Starting With IEP

Episode 7: How Assistive Technology Unlocks Kids’ Independence Guest: Joan Green, Licensed and Certified Speech-Language Pathologist When it comes to communication, the right tool can change everything. In this episode, Flor sits down with Joan Green , a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, assistive technology specialist and founder of InnovativeSpeech.com , to explore how assistiv...

Episode 6: “Life Beyond the IEP: Preparing Kids with Autism for Adulthood” Guest: Dr. Sylvie Nguena, Ph. D., BCBA What happens when a parent hears “your child doesn’t qualify for services”? How do you prepare your child for life after school when adulthood feels terrifyingly close? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sylvie Nguena, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and mom of a young adult with...

Episode 5: Empowering Bilingual Parents with their IEP Guest: Sandy Santeiro, Bilingual IEP Coach What unique challenges do bilingual parents face when navigating the IEP process? How can families advocate for their children with confidence, even when language and cultural barriers exist? In this episode, I sit down with bilingual IEP coach Sandy Santeiro, who shares her powerful journey as a pare...

Episode 4: Behind the Table — Perspectives from a Special Educator Guest: Veronica Karwoski, Educational Therapist What really happens behind the scenes before an IEP meeting? How can teachers and parents work together to support struggling readers? In this episode, I sit down with educational therapist and former special education teacher Veronica Karwoski to explore these questions and more. Ver...

When I first began advocating, I quickly realized that not all IEP goals are created equal. Some move our children forward, while others just fill space on a page. In this episode, I sit down with advocate and educator Heather Knickerbocker , who brings over 20 years of experience in special education. She shares openly about how to create goals that truly matter , goals that shape growth, indepen...

Episode 2: The Emotional Toll of Advocacy with Missy Purcell | Starting with IEP Podcast Advocating for your child in the special education system takes more than persistence—it takes heart. In this episode, I sit down with parent advocate Missy Purcell to talk about the emotional toll that comes with constantly fighting for our kids. Missy opens up about her own journey, including: 💜 How schools...

In this first episode of "Starting with IEP," I share the deeply personal story of my daughter, Aliyah. I open up about the painful journey of seeking a diagnosis, the frustration of being dismissed by doctors, and the emotional toll of watching my child struggle. This isn't just a story about medical challenges; it's a testament to a mother's relentless fight to ensure her daughter is seen, heard...

Are you navigating the IEP process for your child's special education journey? I’m Flor De Amelia, a special educator, behavior analyst, and fellow parent. I'll guide you to become a prepared and powerful advocate as we demystify IEPs and explore how these plans are truly a roadmap for your child's life. Hear honest conversations with: Parents Siblings Young adults who had IEPs Dedicated professio...