ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents

Ever feel like your child’s IEP focuses only on what’s “wrong”? In this episode, we talk about how to bring neurodivergent strengths into the room—on purpose. You’ll learn how schools can center student interests, how parents can advocate for strength-based language in the IEP, and why it matters for both motivation and self-worth. Monica also shares a personal story about pushing back on labels a...

Worried about how IEP supports might impact your child’s ability to graduate? In this mini episode, we break down how accommodations and modifications are treated differently—especially when it comes to high school diploma requirements. Learn which supports won’t affect graduation at all, which ones might, and the exact questions to ask your IEP team to make sure you’re in the loop early—not surpr...

Not all supports are created equal—and knowing the difference between accommodations and modifications can help you better understand your child’s IEP or 504 Plan. In this episode, we’ll break down what each one means, how they affect learning expectations, and why it matters long-term. You’ll also hear a real-life story that shows just how blurry the line can get—and a simple question to help you...

When your child qualifies for special education, do they have to start in a special day class? In this IEP Inbox mini episode, we break down what the law actually says, why inclusion sometimes gets skipped, and how to advocate for the least restrictive environment—especially if your district doesn’t offer inclusive preschool options. Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagr...

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) is one of the most important—and misunderstood—concepts in special education. In this episode, we break down what LRE really means, what it doesn’t, and how placement decisions should be made. You’ll hear how Monica navigated pushback on her own child’s IEP and walked the team toward collaboration—with a reminder that services are portable, and inclusion is a le...

Worried your child isn’t “ready” for kindergarten? You’re not alone. In this episode, we unpack what readiness really means, explore the pros and cons of delaying entry, and share the one question that shifts the conversation from doubt to planning. Whether your child has an IEP or you're just unsure what comes next, this is your quick guide to making a confident, supported decision. Follow @prepa...

Kindergarten is a big leap—especially when your child has an IEP. In this episode, we break down what transition planning should include, how to ease first-day nerves (for both you and your child), and what schools should be doing to support the shift from preschool to kinder. With personal stories and actionable tips, this one’s all about starting strong. Don't forget to grab the free handout tha...

If you’re handed an IEP full of jargon and asked to sign on the spot, pause. In this quick episode, we break down what informed consent really means under IDEA, what to say when you’re confused, and why “not yet” is a perfectly valid answer. Your understanding matters—and no one should rush you into signing what you don’t fully grasp. Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instag...

Ever felt lost in a sea of acronyms during an IEP meeting? You’re not alone. In this episode, we break down the most common special education terms, why jargon gets so confusing, and how to ask for plain language without hesitation. Plus, a quick story about how even grad students struggle with the alphabet soup. Download a free handout with reflective tools and next steps at www.preparedparentadv...

If you’ve ever felt sidelined in the IEP process, this episode is for you. We’re unpacking what IDEA actually says about parent participation, when schools can legally move forward without you, and how to respond if it happens. You’ll walk away with language to use, steps to take, and one quick way to confirm your seat at the table—plus a handout to help you advocate with clarity. Don't forget the...

IEP meetings don’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode, you’ll learn how to prepare with clarity—without printing binders or memorizing the law. We’ll cover what to review, what to bring, and how to stay steady, even when emotions run high. Plus, a personal story that shows the power of teamwork, prep, and emotional backup. Includes a free handout to guide your next meeting. Get the free ha...

You’re juggling speech, OT, counseling—and wondering if you’re supposed to keep it all going at home. This short episode breaks down what’s required (and what’s not), why guilt doesn’t belong in your routine, and how to support your child without burning out. One quick mindset shift + one small carryover strategy = more peace, less pressure. Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www...

School is only part of the picture. In this episode, we explore how to support your child’s IEP goals at home—without trying to become their teacher or therapist. You’ll learn why consistency across settings matters, simple strategies that actually work, and how to ask the school team for tools you can use at home. Plus, a personal story to remind you: progress doesn’t have to be perfect.  Get you...

You know your child best—so can you bring your own IEP goals to the table? In this episode, we walk through how parents can meaningfully shape goal development, what to avoid when suggesting pre-written goals, and how to frame your input so the team is more likely to listen. ✨ Download the free handout with sample phrases and ideas for contributing to your child’s goals in a collaborative, effect...

Thanks for listening to the podcast. I hope the resources have been helpful to everyone, whether this is the start of your IEP journey or if you’ve been in it for a while. I just wanted to let everyone know that I do offer courses, in-person and online, to help families learn advocacy skills and get support in real time. You can learn more here:  https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/workshops-an...

IEP goals are more than just paperwork—they’re the roadmap for your child’s progress. In this episode, we break down what makes a goal strong, how to tell if it’s truly measurable, and why so many goals still feel vague or generic. You’ll hear a personal story that highlights how confusing this can be for families—and learn what questions to ask so you feel confident, not lost, when it comes to yo...

Not meeting IEP goals doesn’t automatically mean the school is violating FAPE—but it is a red flag. In this episode, we unpack what schools are legally required to do, when lack of progress becomes a concern, and how to respond with clarity and calm. Learn what questions to ask, how to push for changes, and when it’s time to request more data or support. ✨ Grab the free handout with questions to...

If you’ve been told “no” when asking for your child to be evaluated, you’re not out of options. In this mini episode, we walk through your legal rights, why schools sometimes say no, and exactly how to respond in writing. You’ll learn how to document your concerns, request Prior Written Notice, and keep the process moving forward. ✨ Download the free handout with language you can use and next ste...

If you’ve handed over a private autism report only to hear, “We’ll do our own testing,” you’re not alone—and you’re not being dismissed. In this mini episode, we break down why schools are legally required to do their own evaluations, how medical and school criteria differ, and how to use your outside diagnosis as a strategic part of the process. ✨ Grab the free handout with key takeaways and par...

FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) is one of the most important—and misunderstood—concepts in special education. In this episode, we break down what FAPE really means, what schools must provide, and what they’re notrequired to do. I also share a personal story from my child’s IEP and how a well-worded letter turned things around. ✨ Download the free handout for quick reminders and reflectio...

What counts as an accommodation? In this first episode, I break down the role of accommodations, how they support students without lowering expectations, and how to tell if they’re actually helping.   ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prepared...

If you're wondering how to get your child evaluated for special education—or what happens after you do—this episode walks you through the entire process. From timelines and assessment types to your legal rights and how to make your voice count, you'll get a clear roadmap so you can feel more confident and prepared. ✨ Don’t forget to download the free handout with key takeaways and next steps. www...

You finally get a diagnosis—and then the school says your child doesn’t qualify? Let’s talk about it. In this episode, we unpack the difference between medical diagnoses and school-based eligibility, walk through the 13 IDEA categories, and explain why educational impact is the key to qualifying for special education. If you’ve ever felt confused or frustrated by the IEP eligibility process, this...

If you’ve ever felt like school communication is inconsistent or unclear, you’re not alone. In this mini episode, we look at why communication breakdowns happen—and what you can do to gently open the lines. From asking for a point person to suggesting simple check-ins, you’ll walk away with practical, collaborative ways to stay connected. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and...

What do schools mean when they say “behavior”? In this episode, we unpack what qualifies as a concern, when a formal plan might help, and what a strong Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) actually includes. Plus, a parent story and key questions to ask at your next IEP meeting.   ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Fo...