Don't IEP Alone.

In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host Lisa Lightner shares her insights on navigating the end of the school year and the importance of parental engagement in the IEP process. Lisa emphasizes the benefits of her online advocacy training and encourages parents to plan their summer proactively to address any unresolved issues from the previous school year. She urges listeners to prioritize their efforts and focus on the key aspects of the IEP, while also reminding them to avoid getting bogged down by trivial matters. Tune in for valuable advice and practical tips on advocating for your child's education. www.adayinourshoes.com www.adayinourshoes.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! Support the Show. 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 delves into the intricacies of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. She discusses the importance of understanding the timelines and procedures outlined in the IEP flowchart that she created. Lisa emphasizes the significance of investigating state-specific information and maintaining focus on the bigger picture of advocating for a child's educational needs. With her wealth of experience and insights, Lisa offers valuable guidance for parents navigating the complexities of the IEP process. Join us as we explore how to effectively advocate for your child's educational needs within the framework of the IEP. 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! Support the Show. 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," special education advocate Lisa Lightner dives into the intricacies of IEPs and 504 plans, highlighting key red flags to watch out for in the process. From the misuse of 504 plans as an "IEP light" to language manipulation in accommodations and the crucial importance of a robust present level section, Lisa provides valuable insights for parents navigating the special education system. Tune in as she uncovers common pitfalls and offers practical advice for advocating for your child's educational needs. Visit https://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! Support the Show. 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," Lisa Lightner delves into the complexities and personal challenges of navigating autism awareness and advocacy. As a dedicated advocate and parent to a child with autism, Lisa shares her journey of supporting her son, Kevin, from early diagnosis to adulthood. She passionately explores the impact of self-advocacy on the options available for individuals with autism, candidly discussing how certain advocacy efforts have influenced government policies and support systems. Tune in as Lisa shines a light on the nuances of autism awareness and the profound impact it has on families, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective. https://adayinourshoes.org/ 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! Support the Show. 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," Lisa Lightner addresses the challenges of navigating behavior issues and suspensions in the school setting, particularly as the end of the school year approaches. She highlights the need to address the core issues behind a child's behavior and emphasizes the importance of engaging the child in finding solutions. Lisa acknowledges the complexities faced by parents and teachers, especially in the current climate, and offers practical advice on advocating for your child within the IEP process. She encourages listeners to educate themselves on their rights and discusses the significance of documentation in effectively addressing behavior concerns. Join us as we delve into strategies for helping children with behavioral challenges thrive within the school environment. https://adayinourshoes.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! Support the Show. 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, Lisa Lightner dives into the complex and often misunderstood topic of behavior in the school setting. She discusses the evolution of functional behavior assessments and behavior improvement plans over the years, shedding light on the flaws and misconceptions surrounding these processes. Lisa shares real-life examples of children struggling with behaviors in school and provides valuable insights into the root causes of such behaviors. She emphasizes the importance of thoroughly examining the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and addressing unmet needs before resorting to an FBA. Listeners are in for a thought-provoking and eye-opening discussion on understanding and effectively addressing challenging behaviors in the school environment. 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! Support the Show. 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 (IEPs) and special education. In today's episode titled, we dive into the essential concept of Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and its significance in the IEP process. Host Lisa Lightner, a seasoned advocate and parent, sheds light on the intricacies of FAPE, its legal implications, and the critical role it plays in shaping the educational journey of children with disabilities. Join us as we explore what FAPE truly means, how parents can advocate for their child's needs and the importance of understanding your rights in the IEP process. If you've ever wondered about FAPE and how it relates to your child's education, this episode has all the answers you need. Tune in and get ready to embark on a journey of knowledge and empowerment in the world of special education. www.adayinourshoes.com www.adayinourshoes.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! Support the Show. 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 empowering and informative content for parents navigating the complex world of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). In this episode, Lisa dives into the fundamental question, "What is an IEP?" Expert advocate Lisa breaks down the intricacies of IEPs, shedding light on their significance, the legal framework, and the crucial role they play in the educational journey of children with disabilities. From understanding the federal definition to unraveling the acronyms and guiding parents through the evaluation process, this episode is a comprehensive guide for those seeking clarity and support in the IEP process. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of IEPs and equip parents with the knowledge and confidence to advocate effectively for their children's education. https://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! Support the Show. 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

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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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! Support the Show. 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