Have you ever been in an IEP or 504 meeting and heard these four deceptive words: “I already know that.” from a staff member? Now you may be wondering why I consider these deceptive words… Let’s first look at the different levels of knowledge and use inclusive education as an example. Level 1: New information: this is completely […]
Even though some days it feels like you need to be a Super Hero to get everything done that your brain keeps reminding you to do, to get caught up on what you didn’t get done yesterday, and to figure out how you’re going to survive the coming week… Just for today let’s simplify some things. Give […]
How To Make Things Better, Easier, And Happier Is that mental countdown going on in your head? You know after Spring Break the school year will be winding down fast. Thinking about the end of the year may bring up dreaded thoughts of yet again starting a new year when summer is over. Ugh! Do […]
What Does a Frame, Onion, and Fox Have to do With IEP Meetings? You probably have experienced being at an IEP meeting and having disagreements on the spirit of IDEA. No doubt, you‘ve run across a District’s interpretation of your child’s rights being different than yours. You know a well written IEP will only get […]
The gifts of listening to, dreaming for, and believing in our children are the best gifts we can give them. Peace to you and your family this season!
Be Heard, Understood, and Respected Think of the changes for your child at school when your voice and ideas are truly heard, understood and respected! My new book, The Art of Advocacy: A Parent’s Guide to a Collaborative IEP Process is just what you need to make positive changes for your child. You can get […]
Listen With Curiosity Everyone sitting around the conference table felt the tension. The meeting was no longer a discussion, it had turned into everyone talking at the same time…sound familiar? Have you ever been in a meeting with teachers and you cannot wait for them to pause so you can jump in and let […]
It breaks my heart when I hear kids utter: “I’m not good enough.” “I don’t want to be different at school.” “I’m embarrassed when I keep getting pulled out.” “How come nobody wants to play with me?” “I don’t care anymore.” It breaks my heart when I hear parents say: “How can the school say […]
How many of you are like me and depend on a GPS or smart phone app to help you get from Point A to Point B? My GPS is a daily accommodation I use when driving. If my husband is driving I still turn on the GPS. He will often scoff at the way the […]
How was this school year for you? I hope it was a year of learning, friendships and belonging for your child! It’s been a busy year for me. I love being able to work with so many families and supporting them as they advocate for their children. Here are ten advocacy take-aways – some of […]