Don't IEP Alone.

Read it instead: Can Students be Excluded from Field Trips for Behavior?

Sale I mention in episode: https://adayinourshoes.org/dont-iep-alone-academy/

Welcome to another episode of "Don't IEP Alone," where we discuss all things related to Individualized Education Plans. Today, our host Lisa Lightner delves into the controversial topic of excluding disabled students from field trips. She touches on the legal aspects, provides practical advice for parents facing this issue, and shares her insights on how to advocate for your child's rights. With field trip season around the corner, this is an episode you won't want to miss. So grab your cup of coffee and tune in as we navigate the complexities of ensuring equal opportunities for all students.

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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," we're diving into the essential topic of organizing your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) paperwork. Host Lisa Lightner shares her firsthand experience and expertise, having worked on developing her own IEP organizer for over a decade. 

From useful tips on creating a thorough IEP planner to the benefits of quarterly updates and goal tracking, this episode offers practical advice to help parents become more effective advocates for their children. Stay tuned to learn how taking control of your IEP paperwork can make a significant difference in navigating the education system for children with special needs.

www.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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

Welcome to "Don't IEP Alone," the podcast that provides support and resources for parents navigating the world of Individualized Education Programs. In today's episode, "The Power of Words: Dyslexia Writing Solutions with Russell Van Brocklen," we delve into the challenges faced by dyslexic students and explore innovative methods for improving their writing skills. Our special guest, Russell Van Brocklen, shares his personal experience with dyslexia and his journey to develop a groundbreaking process for enhancing dyslexic students' writing abilities. 

From advocating for dyslexic students to implementing effective teaching approaches, this episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies for parents and educators alike. Join us as we uncover the power of personalized education and support for dyslexic students on their path to success.

Connect with Russell: 
https://dyslexiaclasses.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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

Welcome to  "Don't IEP Alone." In this episode, we delve into the topic of regression, a concern many parents face when it comes to their child's education. Our expert speakers, Lisa Lightner and Monica McHale from the @Learning Disabilities Association of America, offer valuable insights and practical advice for parents navigating the challenges of regression, especially amidst the current pandemic. 

From discussing ways to gather data at home to understanding the impact of COVID-19 on IEP meetings, to addressing the importance of documenting home-based interventions, this episode provides a comprehensive guide for parents supporting their child's educational journey. Join us as we explore the strategies and resources available to help parents and their children through these uncertain times.

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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

Welcome to the "Don't IEP Alone" podcast. In today's episode, we delve into the fascinating and often misunderstood world of ADHD. Our host engages in a dynamic conversation with a renowned pediatric neurologist Dr. Sarah Cheyette, specializing in ADHD, who shares invaluable expertise and practical guidance. From the impact of medication to non-medication strategies, the necessity of understanding a child's unique perspective, and the challenges of parenting amid a pandemic, this episode offers a wealth of valuable information. 

Join us as we explore non-medication strategies, the influence of responsibilities and independence, as well as the impact of education during the pandemic. Stay tuned as our guest addresses the nuances of ADHD and provides practical insights to empower parents and caregivers.

https://sarahcheyette.com/about/

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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

Welcome to the "Don't IEP Alone" podcast with Lisa Lightner, where we bring you expert insights and strategies to support your child's educational journey. In today's episode, "The Role of Executive Functioning in Learning Unveiling Strategies with Tera Sumpter, SLP," we delve into the crucial role of executive functioning in learning and unveil practical strategies to support children with executive function challenges. 

Our guest, Tera Sumpter, a speech-language pathologist specializing in executive function, shares her expertise and insights, offering valuable tools for parents, educators, and professionals working with children facing executive function difficulties. From understanding the foundational skills of executive functioning to practical interventions and fostering resilience, this episode is a comprehensive guide to navigating the complexities of executive function within the educational setting. 

So, join us as we explore the world of executive functioning and equip ourselves with the knowledge and strategies to support our children's learning journey.

Connect with Tera on:
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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

In this episode of Don't IEP Alone, host Lisa Lightner interviews Julie Walters from The Connected Parent. Julie shares her journey as a neurodivergent parent raising two children with IEPs and how her experiences led her to create The Connected Parent, a national online platform that connects families with disability-related services and resources. 

Julie offers insight into the challenges of finding specialized services and the importance of creating a supportive community for individuals with disabilities and their families. She also discusses the innovative features of The Connected Parent and how it aims to support businesses that serve the disability community. 

Tune in to learn more about Julie's inspiring venture and the impact it's making in the lives of families navigating the IEP process and disability-related services.

Connect with Julie here:
www.theconnectedparent.net
www.instagram.com/theconnectedparentsite
www.facebook.com/theconnectedparentsite

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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

Mentioned in episode:

Link to take training: https://adayinourshoes.org/iep-special-education-advocacy/

Link to purchase toolkit: https://adayinourshoes.org/download-the-iep-toolkit/

On this special Tuesday edition of Don't IEP Alone, host Lisa Lightner covers the essential things parents need to do right now for their child's Individualized Education Program. 

As the February frenzy approaches and IEP meetings loom, Lisa encourages parents to reclaim their understanding of their child's IEP by revisiting the document and identifying necessary changes. Additionally, she shares insights about the importance of addressing Extended School Year (ESY) services and urges parents to equip themselves with the knowledge needed to advocate effectively for their children. 

Through real-life testimonials and practical advice, Lisa emphasizes the need for formal IEP training and invites parents to take proactive steps towards ensuring their child receives the support they are entitled to. Join us as we navigate the challenging terrain of IEPs and empower parents to advocate for their children's educational needs.

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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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/

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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

Welcome to "Don't IEP Alone," the podcast that provides support and guidance for parents navigating the world of Individualized Education Programs. 

In today's episode, we'll be sharing 12 valuable tips for special education parent-teacher conferences during IEP season. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to this journey, these insights will help you approach these important meetings with confidence and clarity. From setting expectations and communication strategies to addressing concerns and understanding your rights, we've got you covered. So grab a pen and paper, and let's dive into these essential tips to ensure you make the most of your parent-teacher conferences.

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!

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

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

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

More IEP Help for You

IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit

Online Training Options

Search 650+ Articles

Get a free IEP Organizer

Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate