Acquaintance vs Friendship: Understanding and Teaching the Differences to Kids
Friendship vs. Acquaintance: Acquaintances are people someone knows but does not have a close relationship with, while friends are people with whom someone has a…
Popular Now: Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
Friendship vs. Acquaintance: Acquaintances are people someone knows but does not have a close relationship with, while friends are people with whom someone has a…
Hyperfixation Key Takeaways: Hyperfixation is an intense state of concentration on a particular object, activity, or topic. It can be positive or negative, depending on…
On November 29, 1975, President Gerald Ford signed IDEA 1975 into law. Before IDEA 1975 took effect, only 20% of children with disabilities were in…
You’re in bed and you think “I forgot to move the elf!” No worries, here are 50 super simple last-minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas, with photos. And no props!
I’ve been having some real “beat myself up” moments about Kevin and his risk for seizures. Things I should have known or could have known….
Gift Ideas: While this list of gifts applies to many people, it was specifically crowdsourced for families looking for: gifts for autistic adults, gifts for…
Inside: Parents often disagree with their IEP teams when it comes to choosing IEP goals. Who gets to decide what goal goes on an IEP?…
We love spot the difference worksheets. My whole extended family is really into worksheets and puzzles. They’re great when you need to take a screen…
Inside: Homework. Just saying the word elicits a lot of feelings. Here are some IEP Accommodations for Homework, including common questions and tips for implementation….
IEP Goals for Handwriting | Handwriting issues can be much more than a fine motor planning issue. It could be dysgraphia, dyslexia, vision issues, or something else entirely.
The Ultimate IEP Goal Bank! A free list of IEP Goals and IEP Objectives separated by category or area of need; includes a PDF of IEP goals.
Inside: Free Printable PDF List of Nature Sensory Activities for all ages. Print, use and adapt these fun sensory activities in nature for any ability….
Inside: How to Dye Rice or Make Rainbow Rice, with all supplies from Dollar Tree. Add color to your sensory bin or sensory play with…
Use this list of teen life skills to see where your child is, and what they need to work on before going on to college or living independently.
Inside: Most chore charts and lists of chores for kids are age-based. But, that doesn’t take into account disabilities or other issues that would have…
Inside: There are 5 times during the IEP process that are conducive to ‘extra’ parent participation. Learn what they are and how to use them…
Inside: Discover IDEA ‘stay put’ rights. Ensure your child’s current special education placement remains during disputes. Learn more about this important IDEA provision. I find…
Nothing disappoints me more than when I hear about a parent not learning the IEP process and maximizing their rights in the process. Look, I’m…
Inside: Private schools can provide special education but are not required to provide FAPE. It gets complicated, so read on to fully understand your rights…
Halloween is a fun and exciting holiday for children and adults alike. One of the most popular activities during this time of year is coloring…
We didn’t even have home computers or printables when I was a kid (leaning on my cane and pointing my crooked finger at you!). For…
Are you ready to get into the spooky spirit of Halloween? Look no further than our Halloween Movie Bucket List! Whether you’re a horror aficionado…
I have a fun and cheap sensory activity perfect for the crisp and colorful autumn days. If there’s one thing I love, it’s finding creative…
Here are some resources for parents, teachers, clinicians, and others who need to talk about Israel with children who are autistic, intellectually disabled, or need…
My kids are about 2-and-a-half years apart in age. My youngest is my non-disabled child. He’s creative and smart and funny and athletic. I find…
Does your child struggle with Working Memory issues, and you want them added to the IEP? Have you heard parents talk about working memory skills,…
Matching is a skill that many take for granted. And picture matching or word to picture matching, are both executive functioning skills. And, I hear…
Does your child benefit from a visual reinforcer? Then take a look at these online and other visual timers for kids who have sensory needs.
Inside: Cultivate young football fans’ love for the game with a kid-friendly fantasy football league! Discover 5 creative ways to simplify and customize the league…
00:02:30 Youth facing adult charges, reviewing records and assessing language and cognition to align with charges. Discussing impact of disorder on ability to meet elements.00:05:19…
Inside: Everyone loves a good board game. Here is a list of the 8 educational board games that are a little unusual–beyond checkers or Monopoly….
“Mommy, is that Lady Gaga?” When my youngest was a toddler, he LOVED Lady Gaga. I have no idea why or where it came from,…
Inside: When parents catch the school or IEP team making a big blunder, they often mistakenly think that this “gotcha!” will lead to IEP meeting…
Wow! What a discussion we had about Executive Functioning today! Even if you do not have time today, I am urging you to come back…
Elliott Jaffa is a child psychologist who emphasizes the importance of catching children being good. He believes that instead of asking the generic “How was…
The holiday season is here, and it’s time to start thinking about your annual Christmas letter. While sending a holiday letter is a great way…
Inside: Inside: Learning the meaning of IEP and what having an IEP means for your child. For as much time as I spent talking and…
Pathological demand avoidance in autism explained Pathological demand avoidance (PDA) is a contentious term. Over the past 40 years, some clinicians have used it to…
IEP Progress Monitoring and IEP Data Collection are among the most important things about an IEP. And yet tracking IEP goals is one area that…
How to Write an IEP for Special Education, step by step.
Inside: Collecting IEP Data doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can get our free IEP Data Collection Sheets, including templates and reusable forms. A few…
00:02:48 The text discusses the challenges of large class sizes in schools and the impact on providing individualized instruction for struggling students.00:07:19 Many tests…
I recently had the opportunity to interview Dr. Jessica Myszak about Autism Masking and PDA or Pathological Demand Avoidance. If your family is experiencing either…
Dr. Stephanie Fields is a highly qualified psychologist with expertise in family therapy. She recently shifted her focus towards parent coaching, a specialized approach that solves…
It’s really no wonder that mental health issues are on the rise. We’re really in a bad spot–the economy isn’t working for anyone besides the…
If I’m being honest, I’m not at all comfortable talking about respite care. If I accept my son for who he is, and am trying…
Star breathing. 5 finger breathing. There are many different options that we have to either take a brain break or if we are trying to…
When a child has math skills and can apply them to every day life, it can be something we take for granted. Many of us…
Largely in part due to the news surrounding Britney Spears, guardianship, conservatorship and other types of legal arrangements are getting more publicity. It’s a really…
Atlantic City is a destination that has something for everyone, including families with kids. While there are plenty of casinos and nightlife options, there are…
Atlantic City may be known for its casinos and nightlife, but it’s also a great destination for families with children. There are numerous activities and…
I’ve been taking my kids to the Atlantic City Airshow for over a decade. Usually, we just get up early and go down for the…
Inside: Learn the differences between Locomotion Skills and Motor Planning, and how a child can improve both. Includes examples of locomotion skills and motor planning…
If your child has an IEP, and is taking a life skills type of curriculum, you may have heard the term “certificate of completion” mentioned…
This is one area that I’m not often comfortable discussing–restrictive environments in the special education setting. See, I have K in a very restrictive setting….
Inside: If your disabled child is in the 0-3 age range, you may have some questions about IDEA part C and Early Intervention Services. Here’s…
Planning a trip out West to visit the national parks with kids? It can be an overwhelming feat but these tips will help you plan…
Planning a family trip to New York City? From museums and parks to the Staten Island Ferry, you won’t want to miss these things to…
Inside: Some great sensory bottle ideas, how to make a sensory bottle or sensory bottles DIY, plus the many great benefits of sensory bottles. Sensory…
Inside: This easy to make homemade playdough recipe uses ingredients you probably already have in the kitchen. Plus, some activities to do with your playdough…
Stress balls are a simple yet effective way to reduce tension and anxiety. They are small enough to carry in a purse or pocket, making…
For a long time, as I worked with clients, we fought the battle to get a child an IEP for ADHD rather than just the…
It is estimated that 5-12% of all American kids have some type of ADHD. If you found this Accommodations Guide, chances are you have a…
Inside: Learn how to make a really cool All About Me Worksheet for any age group, including teens and adults. Or, print off some of…
Inside: Learning in school during holiday seasons can be hard for kids! Mesh the two together–reading and vocabulary paired with Halloween Words. Plus a Halloween…
Positive self-talk is an essential aspect of self-improvement and personal growth that has recently gained popularity. It is the practice of intentionally speaking to oneself…
Presumed competence, in my experience, is a term that gets a lot of buzz. But not a lot of traction, certainly not in IEP meetings….
One of the less positive things about my job as an IEP advocate is that, I am so often surprised and disappointed at what some…
Ok, so here we go. I used to have IEP reevaluation information in my post about IEP evaluations. But, I’ve since decided that IEP re-evaluations…
Inside: We’re talking causes and solutions to your autistic family member and their incontinence. We want our kids to have dignity and reduce bullying whenever…
Inside: How to Get an IEP for your Child. Whether you’re trying to get an IEP for autism, get an IEP for ADHD or even…
Inside: We love the Atlantic City Air Show! So I’m sharing my best tips on where to watch the Atlantic City Air Show and much…
Inside: Calm Down Corners are growing in popularity. So, I’ve compiled a list of Calm Down Corner Ideas for you to create one in a…
Inside: Learn the key differences between a 504 and an IEP, so you can make the right decision for your child. Quite often, parents in…
Inside: Many schools ask for or demand medical information. Can they do that? Can they require an IEP student to be medicated? We’re answering all…
Inside: For some families, homeschooling their child with ADHD or Autism is the best option for them. Here are some curriculum options for kids who…
Inside: Hitting and Aggression are fast ways for your child to earn suspensions at school, or be socially ostracized by peers. Here are some replacement…
Inside: What’s the difference between educational autism vs medical autism? Is autism a medical diagnosis? Can schools diagnose autism? Answering all of that and more….
Inside: Many parents consider paying for Lindamood Bell programs to help their kids read. But, is it worth the money? Several years ago, my cousins…
I was in a heated IEP meeting one time, and a teacher angrily blurted out, “What do you want from me? Do you want me…
If your child has negative behaviors at school, they should receive an FBA and a Behavior Plan. Here are behavior goal ideas for your IEP.
Inside: A Manifestation Determination Meeting is one of the most stressful parts of the IEP process. Hopefully you never have to do this. But, here’s…
Inside: Everything you need to know about communication boards for non-verbal or non-speaking children or adults. Including how to get started with a communication board….
Inside: I hear from many parents who “don’t even want to bother” with an IEP. It’s a sentiment I understand, but you may want to…
Is it any wonder that Moms cry at IEP Meetings? Pretend I’ve invited you to your child’s school for a meeting. And this meeting will…
Inside: Learn what Universal Design for Learning is and how it might help your child with an IEP. What is Universal Design for Learning? Just…
Inside: They shouldn’t, but appearances matter. Here are tips for what to wear to a Parent Teacher conference or IEP meeting. It matters. I wish…
Inside: Differentiated Instruction is a term that gets a lot of buzz these days. But, while differentiating instruction has a lot of value, it further…
Inside: Can an IEP meeting be held without parents? What does IDEA say about this, and what should you do if the IEP team is…
Inside: Learn the child’s role at an IEP meeting, and why they should work toward full participation and even running their IEP meeting. Should my…
Inside: Your first IEP meeting, or even your 10th IEP meeting, can be stressful and scary. Here is what to expect at an IEP meeting….
Inside: You feel that your child’s needs cannot be met in your local school. You want an out of district placement, so how do you…
Inside: How long does the school have to respond to an IEP meeting request? And, what are the guidelines for an emergency IEP meeting? All…
Inside: Do you feel that your child is in the wrong placement? Parents often misunderstand special education placement and out of district placements. So, I’m…
Inside: How long do IEP meetings last? And what should you do if you feel your IEP meeting is too short or too long? Sharing…
Inside: Answering all your questions about how to request an IEP meeting. Includes letter templates, emergency IEP meeting information (only in California!) and who can…
Inside: Challenging that old urban legend that parents should bring donuts to IEP meetings. I understand you want to be nice. You want to be…
Inside: After the IEP meeting, here is what to expect. Including the after IEP meeting email, and when you should receive the final IEP. It…
Inside: It’s best practice, but not required, to have an IEP Meeting Agenda. Here are some samples and templates for IEP Meeting Agendas for you…
Did you know that there are apps that can help your child rehearse for social situations? Or help them learn to regulate their emotions? There…
Speech Therapy Apps Ever since iPads and devices came on to the scene about a decade ago, our kids have been benefiting from apps. If…
The past few years have had our kids accessing technology more than ever before. Even those who didn’t previously use Assistive Technology now find themselves…
With so many more kids learning at home or on a hybrid program, I am finding more parents frustrated at math. It’s just not taught…
After preparing this blog post, I plan to go back to the Google Play store and get some of these apps for myself. I can…
Inside: Learn what Special Education Due Process is, how to initiate the process and many important points to consider before filing for Due Process in…
Inside: Learn my #1 advocacy secret to reducing IEP meeting stress. I was waiting in the lobby. Mom pulled into the parking lot, made her…
Today I had such a great podcast recording session! I’d like to introduce you to Ariadne Wolf, a NeuroDisabled Support Specialist. You can read more…
Inside: Learn what perseveration is, what causes it, and how to get unstuck if you are perseverating on something. Plus, IEP goals if a child…
Inside: Our list of kindergarten IEP goals including kindergarten math IEP goals, kindergarten reading and writing goals and more. So, there’s a reason why I…
Inside: The Simon Says Game has really changed. Here are some Simon Says Ideas and variations, plus the online Simon Says Game. You all remember…
Inside: Learn the many skills that children can learn and practice by playing games; plus a list of some fun classroom games for students, with…
Inside: A list of Functional Money and Functional Math IEP goals, including modern money skills like apps and debit cards. Remember when we were little,…
Inside: Browse my list of clever and fun summer camp ideas for kids. These summer camp themes can be implemented at home, or at a…
Do you love Shark Week? We do! My husband says that the newer Shark Weeks aren’t as good as the older ones, but my kids…
Summer is here and for many kids, that may mean sleep away camp or sleepovers at a friend’s or grandparent’s house. But what about the…
Inside: Everything you need to know about sunscreen to be safe this summer. The differences between chemical vs mineral sunscreen, sunscreen expiration information and how…
Star breathing is a simple yet effective breathing exercise that can help reduce stress and anxiety. I have another article and PDF printable for 5…
Have you heard of the Five Finger Breathing Technique? It’s a fantastic mindfulness exercise for both kids and adults. I love it! Perhaps the best…
Inside: Learn what cellulitis is and how harmful it can be. Plus, how bug bites can lead to cellulitis and treatment and prevention options. Can…
Inside: Learn what 10 common IEP parent mistakes are, and how you can avoid them. Raise your hand if you just LOVE going to IEP…
Inside: Learn what Letter Recognition OT goals are, why they’re important, and a list of example goals. It’s a familiar sight, dating back many decades….
Inside: Learn what phonemic awareness is and how to assess for it. Plus some IEP goals for Phonemic Awareness. The other day, my 13-year-old sports…
Inside: Learn the IDEA wording about scheduling IEP meetings and parental participation. Whew, can we please put this issue to bed, once and for all?…
Inside: Learn what Orton Gillingham is, how it helps kids learn to read, and I’m answering important questions about OG IEP Goals. (yikes!) If your…
I was doing dinner tonight. K requires special meals, and that’s ok, I’m used to it. But as I picked up the 8 billionth morsel…
Happy Summer! I know it’s early to be talking about July 4 fireworks, but some municipalities do them as early as Memorial Day weekend. I…
Inside: Browse our list of free summer reading programs for kids, including how to sign up. Ah summer. I’m already daydreaming about it. But, as…
Inside: Learn how to build a robust, meaningful Autism IEP, including goals, accommodations and even a sample. For almost 10 years, readers have been asking…
You’re sitting in your IEP meeting. Things seem to be going well. Everyone is pleasant and there’s a constructive conversation. But your gut is telling…
In the first quarter of 2020, we had no idea how much our lives were going to change. Not just for the next couple of…
I receive a surprising amount of criticism for catering to women on this blog. Or, writing about them and to them. Sure, much of it…
Inside: When you hate having an IEP it can be tough to stay positive. Here are tips for staying positive, even when dealing with unprofessional…
Have you ever participated in Kids Bowl Free? It’s a fantastic program which allows children to bowl for free all summer long at participating bowling…
Removing EEG glue from your child’s hair-is there anything worse? I cannot believe that we have the technology to actually do EEGs, but we do…
Email. How did we live without it? IEPs are relatively new, not even 50 years old. Obviously, e-mail is even newer. And, as technology changes,…
Inside: How to Request an IEP Evaluation and be the best advocate you can be, for your child, during the process. You will definitely want…
Inside: Get 25 free IEP letter templates, including my e-book “How to Ask your IEP Team for just about Anything.” If you’re in this for…
A Parents’ Guide to Functional Behavior Assessments FBAs in Education, Behavior Plans, and more; including how and when to request an FBA.
Inside: Learn what IEP testing is, and what IEP tests you should (or could) ask for. Different variations of questions come up about IEP evaluations…
Inside: Learn the timelines of the IEP Evaluation Process, including how to interpret some of the IEP assessments and get ready for your IEP eligibility…
Sometimes we get so wrapped up in getting our kids’ needs met, we forget to address a Student’s Strengths. What are your child’s strengths? Grabe these ideas for your IEP.
One of the most unpleasant parts of parenting is the gross stuff we sometimes have to encounter. A little baby throw-up and dirty diapers–no big…
As an advocate, I have attended literally hundreds of IEP meetings. I know you, Moms. You’re stressed and anxious. This IEP meeting checklist is one…
Inside: Learn how to STOP STRESSING out over IEP meetings, and be your child’s best advocate. A Special Education Advocate who has attended hundreds of…
Inside: Learn what an IEP meeting is, and what is the purpose of an IEP meeting. And, how to be your child’s best advocate at…
Planning a trip to Washington, DC with your family? Then these 5 travel tips from a seasoned Mom and Lobbyist are a must-read!
During the summer of 2020, after the unfortunate incident with George Floyd and his murder, I was motivated to use my platform to try and…
During the summer of 2020, after the unfortunate incident with George Floyd and his murder, I was motivated to use my platform to try and…
During the summer of 2020, after the unfortunate incident with George Floyd and his murder, I was motivated to use my platform to try and…
During the summer of 2020, after the unfortunate incident with George Floyd and his murder, I was motivated to use my platform to try and…
During the summer of 2020, after the unfortunate incident with George Floyd and his murder, I was motivated to use my platform to try and…
During the summer of 2020, after the unfortunate incident with George Floyd and his murder, I was motivated to use my platform to try and…
During the summer of 2020, after the unfortunate incident with George Floyd and his murder, I was motivated to use my platform to try and…
During the summer of 2020, after the unfortunate incident with George Floyd and his murder, I was motivated to use my platform to try and…
Parent-Teacher conferences can look different for Special Education and IEP students. Here’s what to ask and what to know.
During 2020 and 2021, when we were all stuck at home, I took the opportunity to engage subject matter experts to do some online chats…
Is the Diana Screening test reliable or accurate? What do the science and data say? The answers will surprise you.
Imagine this, parents. Imagine you are envisioning your child’s future, and the different pieces of his/her future are trading cards. And you say, “Ok, I will give you this card for safety, and in exchange, I get to keep all the cards for food.”
People first vs. identity-first language, PFL vs IFL. When I was first introduced to the concept of people first language, I was all “Yes! He’s…
No, just because your child flaps their hands does not mean they are autistic. And, even if it did, we need to stop treating autism like it’s some terrible thing.
Inside: It’s April, so we’re going to be bombarded with Autism Awareness. Here are some awful examples of autism ableism that are a part of…
I am just steamed this morning. Nothing like waking up to see 250k special needs moms being ableists and wallowing in ableism. Have you seen…
Prompt hierarchy is a teaching technique that involves providing prompts to help students learn new skills. Its flaws include over-dependence on prompts and limited generalization of skills.
Locomotor skills are essential for physical activity and movement. Discover how mastering these skills can benefit children’s physical and cognitive development.
Autism prevalence rises again: one in 36 (2.8%) 8-year-old children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to a 2023 report.
IEP goals for focus and attention can be tailored to address specific needs of students, such as reducing distractions or increasing sustained attention.
Read thoughts and insight from disabled people on how they feel about being referred to as ‘special needs.’ It’s ok to say “disabled.”
Inside: Learn what IDEA says about the required components of an IEP. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a written plan that outlines the unique…
Inside: Learn the benefits of fidget toys for ADHD adults and others, and some quiet fidget toy recommendations. I recently participated in a local consignment…
As a parent I love AR, Accelerated Reader. As an IEP advocate, I think it’s a bad idea for monitoring progress. Pros and Cons of AR Books, Reading Levels.
What are we doing to our kids that so many of them are either a) having breakdowns and mom has to be called to come get them b) melting down after school to the point it interferes with normal household activities or c) refusing to go to school.
OT and school-based occupational therapy help students with disabilities develop the skills they need to participate in daily activities at home and school.
Inside: Learn what Dolch sight words are and if they are still important. Also, get our free PDFs and worksheets for Dolch sight word lists….
Task paralysis is the inability to start or complete tasks, affecting productivity and causing stress. It can be caused by various factors, not just ADHD.
If parents (and teachers!) have a better understanding of the four functions of behavior, the history behind the philosophy, and the many flaws, you can be a better advocate for a child exhibiting behaviors.
ADHD overwhelm can be a daily struggle for those affected. Learn about coping strategies, self-care techniques, and seeking support to manage symptoms.
From motivational quotes and positive news stories to fun games and brain teasers, we’ve got you covered. Start your day on the right foot with our helpful suggestions.
Easy DIY Slime Recipe: How to Make Slime with Glue, this step by step slime recipe and instructions will have your kids having gooey fun in just a few minutes!
Teens can be hard to buy for, especially at holidays geared for little kids. Here are some Easter Basket Ideas for Older Kids, including egg hunts for older kids.
Encouraging healthy eating habits in kids can be challenging, but it’s essential to promote their overall health and well-being.
Inside: Learn how to write effective IEP goals with this step-by-step guide. Discover the formula for writing measurable goals and objectives tailored to your student’s…
Inside: Discover how setting Work Completion IEP goals can help students with disabilities improve their academic performance and achieve success in school and beyond. Includes…
Discover effective ways to help your child gain weight quickly and healthily. From nutrient-dense foods to exercise tips, learn how to support their growth.
Shame spiraling is a distressing experience that can lead to self-criticism and negative self-talk. Learn how to recognize and break the cycle here.
Inside: Learn how to understand and troubleshoot an IEP if the child is repeatedly not meeting IEP goals. And, Proving IEP Goals Were not Developed…
The After School Meltdown, we’ve all seen it. Here’s what to know about after school restraint collapse, and getting your IEP team on board to support your child.
Time Blindness is a phenomenon associated with ADHD, but it is not exclusive to ADHD. Read what it is and how to manage it if you have time blindness.
Learn what an IEP provides and what a 504 provides, and why it’s not a case of “more is better. Your child should not need both.
Learn what an Executive Functioning Coach is, what an EF coach does and how to become an executive function coach. Plus, video tips from an Executive Function Coach.
Inside: Yes, an IEP is a legally binding document. Understand the framework and laws behind IEPs and what to do if you have a legal…
What Qualifies a Child for an IEP? What is an IEP student? Is it only for learning disabilities, and what are they? All explained by a Special Education Advocate.
A discrepancy model may be used to determine IEP eligibility. Some states still use the RTI model. Learn what the difference is and how it applies to your child.
How do you calculate IEP minutes or IEP service minutes? When do IEP minutes have to be made up? How are IEP minutes determined?
How long is a benchmark goal on an IEP? And what is the difference between IEP goal benchmarks and IEP goal objectives?
What is a Paraprofessional? Understand hiring requirements, salary and what they can offer your child.
What to know about getting a 1:1 aide or para on your child’s IEP. From what qualifies a child for a 1:1 aide to getting the para on the IEP.
Is your head spinning at IEP meetings because of all the acronyms? Here are some of the most commonly used Disability and Special Education Acronyms. Free printable!
AAC devices can be liberating for autistic children and others who lack verbal communication. A list of the best, and how to get an AAC device for your child.
100 Examples of Low Tech Assistive Technology in the classroom; suggestions for reading, writing, autism, dyslexia and much more.
What is OHI on the IEP? A thorough explanation of the Other Health Impairments eligibility category, including ADHD and its listing under OHI Eligibility.
Inside: Take a deep dive into learning about AT Assistive Technology, and how it differs from AAC. And 15 IEP goals for assistive technology.
A printable list of Accommodations for Anxiety for an IEP or 504 Plan, to get you on the path to a more peaceful and calm day for your child at school.
Inside: Browse, print, and use this comprehensive list of 504 Accommodations for Students with Disabilities.
Uncovering the Two Types of IEP Violations: Are Your Child’s Rights Being Upheld?
Does your IEP team call you “Mom” at IEP meetings? Are you comfortable with that? Let’s explore the pros and cons to this common gesture, and ways to change it if you wish.
Inside: What is a sensory bin? Are there benefits to using sensory bins? What are they used for, and for what ages? Plus, we’re sharing…
A list of children’s books about inclusion, from teachers and parents. Add these inclusive children’s books to your home library.
In this article, we will explore what kinetic sand is, what it is made of, and what it is used for. And then, I have…
This article provides a comprehensive guide to legal guardianship for adults with disabilities, including the benefits and considerations for families and caregivers. Learn how to navigate the process and ensure the best possible care for your loved one.
What to do if you are denied an IEP because “his grades are fine!”
Dr. Seuss is a phenomenal author and illustrator. Dr. Seuss has a racist past. Both can be true. Both are true.
If your child has juvenile arthritis, they may require a 504 plan and 504 accommodations to be successful at school. Here are some juvenile arthritis accommodations.
Professional, accurate, written communication is essential to the IEP and Special Education Process. Tips to get you on the path to having your concerns heard.
The Ultimate Guide to Special Needs Travel: Adequately (and safely!) prepare for a vacation when your child has a disability or special needs. This can save you some headaches and hassles!
What does IDEA say about required members of an IEP team? And what are their roles and responsibilities? All explained by an Special Education Advocate.
I have a friend and there are 18 school staff people at her IEP meetings. I’ve mentioned many times before how large Kevin’s IEP team…
I will never forget this one day when Kevin was a preschooler. We had an IEP meeting, and one of his proposed goals was to…
The largest study to date confirms an overlap between autism and gender diversity People who do not identify with the sex they were assigned at…
Activities to Teach About Disabilities What better day than today to publish this post! Today is the first day of Developmental Disabilities Awareness month. I…
Social Skills IEP Goals It’s no secret that many kids with disabilities struggle socially and struggle to build and maintain friendships. When Brian tells me…
Can the School Remove Supports and Services from the IEP? This is probably the number one reason that parents dread IEP meetings. Right? For the…
Weighted Blanket Causing Pain Weighted blankets. They seem harmless enough, right? So we started using them. I purchased two for our household. In less than…
When Your School Calls CPS Sometimes I hear the stories and think “How, how did we get here?” And, many times I’ve seen a parent…
Learning numbers in ASL is one of the easiest ways to get started in learning ASL. Free worksheets for numbers 1-10 in ASL, coloring pages, free PDF.
Colors in ASL If you are trying to learn sign language, learning clusters or groups of words is a great way to start. Many people…
Sign Language Animals This past year, my son went through a full Assistive Technology evaluation. One of the two modalities that we are going to…
Learning the ASL Alphabet is a quick way to get started in sign language and fingerspelling.
Football Bingo Are you planning a Super Bowl party or another football-themed event? Looking for some free football bingo cards to print? Well, welcome! This…
Free Sign Language Flashcards for 25 Basic Sign Language Words in ASL. Get this free PDF download and begin learning sign language today.
What a cute idea! Valentine’s Day cards in ASL. Did you know that ASL is the 4th most used language in the United States? It…
IEP Laws and Regulations Several years ago, I was at a fundraiser. It was for an agency that assists disabled people. So, naturally, they had…
Perfect Attendance Awards Perfect attendance awards are a terrible idea. I get it–I get why they were developed. To encourage kids with chronic absenteeism to…
Tell me if you’ve heard of a scenario like this. It’s the perfect example of a child who lacks proprioceptive skills. Students are in a…
Worried about reinforcing speech and language skills at home? Here are 5 Tips from a Special Education Teacher.
“That’s a Child Find issue.You need to report them for Child Find!” If your child has an IEP, chances are you have heard these phrases.
The White House Easter Egg Roll | 2023 | What to Know Before You Go: Here’s how you get tickets, travel tips for parking and eating, and accessibility information.
If your IEP meeting is tomorrow, you don’t have much time. Read these sanity-saving tips so that you’re ready, but not overwhelmed.
Need some Teacher Appreciation gifts but don’t have a lot of money? Check out this list of DIY and other inexpensive gift ideas.
You don’t find failing public schools and charter schools in wealthy neighborhoods.
Some studies show that autistic people may struggle with the perception of time. Remember, time can be abstract, so it is our responsibility to give…
Does your child’s IEP transfer from state to state? Can you remain in the same school if you move? Here’s what you need to know about transferring an IEP.
6 Principles of Special Education I have to open this post with a shout-out to blog reader Mike T. He emailed me a link to…
Are you thinking about visiting the Grand Canyon with the kids? The national park is a beautiful place for vacation and will likely be one…
Summer doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Use this PDF printable summer bucket list for kids for over 100 Summer Fun Ideas for kids and teens.
SNTs are legal arrangements in which a trustee holds, manages, and distributes assets to a beneficiary. The beneficiary is the disabled person. In most situations,…
Whether you spell it Fastnacht Day or Fasnacht Day, it’s a day to eat donuts! Learn about this PA Dutch Holiday on Fat Tuesday, including a kids’ word search.
PÄ…czki Day (Fat Tuesday in Poland) is one of my favorite holidays. And, we get to celebrate it twice! Read more about PÄ…czki Day 2023. PDF Word Search for kids, too.
List of dozens of indoor playgrounds in the Philadelphia area, including Chester county, Delaware and NJ.
These FREE Groundhog Day activities for kids will help you explain Groundhog Day and its accuracy and make your own predictions. Perfect for preschool, kindergarten,…
The Christmas event gets all the fame, but any time of year is perfect. Local secrets including Restaurants near Longwood Gardens + Best Times to Visit.
Here are the 3 things in Hershey PA that I recommend you not do. This is a must-read for autism families or those with sensory issues!
MLK Day Printables MLK Day can be fun, serious, educational, and thoughtful. Here are activities and projects for kids to make the day memorable, including…
Cortical Visual Impairment I recently attended a conference to educate myself on Cortical Visual Impairment, one of my son’s diagnoses. It was so enlightening and…
I love this new trend! It’s what moms have known for generations; coloring is fun! But it made international news when some adult coloring books…
I remember the first time I was gaslighted at an IEP meeting. It probably wasn’t the first time, but it was the first time that…
I looked at the mom/client sitting next to me at truancy court and gave her hand a squeeze. She looked up and gave me a…
10 tips to make your Valentine’s Day inclusive for all students, including some ideas for activities for special education.
FAPE This trend is really bothersome to me. I have recently had conversations with several different parents who are unfamiliar with the term FAPE or…
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is a federal law designed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive…
I had the chance to attend a super cool event at Pennsylvania School for the Deaf to celebrate teh Xfinity Essentials program. Many of our…
IEP for Dysgraphia “Dysgraphia? What’s is dysgraphia? I’ve never heard of it!” This is a scenario that has come up many times to parents in…
New Year’s Resolutions for Moms. Pffft. Every year, many Americans set them. Yet, only 8% of us keep them. Crazy, huh? I’m part of the…
Kennedy Space Center The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is one of Florida’s top attractions, after the Orlando theme parks. The complex is located on…
IEP or 504 for Trauma or PTSD It’s amazing how we go through life, just doing what we do, not knowing what we don’t know….
We don’t do that here. I got two inquiries recently that are very similar. Both parents asked for something on their child’s IEP and were…
IEP Goals for Writing Parents can certainly assist the IEP team with developing goals. One IEP area that I find parents and teachers struggle with…
Swim Diaper for Adults This has been a huge struggle and colossal waste of money for us. Finding an adult swim diaper for an older…