shifting narratives for people with Down syndrome. Your support makes a difference in our ability to create meaningful content, enable us to cover production costs, and explore additional opportunities to expand our resources. Become an essential part of The Lucky Few movement today!  DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code BTS21 for 21% off (through August)! HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Thank you, National Down Syndrome Society for sponsoring this episode! Learn more about the NDSS Buddy Walk! Listen to Heather & Micha talk about their experience at last year's NYC Buddy Walk on 225. NYC Buddy Walk Highlights Thank you, ABLEnow for sponsoring this episode! 115. How The ABLE Act Supports Your Child's Future (ft. Catherine Beck) LET'S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support

In this episode of Prepared School Psych podcast, host Jenny Ponzuirc delves into the various roles within an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting based on her extensive experience of over 25 years in school psychology. Jenny explains the evolution of the roles, highlighting responsibilities such as facilitator, note taker, and timekeeper. She also offers practical tips on helping colleagues improve their roles, including permission-based feedback, concrete examples, role modeling, and positive reinforcement. For listeners seeking additional resources, show notes and handouts are available. FREE RESOURCE:https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/which-roles-do-you-take-on-in-an-iep-meeting

Hear me out on why sending a recap letter after an IEP meeting is crucial, even when everything goes smoothly. Learn how this simple strategy can prevent misunderstandings, document important agreements, and keep the collaborative spirit alive. I'll walk you through the key elements of an effective recap letter and explain why it's more than just an email. Whether you're a parent or an educator, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your IEP process and ensure the best outcomes for students. Send me a DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherinewhitcher/ Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/

What three words would people use to describe you after an IEP meeting?  Maybe you owned traits like "caring," "patient," and "collaborative" - or maybe there's room to level up. As the school year ends, I share examples from Master IEP Coaches® striving to be a "lifeline," "data-driven," and "calm" for families. What three words do you wish defined your approach to getting the most out of IEP meetings? Send me a DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherinewhitcher/ Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/ Get 12 IEP Questions You Need to Ask Before Your Next IEP Meeting: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/blog/12-iep-questions-with-master-iep-coach-founder-catherine-whitcher-m-ed  

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

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

Please stop saying "Let's put that in the parking lot" during IEP meetings! Instead bring these 3 essential strategies to your next IEP meeting and help everyone know their expertise and perspectives are a priority. Learn More and Get Your 12 IEP Questions at: www.masteriepcoach.com  

Hey Special Ed Teacher, IEP season is here! How do you like to prepare for IEP meetings? What do you do to ensure you have all the documents needed before it's meeting time? Are you looking for a better system so you aren't scrambling at the last minute to get everything ready?  Today, I'm breaking down the 5 steps I take to ensure I am ready to step into my IEP meetings prepared and confident. Having everything collected and ready ahead of time helps the meeting go smoothly and takes away the stress of gathering things last minute. I've made my fair share of mistakes when it comes to preparing for IEP meetings but I want you to avoid making those same mistakes so tune in to hear about my 5 step system for gathering IEP meeting documents! Take Care, Michelle Resources mentioned: Episode 11. Set up These 4 Simple Organizational Tools as a Special Education Teacher! Episode 12. Student Paperwork Stressing You Out? 4 Easy Classroom Systems to Organize All That Paperwork and Data for Your Students with Special Needs! Episode 19. 4 Steps to Collect Data and Organize It for an IEP Meeting Connect with Michelle Vazquez: IEP Success Method: IEP 101 Course Waitlist - Get on the list HERE!  Join the FACEBOOK COMMUNITY! Download your FREE IEP Meeting Checklist HERE! Become an INSIDER & join the email list HERE!  Follow on INSTAGRAM!  Contact: steppingintospecialed@gmail.com

In today's episode, we sit down with Stephanie DeLussey, a dual-certified veteran special education teacher, IEP coach, and author of the upcoming book "The Intentional IEP." Stephanie shares her unique insights into the often daunting process of writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). She emphasizes the importance of collaboration between parents and teachers, and offers practical tips to make the IEP process more effective and less stressful for everyone involved. Read the full transcript and show notes at: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e818 Sponsor: This show is sponsored by Microsoft. Check out their new AI Course. All opinions are my own. Once a year, I have a newsworthy topic that I accept that has advertorial content. This is the show for 2023 with Microsoft. Show Outline: Introduction Timestamp: 00:00:00 - 00:01:00 In this episode, Vicki Davis sits down with Stephanie DeLussey to discuss the importance of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and how to approach them intentionally. Stephanie shares her expertise in creating effective IEPs that genuinely cater to the needs of each student. The Importance of Parent Input Timestamp: 00:01:01 - 00:04:48 Stephanie emphasizes the crucial role that parent input plays in shaping an effective IEP. She suggests using input forms to gather valuable information from parents, which can then be used to write the present-level section of the IEP. Writing the IEP: The Present Level Section Timestamp: 00:04:48 - 00:05:22 Stephanie walks us through the process of writing the PLAAFP (Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance) section of the IEP, which serves as the foundation for the entire plan. Gathering Additional Input Timestamp: 00:05:22 - 00:06:08 Stephanie advises sending out teacher input forms and consulting with other professionals who work with the child. This additional input helps in determining the skills to focus on when writing IEP goals. Drafting and Revising the IEP Timestamp: 00:06:08 - 00:07:16 Stephanie talks about sending a proposed draft IEP to the family for review. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and flexibility in making any necessary changes. Communication and Feedback Timestamp: 00:07:16 - 00:07:48 Vicki and Stephanie discuss the best ways to communicate with families, whether it's through email, phone calls, or face-to-face meetings, depending on the family's preference. The IEP Meeting and Follow-Up Timestamp: 00:07:48 - 00:09:11 Stephanie outlines what happens during the IEP meeting and the importance of ongoing communication with general education teachers and parents throughout the year. Addressing Misconceptions Timestamp: 00:09:11 - 00:11:09 Vicki and Stephanie tackle some common misconceptions about IEPs, including the difference between being "fair" and being "equitable." Conclusion and Resources Timestamp: 00:11:09 - 00:12:02 Vicki wraps up the episode by thanking Stephanie for her insights and mentioning Stephanie's upcoming book, "The Intentional IEP," set to release in January.

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

End the constant tug-of-war in IEP meetings. It's time to find compromise on inflexible goals, assistive technology needs, and ESY qualifications. Listen and learn strategies for what to consider when you are stuck in the "I want" vs. "they want" battles.  Read the full blog post and get definitions of Assistive Technology and ESY qualifications: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/blog/iep-tug-of-war-3-unnecessary-special-education-battles-between-schools-and-parents Links Mentioned In This Episode: Earn Your IEP Leadership Certificate Program https://www.masteriepcoach.com/course Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice https://www.masteriepcoach.com/mentorship Download Your Time Saving IEP Guide  https://www.masteriepcoach.com/masterclass YouTube Music License: EXYX2OR8CSZAKEAQ    

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

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

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

Welcome to another episode of Rad Mom Radio! This week my guest is Scotti Weintraub of Reframe Parenting - Scotti is the mom of 2 teen boys.  After supporting her kids when they struggled at school, she's using her hard-won experience to save other parents time and heartache with Reframe Parenting. She loves nothing more than helping other parents find the knowledge & resources they need. You can learn more about Scotti and her work by visiting her website; www.reframeparenting.comThank you for listening!

Every time I walk into the room to lead a Parent IEP workshop I have brightly colored index cards or sticky notes in my hand. I pass them out and ask every parent to tell me... "What's one thing you wish your child's teacher knew?" The results of that question are valuable insights into what parents REALLY want from the school system and often they are focused on the importance of communication, trust, and accountability in the IEP process. As a parent or educator, you know how crucial these elements are in ensuring a successful IEP outcome. On this episode, I share with you 3 answers I collected at a recent Parent IEP Workshop, plus an unexpected story of an uninvited animal that entered my house and why hiring an expert is sometimes a necessary decision. Links Mentioned In This Episode: Master IEP Coach® Certificate Program Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice Download 12 IEP Questions You Need to Ask Find All the Special Education Inner Circle Podcast Episodes

"I had an IEP through high school and I really know the power of the special education system...And I feel like I'm living out the purpose of an IEP, which is to prepare you for life after high school."Disability advocate, speech-language pathology assistant, and IEP coach Courtney Burnett had an IEP herself growing up, and now she uses her expertise to empower parents to help students get evaluated and supported. Courtney discusses the main barriers to accessing special education, the purpose and goal of an IEP, how parents can have an active role in their child's education, and much more! Resources discussed in this episode include: U.S. Department of Ed's IDEA website5 Questions for your IEP Meeting

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

What's Your IEP Meeting Personality Type? Are you Frazzled Frances, the mom that's always running behind, completely capable of advocating more but overwhelmed with all that life throws at you? Or could you be Courteous Carol, a "yes man" through and through. Perhaps you'll be Hesitant Hannah, who distrusts the sweet Kindergarten teacher and has research to back up everything she says. Of course, you could be Organized Olive, who's got it all together and knows exactly how things are going to go. Give this week's episode a listen, and then take our QUIZ to see what IEP Meeting Type you are and to get a list of Strengths, Common Pitfalls, and Suggestions for your Type. We'd love to hear what your Personality Type is! Share it on social media, tag us, and tell us what your next action steps are! Take the Quiz: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608c2bd07a38c30017963b77Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/S44OrOQkUJ5

IEP Season is will be here before you know it! Our host and author of Autism Parent to Parent, is providing parents and guardians with invaluable information that will help during your IEP meeting! Tune in and join us, and don't forget to like and share! Click here to set a reminder for the Autism Network Podcastathon #IEP #Autistic #Parents Autism Network Website  Shannon Penrod's book is out now! Order from the link below! Autism Live's Link Tree Order the book written by the host of Autism Live, Shannon Penrod!  Click Here for Autism Live on Apple Podcast  Autism Network Toy Guide Autism Live on Twitch Autism Live on Spotify Autism Live on IHeartRadio Autism Live on Amazon Audible

Don't stress before your annual IEP meeting. I've got three simple tips that will help you prepare and feel calm before your meeting! These are all things you've heard before - but infused with experience from hundreds of IEP meetings I've attended! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/RMNWzDtN2DX

It's IEP Season, and that can only mean one thing. Parents in special education are freaking out!!!! In today's episode, I talk about why the annual meeting is just like any other meeting, give you tips for preparing for the meeting, and also give you four ideas or strategies that you may employ at this year's annual meeting in order to get more out of the special education process for your student. It's a balance of “shake things up” and “same old, same old!” Hot and cold. Sandy beaches and snowy mountains. Yin and yang. You get the point! Give it a listen and see what you think! And holy cow- can you believe we're on episode 131?!In today's episode, I reference Podcast #8: Getting More Services Out Of an IEP, an oldie but goodie episode. Listen now here: https://ashleybarlowco.com/getting-more-services-out-of-an-iep/ Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/RMNWzDtN2DX

LIMITED TIME BONUS EPISODE Have you mastered the 4 pillars of parent advocacy? Beth shares these 4 themes she identified in participating in over 400 IEP meetings and shares what to do to get help in kicking the IEP meeting stress to the curb and welcoming IEP advocacy confidence with open arms! THE ULTIMATE PARENT IEP PREP COURSE DOORS ARE OPEN TODAY! Click THIS LINK to check out the prep course and see what option will help you kick IEP meeting stress to the curb! Don't forget to get on The IEP Lab's email list if you haven't already to get fast action and other bonus items for joining The Ultimate Parent IEP Prep Course ASAP! You can get on the mailing list by Downloading your FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide!    

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

Knowing how it's *supposed* to go enables you to know when things are a little different, and of course to ask really great questions because you have come context! In this episode we cover: 1) Steps 1-10 of the annual IEP Review process (referencing the handout -- link to get the handout is below!) 2) 3 Common deviations from the normal steps and why this happens! Download FREE IEP Process Step - By - Step Guide Sign up for the IEP Bootcamp! Shownotes

Traditionally, the majority of the annual IEP meetings take place between mid-January through mid-March. In this episode, I share 12 questions that you want to make sure you cover during these meetings and give examples of what good answers should include. I explain what a multi-sensory, structured literacy approach is and why you want to ensure that your service provider is well-versed in that strategy. I highlight who should be providing reading services to your child and training credentials you want to look out for. I also describe when and where services should be delivered. Circling back to episode 9, you also want to talk with your child's specialist about how progress and mastery is going to be measured. Listen in and check out the downloadable PDF to prepare for upcoming IEP meetings. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered: Understanding the reasoning behind your service provider's approach The typical frequency and duration of sessions How long an intervention should be implemented Examples of additional accommodations or support you might want your child to receive How to ensure that your service provider is adequately trained in dyslexia and the appropriate instructional approaches Resources Mentioned: Download our PDF "12 Questions (with answers) to ask at the next Dyslexia IEP meeting" Connect: Visit my website Sign up for my newsletter Follow me on Instagram Join me on Facebook Download my FREE guide: Dyslexia Defined

Does your child have an IEP – an individual education Plan, but you don't know what that really means?  Maybe your child receives speech therapy because they do not speak or understand well.   There are ways to become comfortable with the vast amount of information.  There are ways to stand up for yourself and your child, and … spoiler… your school wants your participation!  And we all want your child to grow, learn and communicate well. Today's episode will give YOU strategies to communicate better for yourself and your child and give you a way to build a connection that will make you more comfortable in those difficult meetings.   Be encouraged, parents!  Dinalynn CONTACT:  Hello@theLanguageOfPlay.com

IEPs have a 3-year cycle. Which means there are different kinds of meeting for where you are in that cycle! And when you know what kind of meeting is coming up, you can be mentally prepaired for it that much better!  In this episode we discuss: 1) 5 different types of IEP meetings (initial, annual, re-evaluation, amendment, and transition) 2) When each type of meeting happens 3) Embedded opportunities for parent advocacy in each! Download the FREE IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide Join the Facebook Group Register for Bootcamp Jan 27-29th to understand your child's IEP Shownotes  

What happens when a school IEP team member can't come to the meeting? It's called an excusal...and although it's *supposed* to happen one way...it does happen that that you are left in the dark or suprised by an excusal! In this episode we discuss: 1. Behind the scenes information about why an excusal may happen. 2. What is supposed to happen if an excusal is necessary. 3. What often happens when an excusal happens 4. Your options as a parent to respond to an excusal depending on the situation! Join the Facebook Group! Get on the waitlist for the Bootcamp to understand your child's IEP! Download the IEP Process Step-By-Step Guide! Shownotes

Hey SPED Teacher, Confused about how to collect IEP data? Searching for “how to collect special education data” before your next meeting? Need an easy way to keep track of IEP data? Today you will learn 4 steps to collect data and organize it for an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meeting! Organizing all the paperwork that comes with being a special ed teacher has always been my struggle! But after years of trial and error, I will show you a simple way how to collect data for IEP goals.  Take Care, Michelle In this episode you'll learn: To connect IEP goals & lesson planning A simple way to collect IEP documents How to create an easy IEP goal system to use throughout the year Resources Mentioned: EP 11. Set Up These 4 Simple Organizational Tools as a Special Education Teacher! EP 12. Student Paperwork Stressing You Out? 4 Easy Classroom Systems to Organize All That Paperwork and Data for Your Students with Special Needs! Contact me to grab a FREE SPED Teacher Mentor call! I'll be able to personalize a plan with you for your students to achieve their IEP goals! I only have ONE spot available for this ONE-time offer!! Contact me at steppingintospecialed@gmail.com  Connect with Michelle Vazquez: Become an INSIDER & join the email list HERE! Join the Facebook Community, www.facebook.com/groups/steppingintospecialed Follow on Instagram www.instagram.com/steppingintospecialed Contact: steppingintospecialed@gmail.com

This week we are talking about General Education Teachers! A STRONG ally for you and your child...but also may have some similar feelings about IEP meetings as you do :) In this episode we cover: 1) Education/Qualifications 2) How they are involced in the SPED process (including the section of the IEP Meeting you do NOT want them to miss!) 3) What they actually DO for your child! Also! Here is the information to enter the giveaway! How to Enter the Giveaway: Rate and Review the Podcast in your preferred player & take a screenshot to submit! Make sure you are on the email list by CLICKING THIS LINK TO SIGN UP CLINK THIS LINK to fill out your submission form! You have until Thanksgiving to fill out your form to be entered into the drawings!

Does your meeting room look like the inside of a prison?You can do better my friend! So you might be thinking…who cares what my IEP meeting room looks like…it has functioned well for years and it gets the job done…and while I agree that what the room looks like is not going to have any affect on your IEP paperwork itself, it definitely could have a large impact on the relationship you are wanting to build with the parents of your students. Parents may be feeling very overwhelmed and in need of some comfort during these meetings. Just the fact that they have to attend a meeting like this one to begin with is a lot to process and then when you add all the other factors...it's just too much. Take these 4 steps to make improvements to your conference room or IEP meeting room:Warm up the room (visually)Keep it coolBe accommodatingUse anchor chartsListen in to this episode to learn more about supporting your parents with just a few tweaks to the meeting room space.Mentioned in the show:Get the FREE percentile chart HERECheck out the other anchor charts in my TpT store

The IEP process can be overwhelming. Here are some tips on how to effectively handle meetings.

Whether it be through invasive questions, unsolicited remarks, or condescending attitudes, people who are blind or visually-impaired experience microaggressions, actions that occur casually, frequently, and often without any negative intentions, on a daily basis. In “How Many Fingers am I Holding up?”, Marissa shares how to identify and discuss subtle acts of exclusion. Tune in to learn how to respond next time someone says “You look like a ghost!” “Even if a comment seems small or unimportant to you, it can do real harm” Connect with Legally Blonde & Blind! Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Key Points: 2:00 - What are microaggressions? 5:10 - Why call microaggressions subtle acts of exclusion (SAE)? 8:15 - What kinds of microaggressions do disabled people tend to experience? 17:25 - How can you address microaggressions or subtle acts of exclusion? 18:46 …As a recipient? 20:20 …As an initiator? 22:30 …As a bystander? Resources: Subtle Acts of Exclusion: How to Understand, Identify, and Stop Microaggressions by Tiffany Jana and Micheal Baran 39 Ableist Microaggressions You Might Encounter at an IEP Meeting 25 Racist Microaggressions heard in IEP Meetings An Introduction to the Concept of Microaggressions What exactly is a microaggression? Episode 19 Transcript

How are your IEP meetings going? Could you use a little extra help with organization? If you are anything like me then you are always looking for ways to make your meetings go just a little smoother. I started using an agenda many years ago, but through the years I have made small changes that have had a big impact on my meetings.   In this episode I am sharing about all things of an agenda. I'm talking about why it works and exactly what should be on it.  In this episode you will learn: The benefits of using an agenda for your IEP meetings. How to share the agenda with the team before the meeting. How to include a parking lot on your agenda for questions that come up. About what things should be included on the agenda. Links and Resources Special Education Forms for the IEP Meeting 7 Steps to Running a Smooth IEP Meeting Freebie Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Stephanie is the author behind Mrs. D's Corner. She's your go-to-girl for inspiration on everything elementary special education. Her passion is making grade-level content functional, engaging, and meaningful for all students, and to make learning fun and easy by providing tried and true lessons and activities that are implementation ready, differentiation provided.She provides tips, tricks, and hacks that actually work in the special education classroom setting. And she's your biggest advocate when it comes to taking care of yourself (because you are important too!).For as long as she can remember, she has always wanted to be a teacher. You know, the taking extra worksheets at school to come home and teach my [invisible] students kind-of-always-wanted-to-be-a-teacher.After 9+ years in the field, she knows first hand how exhausting teaching can be, yet how absolutely wonderful and life changing it is. Links Mentioned: Draft StickersIntentional IEP MembershipWrights Law Find Mrs. D's Corner:WebsiteInstagramFacebookTeacher's Pay Teachers

"Oh CRAP.. Our IEP meeting is in FIVE DAYS." Today, we discuss this situation with our guest and IEP Master Coach, Lisa Baskin Wright! If you are down to the wire prepping for your meeting, Lisa gives us all the advice on what to focus on. It's a longer episode, so here is a breakdown of times stamps. We have something for everyone in this episode!   2:00 - Who is Lisa? What is an IEP coach? 5:30 - Struggles faced when it comes to IEP's. 13:17 - Loud dog bark. Sorry, real life! 13:30 - Rights at the IEP table 34:00 - 5 Days out. What do you prep? 60:00 - After the meeting. Now what? 61:00 - Q&A session from our community!   Instagram: @momstalkautism Email: hello@momstalkautism.com  

"Oh CRAP.. Our IEP meeting is in FIVE DAYS." Today, we discuss this situation with our guest and IEP Master Coach, Lisa Baskin Wright! If you are down to the wire prepping for your meeting, Lisa gives us all the advice on what to focus on. It's a longer episode, so here is a breakdown of times stamps. We have something for everyone in this episode! 2:00 - Who is Lisa? What is an IEP coach? 5:30 - Struggles faced when it comes to IEP's. 13:17 - Loud dog bark. Sorry, real life! 13:30 - Rights at the IEP table 34:00 - 5 Days out. What do you prep? 60:00 - After the meeting. Now what? 61:00 - Q&A session from our community! Instagram: @momstalkautism Email: hello@momstalkautism.com

The IEP process has been a hot topic with my clients as the new school year starts. I'm giving you 5 tips in today's episode to prepare for your next IEP meeting.  Are you coming to my free behavior masterclass? I'm bringing back one of my best freebies! Make sure to register to save your spot! https://www.theautismconsultant.us/masterclass