You can be right.

You can even prove you’re right.

That doesn’t mean you’ll get what your child needs.

Read instead of listen: Why “Gotcha” Doesn’t Win IEP Meetings.

related content: Is My Child Receiving FAPE? What It Actually Looks Like in Real Life.

Take the online special education advocacy training (what DOES win IEP meetings!)

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If you have limited time and just want to know what to focus on quickly, which section of the IEP is the  most important?

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When one door closes, another opens.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host Lisa Lightner speaks with Rachel Solomon, a young entrepreneur from Massachusetts with cerebral palsy. Rachel shares her inspiring journey of independence and her winning idea for a business called Quick Change. Her idea addresses the challenges of obtaining and maintaining medical equipment, like walkers, through a subscription-based service.

Rachel discusses her experience with the NFFTY entrepreneur contest, her plans for the future of Quick Change, and her aspirations to study child life psychology in college. Rachel's passion for making a positive impact shines through as she encourages other aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams. Tune in to hear Rachel's remarkable story and find inspiration to pursue your own entrepreneurial endeavors.

To learn more about NFTE, visit nfte.com 

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome back to "Don't IEP Alone," with Lisa Lightner where we provide support and guidance for parents navigating the complex world of Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and special needs advocacy. In today's episode, we hear from Kelley Coleman, a parent, advocate, and author who shares her personal experiences and expertise in parenting a disabled child. 

Kelley's insights shed light on the challenges of obtaining support and services for disabled children, and she emphasizes the importance of not navigating these challenges alone. Alongside another knowledgeable speaker, we delve into the intricacies of IEPs, the necessity for parental involvement, and the importance of seeking understanding and guidance in this journey. 

Stay tuned as we explore the critical aspects of IEP meetings and disability advocacy, providing valuable insights and support for parents facing similar challenges.

Visit Kelley's Website: https://www.kelleycoleman.com/

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome back to "Don't IEP Alone," with Lisa Lightner where we provide support and guidance for parents navigating the complex world of Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and special needs advocacy. In today's episode, we hear from Kelley Coleman, a parent, advocate, and author who shares her personal experiences and expertise in parenting a disabled child. 

Kelley's insights shed light on the challenges of obtaining support and services for disabled children, and she emphasizes the importance of not navigating these challenges alone. Alongside another knowledgeable speaker, we delve into the intricacies of IEPs, the necessity for parental involvement, and the importance of seeking understanding and guidance in this journey. 

Stay tuned as we explore the critical aspects of IEP meetings and disability advocacy, providing valuable insights and support for parents facing similar challenges.

Visit Kelley's Website: https://www.kelleycoleman.com/

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome back to Don't IEP Alone! In today's episode, we have Maria Slavin, the Founder of In-Sync and Social, LLC, and Exceptional Moms Coaching, with over 20 years of experience in occupational therapy. As a trusted clinical and educational consultant in the Philadelphia area, Maria specializes in social-emotional learning and self-regulation, offering a combined sensory and behavioral approach through her private practice. A certified life and executive coach, Maria is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and abilities develop emotional intelligence and thrive in meaningful relationships at home, work, and in the community.

We delve into the world of social-emotional learning and the challenges and triumphs of parenting children with diverse needs. Maria and I share our expertise and personal experiences, discussing the importance of nurturing emotional intelligence in children, the struggles faced by parents and children with ADHD and autism, and the necessity of meaningful connections for children who struggle socially. 

We offer practical advice on supporting children's social and emotional development and navigating the complexities of parenting, all while emphasizing the vital role of co-regulation and self-regulation in creating a positive, encouraging environment for children. 

Join us as we explore the nuances of social-emotional learning and the impactful strategies for supporting children with diverse needs in educational and social settings.

You can find Maria on:
Website: https://insyncandsocial.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-slavin-6b254427
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insyncandsocial/

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Welcome back to Don't IEP Alone! In today's episode, we have Maria Slavin, the Founder of In-Sync and Social, LLC, and Exceptional Moms Coaching, with over 20 years of experience in occupational therapy. As a trusted clinical and educational consultant in the Philadelphia area, Maria specializes in social-emotional learning and self-regulation, offering a combined sensory and behavioral approach through her private practice. A certified life and executive coach, Maria is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and abilities develop emotional intelligence and thrive in meaningful relationships at home, work, and in the community.

We delve into the world of social-emotional learning and the challenges and triumphs of parenting children with diverse needs. Maria and I share our expertise and personal experiences, discussing the importance of nurturing emotional intelligence in children, the struggles faced by parents and children with ADHD and autism, and the necessity of meaningful connections for children who struggle socially. 

We offer practical advice on supporting children's social and emotional development and navigating the complexities of parenting, all while emphasizing the vital role of co-regulation and self-regulation in creating a positive, encouraging environment for children. 

Join us as we explore the nuances of social-emotional learning and the impactful strategies for supporting children with diverse needs in educational and social settings.

You can find Maria on:
Website: https://insyncandsocial.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-slavin-6b254427
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insyncandsocial/

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host Lisa Lightner and special guest Dr. Amy S.F. Lutz delve into the complexities of advocating for individuals with severe autism and other disabilities. They share personal experiences, discuss challenges with terminology and language, and highlight the difficulties faced by families in navigating service models and regulations.

The conversation also addresses the need for policymakers to understand and address the unique challenges of profoundly affected individuals and their families. Join us as we explore the intersection of advocacy, language, and navigating the systems to provide the best support for individuals with disabilities.

Links to resources mentioned in podcast:
website: http://www.amysflutz.com/
Book: https://amzn.to/3t9SmuD
National Council on Severe Autism: https://www.facebook.com/ncsautism
https://www.ncsautism.org/

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Welcome to another empowering episode of the "Don't IEP Alone" podcast! I'm your host, Lisa Lightner, and today, I am thrilled to have a special guest, Nicole Santiago, from Family Adventures. Nicole shares her incredible journey, transitioning from a dedicated Spanish teacher to becoming an advocate for children with diverse learning needs, driven by personal experiences with her own three children, each facing unique challenges.

In this episode, we delve into Nicole's inspiring advocacy work, from her experiences in the education system to her unexpected role in training the San Antonio Police Department on understanding and responding to individuals with neurodivergent needs. Nicole's commitment to breaking down barriers and keeping children out of the school-to-prison pipeline is truly commendable.

We also explore her involvement in supporting a family facing challenges with their church, highlighting the ongoing struggle for inclusivity and understanding within religious communities. Nicole's insights into the complexities of advocating for neurodivergent individuals offer valuable lessons for listeners passionate about making a positive impact.

Tune in, connect with Nicole:
https://familyaddventures.com/

https://twitter.com/famADDventures

https://www.facebook.com/familyADDventures

https://www.instagram.com/familyaddventures/

If you've ever wondered about stepping into advocacy or are seeking inspiration for your journey, this episode is a must-listen. Remember, you don't have to navigate the world of IEPs alone!

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome, everyone! I'm Lisa Lightner, and I'm thrilled to bring you another episode of "Don't IEP Alone." Whether you're tuning in on YouTube or on different podcast platforms, or catching up with me on LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Instagram, I'm glad you're here. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

I want to delve into the concept of "gotcha." Four specific situations have recently come up where parents felt they had the upper hand, armed with what they believed were game-changing pieces of information. But does a gotcha moment really work in the world of IEPs?

To clarify, a gotcha is like saying, "I've got you" to surprise or frighten someone, indicating an advantage. I've encountered parents who believe they've caught their IEP team in a gotcha moment, armed with information that should lead to positive changes. However, it's crucial to understand why this approach often falls short.

Parents, understandably frustrated and feeling extra pressure in the current climate, bring forth information they believe will change the game. But having a gotcha doesn't necessarily result in the outcomes parents hope for.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome to "Don't IEP Alone" with your host, Lisa Lightner. If you're navigating the world of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and special education, this podcast is your go-to resource. 

In this episode, Lisa delves into the intriguing concept of parents as the IEP police. Drawing from her own experiences as a former special education compliance monitor in Pennsylvania, she unveils the inner workings of the compliance monitoring process and sheds light on the limitations it presents.

As Lisa passionately shares her insights, she reveals the disconnect between the administrative checkboxes of compliance monitoring and the actual substance of education. The podcast explores the challenges faced by parents, highlighting the critical role they play in advocating for their children's meaningful progress within the IEP system.

From the intricacies of compliance audits to the lack of focus on outcomes and meaningful participation, Lisa challenges the status quo and calls on parents nationwide to become proactive advocates. She emphasizes the need for collective understanding and action to bring about much-needed change in special education.

With a blend of personal anecdotes, expert interviews, and practical advice, "Don't IEP Alone" is more than a podcast—it's a community for parents navigating the complexities of the special education system. Join Lisa as she empowers parents to be informed, engaged, and proactive advocates for their children's education and future. Tune in and be part of the movement to reshape the narrative around IEPs and special education.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome back to another episode of "Don't IEP Alone." I'm your host, Lisa Lightner, a special education advocate based near Philadelphia. 

In today's episode, we're diving into the world of social skills, just in time for the upcoming Thanksgiving festivities. As we gear up for the holiday season, it's essential to recognize that our children, especially those with ADHD, intellectual disabilities, or autism, may not always exhibit traditional social skills.

Join me as we navigate through the changing landscape of social expectations. In a world that's constantly evolving, our approach to social skills also needs to adapt. Remember that what may have been considered a social faux pas in the past may simply be a different way of engaging with others.

I share insights into the challenges our kids face, from difficulties with eye contact to the nuances of reciprocal conversations. Drawing from personal experiences and anecdotes, we explore the importance of accepting and celebrating differences, not just preaching the idea of "different, not less."

Let's make this holiday season a time for connection, understanding, and embracing the uniqueness of every individual.

Tune in, and I'll catch you in the next episode of "Don't IEP Alone."!

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Executive functioning-- always a popular topic.

🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/

🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉  https://dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-advocacy-training/

⚠️More on FAPE: https://adayinourshoes.com/fape/

🎯 Free IEP Binder for Parents: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/

https://Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP

https://Instagram.com/DontIEPalone  

🧑🏼‍🤝‍🧑🏼 Every question is answered by an advocate--Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com 🧑🏼‍🤝‍🧑🏼

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome back to another episode of Don't IEP Alone. I'm Lisa Lightner, your host, and in today's episode, we dive into the important topic "No-Meet Addendum". 

In this episode, I encourage parents to consider the no-meet addendum for manageable changes, emphasizing its efficiency and time-saving benefits. I recently used it for a transportation tweak and even when my son was temporarily without a nurse.
So, as we approach the holiday rush, remember, that a no-meet addendum can be your ally for streamlining the IEP process. Check out my blog post on the topic for more details. And with that, I'll keep it short and sweet. I wish you all a thankful and peaceful week ahead, filled with joy and perhaps some ribs and mac and cheese, as my family and I celebrate together. Take care, and remember, you don't have to navigate the IEP journey alone.

Read instead of listen: https://adayinourshoes.com/no-meet-iep-addendum/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9Duzf6GUuWM

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone podcast! This episode is the Part 2 of "Let's Talk About Behavior". 

Children with autism and other learning disabilities often struggle with negative behaviors. These behaviors are often a result of the child's lack of skills or sensory experiences. Behavior plans are often used to address these behaviors. However, behavior plans should not be used to punish or reward a child for a skill set or a sensory experience. Instead, behavior plans should be focused on addressing the underlying cause of the behavior.

Parents should learn their rights in the process and use them to help their children. It is also important to engage the child to the maximum extent possible so that they can understand why they are doing the behavior.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone podcast! In this episode, we will talk about BEHAVIOR!

Lisa Lightner, host of the Don't IEP Alone Podcast, discusses the flaws and trends she's seeing with problematic FBAs. She argues that anyone can do an FBA, but not everyone has the necessary training to do so effectively. She also points out that FBAs often don't go deep enough to identify the root cause of a child's behavior. 

Finally, she suggests that parents should make sure that their child's IEP is being implemented with fidelity before requesting an FBA.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone podcast! In this episode, titled "IEE: Understanding Your Options," we dive into the important topic of Independent Education Evaluations (IEEs). 

Relevant Article: https://adayinourshoes.com/iee-independent-education-evaluation/

Host Lisa Leitner opens up about a recent somber experience and reminds us to cherish our loved ones. She then delves into the world of IEEs, debunking common myths and shedding light on the different types available. Lisa shares personal stories, as well as valuable insights and tips for parents navigating the process. 

Plus, she reveals a little-known fact that may surprise you about what schools must do if they deny an IEE request. So, join us on this informative and enlightening episode as we explore the ins and outs of IEEs and empower parents to make the best decisions for their children. Don't miss it!

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome back to another episode of Don't IEP Alone. I'm Lisa Lightner, your host, and in today's episode, we continue our discussion on IEP evaluations. 
Relevant Links: https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-re-evaluations-what-parents-need-to-know-timelines/
https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-evaluations-iee-timeline/

This is part three of the series, where we dive into the quiet waiting period after requesting evaluations. 

As parents, we often find ourselves eagerly awaiting the results, and I'll share some insights on how to make the most of this time. We'll also explore the importance of parent participation during evaluations and why it's crucial to set aside dedicated time for it. Additionally, I'll share some interesting information from my experience as a compliance monitor for the Bureau of Special Education. 

So sit back, relax, and join us as we explore the world of IEP evaluations in this informative episode of Don't IEP Alone.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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 Navigating the IEP Evaluation Process: Part 2 - Permission to Evaluate Form Explained
Relevant Links: https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-evaluations-iee-timeline/
https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-re-evaluations-what-parents-need-to-know-timelines/

Welcome back to another episode of Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Leitner! In today's episode, we are diving into part two of our series on IEP evaluations. 

Last time, we discussed the importance of requesting evaluations in writing and providing concrete examples of your concerns. Today, we will be exploring the permission to evaluate form and when a school may legally refuse to evaluate your child. 

Lisa will guide us through the intricacies of this form, the acronyms you may encounter, and why it's important not to request specific assessments. She will also share valuable tips on ensuring all areas of suspected disability are included on the form, and how you can document your expectations if needed. 

So grab your headphones and get ready to delve into the world of IEP evaluations. Let's not IEP alone!

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome back to another episode of "Don't IEP Alone." I'm your host, Lisa Lightner, a special education advocate based near Philadelphia. 

In this episode, we delve into a topic that many parents encounter when navigating the world of IEPs: evaluations. We often find that parents reach out to advocates when things aren't going well with their child's IEP, and sometimes this can go on for months or even years before seeking help. It got us thinking: what if advocates were involved from the beginning? 

Join us as we explore the comprehensive and robust IEP evaluation process, discussing everything from the initial suspicions and requests for evaluations to reevaluations and independent evaluations. Whether you're a seasoned parent or new to the IEP world, this series will provide valuable insights into ensuring a thorough and effective evaluation process for your child. 

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Ariadne Wolf is a dedicated advocate for disabled and neurodivergent women writers who have faced trauma. Having worked closely with this community, Ariadne discovered their struggle to share their pain stories and connect with audiences in a meaningful and authentic way. This realization led her to establish an editorial consulting business, focusing on empowering and supporting her disabled community. Alongside her career, Ariadne pursued her master's in conflict resolution at the University of Oregon, using her experiences to enhance her skills in communication and relationship-building. Throughout her journey, she encountered the Amber Heard trial, drawing parallels between her own experiences and the challenges faced by individuals facing the daunting task of sharing personal stories before an audience. Motivated by her personal growth and advocacy work, Ariadne recognized a gap in the support system available to individuals navigating accessibility needs, realizing that legal assistance often falls short in providing the necessary empathy and guidance. She believes a trauma-informed and communication-focused approach, with an emphasis on maintaining relationships, is essential in creating safe and inclusive spaces for individuals with disabilities. Ariadne's passion for storytelling and advocacy drives her mission to empower others and foster understanding and support within the disabled community.

For more information or to contact Ariadne, please visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariadne-wolf-73a341180/
https://ariadnewolfdotcom.wordpress.com/

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

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00:02:30 Youth facing adult charges, reviewing records and assessing language and cognition to align with charges. Discussing impact of disorder on ability to meet elements.
00:05:19 Parents should familiarize themselves with special education laws and their rights to ensure their child receives appropriate services and not agree to anything they feel is wrong.
00:07:34 The term "school to prison" refers to the transition of youth from schools to the criminal justice system. It emphasizes the need for intervention at various points before reaching prison and acknowledges the significance of confinement in juvenile detention.
00:10:26 Carve is an acronym for setting realistic, relevant, and culturally applicable goals.
00:17:08 Recognizing diverse perspectives on trauma and advocating for proper evaluations to determine its impact on individuals.
00:19:58 The mission is to help kids and their parents communicate and understand. The speaker is a forensic speech and language pathologist available for questions and concerns.

Dr. Shameka Stewart is an Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders and the first and only Juvenile Forensic Speech-Language Pathologist(r). 

Dr. Stewart’s clinical and scholarly work specializes in Juvenile Forensics, Law Enforcement Interaction with youth with CD, child language disorders and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Instagram: @drjuvenile_forensicslp
Website: https://www.juvforensicslp.com/

Shameka Stewart., Ph.D., CCC-SLP/L

Juvenile Forensic Speech-Language Pathologist

Child Language Disorders Specialist

Associate Professor, Communication Sciences & Disorders

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Mentioned in Episode:

OSERS Has Been Dismantled: What This Means for Disabled Adults and Their Families.

OSEP Is Gone: What It Means for Your Child’s IEP and What Parents Must Do Now.

🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/

🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉  https://dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-advocacy-training/

⚠️More on FAPE: https://adayinourshoes.com/fape/

🎯 Free IEP Binder for Parents: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/

https://Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP

https://Instagram.com/DontIEPalone  

🧑🏼‍🤝‍🧑🏼 Every question is answered by an advocate--Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com 

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome back to another episode of "Don't IEP Alone"! In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating topic of executive functioning with the incredibly knowledgeable Tera Sumpter, SLP. Tera, who likes to think of things in terms of growth and planting, shares her insights and strategies for developing and supporting executive functioning skills in children. 

She categorizes these skills into roots, stems, and flowers, highlighting the importance of prioritizing and organizing skills as the "flowers" that bloom when there is a strong foundation of roots and stems. 

One of the key themes discussed in this episode is the crucial role of perception and awareness in building a strong root system, followed by attention and other essential skills in the stem. Tera also delves into the importance of choosing a highly recommended professional to assess executive function and suggests that a dynamic assessment, which includes observing performance and processing in different domains, is the most effective approach.
 
Listen in as Tera shares tips for fostering foresight, understanding nonverbal working memory, and the significance of a team approach in addressing executive functioning difficulties. 

We also explore the connection between executive function and various specialties, such as speech and language development, literacy, mathematics, and emotional regulation. Tera offers invaluable insights for parents, educators, and professionals, stressing the need for knowledge and integration of executive function into everyday practices. 

Additionally, Tera provides practical strategies for supporting executive function development in and outside the classroom. So, whether you're a parent seeking guidance, an advocate for change, or simply interested in understanding executive functioning better, this episode is a must-listen. Stay tuned!

Here are the resources we discussed:

• Tera's online educational network.  This is my best resource for learning about EF, EF assessment and EF intervention for parents and professionals.  https://community.terasumpter.com/
• Her book, The Seeds of Learning is below.
• Her Instagram account:  @terasumpter_slp
• Her Facebook page:  Seeds of Learning, LLC
• Her blog:  https://terasumpter.com/blog

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

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Elliott Jaffa
Dr. Elliott B. Jaffa Associates
Arlington, VA
ejaffa316@gmail.com
703-931-0040

00:02:15 The goal is to catch kids being good. Ask what they learned instead of "how was school?" Praise observable behaviors, not physical appearance. Parents struggle with the language of positivity.
00:06:18 The speaker asks an easy question, but with language restrictions. They then ask if the listener's hand is bleeding, questioning the validity of the question.
00:09:34 Cows drink water, not milk. The focus should be on positive communication and listening with children.
00:12:42 A therapist challenges children to quit school and express their dislike towards teachers and principals.
00:17:56 Author dislikes phone use while driving; suggests penalties for hitting pedestrians distracted by phones. Author also dislikes phone use during business meetings; prefers clients who are not attached to their phones. Author personally does not use phone much, except for emergencies or coordinating plans. Recommends using phones for educational purposes.
00:20:19 The text discusses using the internet to learn and earn phone time for educational purposes.
00:23:35 The author discusses their interactions with children and the impact of their conversations.
00:27:37 The speaker plans to provide information on how to find doctor Jaffa through a podcast listing, email, and Facebook.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

The Impact of Socialization in the Digital Age: FaceTime vs. In-Person Interaction

00:02:07 Growing concern over children's socialization and anxiety.
00:03:50 Video games can count as socialization, but face-to-face interaction is also important.
00:07:33 Families need to focus on mental health.
00:13:18 Parents must be vigilant with IEPs. Specialty design instruction must match child's needs. Collaboration needed for effective changes.
00:16:49 Technical reports meant to be explained to parents.
00:21:09 ADHD becoming mainstream, making connections for kids.
00:25:01 Prioritize Mental Health 101 during crises.
00:25:58 Challenging, but prioritize healthy food choices.

Dr. Stephanie Fields is a highly qualified psychologist with expertise in family therapy. She recently shifted her focus towards parent coaching, a specialized approach that solves specific parenting problems. 

Dr. Fields emphasizes that a diagnosis or assessment of the child is not the main focus of parent coaching. Instead, her role as a parent coach is to work closely with parents, addressing specific parenting issues they may be facing. 

Whether it's helping a child sleep independently or managing chaotic mealtimes, Dr. Stephanie Fields provides targeted solutions through coaching sessions.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

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Welcome back to the Don't IEP Alone podcast with your host, Lisa Lightner! After a long hiatus, we are thrilled to be back and ready to provide you with valuable content.

In this episode titled "Back to School 2023, is your IEP ready?", Lisa dives into the current state of education, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. She discusses the challenges parents and educators are facing, such as staffing shortages and limited resources, and how it is impacting our children's IEPs.

Lisa provides practical advice on how to navigate these difficulties and advocate for your child effectively. So sit back, relax, and get ready for an insightful discussion on preparing your IEP for the new school year. Let's dive in!

You can learn more at ADayInOurShoes.com

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

My chat with Kyle Boyer about how to talk with our kids about race. To get the list of resources, watch the video or read the transcript: Talking with Kids about Race

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

I'm chatting with OT Jaime Bassman about easy ways to practice OT skills during distance learning.

You can click that hyperlink above to watch the video or read the transcript.

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

I'm chatting with 2 special education attorneys about all things.

To watch the video or read the transcript: https://adayinourshoes.com/attorney-advocate-distance-learning-ieps/

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

I'm taking parent questions about distance learning during the pandemic. This is the audio from a Facebook Live event.

To watch the video or read the transcript: COVID-19, FAPE and Distance Learning

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

A review of PWN and its importance. THis is a Facebook live event that I did a few months ago, but I uploaded the video file to here as a podcast.

Read more about the PWN: Prior Written Notice PWN: The little known game-changer in the IEP process.

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Going off topic for a moment... but trust matters!

🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/

🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉  https://dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-advocacy-training/

⚠️More on FAPE: https://adayinourshoes.com/fape/

🎯 Free IEP Binder for Parents: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/

https://Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP

https://Instagram.com/DontIEPalone  

🧑🏼‍🤝‍🧑🏼 Every question is answered by an advocate--Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com 🧑🏼‍🤝‍🧑🏼

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Recap of my chat with Ashley Rose from Mission Cognition; she shared some ideas on how to work on social skills while we're stuck at home.

You can read the list of ideas or watch the video here:
18 Tips to work on Social Skills/SEL while you’re stuck at home (from a BCBA!)

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

I hosted a Facebook Live event about schools issuing PWNs during the shutdown.

IF you wish to read more about this or watch the video instead, you can do so here:
Extended School Closings | Some schools issuing PWNs as a Placement Change.

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Choosing my battles in this time of crisis.

Coronavirus and School Closings | Will your child still receive IEP services?

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Part 2 of my discussion with Steve Jacobson from Jacobson and John, LLP.

Oh my gosh, we covered so much! We talked about AT equipment out of school, before and after care programs, section 504, some hallmarks of bad IEPs and 504s and so much more.

If you'd like to contact Jacobson and John, a special education law firm near Philadelphia, you can do so through that hyperlink.

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

I'm talking IEPs, seizures, research and more with Monika Jones from the Brain Recovery Project.



To learn more about:

The Brain Recovery Project

Our mission is simple: We help children reach their full potential after brain surgery to stop seizures

The Brain Recovery Project: Childhood Epilepsy Surgery Foundation

969 Colorado Blvd. | Suite 101 | Los Angeles, CA 90041

We help kids reach their full potential after epilepsy surgery.

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Join me as I chat with Genia from GoodThingsInLife.org. We're talking about our kids' social roles, ableism, inclusion, tokenism, inspiration porn, chronic grief and so much more.

Please note: This is much longer than most of my podcast episodes. I decided to leave it as one for those who are able to listen in one sitting.

Here is the Power of Roles event she mentions in the podcast.

Genia Stephen is a speaker, host of the Good Things In Life podcast, and founder of Good Things in Life which helps parents support their kids with intellectual disabilities to build good inclusive lives at home, at school, and in the community.  

Genia has a sister with an intellectual disability and a son with an intellectual disability. Her mother introduced her to important ideas and thought leaders early in her life. She is a Registered Midwife, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and is currently completing her MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care at the University of Oxford.

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Part 2 of my chat with Advocate Jackie Waldie from South Dakota.

Jackie Waldie has been an advocate for 2 years. Prior to advocacy she was a 5th grade teacher for 12 years and obtained her Master's Degree in Education. Upon leaving teaching, she specialized in tutoring the Barton Method through Rapid City Dyslexic Care. She lives in Rapid City, South Dakota with her two wonderful children and husband. She advocates all over the state under the name Inspire Education at www.inspire1learning.com

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

I'm chatting with IEP Advocate Jackie Waldie about all things IEP, and what it's like to sit on both sides of the table.

Jackie Waldie has been an advocate for 2 years. Prior to advocacy she was a 5th grade teacher for 12 years and obtained her Master's Degree in Education. Upon leaving teaching, she specialized in tutoring the Barton Method through Rapid City Dyslexic Care. She lives in Rapid City, South Dakota with her two wonderful children and husband. She advocates all over the state under the name Inspire Education at www.inspire1learning.com

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Part two of my discussion of post-secondary opportunities for kids with IEPs.

Guest today is Eric Endlich, Ph.D., psychologist and founder of Top College Consultants®, helps teens with special needs transition to college. He works with students worldwide.

Colleges and Programs for Students with Learning Differences (video)

Autism-Friendly College List

Eric Endlich, Ph.D. (617) 515-3568 (cell) | (833) 932-7759 (toll free)
Founder, Top College Consultants®Serving the Full Spectrum of Learners Like us on Facebook and connect with us on LinkedIn

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Mentioned in Episode:

What is Explicit Instruction?

What is Specially Designed Instruction in Special Education?

50 Practical Instructional Strategies for Specially Designed Instruction in IEPs (examples)

Special Education Advocacy Training

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Part 1 of 2: I'm chatting with Eric Endlich of Top College Consultants. We're discussing post-secondary opportunities for kids with IEPs.

You can find Eric at:

Colleges and Programs for Students with Learning Differences (video)
Autism-Friendly College List

(617) 515-3568 (cell) | (833) 932-7759 (toll free)

Top College Consultants®

Serving the Full Spectrum of Learners 

Like us on Facebook and connect with us on LinkedIn

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

I'm chatting all things Special Education Advocacy with Patricia, a parent advocate from central Florida.

The 7 things you need to become a Special Education Advocate.

You can contact Patricia, she only works in the central Florida area, at patty26ar@gmail.com.

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book

Going over self-advocacy and having your child participate in the IEP process.

Here is the blog post I reference:

Why your child should attend their IEP meeting

When should your child to participate in their own IEP?

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Other ways I can help you with IEPs:

📚 Order my book