Opportunity Gap: For Families Navigating Special Education

If your child doesn’t seem ready for kindergarten or the next grade, what should you do? What if the school is suggesting that your child stay back?  In this episode, we break down the real factors behind redshirting and grade retention. Guest Dr. Imani Irving-Perez, a lecturer on early childhood and special education, shares what to consider. She talks about social-emotional development, academic...

As the school year winds down, many kids start to burn out. They might lose motivation, feel big emotions, or struggle to follow their usual routines. In this episode, you’ll learn why behaviors like shutdowns and meltdowns are signals, not problems, and what to do about them. Plus, get tips to lower stress levels, reset after tough moments, and help your child finish the year strong. For more on...

Most families know that IEPs can provide accommodations and services. But other powerful supports are sometimes hidden. In this episode, we break down three often-overlooked IEP benefits: extended school year services, built-in training for parents and teachers, and outside placements. Learn what to ask for, how to ask for it, and how decisions get made.  For more on this topic Watch: Does your ch...

Play isn’t just a break from learning. It can also be how learning happens. But many kids have less time for recess and unstructured play than ever before.  In this episode, we explore why play matters for focus, social skills, and emotional regulation. We also look at what’s getting in the way of play. Plus, we share practical ways families and schools can bring more play into kids’ daily lives....

If your child has ADHD, you may wonder how eating affects their focus at school. The answer isn’t about perfect meals or strict rules. In this episode, host Julian Saavedra talks with registered dietitians Elizabeth Davenport and Anna Lutz about how to help kids fuel for school. They share what to do when kids aren’t hungry, why breakfast can be tricky, and how to handle lunches, snacks, and after...

Schools don’t always get everything right. But many are doing amazing work every day!  In this episode, we explore how educators are helping kids thrive and succeed in the classroom. Discover how technology, assistive tools, social-emotional learning, and career programs are supporting students. Parents can see what’s working and learn how to reinforce it at home. Celebrate the progress happening...

Kids can learn to carry the “boulders” of their feelings, build resilience, and make independent choices without parents taking over. As hard as it is to watch them struggle, sometimes the best support is simply listening and being present.  In this episode, Dr. Nanika Coor shares practical ways to hold space for kids facing challenges at school, with friends, or in social situations. For more on...

Homework can be a source of stress for kids and families, especially for those with learning and thinking differences. In this episode, assistant principal Julian Saavedra breaks down what homework is good for, when it can become overwhelming, and practical ways to support kids. From creating routines and communicating with teachers to leveraging IEPs and 504 plans, Julian shares strategies to mak...

Discover a new show on the Understood Podcast Network: Everyone Gets a Juice Box , hosted by Jessica Shaw!  This series explores the real challenges parents face raising neurodivergent kids — with honest conversations that balance frustration, humor, and small victories. In this episode, hear how one mom navigates unexpected struggles with her young daughter and the creative ways she finds solutio...

As a parent advocate and mom, Danielle Ward has been in countless IEP meetings. She’s a wealth of knowledge on how to make the most of your time with the special education team.  From bringing supportive guests (including your child when appropriate) to decoding confusing assessments, Danielle and Julian share practical, clear steps to help you feel confident and prepared for your next IEP meeting...

We’re officially halfway through the school year. That makes this the perfect moment to pause and reset. In this solo episode, Julian shares why mid-year check-ins matter — and how families can use this “halftime” moment to reflect, adjust routines, and set meaningful goals.  Most importantly: Talk to your child, partner with teachers, and review those IEP goals! For more on this topic:  Download:...

It seems like everyone has a phone in their hand these days, and kids are no exception. But increasingly, schools are starting to limit phones — or even ban them. What does that mean for students, teachers, and families?  In this episode, Julian chats with Dr. Julie Mayring, middle school director and psychologist at Bay Ridge Prep in Brooklyn, about her school’s nine-year phone ban. They discuss...

In this episode, Julian breaks down “chronic absenteeism.” What is that, you ask? As parents, you’re probably familiar with kids avoiding school. But when does a feeling turn into a pattern? And what can that tell us about a child’s school experience?  Julian will explain the difference between occasional sick days and ongoing patterns, what true school refusal really looks like, and what you can...

Many kids with ADHD also deal with anxiety. Together, this can end up looking like defiance, avoidance, or just acting out at school.  In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really going on behind these behaviors. And we share practical ways that parents can support their kids — at home and at school — through clear communication, behavior plans, and strategies that actually work. For more on...

We know the headlines around special education these days are hard to take in. Federal layoffs in the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) could affect oversight of $15 billion in IDEA funding, putting some services your child may be receiving at risk.  In this episode, former OSEP chief of staff Meghan Whittaker joins host Julian and journalist Ray Jacobson from the Hyperfocus podcast to e...

Sometimes parent-teacher relationships don’t go as smoothly as we hope. And when conflicts happen, it can make school harder for both students and adults. In this episode, Julian shares practical advice for dealing with parent-teacher tension. Learn how to fix misunderstandings and rebuild trust to help create a more positive connection. For more on this topic: Families of color and communicating...

Is your child having trouble with reading? Could it be dyslexia? Expert Shira Moskowitz shares what parents need to know. Dyslexia is more than just letter mix-ups. It’s a learning difference that affects how kids read and understand words. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to spot early signs of dyslexia in kids The truth about letter reversals And how technology can help support kids For more o...

What do you do when your child says, “I think my teacher hates me”? In this episode, Julian breaks down what that really means.  Learn how to spot signs of microaggressions in the classroom. Get simple ways to support your child and speak up when something feels wrong. And find out how to address microaggressions in a calm, clear way. For more on this topic:  Families of color and communicating wi...

Ever leave a parent-teacher conference feeling more confused than informed? Dr. Andy Kahn joins us to help you prepare and make the most of these important conversations. For many parents, these meetings can feel like a quick whirlwind, leaving unanswered questions. In this episode, you’ll discover: How to set clear, focused goals before your meeting Strategies for making the most of limited time...

Some kids work hard in math but still struggle to keep up. Even with extra practice, the numbers just don’t click. This might be a sign of dyscalculia, a learning disability that makes it difficult to understand and use numbers. In this episode, we’re joined by math teacher Brendan Hodnett. Hear as Brendan explains what dyscalculia is and how it can affect a student’s confidence. Then find out wha...

Not all students get the same chance to succeed. Things like where they live, how much money their family has, or the language they speak at home can create unfair differences. These differences can create what is called an “opportunity gap.” In this episode, learn what the opportunity gap really means and how it affects students. Discover why this issue matters. And hear why closing the gap is ab...

Back-to-school season can bring a mix of excitement and stress for parents and kids. From adjusting sleep schedules to managing new routines, there’s a lot to prepare. In this episode, Julian Saavedra answers common questions parents have about getting their kids ready for the school year. Get his tips for how to ease first-day nerves and create calm morning routines. For more on this topic: Back-...

Julian Saavedra joins The Mama’s Den podcast for an honest conversation about learning and thinking differences in kids of color. Listen as he shares how families can support their kids’ needs at home and in school. And get tips for how to work alongside your child’s teacher. The Mama’s Den is hosted by Codie Elaine Oliver, Melanie Fiona, Ashley Chea, and Felicia LaTour.  Related resources Watch T...

ADHD is getting a lot of attention on social media. Some posts share helpful tips from experts. But many others share false information.  In this episode, we look at how social media spreads harmful myths about ADHD. Listen as Dr. Kristin Carothers, a psychologist, talks about why these myths are dangerous and how they add to stigma and shame. Then get her advice on what parents can do to help set...

In this episode, Julian Saavedra breaks down what makes a good summer for kids with learning differences. Find out why rest is important for kids. And learn simple activities to help kids stay active and involved during the break. Related resources 6 summer learning apps and games for tweens and teens Summer guide for families Summer survival guide: Hacks to help your family thrive For a transcrip...