The Collaborative IEP
Welcome to The Collaborative IEP podcast! This business has been in my heart for so many years, and I so excited to share it with you. In these podcasts we’ll discuss all things special education – from eligibility to implementation of the IEP. We’ll talk about basic concepts and dive deeper into specific topics. We’ll talk about self-care for caregivers and professionals that support children on IEPs. We’ll discuss best practices, behavior, therapies, and more!
S6 E233 · Tue, April 29, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1415, Part 1
In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast, I’m diving into Section 1415 of the IDEA—the part of the law that lays out procedural safeguards. These protections are game-changers for families, offering critical rights that help level the playing field in special education. I’m sharing why I care so deeply about these safeguards, breaking down what they mean, how they work, and why they matter. We’ll talk about things like your right to prior written notice, your role in meetings about your child, and how you can request an independent educational evaluation. I’m also excited to introduce something new—a retainer fee agreement created to offer consistent support to parents all school year long. Join me as we unpack these powerful tools that are here to protect and empower you and your child every step of the way. 00:00 Introduction and Recap 00:22 Diving into Section 1415: Procedural Safeguards 01:00 Personal Journey into Special Education Law 04:59 Exciting New Project Announcement 10:01 Overview of Section 1415 15:13 Detailed Breakdown of Procedural Safeguards 27:39 Conclusion and Next Steps
S6 E232 · Tue, April 22, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1414, Part 5
In this episode of the Collaborative IEP podcast, we finally finish Section 1414, specifically focusing on subsection D, which covers the development of the IEP. We’ll discuss the four essential considerations for the IEP team, including the strengths of the child, parental concerns, evaluation results, and the child's academic, developmental, and functional needs. The episode also explores special factors that must be considered, such as behavior, limited English proficiency, and assistive technology needs. Additionally, I provide insights on the role of the general education teacher, ways to amend the IEP, and the importance of parental participation in placement decisions. The episode concludes with discussions on transition objectives and the involvement of other agencies, as well as provisions for electronic meeting participation. We put in a lot of work in Section 1414! Excited to keep plugging away next week! 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:42 Key Considerations for Developing an IEP 03:15 Special Factors in IEP Development 04:30 Behavioral Considerations in IEPs 08:33 Communication and Assistive Technology Needs 11:15 Role of General Education Teachers in IEPs 13:59 Amending and Reviewing IEPs 29:23 Transition Objectives and Responsibilities 32:55 Final Provisions and Conclusion
S6 E231 · Tue, April 15, 2025
A Trip Though IDEA: Section 1414, Part 4
Welcome back to the Collaborative IEP podcast! I'm thrilled to be back after my spring break. In this episode, we continue our exploration of Section 1414 of IDEA, focusing on evaluations, eligibility determinations, individualized education programs, and educational placements. We delve into the specifics of the IEP team, its necessary members, and the complex scenarios when attendance isn't necessary or members can be excused. I also share why parents and certain specialists are critical to the process. Transitioning districts and the procedures involved, especially for military families and children aged three to five, are thoroughly discussed. Join me as I navigate through this essential section of IDEA and get ready for our next episode where we will dive into the development of the IEP. Don't forget to check out our courses and membership resources to enhance your advocacy skills! 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 01:00 Revisiting Section 1414 of IDEA 03:10 Understanding the IEP Team 17:14 IEP Team Attendance Rules 25:50 Transferring IEPs Between Districts 32:15 Conclusion and Next Steps
S6 E230 · Tue, April 08, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1414, Part 3
In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast, I'm Ashley Barlow, your host. We continue our exploration of the IDEA, specifically focusing on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Starting with IDEA Part B, Section 1414, we dive into the essential components of IEPs, including present levels of academic and functional performance, writing measurable annual goals, and outlining special education and related services. We discuss the importance of goals being specific, measurable, and tailored to the child's unique needs. I also share personal anecdotes and insights on making IEPs both strength-based and goal-oriented. Join me as we break down these complex but crucial aspects of special education. See you next week for part two! 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Rebranding 00:24 Starting the IEP Discussion 01:03 Personal Anecdotes and Updates 04:12 IEP Definitions and Components 07:29 Present Levels of Performance 14:06 Measurable Annual Goals 27:02 Progress Measurement and Reporting 32:31 Special Education and Related Services 36:25 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser
S6 E229 · Tue, April 01, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1414, Part 2
In this episode I’ll continue to break down Section 1414, Part B of the IDEA, focusing on the determination of eligibility. The discussion will emphasize the meaningful participation of parents in the eligibility process and the importance of obtaining and reviewing all necessary documentation. In this portion of SEction 1414, we’ll also learn about the severe discrepancy model for eligibility for a specific learning disability (SLD) and the use of other diagnostic criteria like Response to Intervention (RTI)/Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). Finally, we’ll wrap up for some additional sections on evaluations and reevaluations, highlighting the necessity of ongoing assessments and the importance of parent consent. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:27 Eligibility Determination Process 02:28 Practical Tips for Eligibility Meetings 03:35 Understanding Specific Learning Disabilities (SLDs) 06:22 Additional Requirements for Evaluations and Reevaluations 07:10 Review of Existing Evaluation Data 09:25 Present Levels of Academic Achievement 11:06 Final Notes on Evaluation and Reevaluation
S6 E228 · Fri, March 28, 2025
Texas vs. Becerra/Kennedy: Understanding Policy Threats to Section 504
In this special episode of The Collaborative IEP Podcast, I’m diving into a big case you might’ve heard about—Texas vs. Becerra (now Kennedy)—and what it could mean for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Section 504, which has been around since 1973, is a law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination from organizations and businesses that receive federal funding. I have read the entire case, as well as all of the filings to date, and I’ll break it all down for you – the good, the bad, and the ugly! We’ll unpack the background of the case, which involves 17 states challenging a new addition to the definition of disability—specifically, the Biden administration’s move to include gender dysphoria under that umbrella. We’ll talk about the real threat- these states’ request to find Section 504 Unconstitutional. I’ll break down what the states are arguing specifically, what’s happening with the case now, and why all of this matters—especially for our schools and the disability community. I’ll also talk about the federal vs. state power struggle at the heart of the issue and the success of the grassroots advocacy that’s come out of it (we made them backtrack significantly!). Join me for a thoughtful conversation about how this case highlights the complicated intersections between disability rights, government regulations, and the policies that affect our everyday lives. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:33 Background on Section 504 and Texas vs. Becerra 02:43 Understanding Section 504 and Its Implications 04:52 Details of the Texas vs. Becerra Case 14:08 Arguments Against the New Rule 24:13 Medicaid and Community-Based Services 26:47 State-Specific Concerns and Broader Implications 38:26 Updates and Current Status 44:56 Conclusion and Next Steps
S6 E227 · Tue, March 25, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1414, Part 1
In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast , I dive deep into the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), focusing specifically on evaluations and the IEP document itself. I'm walking you through sections 1414 A, B, and C—breaking down the purpose of different assessment tools, the requirement for parental consent, and the step-by-step procedures for evaluations and reevaluations. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 01:33 Exciting New Course Announcement 03:36 Recording from a New Location 06:11 Diving into Section 1414: Evaluations and Eligibility 21:48 Evaluation Procedures and Requirements 41:20 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics
S6 E226 · Fri, March 21, 2025
Review of the January 2025 USDOE Inclusion Guidance Document Part 2
In this special episode I’m diving into part two of our special series on the Department of Education’s policy document called Building and Sustaining Inclusive Educational Practices . This time, we’re talking all about how to actually put inclusive education into practice—with guiding principles, real-world strategies, and a big focus on belonging, leadership, and collaboration. I’ll also share some highlights on the benefits of inclusion, how to create a shared vision, and ways to use the resources you already have to make inclusion work. Plus, I’ve got some fun announcements about the ABC Course, which can help you start or grow your business as a special education advocate. Tune in for some actionable tips and key takeaways that’ll help you create more inclusive, supportive environments for all students! Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:27 Guiding Principles for Inclusive Practices 01:49 Announcements and Updates 04:42 Fostering Belonging in Education 12:48 Creating a Culture of Inclusion 19:04 Supporting Implementation of Inclusive Practices 23:05 Importance of Collaboration 24:54 Leveraging Funding and Resources 28:42 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes
S6 E225 · Tue, March 18, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1413 - LEA Eligibility
Welcome back to the Collaborative IUP podcast! I'm Ashley Barlow, your host, and today we're diving into Part B, Section 1413 of the IDEA statute. This section focuses on what local education agencies, like your school districts, need to do to ensure they receive federal funds for special education. We'll walk through the general provisions, exceptions, compliance rules, and specific uses of funds. I also share exciting updates: our recent conference's success, ongoing sales of all access passes, and the reopening of the ABC course for special education advocates. Get ready for a deep dive and join me next week as we tackle Section 1414, covering evaluations and eligibility. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:52 Conference Announcements and ABC Course 05:49 Diving into Section 1413 08:59 General Provisions of Section 1413 14:04 Exceptions and Compliance 15:06 Pooling of Resources and Early Intervention 21:05 Disciplinary Information and State Flexibility 21:53 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview
S6 E224 · Fri, March 14, 2025
Review of the January 2025 USDOE Inclusion Guidance Document
Welcome back to the Collaborative IEP podcast! I’m Ashley Barlow, your host, and today’s special episode is all about building and sustaining inclusive educational practices. We dive into the 52-page joint policy guidance from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitated Services (OSERS) and the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. This comprehensive document highlights where inclusive practices fit into the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965. We explore key concepts, practical strategies for schools to adopt, and the importance of policy documents in advocacy. Through quotes, historical context, and breakdowns of the laws, I aim to make this guidance accessible and actionable for you. Don't miss this episode, and be sure to save and print the document for future reference! 00:56 Understanding Key Laws: IDEA and ESEA 02:37 Document Breakdown and Practical Tips 03:27 The Importance of Policy Documents 04:13 Roadmap and Themes 05:26 Diving into the Introduction 10:03 ESEA and Inclusive Education 11:16 Title I: Systems and Funding 16:53 Title I: Teaching and Learning 21:01 School Wide Programs and Inclusion 31:19 Using IDEA for Inclusion 40:29 Collaboration and Professional Development 42:37 School Climate and LRE 48:29 Conclusion and Next Steps Resources Building and Sustaining Inclusive Educational Practices
S6 E223 · Tue, March 11, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1412- State Eligibility
Today, we're diving deep into Section 1412 of the IDEA, which is all about State Eligibility. We'll go through the 25 key requirements states must meet to qualify for federal funding under the IDEA. From providing a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) to ensuring students' confidentiality, and even discussing procedural safeguards, we cover it all. We'll also talk about various topics such as child find, IEP development, LRE (least restrictive environment), and transition services. This episode is packed with important information that educators and parents must know to navigate the special education landscape effectively. So let's get started! 00:09 Understanding Section 1412: State Eligibility 01:14 Key Requirements for State Funding 01:51 FAPE and Educational Opportunities 03:30 Child Find and IEP Requirements 06:34 LRE and Procedural Safeguards 10:28 Evaluation, Confidentiality, and Transition 11:47 Private Schools and State Educational Agencies 14:09 Interagency Relationships and Personnel Qualifications 18:00 Progress Monitoring and Assessments 21:56 Funding, Public Comment, and Rules of Construction 24:45 State Advisory Panels and Disciplinary Data 27:45 Instructional Materials and Over Identification 29:15 Final Provisions and Conclusion 33:50 Conference Highlights and Closing Remarks
S6 E222 · Tue, March 04, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1411- Special Education Funding
In this episode of the Collaborative IEP podcast, host Ashley Barlow returns from a brief detour in our IDEA series to discuss Section 1411 of IDEA, which is all about funding and appropriations. The episode begins with a brief overview of the significance of staying informed through trusted sources in light of recent federal-level changes. I describe some resources, including the special series on this podcast, that may be of assistance on this issue. I then provide a concise guide on how to read legal statutes effectively and dives into the specifics of IDEA Part B, Section 1411, which addresses funding and allocation of funds for special education. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of reasonable conflict resolution and highlights upcoming content and opportunities for continued learning through the Collaborative IEP Conference.
S6 E221 · Tue, February 25, 2025
True Inclusion One Step At a Time with Kayla Coburn
You know what wasn't on my BINGO card for 2025? An Anti-Inclusion Narrative! Yet, we are where we are (or if you shop at Fresh Thyme, I yam what I yam... but I digress), and that's why I'm happy to have the opportunity to share my recent conversation with our friend, Kayla Coburn, with you all! Kayla has so many wonderful resources @inclusionstarts now to help us carve out inclusive opportunities, particularly at school. And what's great about Kayla's approach is that it doesn't rely specifically on laws or protections but on mindset and community. You're going to want to hear what Kayla has to say, because you're going to want to emulate it in your communities. Happy listening!!!! Meet Kayla Hi! I'm Kayla Coburn, former para, special education teacher, education specialist, turned inclusion specialist and mom of 2. California native, relocated to the PNW. Since 2010, when I started in the field, inclusion has been the goal. Inclusion starts with you and I just want to help. Email Website Instagram
S6 E220 · Tue, February 18, 2025
Dyslexia Download with Megan Pinchback
In this episode of The Collaborative IEP Podcast, I sit down with Megan Pinchback, a highly trained CALT dyslexia therapist and owner of Dyslexia on Demand, to talk all things dyslexia intervention—from the gold standard in tutor and teacher training to the hallmarks of effective reading instruction. We also dive into important dyslexia stats, the benefits of online tutoring, and what really works for struggling readers. Plus, Megan is speaking at my upcoming conference, so be sure to tune in for a sneak peek! Meet Megan Megan Pinchback, MBA, LDT, CALT is a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist through the state of Texas. She completed her Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) training from the Scottish Rite Dyslexia Center of Austin in 2011. After a 10 year career as a special education teacher in the Texas public school system, in 2012 she transitioned into private practice as a dyslexia therapist and CALT servicing children out of her office in Dripping Springs, Texas. After 7 years of experience in private practice, she acted on her knowledge of the severe shortage of Certified Academic Language Therapists globally required to service the estimated 20% of the needed population and began Dyslexia On Demand, an exclusively web based, one on one platform connecting students with CALTs nationwide. Her understanding of the shortage of quality dyslexia servicing for children on a national level propels her daily to stretch her knowledge, voice, and reach. Megan is a Vice President of the Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA), co-host of the Don’t Call On Me Podcast, and a national speaker on dyslexia. Additionally, she holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Business Administration through Louisiana State University. She is passionate about dyslexia advocacy, legislation at the state and national level, and supporting students and parents through the social-emotional impact of dyslexia and the struggle to receive appropriate servicing. Additionally, and most importantly, she is a wife and the mother to five wonderful children ranging in ages from 7 to 26 years old. She and her family enjoy spending as much time as they can together and outside in the beautiful Texas hill country an hour outside of Austin, Texas. Email Website Podcast Instagram Facebook LinkedIn <a href=
S6 E219 · Mon, February 17, 2025
Big Changes Ahead? What’s Happening with the U.S. Department of Education and What It Means for Special Education
Series: Education on the Line: Special Education Policy Watch The Trump administration has indicated that its plan at the beginning of its administration is to flood citizens with a barrage of information and a tidal wave of change to invoke overwhelm, allowing them to force policy and legislative changes on us before we see them coming. My dispute resolution body and soul tell me that when the going gets information-heavy and high-paced, the effective advocates get reasonable, rational, and thoughtful. So, we’re starting a new series where we stand watch over the Department of Education and its Offices of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Special Education Programs, and Civil Rights. We’ll provide you succinct, brief, easy-to-follow updates; potential impacts of policy and legislative changes; and actionable tasks to ensure the rights of our students are protected. Major shifts may be coming to the U.S. Department of Education, and they could have profound effects on children with disabilities. In this special episode we try to break down what’s happening in clear, practical, pragmatic terms. From the potential reduction—or even elimination—of the DOE to the impact of shifting offices like the OCR to other agencies, we’ll explore what these changes could mean for special education funding, enforcement, implementation, and policy. We’ll also cover takeaways from Linda McMahon’s Senate confirmation hearings; the status of existing and potential executive orders affecting staffing and regulations; and the real-world consequences for students, families, and educators. Finally, we’ll share practical action steps—both big and small—that parents and advocates can take right now to stay informed and protect educational rights. As always, my goal is to provide a framework that empowers you to navigate these potential changes with clarity and confidence. I also aim to provide a bit of comfort, because despite the significant risk that students with disabilities are facing, there’s still plenty of good in this (admittedly wacky) world. Now more than ever, building strong, positive relationships with teachers, therapists, and administrators is critical; and I’ll walk you through every step of the way. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and ensure your voice is heard in protecting the future of special education. Resources The IEP Guru Academy The Collaborative IEP Membership
S6 E218 · Tue, February 11, 2025
Boundless Hope for Every Child with Kim Botto
You're definitely not alone if you love a disabled person and have struggled to find a church community. You're also not alone is finding community ANYwhere is hard! If that's you, you're going to love this interview with my friend, Kim Botto. Kim's book, Boundless Hope for Every Child, is so insightful and helpful. I mean, how could you not love the tagline... Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely. Kim's one of those people who not only "gets it" but can also put her wisdom into actionable tasks. She's a delight, and so's this episode!
S6 E217 · Tue, February 04, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Sections 1402-1409-OSEP, Dear Colleague Letters, Policy Docs, and More!
We're working our way, section by section, through IDEA, our federal law. After today's quick podcast, you will be able to say you have been taught Subchapter I/ Part A inside and out!!! Today we'll work through several sections, some admittedly kind of perfunctory, but I try to tell you why they matter to YOU! And then we'll learn about some of my favorite tools ever, Dear Colleague Letters, Policy Documents, and other Guidance!!!
S6 E216 · Tue, January 28, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1401 - What the Definitions Teach Us
In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most important but often overlooked sections of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): the definitions. We’ll explore why these definitions are more than just legal jargon—they’re the foundation of your advocacy efforts. You’ll learn how understanding key terms like “FAPE,” “least restrictive environment,” and “assistive technology” can empower you to navigate IEP meetings with confidence, ensure your child gets the services they’re entitled to, and prevent misinterpretation by schools. Whether you’re a parent, advocate, or educator, this episode will give you the tools to leverage IDEA’s definitions to support children with disabilities effectively.
S6 E215 · Tue, January 21, 2025
A Trip Through IDEA: Section 1400- Congress’s Findings and Purpose
In this brand-new series, we're diving deep into the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to break it down in simple, actionable terms. We are literally going section by section through the law, and I'll try my best to make it easy to understanding, stopping to provide advocacy ideas along the way. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or advocate, you'll gain clarity on the law and practical tools to use it effectively in IEP advocacy. And if you're in the Membership, stay tuned!!! In preparing for the first two episodes, I have a list of three bonuses for you already!!!! :) In this first episode, we’ll unpack Section 1400, which lays the foundation of IDEA by detailing Congress's findings and the purposes of the law. I’ll translate the legal jargon into plain English, connect it to real-world advocacy scenarios, and share strategies to help you leverage this section in your advocacy efforts. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the complexity of special education laws, this series is for you. Join me as we explore IDEA one section at a time—with plenty of insights and tools to help you along the way!
S6 E214 · Tue, January 14, 2025
Interroception While I Make Coffee
In today's episode I'm giving you to down low on Interroception, the sense of feeling your feelings and accessing skills and tools to ameliorate them when they're uncomfortable. This is part of a series where I give you little snippets of helpful information in short bursts- similar to how I do it in the IEP Guru Academy products! Over half of my IEP meetings deal with Interroception, at least in small part, so this topic is a can't miss, super duper helpful one! Enjoy!
S6 E213 · Tue, January 07, 2025
Real Talk: Disappointment and Determination
This week on the podcast, I’m getting real with you. I’ll share my honest reflections on the IEP Guru Academy launch, why it didn’t go as planned, and what I’ve learned about the challenges of advocacy in special education. Spoiler alert- it was a bummer. But here’s the thing—I’m not staying in disappointment. Instead, I’m using it to inspire a fresh start for all of us in 2025. Let’s talk about why advocacy feels hard, why it’s so worth it, and how we can tackle it together with hope and intention. Tune in for honesty, encouragement, and a challenge to make this year count—for you, your child, and the entire disability community!
S6 E212 · Tue, December 17, 2024
Interoception 101 While I Paint My Nails!!!
Want to learn about interoception in 20 minutes or less? I’m breaking it down for you in this episode – literally faster than it takes me to paint my nails! 💅 Interoception is the ability to sense what's going on inside our bodies – think hunger, thirst, or even when we need to use the bathroom. It’s a critical skill, especially for kids with sensory processing challenges, and understanding it can make a huge difference when advocating for supports at the IEP table. This episode packs a lot of info into a short amount of time, just like our IEP Guru Academy videos. In these videos, we dive into these topics in even more detail, offering quick, actionable lessons to help you navigate IEP meetings with confidence! Resources The IEP Guru Academy The Collaborative IEP Membership
S6 E211 · Tue, December 10, 2024
Behavior 101 in 12 Minutes or Less
Behavior. It’s the buzzword at so many IEP meetings, yet it’s often misunderstood, overcomplicated or downright ignored. Today, I’m breaking it down in just 12 minutes—or less! You’ll get my behavior 'ditty'—a quick, memorable way to think about and address behavior effectively. Why? Because this perspective is a game-changer in IEP meetings and school discussions, and I want you to see just how much you can learn in a short time. It’s a sneak peek at the kind of value-packed strategies I share in the IEP Guru Academy videos! Resources The IEP Guru Academy The Collaborative IEP Membership
S6 E210 · Tue, December 03, 2024
IQ Testing, Disability Categories, and Inclusion: What You Need to Know
How does IQ testing affect your child’s eligibility for special education services, their disability category under IDEA, and their placement in the least restrictive environment (LRE)? In this episode, we break it all down. We’ll explore the purpose of IQ testing, its limitations, and how it fits into the broader picture of determining your child’s unique needs. You’ll learn how disability categories influence placement decisions and why IQ scores should never be the sole factor in deciding your child’s educational path. Join us for practical tips on navigating IEP discussions, challenging the misuse of IQ scores, and advocating for inclusive opportunities that focus on your child’s strengths. If you’ve ever wondered how these pieces fit together, this episode is for you! Resources The IEP Guru Academy The Collaborative IEP Membership
S6 E209 · Tue, November 26, 2024
Bridging the Gap: How Healthy Debate Strengthens IEP Teams
Conflict is often seen as something to avoid, but what if it’s the key to progress? In this episode, we explore how productive conflict can strengthen relationships, spark creativity, and lead to better outcomes—both in everyday life and at the IEP table. We'll share real-life examples of how disagreements, when handled constructively, have driven innovation, resolved long-standing issues, and built stronger teams. Then, we’ll dive into how embracing healthy debate can transform IEP meetings. You’ll learn practical strategies to navigate conflict with confidence, turn differing perspectives into actionable solutions, and keep your focus on what matters most: the child’s needs. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or advocate, this episode will inspire you to view conflict as a tool for collaboration and growth. Resources The IEP Guru Academy The Collaborative IEP Membership
S6 E208 · Tue, November 19, 2024
Introducing the IEP Guru Academy
Are you ready to tackle IEP meetings with confidence and ease? 💪 In this week’s episode, I’m introducing something that’s going to change the game for parents and teachers: the IEP Guru Academy Videos! What you’ll learn in this episode: ✨ How these short, focused videos meet YOUR needs. ✨ The practical strategies, workbooks, and tools they offer. ✨ Why they’re perfect for busy parents and educators who want quick, effective solutions. 💡 Imagine walking into your next IEP meeting feeling prepared, calm, and ready to advocate for your child. These videos make it possible—and I’m breaking it all down for you in today’s episode!
S6 E207 · Tue, November 12, 2024
Big news! We’re rebranding!
We’re rebranding! After much thought and heart, I'm thrilled to introduce The Collaborative IEP—a brand that better reflects our mission to empower and support families and educators in navigating the IEP process together. 💪💙And that’s not all! To kick off this new chapter, I’m launching the IEP Guru Academy videos—short, affordable, and jam-packed with practical strategies designed to make your IEP advocacy journey easier. Each video is a powerful tool, helping you feel more prepared and confident without taking too much time out of your busy day. Catch all the details in this week's podcast episode, where I share why I made these changes, what you can expect from The Collaborative IEP, and a sneak peek into the new IEP Guru Academy videos.Tune in now and join me in this exciting next step!
S5 E206 · Tue, October 29, 2024
Supporting Complex Interfering Behaviors With Dr. Rachel Schwartz
We wrap up our 200th episode celebration today with one of your favorite repeat guests, Dr. Rachel Schwartz, and man did we ever have fun! Dr. Rachel and I set out with a loose idea of discussion topics, but what you really get in this episode is a discussion between someone who supports IEP teams in supporting students' behavior and an advocate who sees the trends when things go south. Dr. Rachel provides so many insights and strategies for common behavioral issues at schools - both how to support the student and how to advocate within IEP teams. We talk reinforcers, skill deficits, replacement behaviors, sensory process, belonging, and even shame!!!! That one blew my mind and made me want to re-read every Brene Brown book with my clients in mind! I know you'll love this episode! Rachel Schwartz, Ph.D., BCBA-D , has worked internationally creating and supervising programs for individuals with disabilities. Her work as a consultant and trainer includes teaching behavior analytic strategies and exploring issues related to sexual education and quality of life. Dr. Schwartz has published original research on these topics in special education journals as well as presented at national, state, and local conferences. Through her work as a trainer and consultant with the Watson Institute in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dr. Schwartz taps into more than 15 years of experience working in special education to empower students, families, and professionals. Links: The Watson Institute LinkedIn- The Watson Institute When Behavior Impedes Learning- ADDitude A Parent's Guide to Problem-Solving Problem Behaviors (ADDitude)
S5 E205 · Tue, October 22, 2024
Reckoning with IQ testing with author and mother, Pepper Stettler
When Pepper Stettler's daughter, Louisa, was first entering school, she was IQ tested. Pepper didn't think much of it... until the results came in. What happened next prompted Pepper to go on a years-long journey of research and discovery. Pepper assimilated the results of that into a book called A Measure of Intelligence: One Mother's Reckoning with the IQ Test, and boy is it ever good! In the book, Pepper explores not only the history of IQ testing but also the methodology of testing, the impact on people with disabilities, the impact on the special education system, and so much more. Pepper and I set out to answer some common interview questions, and even though I never read one questions during our interview, we answered all of them in an organic, excited conversation! That's my favorite kind of interview! If you've ever wondered about IQ testing, how it impacts eligibility, or how it affects special education, this is a must listen! Pepper's book can be found on Amazon or other booksellers! Pepper Stetler is the author of A Measure of Intelligence: One Mother's Reckoning with the IQ Test . She writes extensively on issues facing people with intellectual disabilities and their caregivers. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times , The Atlantic , Slate, The Progressive, the Ploughshares blog and Gulf Coast. Pepper is a professor of Art History at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where she lives with her husband and daughter Louisa. Website Book
S5 E204 · Tue, October 15, 2024
A Student's Success Story with Mandi Jamison
As we wrap up this 200th celebration In this inspiring episode, I sit down with my friend Mandi Jamison, whose daughter, Clara, has defied expectations. Clara, who has Down syndrome, was a varsity cheerleader and is now pursuing her dreams as a model. Mandi shares her journey as a dedicated advocate, working tirelessly to secure Clara's inclusion in extracurricular activities, academics, and cheerleading. Together, we discuss the challenges, triumphs, and the powerful impact of advocacy in creating opportunities for children with disabilities. You won't want to miss this uplifting story of perseverance and breaking barriers! Mandi Jamison A dedicated stay-at-home mom of three—ages 21, 19, and 4—and proud cat owner to Poptart, I hold a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Xavier University. Married to my high school sweetheart, I love learning about photography, and stalking Google flights for travel deals.
S5 E203 · Tue, October 08, 2024
Navigating PDA and More with Our Fave, Dr. Taylor Day
Does your child experience demand avoidance? This episode is all about Pathological Demand Avoidance/Persistent Drive for Autonomy, and our guest is one of your favorites, not to mention MINE! Dr. Taylor Day is my go to on demand avoidance and drive or autonomy, and in this episode we dive a little deeper into PDA and what it means to support students that experience it. Taylor talks us through this concept of "non-negotiables," "shoulds," and "yets," one of the best pieces of behavior advice I have ever heard as a mom! I got so jazzed during this episode that I couldn't help but insert some advocacy advice. I find PDA so hard to navigate with school teams. and this conversation opened so many doors for me! Hope it helps you! Meet My Guest Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed psychologist specializing in neurodivergent affirming care for autistic children and their families, including very early diagnosis and early intervention. She has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is the CEO and founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care. Her practice integrates The Whole Family Approach, a process she created utilizing evidence-informed principles after seeing a gap in autism care. Her passion for child psychology and her focus on autism is in many ways tied to her own personal experience growing up with a brother who was diagnosed at 23 months of age. EVOLVE (Membership) Free Support Guide for your PDA Child Instagram
S5 E202 · Tue, October 01, 2024
What To Ask Your School and How with Special Education Assessment Reports with April Rehrig
As we continue to celebrate our 200th episode, we welcome school-psych-turned-advocate, April Rehrig to the pod this week! April's been on the pod twice before, and you all have loved her. I think that's because she's a) so incredibly knowledgeable and b) really good at explaining hard stuff. Because April's a school psych, she's really good at special education eligibility and reading reports. That's why we had her talk about what to ask your school people about special education evaluations and how to do so. Join us for this crazy helpful episode... and join me in wishing April a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY today, too!!!! Meet the Guest April Rehrig is the founder of Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting, LLC . She spent over 20 years as a teacher and school psychologist before starting Rise. April is a Licensed Educational Psychologist and Board Certified Special Education Advocate. She’s a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and Master IEP Coach©️. Rise offers Parent IEP Coaching , Teachers Pay Teachers Toolkits & Templates , Group Training , and DIY IEP Workshops . Follow April on Instagram @riseedadvocacy , YouTube at Rise Educational Advocacy , and book a Parent Consultation .
S5 E201 · Tue, September 24, 2024
Beyond the Basics of Potty Training with Molly Johnson
Whenever we have a potty training expert come to our local Down syndrome association, spots fill up instantly. That's one of the reasons I was so drawn to Molly Johnson's account on IG years ago. The other reason: She's just amazing! We hosted Molly back in Episode 136 , and her episode was so popular that we invited her back to go Beyond the Basics in potty training! Molly makes things just so simple and reasonable. I know you'll love this episode. Molly Johnson is an autism consultant, working with parents to reduce challenging behaviors and develop new skills. When working with parents, Molly helps families understand the reason for the barrier and how to move beyond that barrier. After years of being an autism teacher, it was clear that parents needed guidance on behaviors and skills at home. Molly now supports parents from all over the world to improve behaviors, skills, and advocacy. Website Facebook Instagram
S5 E200 · Tue, September 17, 2024
200th Episode Celebration
It's time to celebrate—200 episodes of Special Education Advocacy with Ashley Barlow! In this special milestone episode, I’m answering YOUR questions! You all made me think, reflect, and grow, and I couldn’t be more grateful. 💙 Thank you to each and every one of you for tuning in, sharing your stories, and being such loyal listeners. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m so honored to be part of your advocacy journey! Here’s to many more episodes together! 🎧✨ In today’s episode, I reference a few fan-favorite episodes: Episode 13: The Wright Way with THE Special Education Guru - Pete Wright We dove into the world of special education law with Pete Wright, a true legend in the advocacy community. His expertise and insights still resonate with advocates across the country. Episode 41: Equity, Inclusion, and More with Heather Avis from The Lucky Few This episode with Heather Avis sparked a powerful discussion about inclusion and belonging, as we explored the challenges and joys of true equity in education. Episodes 28, 29, & 30: Allllll Things Dyslexia with Daphne Corder Our three-part series with Daphne Corder was packed with actionable information about dyslexia. From early intervention to accommodations, we covered all the bases for parents and educators alike. Episode 17: Caroling for the Caregiver: Mind, Body, and Spirit with Kara Ryska A beautiful conversation with Kara Ryska about the importance of self-care for caregivers. This episode was a heartfelt reminder to prioritize our own well-being as we care for others.
S5 E199 · Tue, September 10, 2024
Where Do IEP Teams Start With Behaviors with Dr. Annie McLaughlin
Nobody has time for complicated, convoluted conversations about behavior supports at schools. When students struggle with behaviors, all members of IEP teams are left feeling frustrated, concerned, and exhausted. IEP teams need no-nonsense, effective, and efficient help supporting their students behaviorally, and the good news is that Dr. Annie McLaughlin is in this world. When I asked Dr. Annie where IEP teams should start with Behavior Supports, she said, "Believing that the child is trying to tell you something." Woah! What if we all started with mindset and communication? What if we all assumed positive intention from the child? What if we all looked for the need? Dr. Annie is the real deal, and in this episode she and I talk through behavior supports, collaboration amongst school teams, advocacy supports, and so much more! If you like Dr. Annie's episode, be sure to check out Episode 127 when I you first met her on our little pod!!! Find Dr. Annie: Dr. Annie is a full time educational consultant in Maryland where she helps families navigate the IEP process as well as train school systems on best practices in Special Education and behavior analysis. She began her career as a special education teacher and behavior analyst in clinics and schools before transitioning full time to consulting and advocacy. She has three elementary and middle school aged children and enjoys gardening with them. Facebook Instagram Website
S5 E198 · Tue, September 03, 2024
When Inclusion Doesn't Work With Heather Avis from The Lucky Few
My friend, Heather Avis is a fierce advocate from whom we can all learn something. When she and I planned this episode, we chatted about what happens when families (spoiler alert: like hers) have to make the hard decision to access a more restrictive/less inclusive setting for their children at school. We had so much content planned... but then we hit record and we had an even better discussion about so many things that weigh on parents' and educators' hearts. What is the true definition of inclusion? What does it mean to belong? Where do inclusion and belonging intersect? What do we do when we know schools don't have the tools for promote inclusion? This episode is deep, informative, thoughtful, and inspiring... just like Heather! I hope you'll love it! Find Heather Website Podcast Book
S5 E197 · Tue, August 27, 2024
Preparing to Meet Your Attorney to Advocate for the First Time
Repeat after me... Time is Money! Most attorneys and advocates charge by the hour, and regardless of their hourly rate, we'd all like more Benjamins in our pockets. If you're seeing an attorney or advocate, you're also likely struggling to get your child the right IEP/504 supports, which is horrendously important. And your kids are so, so deserving. Getting just the right information to your special education attorney or advocate in just the right amount of time is therefore a bit of science. So, this episode is all about preparing for your quick intake call and initial consult with your attorney or advocate. I'll give you the 411 on what information my clients struggle to give, what documentation to bring, and how to present the information to save money and get the best results! Links Mentioned: SpeakPike Market Research
S5 E196 · Tue, August 20, 2024
You Don't Have to Do Special Education Alone
Did you know that people are more liked if they ask for help? There's tons of research behind that. I think it's normal to dive deep into ourselves - to go down all of the rabbit holes - to stick our heads in the sand - to withdraw- especially when the burden of advocating for our kids with disabilities increases. But the fact remains that we don't have to do it alone... and our outcomes will undoubtedly be better if we have strong community along the way. In today's episode, I brainstorm tons of ways you can access community, both in your school and in other circles, which will improve your advocacy, provide inspiration, and occasionally give you an outlet. Plus, as we approach out 200th episode, I provide information on how you can contribute to our big milestone. Here's the link for you to submit your questions: https://www.speakpipe.com/AshleyBarlow
S5 E195 · Tue, August 13, 2024
Igniting the Fire: Finding Inspiration for your Advocacy
Sometimes you just can't even. Am I right?! We've all been there... we know we should be more involved in our children's IEP teams and to collaborate more with them, but gosh, we are just so checked out. It's okay, friends. It happens to the best of us, and it's likely a super normal thing to occur. In today's episode I talk about a lull in my motivation recently, as well as what I did to find inspiration again. Then, we apply it to our special education advocacy efforts. Feeling blah about advocacy today? I'll give you several tips on how to turn that feeling into fire!!! Hope it helps!
S5 E194 · Tue, August 06, 2024
Tried and True Tips for Dealing With School Anxiety
There are two types of kids- those that are excited to go back to school and those that aren't! While I completely believe that we can hold space for allllllll sorts of emotions around school attendance, I also know that society doesn't really make kids that experience school refusal feel "normal." If it did, the #1 question asked of kids in August would be, "Are you feeling kinda blah about going back to school?" We all know the #1 thing asked of your kids, though, is related to their "excitement" regarding the school year. This question alone has provoked a lot of anxiety in our house over the years and for many different reasons. So, today I'm sharing some tips that have helped the Barlow kids and many of my clients with school anxiety - both at the beginning of the year and throughout the year as well. One such tip just sprung into my head during one of Jack's school refusal episodes, and it has helped us for so many years. I hope this is helpful to your family, as I know how hard anxiety can be to support!
S5 E193 · Tue, July 16, 2024
Future Forward IEP Advocacy
The time to start thinking about the Transition to Adulthood is Yesterday. Womp womp! I'm so sorry! In this episode I'll scare the socks off of you... Just kidding! But we'll talk about things to *think* about NOW, no matter you child's age, which will help you prepare them for adulthood. You'll hear a story about my own dinner table that prompted the idea for this episode, too!
S5 E192 · Tue, July 09, 2024
Before You Write a Goal
In today's episode we talk about six things I think you should have, know, analyze, and ask prior to writing annual IEP goals. The list is short, simple, and definitely not intimidating, but it will undoubtedly make a big difference in your next IEP meeting.
S5 E191 · Tue, July 02, 2024
The Inclusion Workshop
Inclusion is probably the special education topic for which I'm hired as an attorney the most often. It's definitely the topic about which my network calls for help. Several years ago, I started recording myself while talking to advocates and attorneys about inclusion, because as I talked to them I'd sometimes come up with efficient, wise statements that were helpful in advocacy. Eventually I took all of that content and made one of my favorite resources, The Inclusion Workshop. In today's episode I walk you through the parts of the Inclusion Workshop in case that's a resource that may benefit your family or community. As a special bonus, you even get to hear one of Jack's meltdowns!!!
S5 E190 · Tue, June 25, 2024
The IEP Binder
Wouldn't it be amazing if you had someone else to build your IEP Binder? Fill-in-the-blank guides to communicate with your school, the straight and narrow on legal and educational topics, and tutorials on navigating things like inclusion and behavior interventions are coming your way in the ABClub IEP Binder! In today's episode I walk you through some of the resources I have to help you build your binder! Looking to get organized this summer? I got you!
S5 E189 · Tue, June 18, 2024
Using Decodable Readers
My Facebook memories have been making me feel guilty as of late. Now that I'm elbow deep in Science of Reading and Orton Gillinghma, I watch some of the things I used to do with Jack and cringe. In today's episode I talk to you a little about our past in reading and then offer the solution of decodable readers. I hope this helps you make your summer work effective and simply better!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/MnsAP72LUow
S5 E188 · Tue, June 04, 2024
Employment and Transition with Lisa Hernandez
At this year's COPAA conference I met attorney, Lisa Hernandez, at the coffee bar, and in about 3 sentences, she blew my mind on the topic of employment of people with disabilities. I took her card and invited her on the podcast immediately! If your kid is transition-aged (yes, that's ALL of you in my opinion), you're going to LOVE thinking about employment through this lens. Lisa continued to enlighten me throughout this episode, and I think I'll go back and listen to it again with you all to make sure I totally retain everything she's shared with us! It's just that good! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/M2KFRAHbFbL Lisa A. Hernandez is Counsel at Smith Eibeler, LLC. Lisa practices plaintiff-side employment law, representing individuals in all aspects of employment law and litigation, including claims of unlawful termination and discrimination, sexual harassment and whistle-blower retaliation. Lisa also leads the firm’s education law practice, helping families and students with disabilities navigate special education disputes, school-based accommodations, and transition planning to prepare students for employment and independent living.
S5 E187 · Tue, May 28, 2024
COPAA Conversations: Part 03, David Jefferson
Today we wrap up the COPAA series with a really great conversation with David Jefferson, the President of the Board of Directors. David's journey to advocacy from the corporate world is super interesting and relatable, and you'll learn how he built a large advocacy business in a few short years. David's got a heart for advocacy - and the right tools to get results for his clients. If you've ever thought about advocacy, this episode is for you!!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/k7Y2sB9pQMo David Jefferson (Arizona) - As a parent of special needs children, David understands and appreciates all of the difficulties parent’s face as they try and navigate the special education maze. David formed Parent Support Arizona to ensure parents have a local resource and the tools they need to ensure their children’s educational needs are met. Over the past few years, David has sought administrative remedies through the State Department of Education, Office of Administrative Hearings OCR and FERPA. David uses these experiences to provide civil rights advocacy, educational advocacy, parent training and represent parents in IDEA due process hearings in the State of Arizona. In addition he offers self-help tools and resources that allow parents to advocate for themselves and on an equal footing with schools as they advocate for their children’s rights.
S5 E186 · Tue, May 21, 2024
COPAA Conversations: Part 02, Amy Bonn
If you've ever wanted to crawl inside my brain to have a conversation on special education advocacy, law, and practice, here's your chance. Amy Bonn, consulting attorney, with COPAA, speaks. my. language. Amy and I have a hearty conversation about our jobs as special education attorneys, and it's just too good! Sometimes while I record with guests, I write down the time that a particular quote happens or a quote itself. I had to stop writing on this one, because I'd filled two big Post Its!!!! Tune in for All Things SPED Law and Advocacy today! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/LBuZb8GKRdH Amy Bonn, Esq. - Amy is a Nebraska attorney providing legal representation to families of children with disabilities in special education matters. Amy is a summa cum laude graduate of Creighton University School of Law, where she was a member of the board of editors of the Creighton Law Review. She is licensed to practice in state and federal courts in Nebraska. Amy is also a proud parent of children with developmental disabilities. She completed a ten-month traineeship in disability advocacy and leadership at the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities at the Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, where her research focus was on parental advocacy in special education.
S5 E185 · Tue, May 14, 2024
COPAA Conversations: Part 01, Denise Marshall
Today we roll out a new series on the podcast called COPAA Conversations by chatting with Denise Marshall, the CEO of the Council of Parents, Attorneys, and Advocates. COPAA’s mission is to protect and enforce the legal and civil rights of students with disabilities and their families. The organization offers trainings, an amazing conference, public policy work, legal assistance, really effective committees, and more! It's seriously my one-stop shop for information and community in my work. Denise and I chat about all things COPAA in this episode, and of course, we dive into some of our favorite advocacy tools and ideas! I hope you'll join us and check out COPAA! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/Tx38ehX5c7M Denise Stile Marshall, M.S. - Denise has led the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) since 2005. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Science. Denise has over 40 years’ experience in the field of disabilities in a variety of support, management, and advocacy capacities. She has a wealth of non-profit association management experience and is a dynamic trainer, experienced in leading sessions for participants of diverse abilities and experience levels. Prior to becoming the CEO of COPAA Denise was the Director of Training and Educational Outreach for the national organization TASH from 1995-2005, the Program Manager and trainer for Maryland Leaders in Disability Policy; and a Positive Behavior Support specialist and Director of the National Training Center for The Kennedy Krieger Institute in Maryland among other consulting and management positions. Denise's specific areas of interest are civil right to quality education, positive behavioral supports, prevention and reduction in the use of restraints, abolishment of seclusion and aversive techniques, family supports, grassroots advocacy, self-advocacy, and experiential learning. Denise and her husband are the parents of two children and have three grandchildren, one of whom has Down syndrome.
S5 E184 · Tue, May 07, 2024
Negotiation Strategies Straight Out of Psychology
Ever feel like you need to up the ante on your Negotiation but feel stuck in how to do that? How about a tool that psychologists use to help people get to the root of their own struggles? In today's episode we're going to dive a little deeper into a concept I call "Tactical Empathy," and we'll work on validating the emotions of all of the people at the IEP table. For some people this is super intuitive. For others it isn't, which is okay, because there are a few things you can do to change the vibe of a meeting in a snap!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8sQAp7hltLn
S5 E183 · Tue, April 30, 2024
One Crucial Mistake Parents Make In IEP Meetings
We've all been there. The IEP Meeting is going well. Everyone is smiling, the computer system is working, the child is making progress. Then... (record scratch)... things go sideways. In today's episode I talk about one common IEP Pitfall, and it's so obvious. Fortunately, the solution is also super obvious and easy, so I'll walk you through that, too! This is an easy, quick listen before your annual IEP Meeting! Like stuff like this? Consider joining our ABC Course where you get my Negotiation Workshop exclusively!
S5 E182 · Tue, April 23, 2024
IEP Meeting Strategy: Suggesting IEP Edits
One of my most favorite and successful strategies has very little to do with negotiation strategy. Rather, it is founded in a desire to make meetings as efficient as possible... but it has a huge positive impact. In today's episode I share my tried and true strategy of requesting a draft of an IEP prior to the meeting and then submitting written questions, comments, and ideas back to the school team prior to the meeting. This strategy was meant to simply be efficient, but it has had a huge impact of IEP meetings for me. I hope you find it helpful, too!
S5 E181 · Tue, April 09, 2024
Practical Arguments For Inclusion Cases
I talk to about one professional a week about an Inclusion case. Attorneys, advocates, outpatient therapists, social workers, pediatricians, and so many other professionals have questions about Inclusion. I'm not only honored that these colleagues call me, but I'm also always excited to geek out about Inclusion and to provide my insight. The only group of folks that I consistently disappoint is the attorneys. Why? Because my approach to inclusion cases is really hands-on. It's practical. It's communicative. It's sometimes even messy. In today's episode, I'll give you some of the practical tips that I've dished out to some of my friends in the last few weeks.
S5 E180 · Tue, April 02, 2024
What Happens In Special Education Anyway?
I like to say that the "heart and soul" of special education is the specially designed instruction. This is the instruction that is supposed to be uniquely tailored to the child's needs. This should be drastically different from the accommodations and modifications that students on IEPs get in their general education classrooms and other environments at school. When I recently spoke on Specially Designed Instruction to parents, attorneys, and advocates, I got a ton of questions: What's the difference between SDI and Tier 1 / whole group instruction. Is SDI the same as modifying work? Is SDI like tutoring? Where does SDI occur? Let's dive into these questions in today's episode. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/9ZF4KwqNrV4
S5 E179 · Tue, March 26, 2024
IEE Basics
Oh, the emails I got! I posted about IEEs in my stories a few weeks ago, and I got so many messages from professionals asking about them. I took those questions as a sign that we needed to spend a second more on IEEs here on the pod. So, let's take a step backwards and hammer in on a few basics on Individual Education Evaluations. Fact One: They're free. Fact Two: They're intended to level the playing field for parents in special education. Now that I have you attention, tune in to the whole episode for more!!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/Mnj8VduBVK7
S5 E178 · Tue, March 19, 2024
The IEE and IQ Testing
Last week I attended the COPAA Conference, and a session on IEEs, presented by esteemed VA SPED attorney, Melissa Waugh, I had an epiphany about cognitive testing. Many of my clients that have kids with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities shy away from cognitive/ IQ testing. In this episode, we'll ponder (yet another) reason why this may not be a great idea. I promise to invite Melissa to be on the pod, too, because man alive, she's a wealth of information!
S5 E177 · Tue, March 12, 2024
What is Specially Designed Instruction?
Last week I presented at COPAA, the Counsel for Parents, Attorneys, and Advocates, which is my favorite conference of the year. The topic of my presentation matches this week's podcast topic. Maybe soon I'll invite my co-presenter, the amazing Melissa Waugh, from Virginia's famous and wonderful firm, The Belkowitz Firm, on to the pod. But for now, i want to share an experience with you, and then I want to dive into the shallow end of SDI with you. It has been my recently experience that district's arent's providing SDI, and worse, don't know it. What can you do about it? Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8GTndSde5UP
S5 E176 · Tue, March 05, 2024
Naturopathic Medicine and Your Family with Nina Marie Rueda
I’ve been on a health journey since I broke my back at the age of 15. I quickly learned that my body responds to natural remedies really, really well. While I started with massage and movement, the onset of my autoimmune symptoms in my 30s led me to exploring nutrition, acupuncture, meditation, and so many more “alternative” medicine options. That’s how I found Dr. Nina Marie Rueda, a naturopathic medicine professional, who has a wealth of information on Instagram and her website! I can’t wait for you to meet her! Dr. Nina-Marie Rueda is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on health in the perinatal time. After having been trained as a doula by the midwife who is the Director at her local birth center, she went on to receive her postpartum doula training and lactation educator training from CAPPA. Nina-Marie works with mothers to determine where the imbalances in digestive function, hormones, and through blood chemistry are occurring in order educate on individualized needs to regain optimal health, which can look like regained energy after long bouts of fatigue, ridding PMS symptoms once and for all, enjoying self-control instead of moments of outrage at her toddler, strength, and fat loss, among other things like getting rid of headaches and migraines. With her expertise in nutrition and perinatal health, mothers are able to be transformed into the women they want to be. Paired with her training as a labor doula, postpartum doula, lactation educator, and private chef, Nina-Marie brings a well-rounded approach to care while working with mothers and supporting/educating other doulas to do the same. Website: https://doctorninamarie.com/
S5 E175 · Tue, February 27, 2024
Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child with Kelley Coleman
If your brain gets overwhelmed with all of the tasks, and if you soul likes lists, this episode is for you! Diagnosis, Therapies, Advocacy, Inclusion, Caregiving... Oh My! In Kelley Coleman's new book, which shares the name of this episode, she shares insights, including advice from experts, on each of those topics (and several others). Her advice includes background information, stories of others, what worked for her own family, lists, templates, and so many other tools! This is a book you'll want on your bookshelf... and Kelley's a friend you're going to want and need for the next several years! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/kVsK3cwFroT Kelley Coleman is a feature film development executive turned author and advocate for parent caregivers and individuals with disabilities. Her book Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports draws upon over a decade of advocacy, gained through her own journey parenting a child with multiple disabilities. Kelley lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two boys, and her son’s trusty service dog. Website: https://www.kelleycoleman.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellokelleycoleman/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelley.coleman.56 Pre-Order your copy: Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports available March 13, 2024: https://www.kelleycoleman.com/books
S5 E174 · Tue, February 20, 2024
Katie Larew's Approach to Thriving with Dyslexia
Not only do I love where our friend, Katie Larew, lives (#SoCal)... I love EVERYthing Katie Larew shares over at Assistive Technology for Dyslexia! AT is such a wide-ranging topic, and AT supports can positively impact outcomes for SO many students. However, there remain so many myths about and impediments to getting good technological supports at school. Thank heavens for Katie! In today's episode we talk all things AT, and we also fangirl about the sun and surf!!!! Join us in this fun, light-hearted episode! And also I promise to have Katie back when I'm not essentially mid-root-canal! Transcript : https://share.descript.com/view/8rlqyiqG2zZ Katie Larew is the founder of Assistive Technology for Dyslexia, LLC. She began working in the field of Special Education in 2007 as a classroom Special Education Teacher. As an Assistive Technology Specialist, Katie has worked with students from elementary, middle, and high school. She holds a Master’s Degree in Special Education as well as additional certifications as an IMSLEC certified Orton-Gillingham Teacher, CERI Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist and RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional. Katie serves on the Board of Directors for The International Dyslexia Association, San Diego Branch and is an active member of the International Dyslexia Association, Center for Effective Reading Instruction, and Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. Katie works with students, parents, and educators by providing consultations, customized step-by-step virtual training, and professional development. Training topics focus on Assistive Technology tools to support the areas of Reading, Writing, Note-Taking, Organization, and Executive Functions. Katie’s mission is to help spread greater awareness of Assistive Technology to help students build their confidence and independence. Katie is a wife & mom to two under five. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and exploring Southern California. Website: https://assistivetechnologyfordyslexia.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assistivetechnologyfordyslexia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/assistivetechnologyfordyslexia
S5 E173 · Tue, February 13, 2024
Passionate Inclusion with Suzanne Lezotte
Sometimes you meet somehow whose life parallels yours so significantly that its hard to believe. If you've had any discussions regarding inclusion at your school, you're going to want to listen to what Suzanne Lezotte has to say in today's episode. Suzanne feels so passionate about inclusive practices that she wrote a book, "Raising Owen: An Extra-ordinary memoir on motherhood." Suzanne's outlook on inclusion, life, and motherhood is important and so relatable. Hope you love this week's episode!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/kbEsgkh2M3G Born and raised in Michigan in a family of nine kids, Suzanne has been writing since she was a child. She moved to Los Angeles after college and began a corporate career in PR and marketing. When she and her husband welcomed their first child, Owen, they had no idea the new world of parenting they would embark upon. His diagnosis of Down syndrome at seven days old turned her world upside down. She became an early advocate for inclusion and adopted the motto “life will not be a special needs class.” Her son is now 20 years old and attends Ventura College part-time while applying for university programs for adults with disabilities. She has three kids, and resides in Westlake Village, CA. Her book, “Raising Owen: A Memoir on Motherhood” is published by Aristata Press. Website: https://www.suzannelezotte.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzannelezotte/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suzannelezotte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannelezotte/
S5 E172 · Tue, February 06, 2024
Winning with Kids and Lauren McKenzie
We're keeping with our theme of caregiver supports this week... but today we're also focusing on supporting our children. This week's conversation is one of my favorites of all time. Lauren McKenzie is the real deal. She's a former teacher (yes, she's taught every grade from K-12... I told ya she's the real deal), and now she's a coach that helps parents and schools navigate the messiness of behavior and regulation! Lauren's approach is straightforward, respectful, humble, and effective, and I can't wait for you to learn about it! If life ever has you like 😫, this episode's for you! Yes, I know, that's me, too!!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/yn22e7YdH7k Adults get emotionally worn out when kids are difficult to deal with, and this wreaks havoc in every area of their life. Lauren McKenzie is an adult-child relationship strategist. Using a proven framework, she shows grown ups how to take control of their emotions and positively engage with kids so they can gain cooperation, escape overwhelm, and show up as the best version of themselves. A certified professional coach with the heart of a teacher, Lauren loves equipping and encouraging others. When she's not coaching or speaking, you can find Lauren enjoying her family or catching up with a friend over a steaming hot cup of coffee. Win With Kids Course: https://mckenziecoaching.onlinecoursehost.com/courses/winwithkids?affiliateId=jVRJqngJxkWP4EFKuE8Z&type=course&linkId=8vSf41YWZyraVIyb2ZhQ Website: https://mckenziecoachingandconsulting.co Instagram: http://instagram.com/laurenmckenziecoaching LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurencmckenzie/ Facebook: http://facebook.com/laurenmckenziecoaching
S5 E171 · Tue, January 30, 2024
Taming Your Stress with Bryan Holyfield
When I planned our Conference this year, I knew I wanted at least one person that could not only talk about caregiver fatigue and teacher burn out but also to provide us with strategies! And that's how I found Bryan Holyfield! Bryan's own journey as teacher-turned-trainer and his experience in helping parents that are struggling to manage all the things is so inspiring and helpful. Bryan's outlook on life is so inspiring. He believes in doing the work, celebrating the success, and listening to yourself. I can't wait to share today's episode with you! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/MEfKxAszEV0 Bryan Holyfield is married to his high school sweetheart, Hannah. They met as missionary kids whose families were serving in Moscow, Russia. Together, they are raising their four sons to be men of character and faith. Bryan has a bachelor's degree in Secondary Social Sciences and a Master’s in Russian and East European Studies. He was a successful social studies teacher and soccer coach before he founded Holyfit Coaching and transitioned into full time fitness and nutrition coaching. Bryan is a Certified Personal Trainer through NFPT and Certified Nutrition Coach through Precision Nutrition. Bryan played soccer in college but let fatherhood, education and career get in the way of protecting his health. He suffered a low back injury in his late 20’s that made him realize he needed to start taking better care of his body to be able to be the man and father he wanted to be! When the pandemic hit three years later, he saw so many colleagues and friends allow their health to suffer. Bryan knew that he had the experience and communication skills to have an impact on a great number of people. Bryan is passionate about building strong and healthy leaders to the glory of God with a global and missional impact. Outside of work, Bryan stays active coaching his son’s sports teams, hiking, duck hunting, playing soccer and disc golf, and a leader in his local church. If you ever need to know about the best coffee or hiking in North Georgia, Bryan has the inside scoop for you. Website: http://www.holyfitcoaching.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/bryanholy.fit
S5 E170 · Tue, January 23, 2024
Inclusion Revolution: Kayla Coburn's Vision for Empowering IEP Teamwork and Crafting Inclusive Education Opportunities
Inclusion Starts Now? Yes please! That’s the name of my guest, Kayla Coburn’s, business, and it’s the name of my mantra for Jack’s Kindergarten Year! I can’t wait for you to meet special educator and consultant, Kayla Coburn, who is so passionate and similarly-minded about inclusive education. Her ideas and experiences are so valuable, and she’s doing such a wonderful job at advocating for inclusive education and supporting districts that commit to it. Kayla and I talk IEP Teamwork (and I recommend our favorite book on Teamwork to her), roadblocks to inclusion, and even “sneaky” ways to start carving away at inclusive opportunities for kids at school. Kayla speaks my language, and I can’t wait for you to hear it! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/k8x7h2ybkok Meet My Guest: Kayla Coburn is a former para, former special education teacher, former education specialist, now inclusion specialist and founder of Inclusion Starts Now, LLC. My passion for inclusion has shown thorugh my entire career. Website: http://www.inclusionstartsnow.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusionstartsnow/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusionstartsnow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-coburn-78970685/
S5 E169 · Tue, January 16, 2024
Passion for Progress: Dr. Tay on Behavior Supports, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and the Future of Special Education Advocacy
Ever wanna hear two people that are so passionate about special education that they sometimes lost sleep over it geek out over it?! Taylor Day’s energy for supporting students with autism is contagious – so contagious, in fact, that she is one of our very few repeat guests on the podcast, AND I’ve invited her to present at our Special Education & Advocacy Conference. In today’s episode Dr. Tay and I talk about behavior supports, Pathological Demand avoidance, the concierge model of medical and therapeutic intervention, special education advocacy, and SO much more. This is the kind of conversation I have on the phone with friends while I drive my kids to swimming, take walks, and put away laundry. This is about as behind-the-scenes as it gets, and you’re going to love it! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/5aT6eFG2qSJ Meet My Guest: Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed psychologist specializing in neurodivergent affirming care for autistic children and their families, including very early diagnosis and early intervention. She has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is the CEO and founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care. Her practice integrates The Whole Family Approach, a process she created utilizing evidence-informed principles after seeing a gap in autism care. Her passion for child psychology and her focus on autism is in many ways tied to her own personal experience growing up with a brother who was diagnosed at 23 months of age. Website: http://drtaylorday.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.dr.tay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.dr.tay/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-dr-tay/
S5 E168 · Tue, January 09, 2024
Trauma-Informed Triumphs: A Chat with Abigail Moehringer on Transforming School Environments
Join me as I talk to Conference presenter, Abigail Moehringer of Mrs. Moe’s Modifications. Abigail and I explore Trauma Informed practices at school, behavior supports, and so much more in this short-but-power-packed episode that you are not going to want to miss. There were so many times that she was talking that I wanted to interrupt and say, “Yes!!! Me too!!!!” and I know you’ll feel the same way! Enjoy today’s episode, our first of 2024, and consider it a preview for even more great things to come in 2024! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/pFlaJpGM2mE Meet My Guest: Abigail Moehringer I have always wanted to be a teacher- bringing extra worksheets home and making my little sister be my student! I received my undergraduate degree in Childhood Education and Special Education with a math minor (so I tutor high school math as well). I received my masters degree in Literacy. I absolutely love learning, so I continued on to receive my BCBA certificate (Board Certified Behavior Analyst). I always love to learn and I feel as though there is always more to learn! Most recently, I have moved into a behavior specialist role and love supporting teachers AND parents! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrs_moes_modifications Website: http://www.mrsmoesmodifications.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063699362515
S5 E167 · Tue, December 12, 2023
Helping Parents of Students on 504 Plans
In this episode, we're diving deep into the essential things parents and caregivers need to know about 504 plans for their amazing kids. 🌟 Whether you're navigating the process, advocating for your child, or ensuring a smooth transition, we've got you covered! 🤝 Tune in for expert insights, practical tips, and empowering stories. 💪 Let's empower parents to be the best advocates for their children's education! 00:47 Surviving the Holiday Chaos 01:53 The Power of Parent Advocacy 04:11 The Journey of Inclusion Advocacy 07:36 The Role of Optimism in Advocacy 09:35 The Struggle and Success of Advocacy 11:50 The Importance of Collaboration and Persistence 14:21 The Reality of Advocacy: It's Not Easy 15:35 The Need for Stress Relief in Advocacy Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/Lp3UmyIQuJf
S5 E166 · Tue, December 05, 2023
One Advocacy Tip You’ll Want in Your Toolbox
You know when you have that feeling at an IEP meeting? The one where you want to stomp your feet and say, “Listen to me!” Yep, that’s awful, isn’t it?! In today’s episode I talk about the one characteristic parents that survive that moment have. How can your attitude, your spirit, your collaboration change the vibe of your IEP meeting?! That’s what we’re talking about today! This strategy worked for me, and it’s worked for so many of my clients. Coming to you quickly this holiday month with a successful advocacy tip in our Parent Series! 00:47 Surviving the Holiday Chaos 01:02 The Importance of Structure 01:53 The Role of Parents in Advocacy 04:11 The Journey of Inclusion Advocacy 07:36 The Power of Relentless Optimism 09:35 The Struggle and Success of Advocacy 11:54 The Importance of Collaboration 14:17 The Reality of Advocacy 15:35 The Need for Stress Relief Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/KdYRvD3Yiwr Mentioned in this Episode: Ten Tips to Surviving the Holidays with your Neurodiverse Family: Adding Structure to Unstructured Time https://ashleybarlowco.com/ten-tips-to-surviving-the-holidays-with-your-neurodiverse-family-adding-structure-to-unstructured-time/
S5 E165 · Tue, November 28, 2023
My One Tip for Getting It Done
Coming to you live (actually recorded) from my kitchen!!! And my desk. And my bathroom. With an episode on getting it all done! In today’s episode, which is the second in our Parent Series, I’m giving you one quick tip on how I pay attention to my own needs with a particular strategy. It has to do with my calendar, and you’re going to want to try it, too! Maybe this will help you this holiday season or throughout the year. 00:41 The Reality of Multitasking and Self-Perception 03:12 Announcement about the Upcoming Conference 04:52 The Importance of Scheduling Relaxation 10:07 Practical Tips for Scheduling and Self-Care 15:26 Applying Self-Care Strategies During the Holiday Season 16:38 Conclusion and Farewell Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/PuxA11Wj0Lj
S5 E164 · Tue, November 21, 2023
Meet our Coach, Riss Rothermel
Today we welcome our outstanding tutor and Coach, Marissa Rothermel, to the podcast. Riss excels at providing behavior coaching to parents, and in this episode, she and I dive into what coaching looks like, behavior, support, parenting, ideas, and so, so much more! Riss has an energy that is contagious and uplifting, perfect for a busy holiday week! Show Notes: In this episode, host Ashley Barlow talks with guest Marissa Rothermel who works as a tutor and behavior consultant. Marissa provides insights regarding the effects of recent world events on children's behavior and coping mechanisms. They discuss the rise in problematic behavioral patterns, mainly stemming from sensory overload and the lack of healthy coping mechanisms post-pandemic. They also emphasize the importance of starting conversations with children, forming structures at home, and creating a safe environment where children feel loved and valued. Marissa shares tips for parents regarding teaching children about calmness and redirection. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:45 Meet Marissa Rothermel: Special Education and Behavior Enthusiast 01:27 Understanding the Role of a Behavior Consultant 02:20 The Importance of Collaboration in Special Education 02:50 Marissa's Professional Background and Experience 04:29 The Business Aspect of Special Education 06:22 The Importance of Understanding Student Behavior 06:48 The Initial Steps in Addressing Behavioral Issues 08:15 The Role of Sensory Integration in Classroom Behavior 10:48 The Importance of Building Trust and Relationships 11:10 The Concept of 'Be the Cookie': Building Bonds with Students 15:39 The Importance of Feeling Loved and Safe in School 17:29 Understanding the Purpose Behind Every Behavior 19:15 Discussing Client Strategies 19:50 Personal Anecdotes and Reflections 20:20 Coping Skills and Sensory Processing 21:17 Parenting Challenges and Humorous Moments 22:52 Impact of Trauma on Behavior 23:41 Effects of Screen Time and Lack of Resilience 24:21 Teaching Social Skills and Coping Mechanisms 28:37 Impact of Pandemic on Education and Development 30:09 Practical Tips for Parents 35:44 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Transcript : https://share.descript.com/view/hLIzqQPswm3 Connect with Riss: Marissa "Riss" Rothermel, MS. Ed. was raised and educated in New York State (Albany area) and currently holds several special education licenses and certifications in states across the US. She is passionate about helping students get their needs met and growing as individuals, while encouraging and supporting family involvement. Riss has been a special educator for over 15 years and specializes in behavior support, as well as supports for nonverbal
S5 E163 · Tue, November 14, 2023
Epiphany in Parenting with Ellen Snow
You know those moms that are so wise that you wish you could just sit at the counters and watch them, parent? Wisdom abounds with the first guest in our Parent Series, Ellen Snow! Have a listen as my friend Ellen, explains an epiphany she had in parenting her son, Henry, who has Down syndrome. This one lesson - and so many more that she shares in this episode- will relieve so much stress!!!!! Plus, Ellen is just plan fun! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/IGJk7uodRs6 Connect with Ellen: Website: https://www.standupfordowns.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standup4downs/
S5 E162 · Tue, November 07, 2023
Parenting a Spicy One with Mary Van Geffen
If you don’t know Mary Van Geffen, you’re going to want to! This was the kind of conversation that I thought about for a week after! Mary Van Geffen is the international parenting coach for moms of Spicy Ones. She helps people who are highly competent in life but overwhelmed by motherhood to lean into the spiritual discipline of staying calm and cultivating warmth and tenderness all while trying to wrangle fiery future CEOs. Often this requires serious skill-building and the balm of self-compassion. Mary has a ministry on Instagram where she posts an inspiring parenting tip every single day. Just reading her social media will help you delight in your child and remember that you are enough. Mary believes that when a mom realizes how hard she is on herself and cracks the door open for some self-compassion, her entire family is bathed in light! She offers on-line parenting classes and her signature 8 week group program: Moms of Spicy Ones to help moms gain the confidence to choose gentle, respectful parenting especially if they weren’t raised that way. Mary is a certified Simplicity Parenting Counselor® and Professional Co-Active Coach, but her greatest achievement is cultivating a calm, kind and firm relationship with her Spicy go-getter daughter (now 18), mild child son (16) and un-Enneagramable hubby. Today she’s bringing her life coaching and teaching skills to our podcast, and I could not be more excited! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8j3z4faYtnC Connect with Mary: Website: https://www.maryvangeffen.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryvangeffen Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parentcoachforspicyones
S5 E161 · Tue, October 31, 2023
The Art of Nurturing Coping Skills
We understand that this stage of your child's life can be especially challenging, and we're here to provide valuable insights and practical tips. 👂 Listen in to discover: 🌟 Effective coping strategies tailored for your child's unique needs. 🌟 How to promote open communication and emotional awareness. 🌟 Building resilience in the face of adversity. 🌟 Practical advice for helping your child manage stress and build self-esteem. Join us for a candid conversation that's sure to empower you as a parent. Let's support each other in helping our kids thrive during their adolescent years! 🌱
S5 E160 · Tue, October 24, 2023
Principals Taking a Hands-On Approach in IEP Meetings
In this episode, we delve into the pivotal role principals play in special education, showcasing how their leadership supercharges our IEP (Individualized Education Program) teams. 🌈✨ You know I always say that we have to go to the decision-makers… often times that’s the principal. Discover how these leaders empower our educators, parents, and students to create more inclusive, effective, and tailored support plans. 💪🏫 It’s imperative that principals encourage participation, facilitate participation, and connect educators with resources. If you're passionate about educational leadership, this one's for you! 📚👩🏫 Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/QnH03JFmfkX
S5 E159 · Tue, October 17, 2023
Discover the World of Neuropsychology
Join us in our latest podcast episode as we unravel the fascinating realm of neuropsychology and how it can be a lifeline for parents navigating IEPs and special education. 🔬 In this episode, you'll learn: What exactly neuropsychologists do and how they assess brain-behavior connections. How they can be your allies in understanding and supporting your child's unique needs in an IEP. Key distinctions between neuropsychologists, educational psychologists, and clinical psychologists. Unlock valuable insights and expert guidance to empower your child's educational journey. Don't miss it!
S5 E158 · Tue, October 10, 2023
Fill Your Cup
The middle of the semester can only mean one thing. Parents are exhausted. Midterms and carpools and snack bags! Oh, my! I have been working on reducing my stress load recently, and one thing I have been trying to do is to find joy in the little things. And today's episode I talk about a few things that are filling my cup recently. I have experienced significant positive changes as a result of this mindfulness, so I thought I might share it with you! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/yvSmQOgGyPQ Ever thought of becoming a Special Education Advocate? Now’s the time! My digital course, Advocacy, Business, & Concepts in Special Education is officially OPEN for enrollment! This course will teach you advocacy and negotiation strategy, business start-up and management concepts, and little nuances in other special education concepts. Enroll today, and open the doors to your advocacy clients in as little as 6 months! You can do it! Promise! 👉🏻 Enroll now here: https://abc.ashleybarlowco.com
S5 E157 · Tue, October 03, 2023
Bell Curve 101
We’ve talked about evaluations and eligibility a fair amount here, but we’ve never talked about the Bell Curve (I don’t think!). Since it’s so, so important to understanding your child’s evaluation data, I’m giving you a Bell Curve 101 in today’s episode! 🧠 Have you ever wondered how standardized testing and bell curve distributions affect special education evaluations? This episode dives deep into this topic, shedding light on some crucial insights: 🔍 Understanding Bell Curves: Learn how bell curves work and why they're used in standardized testing. Discover how they impact the interpretation of test scores in special education assessments. Feel free to share your thoughts and insights after listening, and let's keep the conversation going! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/98AaCMckIWn PAR Toolkit: https://www.parinc.com/What-is-PARiConnect
S5 E156 · Tue, September 26, 2023
Organization Hacks for Special Education Parents
Join us in this week's episode as we unpack game-changing strategies to keep your special education journey on track, stress-free, and empowering. From setting up a dedicated space to mastering communication logs, we've got you covered! In this episode, you'll discover: ✅ Proven filing and digital record-keeping techniques. ✅ Tips for maintaining a communication log that works. ✅ Clever tech tools to streamline your organization.
S5 E155 · Tue, September 19, 2023
A Super Simple Negotiation Strategy
What is your WATNA and your BATNA? In today's episode well talk about a negotiation strategy, that is so simple that it is often overlooked. However, I have seen it benefit so many negotiations in incredible ways. This episode will help you navigate annual meetings, mediation, due process, and so many other decisions in your life. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/H3wmmHKpoYH
S5 E154 · Wed, September 13, 2023
Unlocking Potential: Accommodations & Modifications in IEP
In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the world of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and explore the vital role that accommodations and modifications play in helping students thrive. 💡 Whether you're a parent navigating the IEP process, an educator looking for innovative strategies, or simply curious about the world of special education, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips. 🤓 Join us as we discuss: ✅ The difference between accommodations and modifications ✅ Strategies for tailoring IEPs to individual needs ✅ Why I don’t like “banks” of accommodations and modifications! Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform and let's continue the conversation about creating inclusive, empowering educational environments for all. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/UplxDj0N5Aj
S5 E153 · Tue, September 05, 2023
Breathe In, Breathe Out, Move On
I believe that song lyrics can really help us through so many of life’s experiences, and this is, of course, true of our experiences in advocating for our children in special education. I was raised on Jimmy Buffett music and married a fellow Parrothead, so Buffett is a constant in the Barlow household. In today’s episode, I pay tribute to Jimmy by connecting some of his powerful lyrics to special education advocacy and sharing a little Key West love with you! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/LjcOvT72V2N
S5 E152 · Tue, August 29, 2023
No Time to Prepare for That IEP Meeting? I Got You!
Listen. Life happens. Sure, you have the best intentions to spend a few minutes every day during the two weeks leading up to your IEP meeting, preparing for the meeting, but let's face it. You don't always have time. And today's episode we are talking about a few tips for those circumstances. And just to really hammer in the point, I deliver this podcast on my way to an IEP meeting for which I have not prepared! Life in the trenches with Ashley Barlow company! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/rHp1fajDBD5
S5 E151 · Tue, August 22, 2023
Parent Collaboration to Promote Inclusion
🎙️ Join us on our latest podcast episode, "Parent Collaboration to Promote Inclusion," as we explore powerful ways parents can make a difference in promoting inclusion. From insightful conversations to practical tips, we're here to empower you to be a force for positive change. 🌟 Today we'll delve into: 🤝 Collaborative strategies for parents and educators to create an inclusive atmosphere 📚 Navigating the world of diverse learning needs with grace and understanding 🌍 Celebrating cultural richness and embracing differences within our school family 📣 Advocacy tools to champion inclusive policies for a brighter educational future Get ready to be inspired, equipped, and part of a movement that celebrates the uniqueness of each child. Together, we can create a more welcoming and inclusive school experience! 🔊 Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Let's learn, grow, and champion inclusion side by side. 🎉 Be sure to hit that subscribe button so you won't miss a single episode filled with practical insights and heartwarming stories. Let's pave the way for an inclusive tomorrow! 🌈#InclusionChampions #ParentingForInclusion #TogetherWeThrive Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/35lKKQzq2eE
S5 E150 · Fri, August 18, 2023
Episode 150: Ashley Unscripted: The 150th Episode Special!
Hey, fabulous listeners! You might've done a double-take, thinking, "Wait, that's not Ashley's voice!" and you'd be right! I'm Rachel Starr, the Creative Director at ABCo and the mastermind behind today's plot twist! 😜 For 149 episodes, Ashley's been our captain, steering this ship with her wisdom, guiding us on this awesome mission to jazz up the world of special education and advocacy. But today? Today, we're at Episode 150, baby! And I'm hijacking the mic to put our dear Captain Ashley in the hot seat. 🎤🔥 Let's talk numbers for a sec: 50 amazing guests, over 75+ connections (they deserve a round of applause too!), a whooping 84K downloads (and counting), and love notes from 23 countries. But hey, who's counting? 😉 So, what's the plan? We're diving into: The ABCs of ABCo's beginning. Ashley's 'oh-my-stars' moment during her first recording and the fireworks of her first guest episode. The dreams, the giggles, and the "whoopsies" of this wild ride. And, because who doesn't love some good ol' gossip, a sneaky peek into what's cooking for ABCo's future! Whether you've been rocking with us since day one, or you're the newest member of our groovy tribe, buckle up buttercups, because today, it's all about getting the inside scoop on Ashley Barlow! 🎉🍦🎙️
S4 E149 · Tue, August 08, 2023
Inclusion vs Integration: A Huge Difference
👉 Are you passionate about inclusivity? 👈We’re back from our little summer break with a new episode on Inclusivity and Integration. Join me as we delve into the heart of the matter, exploring the crucial differences between inclusion and integration in the realm of special education. 🤝💡 🏢 Inclusion: Embracing ALL Abilities! Discover how inclusion fosters an educational environment where every child, regardless of their unique abilities, feels valued and empowered. 🤗💪 We'll explore the benefits of inclusive classrooms, promoting equal opportunities for all learners. 📝🎒 🌐 Integration: Blending Perspectives for Growth! Learn how integration bridges diverse perspectives, creating a cohesive educational experience for students with different needs. 🌍🧩 We'll discuss how to strike the right balance between individualized support and collaborating with mainstream peers. 🤝📈 🔗 Listen to the podcast now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. 🎶 Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on our future episodes! 💌 Transcript : https://share.descript.com/view/njI1tGU8eJk
S4 E148 · Tue, August 01, 2023
Core Principles to Inclusive Education
In this episode, we explore the core principles of inclusive education. In the context of education, inclusion refers to the practice of providing equal access to quality education within a general education setting for all students, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or differences. We delve into the belief that every student has the right to learn, participate, and thrive alongside their peers in an inclusive and supportive environment. Join us as we discuss the importance of inclusive education and its impact on students' lives. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/GppJOPLPyRc
S4 E147 · Tue, July 11, 2023
Building and Accessing a School Community In the Summer
Welcome to the world of Cs at abC! Clever, isn't it? 🧩 In today's podcast episode, we're honing in on two of my favorite C words - Communication and Community. We'll be exploring how you can stay connected with your school community during the summer and the benefits of doing so! ☀️🏫 And for those for whom the school community isn't a viable option, we've got you covered too! We'll delve into ways to create and access other meaningful communities for your family. 🤝🌐 Every community we engage with offers us valuable insights about our children and their best-fit environments. And there's no better time than Summer Break to uncover these revelations! 🎧🌻 Join us to learn, share, and grow! #abC #Podcast #Communication #Community #SummerLearning Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/zfzbY2wowNA
S4 E146 · Mon, July 03, 2023
Celebrations…and Teenagers. A Happy Birthday to Jack!
It's a birthday week around here… And tomorrow, our Jackman will be a TEENAGER! This is equally terrifying and exciting! In today’s episode, I’ll share some reflections on Jack’s pre-teen years, some lessons I’ve learned, and some things to celebrate! Thanks for letting me share so much about our educational journey and my most amazing kid with you! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/krX6kFgz6hK
S4 E145 · Tue, June 27, 2023
A No Fail Negotiation Strategy I Learned from Jack
I learn something from Jack Barlow almost every day of my life. The simple wisdom that he emulates is such a blessing to our family and community. In today’s episode, I will share with you. One lesson I have learned from Jack that is so effective and advocacy. Coming to you live from my living room this is an episode. You will not want to miss! Learn a little more about the Jackman and a little more about advocacy and today’s episode. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/OoUxUQQS6AY
S4 E144 · Tue, June 20, 2023
Phonological Awareness
In today's episode, we take a fascinating journey into the world of Phonological Awareness, a crucial skill often considered as the ability to 'play with language.' Our goal is to demystify this complex topic for parents, educators, and lifelong learners, emphasizing its significant role in literacy development and cognitive function. We delve into the scientific intricacies of phonetics, syllables, and rhyme, offering insights on early identification of reading difficulties and effective support strategies. Tune in as we elucidate how mastering Phonological Awareness can transform reading abilities and overall cognitive development. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/cZONslkoBVI
S4 E143 · Tue, June 13, 2023
The Power of Yes!
No, no, no! Goodness, do we ever get tired of our children saying, “No!” I thought it was bad with toddlers… now I have (almost) two teen-agers, and I’d love to hear “Yes” just once a week!!!! It's hard to be on the other end of “no,” isn’t it? In today’s quick episode, we’re talking about the power of saying “yes,” both on the giving and receiving ends. I’ll walk you through how saying, “yes” to IEP team and school team from time to time can and will improve your advocacy outcomes.
S4 E142 · Tue, June 06, 2023
Unleashing the Awesome Surprises of Online Tutoring with the Marvelous Michelle Breitenbach!
Need more time in your week? Tired of running kids to activities and therapies? Wanna just enjoy your neighborhood pool or sit by a ball field? Want new, meaningful, insanely beneficial ways to connect with your child? Imagine the surprise of Michelle Breitenbach when she hesitantly agreed to tutor all of her students on-line and subsequently got the above results! Imagine Michelle’s surprise when the pandemic happened, and she realized there was a whole landscape of on-line tutors and students needing help with reading that had little choice but to access tutoring on-line. Michelle Breitenbach joins me today to talk about on-line tutoring, its obvious and even unintended benefits, and how you can even access it from abroad! I can’t wait for you to hear from this certified dyslexia practitioner and to learn all about her work! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/BTM4oP3Sggy Meet Michelle I am a certified Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner, entrepreneur, and coach. I would love to teach your wiggly, struggling readers or help you become a better teacher for your students. Whether online or in-person, I provide helpful tools and strategies to set up with less tech, connect with your student, maintain multi-sensory methods, and engage with quick games and movement. I train teachers to work online successfully by using materials they already have and incorporating engaging low-tech activities. I can't wait to see you in the Zoom Room and help you or your student today! Website: https://www.readtorewire.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readtorewire/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/readtorewire LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-breitenbach/ Contact: michelle@readtorewire.com
S4 E141 · Tue, May 30, 2023
Why The Science of Reading Works
You’ve heard about - and maybe even asked for - a multi-sensory, evidence-based reading program, but what does that really mean? In this webinar we’ll talk about how a multi-sensory approach looks in practice and why it works. We’ll even explore a few common curricula and try to differentiate between them! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/PA5fzhLwpIJ
S4 E140 · Tue, May 23, 2023
Killing Two Birds - SOR (Science Of Reading)
Last week we scratched the surface on the Science of Reading. Last week I also dropped all the balls, and I had to cancel a free webinar on the Science of Reading. So, this week’s podcast is basically a deeper dive into SOR – and it’s exactly what I would present at the webinar. We’re killing two birds with the SOR--- a podcast and a webinar in one! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/a8P9LUVyXIO
S4 E139 · Tue, May 16, 2023
The Science of Reading: Is It For Me?
Science is a systematic and logical approach to discovering how the natural world works. So, the Science of Reading is the result of a systematic and logical approach to how we learn to READ! Wanna know more? Join me in today’s webinar where we discuss the Science of Reading. We’ll talk about what this research shows, and we’ll break it down so you can choose and advocate for the right programming for your child. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/O6xeJYsDpHM
S4 E138 · Tue, May 09, 2023
Hand-Writing Supports with Dyslexia Guru, Michelle Morgan
Today we welcome Michelle Morgan, SLP and dyslexia guru, to the podcast! Michelle is walking us through a hand-writing program she designed, giving us lots of tips and information on how hand-writing supports the process of learning to read. Michelle was our guest in Season2, Episode 77 and you all loved it! I can’t wait for you to listen to this episode! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/GsPmcgQWsMN Meet my guest: Michelle Morgan is a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in dyslexia. Her youngest daughter was diagnosed with dyslexia in 2013, which motivated her to learn more about the disorder and help other families who are going through similar experiences. Michelle believes that dyslexia is misunderstood and underidentified, and aims to provide support, education, and advocacy to families. Website: https://dayswithdyslexia.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DayswithDyslexia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DyslexiaSLP/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dayswithdyslexia
S4 E137 · Tue, May 02, 2023
Neurodiversity Affirming Practice at Therapy and Beyond with Rosemarie Griffin
Today we welcome Rosemarie Griffin of ABA Speech, and we talk about a super hot topic: how – and why- we can incorporate neurodiversity affirming practices into our therapy, tutoring, and even play sessions with children. We’re talking about how to incorporate sensory strategies, behavior supports, and other practices that affirm a child’s profile, establish a relationship, and help to regulate them so that they’re not only ready to learn but empowered to learn. Rosemarie has all sorts of incredible strategies that will blow your mind and really help you connect with your children and students! I can’t wait for you to listen! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/5iJ1Kvs5aK3 Meet my guest: Rosemarie Griffin, MA, CCC/SLP BCBA, is an ASHA certified Speech-Language Pathologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Product Developer and Host of The Autism Outreach Podcast. She divides her time between a public school and her own private practice. She is passionate about helping individuals with autism find their voice and become more independent communicators. This passion has driven her to create her own business, http://www.abaspeech.org , where she provides ASHA approved courses, therapy materials and free resources for parents and professionals alike. Website: https://abaspeech.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abaspeechbyrose/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abaspeech YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXRBJBfK_294R58U5bOyvUQ
S4 E136 · Tue, April 25, 2023
Potty Training and Behavior with Molly Johnson
I know from my time on non-profit boards that Potty Training is always a popular topic amongst parents. That’s why I couldn’t believe that it had taken me this long to invite Molly Johnson from @theautismconsultant onto the pod! Molly is a special educator with a Masters in Special Education and Administration, who started a consulting business while still teaching. She now owns and operates the Autism Consultant full time and offers two digital courses, a monthly membership, and a ton of additional resources. In today’s episode Molly answers all my questions about potty training and gives lots of general behavior tips, too! I can’t wait for you to listen! Meet my guest: Molly Johnson is an autism consultant, working with parents to reduce challenging behaviors and develop new skills. When working with parents, Molly helps families understand the reason for the barrier and how to move beyond that barrier. After years of being an autism teacher, it was clear that parents needed guidance on behaviors and skills at home. Molly now supports parents from all over the world to improve behaviors, skills, and advocacy. Website: https://www.theautismconsultant.us/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063259356587 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theautismconsultant/
S4 E135 · Tue, April 18, 2023
Why Multi-Sensory Reading Programs Work with Hanna Stroud
Of all the educators on IG that I follow, I think I’m the biggest fangirl of Hanna at My Literacy Space. Over the past few years, I’ve so enjoyed what Hanna has put into their space – creative ways to teach literacy, helpful information about the science of reading, and a health smattering of fun! In today’s podcast, I discuss why multi-sensory reading programs work with Hanna. If you’ve found yourself knowing that you child needs multi-sensory reading programs but not knowing a ton of supporting details, this episode is for you! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/BV3jlIzQSOS Meet My Guest: Hanna Stroud has been a Literacy Tutor & Consultant in Calgary, Alberta, Canada since 2008. Hanna is passionate about sharing structured literacy tips, multisensory activities, and their favourite picture books to educators and caregivers. Making learning fun and engaging doesn't mean we forget to follow the science of reading for evidence-based skills and strategies. Website: www.myliteracyspace.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063464196591 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growingwithliteracy/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myliteracyspace/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myliteracyspace
S4 E134 · Tue, April 11, 2023
Reading Simplified with Marnie Ginsburg
Marnie Ginsberg, Founder of Reading Simplified, is a reading difficulties detective who streamlines the science and art of reading instruction so teachers can rapidly learn effective techniques that help students accelerate to grade level and beyond. She also helps translate the latest understandings from science into practical, easy-to-implement activities. She’s my guest on the podcast today, and we’re talking all things Science of Reading! Transcript : https://share.descript.com/view/UMr6wh17pg5 Meet My Guest: Marnie Ginsberg, Founder of Reading Simplified, is a reading difficulties detective who streamlines the science and art of reading instruction so teachers can rapidly learn effective techniques that help students accelerate to grade level and beyond. She also helps translate the latest understandings from science into practical, easy-to-implement activities. In the late 1990s, Marnie uncovered that her 6th-grade language arts students, on average, were reading 2 years below grade level. And despite her master’s degree and enthusiasm, she had no idea how to remediate their word-reading difficulties. After eventually finding solutions for her struggling readers, she led the development of the Targeted Reading Intervention at the University of North Carolina. Across 15+ years, multiple research articles have demonstrated that struggling K-2 readers grow significantly in reading with the Targeted Reading Intervention (TRI), which is on the federal What Works Clearinghouse and is endorsed by many organizations such as Evidence for ESSA and RAND Corporation’s Promising Practices Network. Given the repeated, strong results of the TRI across multiple clinical trials, Dr. Ginsberg expanded the resources and adapted the professional learning approach to provide Reading Simplified for a broader audience beginning in 2013. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readingsimplified/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/ReadingSimplified/ Website: https://readingsimplified.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-ginsberg-reading/
S4 E133 · Tue, April 04, 2023
What's Your IEP Meeting Personality Type?
What's Your IEP Meeting Personality Type? Are you Frazzled Frances, the mom that's always running behind, completely capable of advocating more but overwhelmed with all that life throws at you? Or could you be Courteous Carol, a "yes man" through and through. Perhaps you'll be Hesitant Hannah, who distrusts the sweet Kindergarten teacher and has research to back up everything she says. Of course, you could be Organized Olive, who's got it all together and knows exactly how things are going to go. Give this week’s episode a listen, and then take our QUIZ to see what IEP Meeting Type you are and to get a list of Strengths, Common Pitfalls, and Suggestions for your Type. We’d love to hear what your Personality Type is! Share it on social media, tag us, and tell us what your next action steps are! Take the Quiz: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608c2bd07a38c30017963b77 Transcript : https://share.descript.com/view/S44OrOQkUJ5
S4 E132 · Tue, March 28, 2023
3 Tips for Preparing for an IEP Meeting
Don’t stress before your annual IEP meeting. I’ve got three simple tips that will help you prepare and feel calm before your meeting! These are all things you’ve heard before - but infused with experience from hundreds of IEP meetings I’ve attended! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/RMNWzDtN2DX
S4 E131 · Tue, March 21, 2023
Preparing For Your Annual IEP Meeting
It’s IEP Season, and that can only mean one thing. Parents in special education are freaking out!!!! In today’s episode, I talk about why the annual meeting is just like any other meeting, give you tips for preparing for the meeting, and also give you four ideas or strategies that you may employ at this year’s annual meeting in order to get more out of the special education process for your student. It’s a balance of “shake things up” and “same old, same old!” Hot and cold. Sandy beaches and snowy mountains. Yin and yang. You get the point! Give it a listen and see what you think! And holy cow- can you believe we’re on episode 131?! In today’s episode, I reference Podcast #8: Getting More Services Out Of an IEP, an oldie but goodie episode. Listen now here: https://ashleybarlowco.com/getting-more-services-out-of-an-iep/ Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/RMNWzDtN2DX
S4 E130 · Tue, March 14, 2023
Celebrating the Unexpected and Undergoing Transformation with Jillian Benfield
Chances are you’ve experienced the Unexpected, and if you’ve stuck around here in the make-lemonade place that I’ve created, you have probably embraced the Unexpected as a Gift. Today I welcome author, blogger, and speaker Jillian Benfield, whose relatable book, “The Gift of the Unexpected,” explores how she unpacked her son’s Down syndrome diagnosis during a time of transition in her life. My favorite part is when Jillian and I discuss her explanation of how we undergo hardship rather than overcoming it. I’m telling you – it’s deep, and it’s beautiful! Have a listen today! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8sxy0FeREto Meet my guest: Jillian Benfield is a former journalist and news anchor. She holds a broadcast journalism degree from the University of Georgia. As a freelance writer, her essays about living an unexpected life have appeared on sites such as TODAY , Good Morning America , Yahoo! News , and ABC News . Jillian regularly advocates for the full inclusion of people with disabilities in her writings, in her community, and as a part of the National Down Syndrome Congress’s National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition. Jillian and her husband, Andy, and their three children make their home on Florida’s Space Coast. Learn more at jillianbenfield.com . Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillianbenfieldblog Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jillianbenfield/
S4 E129 · Tue, March 07, 2023
Forget Me Not: Inclusion in the Classroom with Oliver and Hilda Bernier
In today’s episode we talk with Olivier and Hilda Bernier about their documentary, Forget Me Not, and man alive, are your advocacy bones going to tremble! The documentary features their story regarding their son’s education. As 3-year-old Emilio prepares to start school, his family finds itself embroiled in a challenge all too common for children with disabilities - to secure the right to an inclusive education. Cornered in one of the most segregated education systems, New York City public schools, filmmaker Olivier and his wife Hilda turn the camera on themselves and their child with Down syndrome, as they navigate a byzantine system originally designed to silo children with disabilities. Emilio's parents learn from other families who have fought against the injustices built into the educational system while they continue their own battle for their son's future. Forget Me Not reveals a path to a more inclusive society that starts with welcoming diversity in the classroom. You can learn more about the doc by following @forgetmenotdocumentary or visiting: https://www.forgetmenotdocumentary.com/ Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/t4b1O960ZGv
S4 E128 · Tue, February 28, 2023
Busting Burn Out at Schools with Brent Duka
What’s woodworking have to do with education? What’s teaching have to do with mental health? What do woodworking, teacher, mental health, and darn good people have in common? Brent Duka, that’s what! Today’s podcast guest, Brent Duka of @classroomandwoodwork, is a classroom teacher who found a passion for woodworking during the pandemic. Over the course of time, he found that his new hobby was helping him cope with the many stresses of teaching during a pandemic, and he’s turned that hobby into a thriving business. Tune in to hear Brent’s story and how his lessons can shape relationships on your IEP teams, no matter your role. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/CL6OVK6gds1 Meet my guest: Hi, I'm Brent. I am a dad, husband, and a 4th grade teacher here in San Jose, California. I also enjoy woodworking, and I like to combine this craft with teaching to make products for the classroom. Facebook: https:// facebook.com/classroomandwoodwork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classroomandwoodwork/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@classroomandwoodwork Website: http://classroomandwoodwork.etsy.com/
S4 E127 · Tue, February 21, 2023
Behavior Supports at School with Dr. Annie McLaughlin
Dr. Annie McLaughlin joins us today to talk about behavior supports at school. We’ll learn what behavior analysts do, how they work in schools, and how the involvement of a behavioral analyst can be an asset in an IEP team. Dr. Annie talks and talk and walks the walk… she works as a special education advocate in Maryland and has so much valuable experience. Even if you’re in the choir, you’ll enjoy hearing her preach!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/mi03opFv1Pv __ Meet my guest: Dr. Annie is a full time educational consultant in Maryland where she helps families navigate the IEP process as well as train school systems on best practices in Special Education and behavior analysis. She began her career as a special education teacher and behavior analyst in clinics and schools before transitioning full time to consulting and advocacy. She has three elementary and middle school aged children and enjoys gardening with them. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnieMcLaughlinConsulting Instagram: www.instagram.com/iepadvocateannie Website: https://www.SpecialEdGuidance.com
S4 E126 · Tue, February 14, 2023
Building a Collaborative IEP Team - Focusing on the TEAM!
When you think “IEP team,” do you think “teamwork?” The question is also preposterous! But it doesn’t have to be. Congress called it an IEP team and required the participation of certain individuals. Certainly, they wanted us to act as a real, functional team. We know that when IEP teams actually work as teams, they’re far more effective, which means the student sees far better results. In this session, you’ll learn strategies to help your team function as a TEAM – even when it is a little sticky. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/GL3mbROxdEs -- Join the ABClub here: https://ashleybarlowco.com/abclub-membership Welcome to ABClub, your Monthly Membership to All Things Ashley Barlow Co. We know it’s hard to keep up with everything, but we also know how hard you try! That’s why Club exists… We’ll drop content right to your Inbox several times a month. You’ll build your library with digital downloads, dive deeper in monthly videos with me and special guests, and build community in weekly discussion questions, and more!!!!
S4 E125 · Tue, February 07, 2023
An Advocate’s Journey
The #1 question people ask me after consultations is, “How do I become an advocate?” Tons of parents and educators see the important work of advocacy and get curious! How do advocates become advocates? Just like that!!! Today we’ll hear from Lisa Richer, an advocate that has developed a system called RIPE Ideas, about her advocacy journey! I bet you’ll be able to picture yourself in her shoes! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/ENLvwgxpkzL __ Meet my guest: Lisa Richer is a certified Neurodiversity Consultant who believes we must first seek to understand the learner in order to effectively support them in all learning and development goals. As a parent of 2 neurodivergent boys, more than 20 years combined Leadership, Human Resources, Training, Neurodiversity Consulting experience, and years as an Elite level athlete, Lisa leverages her lived experiences and professional training in her consultancy, Journey 2 Bloom. Through the lens of her RiPE iDEAS™ framework, she simplifies the neurodiverse learning journey by connecting parents and educators with resources, tools, along with providing advisory services to help them navigate the complex and often overwhelming learning journey. Lisa’s certifications and training include Cognassist Neurodiversity Master Class Certificate, Parent Education for Behavioral Services Training, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate, COPAA Special Education Advocate Training(SEAT) 2.0 Graduate, COPAA Advanced Advocate Certificate and Expectations Matter Person Centered Planning Trainer She is a sought-after podcast guest and speaker on Neurodiversity and Inclusion, in addition, she serves as Neurodiverse Learners Advisory Committee Chair at The Mandala School, an Executive Board Member of TRLA Autism Community and a founding partner of The Empowered Parent. Reach out to Lisa and learn more at Journey2Bloom.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaLazarRicher Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/journey2bloomcommunity Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journey2bloom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaricher
S4 E124 · Tue, January 31, 2023
Red Flags at the IEP Table
Do you ever feel lonely as a parent in the disability community? Ever feel like the whole world is against you? Just me? JK- I know we all feel that isolation and stress, and I hope this week’s podcast will be a huge help. This week I’m talking to my friend, Shemica Allen, special education advocate, about Red Flags at the IEP Table. This episode will help you understand that it not “just you” and also give you tips to navigate common issues at the IEP table and beyond! Believe me, we’ve all been there! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/ElU03iDVklv Meet my guest: Shemica S. Allen is the owner of Personalized Learning Solutions, LLC, and a former educator with over 15 years of teaching and administration experience working with students with disabilities and their parents/guardians. Shemica received her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Arkansas and a Master of Science in Kinesiology with a specialization in Adapted Physical Activity from Texas Christian University. She is certified to teach Special Education and Physical Education and also received her Principal certification in 2010. Shemica has completed the Special Education Advocate Training (SEAT) through the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA). Shemica is now a SEAT 1.0, 2.0 & 3.0 Instructor & Teaching Assistant where she helps train others to advocate for students with disabilities. She also has completed Advanced Advocate Training: Representing Parents in Impartial Hearings through COPAA. Shemica has attended hundreds of ARD/IEP, 504, and Student Support Team (SST) meetings. Email: personalizedlearningsolutions@gmail.com Website: https://personalizedlearningforall.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/personalizedlearningsolutions IG: https://www.instagram.com/personalizedlearningsolutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shemicasallen
S4 E123 · Tue, January 24, 2023
Ignite the Fire
You might call it filling your cup. I igniting the fire! Networking with people in my community, attending conferences, getting dumped on. These are all reminders of why we do our advocacy. Keeping the children that we love at the center of our advocacy is really the key, and sometimes we just need a little reminder. In today’s episode, we talk about that fire within us and how to fuel it. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/AxVpJHnJTl9 _______ 3rd Annual Special Education and Advocacy Conference | January 28, 2023 Are you tired of feeling frustrated at the IEP table?! It’s back! The 2023 Free Virtual Special Education Conference is on January 28, 2023! If you’re on an IEP team, you won’t want to miss this fantastic, free conference! Register now here: https://ashleybarlowco.com/conference-2023
S4 E122 · Tue, January 17, 2023
Getting an Evaluation for Your Child
The first episode I recorded with school-psych-turned-advocate, April Rehrig, has been on my Top Ten list since it launched. It makes sense then that I had her back as my first-ever repeat guest! April delivers again in this episode! Join us as we talk about how to get an evaluation for your child. No, we are not just talking about eligibility and that initial request for an evaluation. We are talking about specific language to use, information to provide, the value of the evaluation itself, and subsequent evaluations! April tells it to you straight; her insight is such an asset! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/Z3yUawlH6p9 Meet April: April discovered her passion as a teen, volunteering in a special education school. Raised in a family of educators, it felt natural to help others. Each role in her career led to April’s expertise in disability advocacy. First and foremost, April is a teacher. Prior to leading her own class, she was a substitute, private tutor, instructional assistant, camp counselor, and before/after school program teacher. School psychology was a clear next step. Over the next 20 years, April’s experience and first-hand knowledge led to her transformation into how to Build a Better IEP™️. She went back to school and became a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP), Board Certified Educational Advocate (BCEA™), Master IEP Coach®️, and Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS). April founded Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting for everyone at the IEP table. Her virtual coursework and toolkits are a must-have for busy parents, teachers, and clinicians on the go. Rise transforms traditional advocacy into a dynamic team-based approach through a strength-based lens that presumes competence. A native Angelino, Los Angeles has always April’s been home. She and her husband have a blended family, with seven children between them. When she isn’t passionately advocating, you’ll find April binge-watching Netflix or walking her sociable pug. Email April at info@riseeducationaladvocacy.com or content on social here: https://lets-rise.mykajabi.com/links?fbclid=PAAaYNpDb82oowzucEO2pbfcQBarHGlkO3iBx_q3WikTnCS2wPn2pEOXrd23Y See April Live at The Special Education and Advocacy Conference on January 28, 2023: https://ashleybarlowco.com/conference-2023
S4 E121 · Tue, January 10, 2023
Think inclusion with Tim Villegas
Thinking inclusively is not only a mindset for today’s podcast guest; it’s his job. Tim Villegas joins me on today’s episode to talk about inclusive education. Tim founded a company called Think Inclusive, and it’s now the blog for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education. Tim and I will chat about what “inclusion” really means, how to get a more inclusive environment, and much, much more! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/pqJAMMNwyn3 Meet the Guest: Tim Villegas is director of communications at MCIE, a nonprofit that envisions a society where neighborhood schools welcome all learners and create the foundation for inclusive communities. He is the founder of Think Inclusive, MCIE's blog and podcast. Throughout his 16-year career as a special education teacher, Tim advocated for the inclusion of students with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and continues his work with MCIE to empower inclusive systems change in schools and districts. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusionmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusionmd LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inclusive-education Twitter: https://twitter.com/inclusionMD YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inclusionMD Website: https://www.mcie.org Podcast: https://anchor.fm/think-inclusive 3rd Annual Special Education and Advocacy Conference | January 28, 2023 Are you tired of feeling frustrated at the IEP table?! It’s back! The 2023 Free Virtual Special Education Conference is on January 28, 2023! If you’re on an IEP team, you won’t want to miss this fantastic, free conference! Register now here: https://ashleybarlowco.com/conference-2023
S4 E120 · Tue, January 03, 2023
3 Foundational Skills for Every Special Education Advocate
Every special education advocate has uttered the sentence, “I should go to law school;” and every special education attorney has considered a Masters Degree in special education. Why? Because we all acknowledge the 3 foundational skills that all effective advocates – parents, teachers, and other professionals alike – need. In today’s episode I’ll talk about those three skills and give you ideas on where to find them! If you’re ready to start the year by perfecting your advocacy skills, this is the right place to start!
S3 E119 · Tue, December 27, 2022
Trends In Special Education Advocacy in 2022
This episode is a 2022 Year in Review!!! I’ll walk you through a few trends that I saw in my own office and in the larger special education advocacy community. I’ll also introduce you to my 2023 Free Virtual Conference AND a new product that we’re rolling out in 2023!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/EzpZ6Ia9aSY 2023 Conference: https://ashleybarlowco.com/conference-2023 ABClub Membership: https://ashleybarlowco.com/abclub-membership
S3 E118 · Tue, December 20, 2022
Early Intervention with Eryn Yolac
Today we welcome Erin Yolac, an educational advocate from sunny California! Erin and I explore her advocacy journey through the lens of her own educational experiences. Erin will talk directly to parents, particularly those whose children have been diagnosed with dyslexia and/or ADHD, and will give lots of tips and empathy to them. We’ll talk about the importance of early intervention and how to ensure that students have access to it! Enjoy!!! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/pwY8QrQ4Bga ____ Meet My Guest: Advocate to Educate founder and owner Eryn Schnel Yolac is a wife and proud parent of two great kids. She was also diagnosed with Dyslexia at age six. Her personal experiences and struggles to find proper reading intervention and mental health services as a child are what has inspired her to continue her life's mission: advocating for children just like her. Eryn's professional training began in the classroom as a special education teacher and progressed quickly when she decided to devote all her time and educational abilities to becoming a Board-Certified Education Advocate. She has extensive experience advocating for children with Learning Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities, Anxiety, and Depression and has managed with a wide variety of complex cases requiring intensive academic support, medical care, and residential treatment. Website: www.advocatetoeducate.com
Bonus · Tue, December 06, 2022
Ten Tips to Surviving the Holidays with your Neurodiverse Family: Adding Structure to Unstructured Time
Christmas Chaos! It’s so normal and relatable. But wouldn’t you rather relate to people with a peaceful heart and mind?! In today’s episode, I give you TEN (yes, ten) tips for surviving the holidays with your neurodiverse family, but let me tell you… these tips support you are caregivers, as well as your other family members, too! Our first ever BONUS episode is a good one indeed! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/8tN8W4Wgx2E
S3 E117 · Tue, November 29, 2022
Special Education Advocacy from the Inside Out
Beth Liesenfeld was an OT that provided school-based supports for years. She observed families that got what they wanted and deserved and families that didn’t. She made notes of her observations and started helping families advocate more effectively with her experiences and observations! Join Beth and me for a co-hosted/co-published podcast on Advocacy from the Inside Out. We’ll talk about how parents can best advocate… and so much more! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/0rf71zb85ER Meet My Guest: Beth Liesenfeld, MOT, OTR/L is an occupational therapist and passionate about teaching parents how to advocate through the IEP process. As a new occupational therapist in the schools, she was overwhelmed by the IEP process. After participating in 80 meetings per year, she noticed how some parents learned the system just enough to get the most effective IEP for their child possible from the school (and the followthrough, too!) She started her company, The IEP Lab, to provide parent friendly workshops and online courses that can be accessed around a busy parent schedule and start working with the IEP system instead of fighting against it. She is the host of The Parent IEP Lab podcast, hosts the free Parent IEP Advocacy Summit every fall, and helps parents prep for meetings and get IEP followthrough through her signature course, The Ultimate Parent IEP Prep Course
S3 E115 · Tue, November 22, 2022
Better Speech? Yes Please!
Better Speech? Yes please! In today’s episode, I talk with Lenora Edwards, a speech and language therapist, about online speech therapy and language development. You’ll learn how language develops in children as they grow from babies into school-aged children and how to facilitate language as a parent and teacher. Lenora provides virtual speech and language therapy at Better Speech, and she tells us how to access their services. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/VpwQpJG7iZg Meet My Guest: Lenora Edwards is a ASHA Board Certified Speech Language Pathologist and Chief Knowledge Officer with Better Speech. Since obtaining her CCC’s in 2010, she has worked with individuals of all ages from little ones who are learning to understand and express themselves to adults who want to improve their speaking skills and become a more fluent and effective communicator. Lenora loves to teach and educate others so if you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Better Speech is an online speech therapy company that has been providing professional, affordable and convenient speech therapy services for more than a decade. All the Speech Language Pathologists with Better Speech are Board Certified and State Licensed with more than 10 years experience each which allows them to provide outstanding online speech therapy services nationwide and internationally. At BetterSpeech.com , we are experts at helping people communicate in the most efficient and affordable way possible!
S3 E114 · Tue, November 15, 2022
A Picture of Worth 1000 Words: Progress Monitoring Visuals
You keep the data. You report the data. You’re all about the data. But they still don’t listen! Have you ever tried to capitulate your child’s data in a chart or graph? This simple advocacy strategy can be super helpful and might just make a difference in your child’s next IEP meeting. In today’s episode I’ll walk you through an Excel tutorial… wait! I promise it’ll be helpful! And it won’t be terribly painful. Welcome back! Okay, I’ll show you how to use Excel to paint the picture of your child’s progress- or lack thereof- in a way that might finally get to the other IEP team members. One note: I do share my screen, so if you normally listen via audio only, you may choose to use YouTube this week! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/U32gafxefxf
S3 E113 · Tue, November 08, 2022
Common Progress Monitoring Pitfalls
In today’s episode of the podcast, I will review for common pitfalls in progress monitoring. I grabbed these pitfalls from an article, but they are definitely things that I have seen in my practice repeatedly. Of course, you know I will give you strategies and solutions so you can avoid the pitfalls, and address them if errors occur.
S3 E112 · Tue, November 01, 2022
Data. Not the end of the story.
In today’s episode, we are going to talk about all of the ancillary information that can impact data. This information is super important to understand and to consider when evaluating data. Incoming weeks we will talk about what to do with this information and how it can, impact, advocacy, instruction, and more. Data feels a little like Bruno. We should probably talk about it, but nobody wants to. Let’s make it easy starting this week.
S3 E111 · Tue, October 25, 2022
Using Your Parenting Skills to Advocate
Conflict adverse? This episode is for you! A few weeks ago, I was sitting in an IEP meeting and used a negotiation strategy that I’d just used in parenting Jack. I realized the irony… our children TEACH us skills that help us advocate for THEM! In today’s episode we’re talking about two skills that you’ve probably developed in parenting your children that will immensely enhance your advocacy skills.
S3 E110 · Tue, October 18, 2022
Facing the Challenge of Advocating for Executive Functioning Supports
A couple weeks ago, I was asked to speak on a Hot Topic in special education advocacy at a conference for people with ADHD. Without hesitating, I suggested that I speak about executive functioning – and not only EF – but really HOW to advocate for better supports for students that struggle with executive functioning. Let me tell you--- this is coming up in soooooo many IEP meetings in my practice. In today’s episode I give you my #1 tip for advocating for students with executive functioning struggles and even run you through some examples.
S3 E109 · Tue, October 11, 2022
The Most Simple Negotiation Strategy
It seems so simple. Too simple. Unbelievably simple. Like do negotiation experts actually teach this? Do law schools professors actually harp on this? Is it seriously the bane of the mediator’s existence? Friends, in today’s episode I give you THE most simple negotiation strategy. It’s one that you think you know. But wait. You might need to know more about… wait for it… what you want. Yep, in today’s podcast, we’re talking about what you want! Isn’t that what EVERYbody wants to discuss in a negotiation? Hop over and give a listen. I bet it helps you at your next IEP meeting!
S2 E108 · Tue, October 04, 2022
The Mindset of Advocates
In preparing for my new job, I’ve been cleaning my office building and preparing to rent it out. It’s been a real trip down memory lane. As I’ve thought about all of my favorite attorneys and advocates, a few verbs kept circulating through my mind. In today’s episode we dive into the mindset of attorneys and advocates. How do we work? What makes us tick? How do we achieve success for our clients? This will be a good one if you’ve ever considered working with or BECOMING an advocate yourself!
S3 E107 · Tue, September 27, 2022
A Code to Behavior
A Book called “The Behavior Code?” Yes please! In today’s episode, I summarize one of my most favorite books, “The Behavior Code,” by Jessica Minahan and Nancy Rappaport, MD. Let me tell you… if you read just the first 26 pages of this book, you’ll be able to talk to your child’s school team so much more effectively! And if you commit to 42 pages, you’ll also be able to suggest a super great behavior support plan for your child! Do I have your attention? This book also addresses specific strategies for students experiencing anxiety, oppositional behaviors, withdrawal, and sexualized behaviors. I give summaries for each chapter so you can decide if it’s right for you! Want more book reviews? DM me! I’m a reader, and I’m happy to deliver this info to you if you’d like it! https://amzn.to/3r9aVud
S3 E106 · Tue, September 20, 2022
Two Website You Must Know
My dad, our beloved Kurtie, often prays, “God, give me patience, and give it to me NOW!” If you’re a parent in special education, you can relate to this, and you may have whispered, “God, give me resources, and give them to me NOW!” The fact is that there are soooo many resources about special education and advocacy on-line… so many, in fact, that it is hard to determine where the best resources exist. In today’s episode I’m giving you two of my favorite, go to resources for special education advocacy. We’ll be talking about www.wrightslaw.com and www.tiescenter.org, which both provide a wealth of information. I’ll take you on a tour of the websites and tell you how I find my favorite special education resources quickly and when I need them!
S3 E105 · Tue, September 13, 2022
How to find the policy documents you NEED!
One of the things I use most often in my advocacy is the United States Department of education's policy documents. These documents can help yield learn about a particular topic, turn into what a district might be thinking, and tears out certain elements of special education laws. They can be hard to find, because sometimes they get buried in websites, so in today's episode, I walk you through how to find the documents and what to do with them. Want to make your wait in car line more effective? I've got policy docs for you!
S3 E104 · Tue, September 06, 2022
An Elevator Speech on Behavior for your IEP Meetings
I see this trend at IEP meetings…. Teams start discussion topics like inclusion or strategies like reading interventions, and they keep getting stuck. The real reason they’re getting stuck is because the child is struggling with BEHAVIOR! If a child isn’t regulated or prepared for learning, the interventions are far less likely to work. So, parents can advocate for better behavior strategies. This is where lots of parents get stuck… “How do I advocate for better behavior strategies,” you may ask. In today’s episode I’m giving you that 15-minute “speech.” Behavior in 15 minutes or less. Now, that’s something I can sink my teeth into!!! For more support, check out prior episodes with Dr. Solandry Forte and Dr. Rachel Schwartz or my Behavior Workshop. _____ [Ep. 12] FBA and Behavior Intervention Plans with Dr. Solandy Forte: https://ashleybarlowco.com/functional-behavior-assessments-and-behavior-intervention-plans-with-dr-solandy-forte/ [Ep. 62] A Chat with Rachel Schwartz on Behavior Support: https://ashleybarlowco.com/a-chat-with-rachel-schwartz-on-behavior-support/ Behavior Workshop: https://ashleybarlowco.com/product-page-behavior-workshop-workbook
S3 E103 · Tue, August 30, 2022
Becoming Empowered During The Special Education Process
I had my first IEP meeting of the school year last week, and when my client told me it was the first one that didn’t make her cry in years, it hit me. Parents feel more confident when I am at their meetings, because I help them understand the law. I take time to educate them about special education process, which is founded in the law, and intern, they gain super important confidence. In today’s episode we dive into this empowering topic.
S3 E102 · Tue, August 23, 2022
Back to The Pool--- Err, School
Do you struggle to find the right balance this time of year? Avid pool patrons, we try to squeeze out EVERY bit of fun in the sun; but we also all enjoy the routine and structure that comes with the Back to School season. So, today we’re talking about how to find that balance – special education style. I’ve got 5 simple tips to help you find structure AND fun in the couple of weeks… heck, months!!! ___ In this episode: 1. Plan ahead so you have more time for fun 2. ENJOY FRIDAYS! 3. Get organized 4. Download your School’s App/ Activity Calendar 5. Take Advantage of the Mornings ___ Links mentioned: https://ashleybarlowco.podia.com/back-to-school-shopping-list Never miss out on a new episode by joining my mailing list here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f43ff3f99f8080026e08ed7 https://ashleybarlowco.podia.com/getting-started-a-listening-guide-to-the-special-education-advocacy-podcast-with-ashley-barlow
S3 E101 · Tue, August 16, 2022
Kayla Schadegg, Mrs. Kansas International, Advocate for People with Down Syndrome
Kayla Schadegg uses her platform at Mrs. Kansas International to advocate for people with Down syndrome. Do I have your attention?! Yes, that’s right! I have a real live beauty queen on the podcast today, and we aren’t talking swimsuit fashion! Kayla will share her own birth story experience till drive her passion for teaching doctors and medical professionals about delivering disability diagnoses. She speaks to medical professionals about this topic on a regular basis and provides so many tips that might be helpful in your community. Plus, she’s just super fun to talk to, and her passion is contagious! This is a feel good, informative episode! ____ Kayla is a born and raised Kansan, and an avid lover of children, pasta, and fitness. Kayla runs a children’s fitness center for a living, and in her spare time serves as a parent lead for medical advocacy trainings. As the proud mother to a gorgeous little girl with Down syndrome, Kayla knows firsthand the impact of a diagnosis experience on a young family, whether pre- or post-natal. Her advocacy journey has taken her on a unique path, and she now serves as the reigning Mrs. Kansas International. Through her platform, Strong Over Wrong, it is her mission to create a more compassionate and balanced diagnosis experience for families everywhere.
S3 E100 · Tue, August 09, 2022
Five Big Lessons I’ve Learned in 100 Episodes
Happy 100th Episode, ABC friends!!! If we were in a school, we’d likely be dressing as 100-year-olds, complete with walkers and bushy eyebrows! In today’s milestone episode, I’m sharing with you 5 lessons that I’ve learned over the last two years as we’ve shared experiences here at Ashley Barlow Co and on the podcast. I share the story of how ABCo was conceptualized (during a riveting viewing of Frozen 2), take you on the journey of how we developed our two video training courses, and talk to you about five big lessons I’ve learned along this amazing journey! Thank you to being a part of our success and our community. Here’s to hundreds more!!! By the way, I’ve decided that I want a glittery walker, and could somebody please tell me when my eyebrows get bushy?!!!
S2 E99 · Tue, August 02, 2022
Three Tips for your All About Me Book
The turning of the calendar page to August is a good reminder to start working on that Back to School Communication! Have you updated your All About Me Book? In today’s episode I give three super easy tips to help you advocate as effectively as possible with an All About Me Book! Need a template? Download one HERE! https://ashleybarlowco.podia.com/all-about-me-books
S2 E98 · Tue, July 26, 2022
From Teacher to Advocate: The Story of an ABC Student
I can’t wait to share with you Holly’s story. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or already an advocate, you’ll find some way to connect with Holly Johnson, today’s guest, and her sunny outlook! Holly is an elementary school special education teacher, who learned a lot about life during the COVID-19 pandemic, took the ABC Course and is on her way to becoming a special education advocate. Holly and I talk remote learning, pandemic parenting, teacher burn out, and all things advocacy in today’s episode, but we do it with a side of positivity and optimism. Holly’s a “lemonade” kind of advocate, and you’re not going to want to miss her story!
S2 E97 · Tue, July 12, 2022
A discussion about 34 CFR 300.116
In today’s short, sweet episode we look at 34 CFR 300.116, a regulation that teases out inclusion really nicely and gives us a LOT of help in arguing for inclusion. When I faced my own inclusion “discussion” with Jack’s IEP team, I first read the LAW (what’s in IDEA), but it didn’t help much. The REGULATIONS “tease out,” or explain, the law. This reg contains many factors that the IEP team needs to consider in making placement decisions. I think it’s so helpful that I have this one printed out and in the binder I take to all of my IEP meetings! I hope it helps you! (Oh, and sorrynotsorry about my appearance and voice. Real life happening over here!)
S2 E96 · Tue, June 28, 2022
Advocating From Your Gut
You know when your intuition just tells you something is right, but you have a hard time advocating? It’s like you know something is right, but you cannot really articulate it, so you say a lot of words but never really get to the point. I have clients come in with this issue often, and there is one strategy I always give them. In today’s podcast we will talk about this problem, as well as the strategy that has worked for so many of my clients and myself. Believe me! As somebody who uses a lot of words, I had to figure this went out using trial and error! Save yourself the time, and just listen to this episode!
S2 E95 · Mon, June 20, 2022
The Ins and Outs of Tutoring with Kelsey Frobeen
Have you ever wondered if you should get tutoring for your child that is on an IEP or 504 Plan? How do you find a tutor? How do you know if they’re a good fit? What kinds of tutoring models are out there? We’ll answer all of your tutoring question in today’s episode… yes, even that one. My guest, Kelsey Frobeen, and I will even talk about the risk that tutoring will take some responsibility off of the school. _____ Kelsey Frobeen is the Program Manager of Learning Aid Ohio. She manages this statewide program which aims to provide in-person, supplemental learning support for students with IEPs or a 504 plan. Kelsey has a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources with previous experience in project management and process improvement. She is a fierce advocate for the disability community and inclusion. She recently graduated from The Ohio State University, Nisonger Center’s LEND program in May and serves as a family mentor at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Originally from Piqua Ohio, she now lives in Hilliard with her husband Erik and their 5 year old daughter, Elliot who has cerebral palsy. They enjoy playing outside and having picnics when the weather is nice. Her happy place is at concerts enjoying live music and cross stitching.
S2 E94 · Tue, June 14, 2022
All About Visuals with Tara Tuchel of Autism Little Learners
Visual Schedules Made Easy?! Yes please! If anyone has ever told you that your child would benefit from visuals, this episode is for you! Right? This episode is for EVERYone… because we can ALL benefit from visuals (hello, grocery list)! Today I’m talking to the one and only Tara Tuchel of Autism Little Learners, creator of the online course called “Visuals Made Easy” about all things visuals. Tara, a licensed SLP and early childhood teacher to children with autism, will help us understand exactly what we mean by “visuals,” how to use them, and why so many students benefit from them. Tara’s enthusiasm is contagious, and her ideas are so darn easy to implement. ________ Tara is a speech/language pathologist who has worked with autistic children for over 20 years. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Communicative Disorders at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Her minor was in Early Childhood Education. After working exclusively with autistic children at the elementary level for several years, she went on to obtain an Autism Certificate from Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota. She's attended numerous professional development workshops, seminars, and courses over the years, and has been an adjunct professor at Hamline University teaching courses for educators about autism for 10 years. Tara spent several years at the early elementary level in Wisconsin and Colorado. Now, she is enjoying co-teaching in an autism classroom at the early childhood level (mainly with children ages 2.5 to 5 years) in Minnesota. Another aspect of her job at the early childhood level includes doing initial evaluations, from speech/language evaluations to full autism assessments. The parent connection at the preschool level is something she really loves! Tara started Autism Little Learners in March of 2019, about 6 weeks after she lost her dad to leukemia. The grief was so deep and so raw after he died that she needed something to distract her mind from the pain. Prior to that, she had been thinking about starting a store on Teachers Pay Teachers. because she already made so many of her own materials for her classroom. It can be so difficult to find good resources that are at the right level. Especially for 3 and 4 year old autistic students! So, she started creating resources and activities for educators and parents of young autistic children. Tara also does several free trainings each year on Facebook, and has an online course titled "Visual Schedules Made Easy". Website: https://autismlittlelearners.com/autism-little-learners-about/ Teachers Pay Teachers, Autism Little Learners Teaching Resources: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Autism-Little-Learners Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autismlittlelearners/
S2 E93 · Tue, June 07, 2022
3 Common Issues Arising in Advocacy in the 21-22 School Year
In today’s episode, I discuss 3 topics/ issues that have arisen frequently in my special education law practice and that advocates and attorneys across the country are discussing more this school year. We’ll talk about the issues, as well as solutions and strategies for each one!
S2 E92 · Tue, May 31, 2022
The one and only Jack Barlow!!!!!
If you can’t beat them, join them! I set an alarm to record early one morning over Memorial Day weekend, but my sweet guy had other plans… Jack woke up, too! He interrupted my first ten attempts at recording, sooooo this week’s guest is the most special of all—- The Jackman!!!! Jack and I talk all things special education - LRE, evaluations, MDRs…. Just Kidding! This is an episode full of complete and udder randomness - a joke, a burp, a fake toot, a list of toys, a little about school, and a lot of trying to get Jack to talk!!!! :) This is real life, friends (no, seriously, it’s 7 a.m., Jack has a mustache of yesterday’s Oreos, and I have only consumed about 1/4 of my first coffee!!) I’m excited to welcome you into our TV room and to introduce you to my wild and crazy guy!
S2 E91 · Tue, May 24, 2022
The Difference Between Private and School Evaluations with Dr. Brandi Tanner
You’re not going to want to miss this episode. It’s so full of great information and advocacy tips – not just for people exploring eligibility but also for people considering private evaluations, working with outside clinicians, and for anyone that writes an IEP goal. Yes, yes, that’s YOU!!!! In today’s episode, I talk to psychologist Dr. Brandi Tanner, about evaluations – the difference between what you get at school and what you get in a private clinic, what to do with the results, how often to test, and much, much more!! You guys usually like hearing from the psychologists, and I think you’re going to LOVE this one! . . Brandi Tanner, Ph.D., NCSP Dr. Brandi Tanner has over twenty years of experience working with children and adolescents with learning and behavioral problems. She is both a licensed psychologist and a certified school psychologist. Dr. Tanner earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Masters’ Degree in Special Education from West Virginia University. She entered her working career as a special education teacher. She later returned to school and earned her doctoral degree in School Psychology from the University of South Florida. Dr. Tanner’s doctoral-level education training included experiences in assessment and treatment of learning and behavioral problems for children and adolescents, systems-level consultation in Response to Intervention (RtI), and treatment integrity in school interventions. Upon completion of her doctoral degree, Dr. Tanner worked as a school psychologist in a metro-Atlanta district for several years. Currently, Dr. Tanner provides conducts comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations in her private practice, Lightway Psychological Services. She provides special education advocacy services through Your IEP Source. Contact: Email: hello@youriepsource.com Website: www.youriepsource.com Facebook: @youriepsource Instagram: @youriepsource
S2 E90 · Tue, May 17, 2022
Three Things You Should Do Before Summer
Sorry. It’s May. Graduations, Sports, Awards Ceremonies, Gardening, … You know the To Do list of Craziness that the month of May brings! Now I’m adding to the list! Buuuuuuuttttt – Can you think ahead to August and September for just a moment? Remember how it’s nutty, too?! I have just a few ideas – just a few things- that you could do NOW to make the Fall less stressful AND – most importantly – to make the transition to the next school year smoother for your child. Can you muscle through just a couple things (okay, I did say a few) with a forward focus? In today’s episode, I’m giving you three things that you can do NOW at the end of the school year to make next year better for your child that is on an IEP or 504 plan.
S2 E89 · Tue, May 10, 2022
Demand Letters 101
One of the negotiation strategies I use most frequently is a Demand Letter. In today’s super quick episode I introduce you to the Demand Letter and talk a little bit about how to write them. Once you master the Demand Letter, your advocacy will undoubtedly skyrocket with results! Today I share with you the little “ditty” I normally give clients when I recommend that they or I write a Demand Letter.
S2 E88 · Tue, May 03, 2022
The Autism Helper, Sasha Long
Join me for this week’s podcast, a discussion with Sasha Long, BCBA, MA, the Autism Helper. Sasha works as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, a consultant, and a writer. She founded @theautismhelper, where she manages a blog and lots of great content here on social media. Join us as we discuss how parents can collaborate with their IEP teams, support their children behaviorally, and navigate these uncharted post-pandemic waters. Meet My Guest: Sasha Long, BCBA, M.A., is the founder and president of The Autism Helper, Inc. She is a board certified behavior analyst and former special education teacher. Sasha works full time as a consultant, writer, and behavior analyst. Sasha manages and writes The Autism Helper Blog, as a way to share easy to use and ready to implement strategies and ideas. Sasha also travels internationally as a speaker and consultant providing individualized training and feedback to parents, educators, therapists and administrators in the world of autism. She is currently an adjunct professor in the school of Applied Behavior Analysis at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sasha received her undergraduate degree in Special Education from Miami University and has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. The Autism Helper Contacts: Website: https://theautismhelper.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theautismhelper/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/theautismhelper Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theautismhelper/
S2 E87 · Tue, April 26, 2022
Five Things Attorneys and Advocates Say In Almost Every Meeting
It started with an idea for a Freebie for you. It turned into a stream of consciousness!!! Today I share a little Behind the Scenes insight into things attorneys and advocates say often – and the reason we say them! Episode #47, “The #1 Reasons I Turn Away Clients” has yielded a lot of conversations with listeners, and when I had this podcast subject enter my head, I figured you may like it also! I am sure we drive our clients crazy with at least one of these five things, but hopefully after listening, you’ll gain just a bit of insight – and heck, you may even want to become an advocate or attorney yourself!!!
S2 E86 · Tue, April 19, 2022
“We All Relate” with Kelly Jones
Our Birth Stories. The Missed Milestones. The Comparison Game. Finding and Maintaining Child Care. Worries about Siblings. Our Jobs as Lifeguards, Therapists, Doctors, Researchers, Teachers, and General Contractors. Navigating Social Situations. Yes, yes, yes, yes, and yes!!! Can you relate to one or EVERY. SINGLE. ONE. of these issues that caretakers experience? In today’s podcast I talk with Kelly Jones, parent in our community and therapist, about the effect of care giving on the mental health of parents in the special needs community. And what special about this podcast is that there’s no toolkit (of course, of course, we do provide some strategies and ideas for healing). Rather, the purpose of this episode is *community* - for you to feel our community, the togetherness, the connection. I promise that you’ll listen to this episode and feel better for at least one reason. You are not alone. We’re all in this together. Please enjoy!
S2 E85 · Tue, April 12, 2022
One Helpful Strategy to Use This “IEP Season”
Before I outlined today’s podcast episode, I triple checked that I hadn’t done this topic before, because it’s nearly impossible that we’re 85 episodes in, and I haven’t talked about this IEP meeting tip… The Future Planning Statement and/or Parent Interest Statement! When people hire me for a one-time consult, they almost always hear about the FPS/PIS. I recommend it almost universally! Sharing your hopes and dreams, as well as the interests behind your positions for upcoming meeting can be a total game changer, and in today’s episode, I’ll walk you through just what to include. Want more? Download my guide to writing these babies over on my website. Create A Future Planning Statement: https://ashleybarlowco.com/product-page-create-a-future-planning-statement
S2 E84 · Tue, April 05, 2022
Lessons I’ve Learned In Life and As an Advocate
I’ve had a lot of perspective-shifting experiences in my life. I was seriously injured as a kid and have chronic pain and PTSD as a result, my son has Down syndrome, my husband has had cancer, and we’ve had enough family drama to write a book (who hasn’t?). Those experiences have taught me so many things, and in today’s podcast I dive a little deeper into three lessons that I’ve learned in navigating life’s twists and turns that also foray nicely into an advocacy or special education law practice. There are so many times during the day that I hear a bit of wisdom and think, “Yes, that applies to SPED advocacy, too,” and today I’m sharing just a few of those nuggets with you!
S2 E83 · Tue, March 29, 2022
Including Schedule Into Inclusion Arguments
I have been talking to a few friends and lots of clients about inclusion recently. I feel like this is super practical strategy helps everybody so much. I can really be a game changer at the IEP table. In today’s episode I talk about power including the students schedule and your advocacy can make a big difference.
S2 E82 · Tue, March 22, 2022
Part of the IEP- Ashley Barlow Style
I bet you’ve gone to a billion presentations on the Parts of the IEP, but this episode approaches that from a different aspect. Are you ready? In today’s episode, I do indeed describe the different parts of the IEP, but also how they relate to one another. The important information should help you immensely in your meetings and with your advocacy.
S2 E81 · Mon, March 14, 2022
Know Your Rights: Parent Involvement
You know when you and your bestie speak the same language? That’s how it is when Traci Brewer and I get together, especially if Parent Involvement is the topic of conversation! Traci, the executive director of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Kentucky, joins me on this week’s podcast episode to talk about Parent Involvement - why it’s important and HOW to actually get involved in your child’s school community. You’re guaranteed to pick up at least a couple pointers in this helpful, important episode! Oh, and we may spend a wee bit of time celebrating World Down Syndrome Awareness Month, March!!! 💙 💛 ☘️
S2 E80 · Tue, March 08, 2022
Using Compassion and Boundaries in Our Advocacy
“If we really want to practice compassion, we have to start by setting boundaries and holding people accountable for their behavior.” -Brene Brown, The Gifts of Imperfection. Surely you’d agree that compassion plays a big role in special education advocacy. We want school teams to be compassionate and equitable to our children, right? Have you ever considered how to evoke compassion, empathy, and equitability? I re-read The Gifts of Imperfection over the weekend, and the quote above stuck out. So, in today’s episode, I explore the intersection of compassion and boundaries, landing on three tips to help you hold your IEP team more accountable and – in turn- evoke more compassion at the IEP table.
S2 E79 · Tue, March 01, 2022
GOALLLLLS!!!!!
You’ve asked, and here’s our answer: Of course I’ll do an episode on goal writing. In today’s episode I give you my “whole picture” assessment of a well written goal, but I also narrow in for those of you who like the specifics and provide a description of the elements of a well written goal. We’ll also take a bit of time at the beginning and end of the episode to talk about the importance and conceptualization of IEP goals --- what are they, why are the needed, and what exactly do they do? Special education goals get a lot of press, which often creates a lot of anxiety. I hope this episode relieves you of some of that IEP drafting stress.
S2 E78 · Tue, February 22, 2022
Is extended school year advocacy the bane of your existence?
In today’s episode a talk about one factor that IEP teams should consider which may strengthen your advocacy for extended school year services. We are talking critical life skills. This one is short and sweet but might be just what you need today.
S2 E77 · Tue, February 15, 2022
Dyslexia Advocacy: It Doesn’t Have to Be This Hard!
It Doesn’t Have to Be This Hard, friends. That’s the name of my friend, Michelle Morgan’s, new e- book about dyslexia advocacy, and it’s also a very true statement. In today’s episode we give you a little preview of Michelle’s book, which walks parents of dyslexic children through evaluations, eligibility, development of the IEP, and progress monitoring. Michelle gives lots and lots of tips about not only what students are entitled to but also how to get services. And guess what… it starts with objective communication. You ready for some real-life applicable stuff? You’re going to love Michelle’s information! Meet My Guest: Michelle Morgan It's hard having a child with dyslexia. Most of the time you feel frustrated that the school doesn't understand your child's needs and you worry they are not getting the type of reading intervention necessary to become proficient at reading and writing. Being a parent to a child with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD, I know firsthand how difficult this journey is for families. I've worked as a speech-language pathologist for 17 years, but being a parent taught me more about dyslexia than I ever learned in school. Since my daughter's diagnosis, I've taken a deep dive into the world of literacy and what struggling readers need to be successful. I provide comprehensive assessments and individual intervention for children who struggle with reading and writing. One of my favorite ways to serve families is through advocacy. Parents need to feel supported during this journey and providing them with information on how to get appropriate services through the public school system is one of the best ways to help a child succeed. I've written a soon to be published book on this exact topic called, It Shouldn't Be So Difficult: How to Get Your Child with Dyslexia the Services They Need in Public School Links mentioned in this episode: The Reading League: The Reading League - The Science of Reading International Dyslexia Association: International Dyslexia Association - …until everyone can read! (dyslexiaida.org) Sally Schaywitz, “Overcoming Dyslexia”: Overcoming Dyslexia (2020 Edition): Second Edition, Completely Revised and Updated: Shaywitz, Sally: 8601300369143: Amazon.com: Books Wrightslaw: www.wrightslaw.com Michelle’s book/ Days with Dyslexia: <a href="https://dayswithdyslex
S2 E76 · Tue, February 08, 2022
Ready Set Goals!!!
Ready, Set, Goals!!! Special Education puns. That’s how low I am willing to sink for a podcast title. Sorry, not sorry. In today’s episode I’m giving you the ten-minute ditty on why we have goals in special education. We won’t spend a ton of time talking about how to write goals, elements of a good goal, progress monitoring, or other nitty gritty goal topics. Rather, we’re zooming out to talk about the “intent” of the goal… the reason the goal is a part of the IEP. I think this critical piece of information helps my clients conceptualize the process of goal writing. In weeks to come, I’ll get you the nitty gritty, too, because I know you want that!!! Now, what’s your favorite Special Education Pun?!
S2 E75 · Tue, February 01, 2022
Everything You Need To Know About Special Education
Big celebrations happening over here at ABCo! The Cincinnati Bengals are going to the Super Bowl, our podcast has been downloaded 25,000 times, AND we’re publishing Podcast #75!!!! To celebrate, I’m bringing you a biggie: Everything You Need to Know about Special Education… Say what? In today’s episode I’m telling you the three concepts you’ll need to master (or at least familiarize yourself with) in order to effectively advocate in special education. Ready? Set. Go!!! This is a good one! New Freebie: This week we reached 25,000 podcast download! I thought it would be fun to celebrate with a list of some of my favorite episodes! This isn’t so much a Top Ten List – but really represents a gathering of some of my favorite resources! Getting Started: A Listening Guide to The Special Education Advocacy Podcast with Ashley Barlow: Download here: https://ashleybarlowco.podia.com/getting-started-a-listening-guide-to-the-special-education-advocacy-podcast-with-ashley-barlow
S2 E74 · Tue, January 25, 2022
One Small Shift that Makes a Huge Difference
I call it “relentless optimism.” It is an attitude that serves me well in IEP meeting after IEP meeting. In today's episode I will share with you how this one simple mindset shift can make a huge difference in your advocacy. This tip has never been as important with teachers completely exhausted and overworked. You must BELIEVE that everyone on the table wants to help. You must BELIEVE that solutions exist and that people want to find them. You must BELIEVE that there’s a better way. You must BELIEVE that you’ll reach an agreement. We’re talking Ted Lasso stuff! Too good to be try? Give a listen, and I’ll convince you it’s not.
S2 E73 · Thu, January 20, 2022
Community Organizations: A How To….
We talk about community a lot over here at ABCo. In this bonus episode, I chat with Angela Tyszka, advocate and speaker at this year’s SEA Conference. Angela has worked in universities, elementary, middle, and high schools; and she has extensive experience in participating in and organizing parent support organizations. We chat about the importance of this groups, as well as how to get involved and even start them. Plus, you’ll get a preview of Angela’s presentation for the Conference.
S2 E72 · Tue, January 18, 2022
How Standardized Tests Miss the Mark on Student Performance
I’ve seen this a million times. A student’s evaluation report shows average scores - maybe with a few relative weaknesses- but the student’s performance in school is mediocre or worse. Missing assignments, disciplinary actions, and bad grades demonstrate that the student isn’t meeting his or her apparent potential in school. Confidence wanes as the student becomes frustrated. Why does this happen? April Rehrig, advocate and licensed school psychologist, walks us through the reason this happens. More importantly, April spends lots of time helping us navigate what to do about it! How can we better assess students to make sure we understand how their disability will affect their school performance? What tests should you request, and more!!! you won’t want to miss this super important episode!
S2 E71 · Tue, January 11, 2022
Tales From the Classroom - And the Parent’s Desk: A Chat With A Teacher AND a Parent
What do you want from me?!!!! That’s what my clients sometimes want to ask of their child’s teachers. Parents struggle with special education communication. What do I say? When do I communicate? Why does the teacher need some information and not need others? And do the school people talk themselves?! In today’s conversation I sit down with my friend, Rebecca Scheerer, a special education teacher who also occupies the role of parents on an IEP team. Becca answers all of our questions and gives us such important insight into a special education classroom. Becca is presenting at our 2nd Annual Virtual Special Education & Advocacy Conference on January 22, 2022, and she’ll also give you a preview of her presentation in this episode!
S2 E70 · Tue, January 04, 2022
Real Life Parallels to Special Education Advocacy
Stars: They’re just like us. Special Education: It’s just like your every day life. For many reasons, advocating for a child with in special education is intimidating, but in today’s episode, I’m making a real life analogy for you. I started running in April 2020, and over the past few months, I’d had a lot of time to think about how my improvement in running- and the tracking of it- parallels special education, advocacy, and so many of the emotions associated with both. Not a runner? No worries- neither am I!!! But I bet you’ll connect to today’s episode!
S1 E69 · Tue, December 28, 2021
The Glamorous World of Goal and Evaluation Results Tracking
Now that we got your all organized last week, it's time to dive into your child's profile. Remember that the "I" in "IEP" is "individualized." I see so many IEPs that do not address the specific needs and strengths of the child. What's more - the meat of the IEP is "specially designed instruction." That's right, the IEP has to be specially tailored to meet the unique needs of the child. In this week’s episode we'll focus on empowering you with information about your child specifically and then about programming that may benefit your child--- tracking their goals and their performance on evaluations. It sure isn’t glamorous, but this activity can be super powerful!
S1 E68 · Tue, December 21, 2021
Let’s Get Organized!!!
The first step to effective advocacy is organization. You have to know a child - both objectively and subjectively- in order to develop a good plan for him or her. Parents are usually experts on subjective information - how they feel about a child's diagnosis and the impact of the diagnosis on learning, how a child is doing in school, generally speaking. However, when parents share those feelings, they are often undervalued by schools. That could be because the IEP must be developed to address objective areas of need. Objective information about the profile can be found in the paperwork, so in today’s episode, I get you organized so you can amp up your advocacy game!!!
S1 E67 · Tue, December 14, 2021
Efficiency is the Name of the Game
Today’s episode has nothing and everything to do with special education advocacy. I’m sharing a few tips that I have learned the hard way on how to be efficient- how to manage the chaos in your household so you can be more present for advocacy, work, and fun!!! I run two businesses, manage the schedules of two busy boys, volunteer at school and elsewhere, and carve out time for myself. How? Efficiency is the name of the game!
S1 E66 · Tue, November 30, 2021
6 Things You Need Before You Write IEP Goals
You’ve probably attend a zillion and one seminars about writing IEP goals. Don’t get me wrong… I do think those are helpful. IEP goals are very important, but the goals have to be written with specific purposes. That’s why it’s so important to have very specific information before you even write the goals. In today’s episode, I’ll give you a list of 6 things I think you must have BEFORE you write IEP goals. These are likely things you already have or things you can review in an hour or so, and they’ll provide such better outcomes once the IEP gets implemented.
S1 E65 · Tue, November 23, 2021
Gratitude
We’re talking gratitude on the podcast today. When I taught, I found the job to be somewhat thankless. I’ll explore why I think gratitude should play a role in every IEP team and how you can take the lead.
S1 E64 · Mon, November 15, 2021
Sensory Regulation
Sensory Integration is what makes the world go ‘round in the Barlow household. You know that shirt from the 80’s that said, “If Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” At our house the phrase, starts, “If Jack is dysregulated, …!” In today’s episode I’m sharing sensory strategies that work for us and how we use them. I’m also explaining sensory regulation – from the perspective of a parent and a special education attorney (I’m for sure not an OT!) and giving a round up of additional strategies that may be useful in your house or community.
S1 E63 · Tue, November 09, 2021
The Benefit of Going To School
Go. To. School. If I could give you one tip about how to advocate for your child, it would simply be to go to school. Get involved. Be present. Ask questions. This can all be done by going to school. I give a talk to organizations all over the country on Effective Parents in Special Education. My #1 tip in that presentation is to Be Involved, and that means being at school. In today’s episode, I talk to you about the benefits of being involved and also give you pointers on how to accomplish this!
S1 E62 · Tue, November 02, 2021
A Chat with Rachel Schwartz on Behavior Support
Respect. Aretha Franklin saying about it for a reason. It’s something we all deserve and something we all crave. But sometimes when we are trying to support a child behaviorally, we forget about respect. I see this so often in schools and even in homes. Rachel Schwartz is a BCBA and has a PhD in special education. She knows her stuff and brings so much information on behavior support in today’s episode. I cannot wait for you to meet her! Meet Rachel Schwartz: Rachel Schwartz, PhD, BCBA-D has worked internationally creating and supervising programs for individuals with disabilities across the lifespan. Dr. Schwartz received her Master’s degree in Teaching and Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Georgia and her Ph.D. in Special Education from the University of Pittsburgh. Her work as a consultant and trainer includes teaching behavior analytic strategies and exploring issues related to sexual education and quality of life. Dr. Schwartz has published original research on these topics in special education journals as well as presented at national, state, and local conferences. With her organization Behavior Goals, Dr. Schwartz shares her over 15 years of experience working in special education to empower students, families, and professionals ( www.behaviorgoals.com )
S1 E61 · Tue, October 26, 2021
“How do you do your job? How do I get a job doing this?”
“How do you do your job? How do I get a job doing this?” If I had a dollar for every time I’ve been asked this question, well, as BNL would say, I’d be rich!!! In today’s episode, I walk you though the common paths that people take to start on a journey in special education, some of the personality traits that are important to channel as a special education advocate, and also trainings that are available to enter the field of special education advocacy! Of course, I’ll give you plenty of information about my course, Advocacy, Business, & Concepts in Special Education, which I do think is an excellent course to help you get established and grow as special education advocates. Registration closes this weekend, so pop up to the link in bio for info on my course today!
S1 E60 · Tue, October 19, 2021
What Does a Special Education Advocate Do?
Last week I interviewed two special education advocates on Instagram live, and you learned a lot about their day-to-day lives. In today’s episode, I summarize it for you. I describe exactly what an advocate does. This may help you make the decision of whether to hire an advocate to support your family or even to decide if you want to be an advocate yourself!
S1 E59 · Tue, October 12, 2021
“When do I know if I should bring an advocate to a meeting?”
This is one of the questions I’m asked most often when I speak to disability organizations, so I’m giving you my answer in today’s episode. I think it’s always helpful to bring an advocate to a meeting, but I’ll help you decide if you need an advocate – or could benefit from one- in today’s episode.
S1 E58 · Tue, October 05, 2021
Chatting with Military Mom, Advocate, Special Educator, Carla Wyrsch
Some people are just extraordinary at their jobs! I can’t wait for you to meet Military Mom, Special Education Advocate, and Teacher Carla Wyrsch. She’s a true student of teaching methodologies and advocacy, and when she sees a problem, she faces it head on. In today’s episode, Carla talks about an issue she has researched so much, one that affects thousands of Americans- access to special education services for our military families. We’ll talk eligibility, services, lifestyle, and more; and along the way, Carla shares so many resources! This may be the episode with the longest show notes, because she references so many wonderful organizations!
S1 E57 · Tue, September 28, 2021
Checking in on COVID learning
Holy cow! The floodgates have opened! I think I got a new referral every day last week, and SO MANY of the cases had to do with COVID-19 learning. I was astonished at some of the things people were telling me about how their children’s IEPs were serviced during last school year. It’s no surprise that children are now falling behind academically, functionally, behaviorally, and socially. In today’s episode I key you in to what the USDOE has said about IEPs during the pandemic – because I think a reminder is in order!
S1 E56 · Tue, September 21, 2021
Transitioning to Adulthood with Renowned Advocates, Rachel and Jawanda Mast
If there was a foreign language in special education, it would be Transition to Adulthood. When IEPs start to consider a child’s transition to adulthood, things over get willy nilly. I think it’s mainly because parents – while often quite innocent about special education already – are REALLY intimidated by All Things Transition. That’s why I invited advocacy rockstars, Jawanda and Rachel Mast back on the podcast to talk about Transition to Adulthood. Rachel is an adult that has Down syndrome that has been to college, worked several jobs, and has a vibrant social life! I can’t wait for you to learn from these amazing role models!!!
S1 E55 · Tue, September 14, 2021
Losing the Loneliness as a Parent in the Disability Community: Lessons of a Life Coach Who’s Been Where You Are
Tina B., life coach and parent in our big, beautiful disability community, delivers life lessons through storytelling. Today we wrap up our 3-part series with Tina with an episode on Losing the Loneliness. Even though you feel like you may never be alone, you also have undoubtedly experienced loneliness as a parent of a child with a disability. Do the other parents know how it feels when yours is the child that can’t read? Do they really understand that we can’t make the happy hour, because we have OT? We don’t *want* to go to OT, but we know the many benefits of OT, the routine, etc. Would they even want to listen to us? Tina has been such a gift to the podcast, and today’s lesson, the fine one in my anniversary gift to you, is a good one! Enjoy, friends! Thanks for your support over the last year! Here’s to another wonderful year here at ABCo.
S1 E54 · Tue, September 07, 2021
Controlling the Chaos: Lessons of a Life Coach Who’s Been Where You Are
“When we believe that we are in control, it adds to the chaos.” Oh man, friends! You’re in for a big treat in this podcast episode, Part 2 of our 3-Part Series of Lessons of a Life Coach with Tina B. Tina and I dig deep into the chaos, how hard it is but also accepting it and even learning to be happy in the chaos. To achieve this Tina takes us through a journal prompt to help us tease out what we can control, what we can influence, and what is out of our control, thereby helping us to organize the chaos. I learned so much in today’s episode and can’t wait for you to be as empowered as I was after talking to @tinab_disabilityinclusioned. Drop us a like and hop over to listen now!
S1 E53 · Tue, August 31, 2021
Refined By Fire: Lessons of a Life Coach Who’s Been Where You Are
My 1 Year Anniversary gift to you is a podcast series with Tina Beauvais, a life coach that has been “refined through the fire,” a parent like you who took the lessons she learned as the mom to a beautiful young lady with muscular dystrophy to help athletes and parents navigate life’s struggles. When you think “Coach,” you probably think about Craig T. Nelson…. or the coach of your favorite team or maybe even of a coach that made an impact on you. Did you know that the word “coach” is derived from the kind of “coach” that took people from one place to another, like a buggy? If you think about it, that’s what a coach really does – she takes people from where they are to where they want to go. In this episode, the first of a 3-episode series, Tina tells us the story of her daughter, Noelle’s, birth and the story of how she became a Coach, and in doing so, she delivers so much wisdom that we can all apply to our everyday lives!
S1 E52 · Tue, August 24, 2021
Get Trained By the Best – Advocacy Training with Rachel and Jawanda Mast
Advocate. A person who publicly supports a cause of policy. No matter the path we took to get here, we all ended at the same point: Advocate. Some of us arrived kicking and screaming. Others knew we’d be advocates from Day One. Some of us don our advocacy hats begrudgingly still while others decorate them with sequins. But we’re all advocates. And today we’re going to meet two of the best. I can’t wait for you to meet mother- daughter advocacy superstars, Rachel and Jawanda Mast. In today’s episode we talk all things Advocacy and Self-Advocacy. Whether you’re just starting your advocacy engine or you’re far down your advocacy path, I know you’ll pick up a few pointers in today’s episode! Meet My Guests: Jawanda and Rachel Mast Mother and daughter team Jawanda and Rachel Mast are passionate about the meaningful inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities in all aspects of the community and have presented at many conferences. The two of them worked alongside advocates from across the country for over eight years to pass the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act allowing individuals with disabilities to save money in 529 type accounts without jeopardizing benefits. Because of her work on passing the ABLE Act nationally and in Kansas, Rachel became the first person to open a Kansas ABLE Savings Account. Rachel Mast, who has Down syndrome, is 22 years old and a graduate of Olathe South High School and works as a hostess at the Olive Garden and wants to someday live in a pink house. Jawanda Mast is a national grassroots advocacy speaker and consultant. Jawanda is married to Jonathan Mast. Along with Rachel they make their home in Olathe, Kansas. Jawanda says their work is a #laborofloveandconviction.
S1 E51 · Tue, August 17, 2021
How to Help Your Child Have A Smooth Transition Back To School
Sure, you know to buy the number two pencils and notebooks that will come home almost completely unused. You bleach the mold out of the lunchbox and make sure their toes aren’t sticking through last year‘s shoes. But do you do anything different for your children that are on IEP‘s at the beginning of the school year? Before I tell you that you should, know that I will help you! I’m not talking about spending hours and hours. But in today’s podcast I will explain a few things that you might consider doing in order to help your child have a smooth transition back to school. We’re talking communication and other strategies in today’s episode , And at the end of the week, I will even publish some templates for you! It’s a big week here at Ashley Barlow Co.. I’m happy you were here.
S1 E50 · Tue, August 10, 2021
Getting Funny with Rob Snow and Nick Doyle
I hope you’re ready to laugh! Today’s guests, Rob Snow and Nick Doyle are masters at improvisation, and they had me laughing before we even hit record. Rob started a non-profit called StandUp for Downs and performs improv across the country to raise money for local Down Syndrome affiliates. A few years ago, he developed the Improvaneer Method, a program that teachers individuals with developmental disabilities improvisation skills. The program has yielded so many gains for its students- eye contact, patience, voice projection, problem solving, adaption to change, listening, focus, quick thinking, creative thinking, character development- to name a few! Rob and Nick describe the program more in this episode, and yes, they made me play some improv games!!! Meet My Guests: Rob Snow - CEO and Creator Rob is a native Ohioan, but moved to Chicago and began his comedy and improvisation journey in the late 90s while training at the famed Second City Theatre, as well as Improv Olympic and The Annoyance Theatre. In 2000, Rob “gave up” comedy for the serenity of the “real world”. He married his wife, Ellen, and they had their first son Charlie. In 2009 the Snows moved back to Ohio and Rob decided to give comedy a shot again performing open mics and guests sets while he traveled for his day job. Also in that year, Rob and Ellen had their second son Henry who was born with Down Syndrome. The merger of Rob’s passion for comedy and the love of his son has paved his path ever since. In 2011 Rob created his first of three one-man shows which he continues to perform nationally ( www.weneedasign.net ). The Snows also founded Stand Up For Downs , a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the lives of those with developmental disabilities through humor. In 2017, Rob created the The Improvaneer Method. He serves as the Chief Executive and still rolls up the sleeves to Co-Direct when Maggie allows him. Nick Doyle - Assistant Director and Sales Associate Nick Doyle is from Canton, OH and has become a vital part of the success of The Improvaneer Method. Nick is an original cast member and quickly establish himself as the ‘big brother’ and leader of the troupe. Through his dedication to the craft, he quickly became a standout performer. In 2019, Nick joined Rob as a board member of his non-profit, Stand Up For Downs. He also joined the board of GiGi’s Playhouse Canton. Nick serves as an Assistant Director for online and live Improvaneer Method classes as well as a Sales Associate helping promote and sell programs at conferences nationally. He also continues performing with The Original Improvaneers around the country. Beyond serving in all of these roles, Nick works as a host at Applebees restaurant
S1 E49 · Tue, August 03, 2021
Advocacy from the Teacher’s Perspective
Did you ever wonder if teachers feel compelled to advocate for their students? Ever wonder what kind of advocacy and teamwork they desire from and with parents? In today’s episode I talk with Ms. Lucy from @thealternativewaytoprek about how she runs her self-contained preschool classroom, advocacy, how she uses AAC in her classroom, and so much more! Lucy and I could go on and on about advocating for children on IEPs… oh wait, we did! Join me for this entertaining, spirited, informative conversation! You may want another cup of coffee first… Lucy and I are both pretty high energy! 😊 Get to know my guest: Hello! My name is Lucy and I am a preschool self-contained teacher! I have my Bachelors and Masters degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. I am originally from Buffalo, NY (GO BILLS!) but relocated to South Carolina in 2014 to persue my teaching career. I have been teaching in SC for seven years. I serve students with a wide range of abilities ages 3-4 all of who have an IEP. I implement a variety of strategies and methodologies to address each student's specific needs. I am very passionate about advocating for my students, inclusion, and AAC (augmentative and alternative communication). Blog: https://thealternativewaytoprek.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thealternativewaytoprek/ or @thealternativewaytoprek Facebook Group For Teachers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/earlychildhoodspedclub Teachers Pay Teachers Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Alternative-Way-To-Pre-k
S1 E48 · Tue, July 27, 2021
My favorite advocacy strategy
Want to know my favorite advocacy strategy? It’s something you can do on the first day of school with very little effort, and it will give you SO much insight! The tip: Go To School. No, I don’t mean that you need to go back to school! I mean, you need to march your little feet to your child’s school. Get involved. It will teach you so much about your child’s environment- the teacher, the classroom, the peers, the discipline style and behavior supports- all of it! When you volunteer at school, you not only learn a lot about the school environment, but you also get to teach the school about yourself and your family. You work on that teamwork that we all crave in the IEP setting! So, download the podcast and give a listen! Let me know what you think!!! And THEN – get to school!!!!! Links Mentioned: The Special Education and Advocacy Lab: https://specialedadvocacylab.ashleybarlowco.com/
S1 E47 · Tue, July 20, 2021
The #1 Reason I Turn Away Cases as a Special Education Attorney
In the legal field, lines are often blurred. Attorneys are kind of famous for saying, “Well, maybe.” And, “It depends!” But there’s one kind of case that I always turn away. It’s not so much the case itself… it’s the mindset of the parents when they walk through my doors. Tune in to this week’s podcast to learn about the #1 Reason that I Turn Away Cases as a SPED attorney! Links Mentioned: The Special Education & Advocacy Lab: https://specialedadvocacylab.ashleybarlowco.com/ Become an Affiliate: https://ashley-barlow-co.mykajabi.com/affiliate_users/sign_up
S1 E46 · Tue, July 13, 2021
Learn About Evaluations From School-Psych-Turned-Advocate, Erin Mahaffey
If you have a child in special education, you have undoubtedly Received an educational evaluation. If you have received an educational evaluation, you have undoubtedly been confused, frustrated, and maybe even downright mad. If you have been confused, frustrated, or mad During an IEP meeting, you know how quickly a meeting can go sideways. And if you have been in a sideways meeting, you probably know the impact that can have on a child. If you have followed this Give a Mouse a Cookie example, you will want to listen to this weeks podcast! We are talking evaluations in this week’s episode, and we are going straight to the horse‘s mouth! That’s right, in this episode a talk to Erin Mahaffey, licensed school psychologist and special education advocate. If you get your child’s evaluation and promptly stick it in a file or delete the email, I promise that Erin will not only convince you to read it but also help you understand what to do with it! We also talk about other ways school psychologists can help children on IEP‘s, effective advocacy strategies, and so, so much more! When I hung up with Erin, I told her that this episode was in my Top 3 favorite episodes yet! It’s just that good! (Tag Education with Erin), I’m sorry I called you a horse!!! Learn more about my guest: Erin Mahaffey, M.Ed., Ed.S., NCSP, is a mother, current parent advocate at ‘Education with Erin’, trained school psychologist, and a military spouse. She has experience advocating for parents and students through the special education process, has completed hundreds of psychological and educational assessments for special education eligibility, and has worked in two different states as a school psychologist. In addition to her advocacy work with parents, she enjoys providing coaching sessions to students so they can better understand their strengths and weaknesses to promote strong self-advocacy skills. Links Mentioned : Who Are School Psychologist: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HjJjmmcb5AqN-PSazTEpRsi_3vXNYhMK/view?usp=sharing Become an ABC Affiliate: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HjJjmmcb5AqN-PSazTEpRsi_3vXNYhMK/view?usp=sharing The Special Education and Advocacy Lab: https://specialedadvocacylab.ashleybarlowco.com/
S1 E45 · Tue, July 06, 2021
Let’s Talk About Behavior
We are getting into the nitty-gritty with behavior in this weeks episode. I keep a list of common behavior strategies that school can employ while they are waiting on the results of an FDA or an IEE for a functional behavioral assessment. I explain a few of those helpful strategies and how I advocate for them in today’s episode! Don’t forget to get on the waitlist for The Special Education & Advocacy Lab here: https://specialedadvocacylab.ashleybarlowco.com/
S1 E44 · Tue, June 29, 2021
Advocacy 101 with Jena Wells
“Advocate” is a title all of us bear, but it may be one that brings hesitancy, overwhelm, and intimidation. Most parents and caregivers in the disability community did not set out to become advocates. Rather, our families and their special circumstances lead us to a need to advocate. So, here we are – with this new title as “advocate” and zero training. Today’s podcast guest is Jena Wells, mom to four little boys, one of whom has Down syndrome. The birth of Jena’s son, Ashton, lead her to explore more formal training in advocacy, and before she knew it, she was working in the non-profit world helping families, self-advocates, and organizations that benefits individuals with disabilities. There’s so much we can all learn from Jena’s advocacy journey. Learn more here: Global Down Syndrome Foundation | Research, Care, Education, Advocacy Meet my guest: Jena Wells, Disability Family Services Professional Jena Wells is a dynamic mentor and subject matter expert to numerous families within the disability community. She is passionate about creating inclusive opportunities, access, and a sense of belonging for those she has served. She has worked in the non-profit sector throughout her career (for over 20 years) empowering families to establish their own personal path. Jena received a BS in Family Community Services with a specialty in health-related topics. She is a leader that cherishes relationship building and has strong emotional intelligence. Jena uses her skills to manage programs, advocate, collaborate, and educate others. She aspires to learn and grow through her work each day while delivering results. Inspiration for Jena comes from her family and friends. Jena and her husband were blessed with a son who happens to have Down syndrome. He has connected them to a remarkable disability community to which they are deeply involved. She enjoys spending time on nature walks and playing activities with her family while soaking up the rays. Throughout Jena’s life, she has been a big picture thinker with the ability to manage high ambiguity. She enjoys planning, creating, and executing a vision through to fruition. Her favorite quote and the one she tries to live by is: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” John Quincy Adams
S1 E43 · Tue, June 22, 2021
Adding Objective Arguments To Your Advocacy
The first step to effective advocacy is organization. You have to know a child - both objectively and subjectively- in order to develop a good plan for him or her. Parents are usually experts on subjective information - how they feel about a child's diagnosis and the impact of the diagnosis on learning, how a child is doing in school, generally speaking. However, when parents share those feelings, they are often undervalued by schools. That could be because the IEP must be developed to address objective areas of need. In today’s episode, we’ll talk about adding objectivity to your advocacy to be better understood.
S1 E42 · Tue, June 15, 2021
Helpful Inclusion Strategies
Parents often consult with me for ideas on how their child’s school can be more inclusive. I’ve come up with a list of ideas by thinking on the spot, having great discussions with other parents and IEP teams, and doing lots and lots of reading. In today’s episode I talk about three strategies I recommend for schools that want to be more inclusive. I’ll give you the strategy AND tools parents/guardians can use to advocate for more inclusivity in their child’s school environment. We’ll talk about using a child’s interests to motivate him or her. This strategy makes learning more fun and also mixes things up for the teachers, a win-win! My son’s speech therapist recently tapped into his admittedly odd obsession with moles by cutting out pictures of moles and using them in scenes to work on prepositions (“put the mole on top of the roof!”) I also suggest that teachers work to allow the child to communicate effectively in the classroom. Sometimes child can’t participate equitably with oral expression, and quite frankly, if we can’t participate, we don’t feel included. There are lots of strategies teachers can use to elicit communication and participation. These techniques encourage participation, which encourages belonging. Finally, we’ll talk about big school events like fairs, plays, talent shows, and social opportunities. These events provide extensive opportunities for students to really feel like they’re a part of a community, which is a key to inclusion. Tune in to hear lots more detail!
S1 E41 · Tue, June 08, 2021
Equity, Education, and More with Heather Avis from the Lucky Few
I’m using my Oprah voice. Please welcome HEATHER AVIS! That’s right, Heather Avis of the Lucky Few joins me in this week’s episode. Heather is an author, blogger, narrative shifter, and shouter of worth. In the episode, Heather talks about how The Lucky Few community began, the importance of having such a big community, and the impact that the community is making. She has shared a lot online about her children’s educational experiences during the COVI-19 pandemic, and we break that apart, both with a discussion about what happened last year, and then – more importantly- about what needs to happen next year. Heather also shares a lot about her children’s inclusion / educational placement journeys. And we learn about Heather’s first children’s book, “Different,” which is available for pre-order now! You’re going to want “Different” in your bag when you go to talk about your child’s disability to his or her class. There’s so much to learn from other people’s journeys. If COVID has taught us one thing, it’s that we need relationships with other people, and we can be very creative in connecting. The Lucky Few community was already well established when the pandemic struck, and it’s a great example of how people from all over the world can connect in meaningful ways just by witnessing one bold family share its experiences. I hope listening to Heather talk about her family’s journey sheds light on your circumstance. It’s clear to see why The Lucky Few Community is so big… Heather is able to spread wisdom in real, digestible ways. Have a listen and see for yourself! Meet Heather:: Heather Avis is founder and chief visionary officer at The Lucky Few, a social awareness brand on a mission to make a more inclusive and loving world with an emphasis on shifting the Down syndrome narrative. The author of the new children’s book “ Different—A Great Thing to Be!” she runs The Lucky Few's hit Instagram account and is the author of a book and co-host of the podcast by the same name. A former education specialist teaching high school students, Heather is a mother to three adopted children and has been interviewed on numerous media outlets including The Today Show , Hallmark’s Home & Family, and written for TIME . She lives in Southern California with her husband, Josh, and their three kids Truly, August and Macy, the inspiration for “Different—A Great Thing to Be.” For more information, visit www.HeatherAvis.com & @ TheLuckyFewOfficial Preorder “ Different—A Great Thing to Be!” here: https://www.heatheravis.com/different#preorder
S1 E40 · Tue, June 01, 2021
What To Do When Meetings Go Sideways
Nobody expects IEP meetings to go sideways; yet, discussions over get rhetorical and unproductive. In today’s episode I am sharing three super practical, easy steps that will help you get discussions back on the right track. I take a lot of continuing education classes on negotiation strategy, and I read about the topic a lot. Therefore, I know formal negotiation strategy in and out. Of course, I use those strategies in my day to day practice, but sometimes practical, every day strategies are just as successful – if not more! I’ll talk to you about the benefits of taking a break and what to do during the break. I’ll also walk you through a few examples of how I reframe my position in a discussion. And I’ll give you a few examples of questions that I ask specifically to reframe a discussion and get it back on the right track. I also tease a new training that I will be announcing in the Summer of 2021. You’re not going to want to miss this one! Link Mentioned: Inclusion Workshop: https://ashleybarlowco.com/product-page-inclusion-workshop-workbook
S1 E39 · Tue, May 25, 2021
Using USDOE Guidance in an Inclusion Argument: Letter to Autin
The United States Department of Education gives us several gifts every year. The come by way of Dear Colleague Letters and Guidance Documents. In this episode, I’m going over a Dear Colleague Letter written back in 2011 that is super helpful in inclusion/ LRE discussions with IEP teams. The letter, “Dear Autin,” gives us two really helpful quotes about educational placement and least restrictive environment. First, Letter to Autin (written 3/7/11) indicates that “[a]s the regulations make clear, placement decisions must be made on an individual basis. Placements that are determined based solely on the category of a child's disability are not consistent with the regulations.“ We can use this in special education to combat a district’s position that “all children with autism/ intellectual disability/ etc. are educated in a self-contained classroom/ a certain school/ a “unit.” You’ve heard this sentence, and I know what you’ve felt… “That can’t be what the law says.” Now you’ve got a paragraph, written by the USDOE, to support your advocacy. Letter to Autin also says, “ a child's placement must be determined on an individual case-by-case basis, depending on each child's unique needs and circumstances, made at least annually, based on the child's individualized IEP, and as close as possible to the child's home. Recognizing that there is no ‘one size fits’ all approach, …” There are several great clauses in this sentence. I break them down for you in this episode and include some ideas about how to structure your advocacy to keep it centered on the particular child and his or her needs. Link Mentioned: Letter to Autin: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rDcYRRWxvO_bpoAuScVy8fgyQ3gxCNFu/view?usp=sharing
S1 E38 · Tue, May 18, 2021
It’s a Happy Hour with Ray Nelson
Ray Nelson Advocacy and IEP Coaching Bio I approach advocacy and IEP coaching a little differently. Part of that is my background, which is in sales and finance. I come from a work culture designed to solve problems rather than minimize them. That means I focus more on the child and less on the conflict, which increases my success rate with schools and IEP teams. By keeping focus on the child, many times I am able to sidestep personality clashes and create a solid plan for my clients. Making education better and more accessible is my goal for every client, every meeting, and every IEP team. As a volunteer advocate for many years, I started my business in 2016 to help more children. My many years of experience, both paid and volunteer, have given me a wide exposure to different situations and creative solutions. Links Facebook: facebook.com/NelsonAdvocacy Instagram: @SealYourFAPE Twitter: @raynelson Website: NelsonAdvocacy.com Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B094DR473W Ray Nelson, Advocate Nelson Advocacy Ray@NelsonAdvocacy.com 540-220-8539
S1 E37 · Mon, May 10, 2021
Three Things I Bring to an MDR
A Manifestation Determination Review is a nice safeguard in special education. IDEA and state laws require IEP teams to meet when a child with a known or suspected disability faces a cumulative of ten days of suspension in a school year. That meeting is the MDR. There are three things I always try to bring to an MDR, and I walk you through them in today’s podcast episode. When I get a client with an MDR, I always start with the evaluation report from diagnosis- the one that describes the child’s profile exhaustively and also provides the analysis of how the disability affects the child. This report is so, so helpful. As an aside, if you haven’t given this/ these to your child’s school team, do it now regardless of whether you’re preparing for an MDR. You also ask current and past providers for raw data from evaluations (those Vanderbilt forms can have so much information sometimes), therapy notes, etc. The next thing I request is a current report from a treating provider. These reports often analyze the child’s current struggles, often compared to past struggles, and provides opinions on whether the behavior that occurred at school is a manifestation of the child’s disability. I walk you through how to ask your child’s providers for this report in the episode. Finally, I like to go through school records- evaluation reports, therapy notes, communication with teachers, disciplinary records, etc- to look for other descriptions of a child’s behavior. I take the documentation that I’ve gathered, often highlight the pertinent parts, and send it to school, usually before the meeting so that the school team can also prepare for the meeting. You don’t get much notice of an MDR, so it’s wise to always be prepared!!!
S1 E36 · Tue, May 04, 2021
Wrapping Up the School Year with Success
We met on the podcast back in September to talk about how to start off the school year with success. Why does it feel like that was five years ago?!! Anyway, today I’m talking School Year Wrap Up over on the podcast. I’ll walk you through a few easy steps you have take to ensure that you’re ready for Summer Fun and a smooth transition back into the 2021-2022 school year come August/ September. We’ll talk about collecting data from school and at home, updating your IEP binders, making plans for summer work and play, scheduling and preparing for Extended School Year services and Compensatory services, teacher gifts, and MORE!!!
S1 E35 · Tue, April 27, 2021
Identifying Executive Function Disorders In Your Child
If your child is disorganized, has a hard time regulating emotions, doesn’t self-start, and can’t ride the wave of life’s ups and downs, you may want to consider an evaluation for Executive Functioning Disorder. In today’s podcast episode we’re talking about some executive functions and signs/ symptoms that you can identify in your own child. EF is often overlooked or glossed over as being secondary to some other diagnosis like ADHD or autism, but once identified, an IEP team can develop accommodations, write goals, agree on specially designed instruction to teach the child how to access the accommodations, and to address to dysfunction itself. In today’s episode we’ll talk about the following eight executive functions: emotional control, inhibition, working memory, initiation, planning, shift, organization, and self-assessment. I’ll walk you through what each of these looks like, providing real life examples of each. Links Mentioned: IEP Season Webinar Series – Tea and Trainings: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/606224d0156ede6085f81ca1
S1 E34 · Tue, April 20, 2021
The Parallels Between SPED Advocacy and Real Life
Special education advocacy, while often stressful and complicated, is really akin to so many experiences in other areas of life. Somehow, though, because IEP team members, including parents, often feel overwhelmed by the content, and – frankly- because we’re all there to advocate for a child that has a disability, emotions run high at meetings, and the adults often feel overwhelmed. We did a long project over the weekend, and at some point, I was lying in a pile of dirt and thought, “This project is an analogy for the special education process.” Tune in to today’s episode for some musings on the parallels between SPED advocacy and real life. There’s even a pep talk at the end!
S1 E33 · Tue, April 13, 2021
Strategies You can Use at the IEP Table and Beyond During COVID 19
Now that we’re seeing light at the end of the COVID tunnel, I thought you may be ready for an updated podcast episode on special education during the pandemic. Today’s episode brings strategies you can use to effect change in your child’s special education – both now and for next school year – in light of all of the oddities the pandemic has brought on. I’ll share six strategies you can use to make some changes in your child’s IEP or to argue for compensatory education for him or her. For each strategy I’ll share a couple of examples and ideas so you can apply them to your family’s situation! You’re not going to want to miss this one!
S1 E32 · Mon, March 29, 2021
Adding Empathy to Discussions at the IEP Table
“How can a heart understand the pain of another heart and still do nothing?” -Harshada Pathare. I’m constantly asked by parents, “Why can’t they just do what the law says?” My response is often, “Well, they should do what the law says, but if they do it because they’re told, it won’t be done well. The real magic happens when they follow the law, because they care.” Today’s episode is about empathy, which creates the buy-in from IEP team members that parents want and students deserve. We’ll talk about empathy in the context of behavior, school refusal, and inclusion cases specifically. I’ll also share a few of my experiences, both as a parent and as an educator, that will help you understand why it’s important to be vulnerable and to share your child’s experiences to enhance the awareness and real understanding of the adults in charge of executing your child’s IEP.
S1 E31 · Tue, March 23, 2021
Making Sense of Evaluation Reports
Evaluation reports can drive parents in special education absolutely crazy! I was talking to a friend last week, and she said that she was tempted to not even read the evaluation report! I totally empathize with parents that expressed the sentiment; however, the evaluation should be a building block for so many things in special education. In today’s episode I try to walk you through a few steps to make sense of evaluation reports. I hope it is helpful!
S1 E30 · Tue, March 16, 2021
Allllll Things Dyslexia, Part THREE
The Grand Finale--- Join me today for PART THREE of our big dyslexia podcast. Daphne Corder, our big dyslexia guru, finishes up this three-part series with the big question. How Do We Know If They’re Doing It Right? Daphne takes us through common dyslexia interventions and how they should be implemented. You’re not going to want to miss this episode!
S1 E29 · Tue, March 09, 2021
Allllll Things Dyslexia, Part TWO
Soooo many of you reached out with compliments on last week’s podcast with Daphne Corder. Good news… she’s back! In Part Two of our podcast, Daphne and I discuss conditions that often occur simultaneously with dyslexia. Daphne walks us through each condition, providing definitions, examples, and then the most helpful thing- what to do! Daphne’s insight on helping children with ADHD, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia is pure gold. And at the end of the episode, she gives us an analogy for the importance of reading that will knock your socks off! You’ll want to use this analogy in your next IEP meeting!
S1 E28 · Tue, March 02, 2021
Allllll Things Dyslexia
Daphne Corder prepared an incredible, thorough presentation for my January Conference on Dyslexia called How Do You Know If They’re Doing the Right Thing? It was over an hour and so, so intensive. The only problem: we couldn’t get the audio to play! We tried a few things after the conference to no avail, so we chose the next best thing… a podcast! This baby may be a three-parter. Daphne and I recorded for 90 minutes, and there’s still MORE! I would have condensed it, but this is the most streamlined yet thorough Dyslexia presentation I’ve ever seen! It was too good to shorten. No matter if you suspect your child has dyslexia, your child has dyslexia but isn’t on an IEP, or your child is already on an IEP, this series will knock your socks off! In this episode- Part 1- Daphne walks you through the importance of your advocacy with really mind-blowing statistics, some risk factors that you may notice about your child that may trigger you to get a dyslexia evaluation, and some common myths about dyslexia.
S1 E27 · Tue, February 23, 2021
A Deep Dive into Behavioral Support with Dr. David Kuhn
I learned a lot about myself when Jack was a baby. One of the most obvious things I learned is that I’m a “why” person. I want to know the reason for stuff. I want to know the “why.” We worked on coming to midline, deliberately reaching away from midline, and crossing midline. Sure, I would have done it, because the therapists said to, but I really needed to know why. Why are we working on this skill? What does this do to help Jack? What’s going on in his brain or body that makes this so hard for him? Why? This is why I immediately “clicked” with Dr. David Kuhn when introduced to him. In our first conversation, David and I talked about Functional Behavior Assessments and ABC (antecedent-behavior-consequence) data. He wasn’t two sentences into the discussion when he geeked out about the need to tweak consequences in order to zero in on the function of any particular behavior. David was speaking my language. If we don’t test our hypothesis by manipulating that consequence, how would we know if we have hit the “why?” In today’s episode Dr. Kuhn and I talk about this topic. He explains the need to manipulate the consequences of behavior to test a hypothesis before writing a plan to support the behavior. He takes behavior down to the science of testing the hypothesis, which makes it so simple. I invited David onto the podcast to talk about this particular issue, but as is usually the case, we came up with a much more broad conversation about FBAs, BIPs, and generally supporting children with behavioral needs at school and in their communities. Of course, this must start with a very thorough analysis of the behaviors. David Kuhn is one of the good ones. His incredible credentials and experience are fueled by a lifelong appreciation of and passion for helping people with disabilities. No wonder he’s so smart! Episode you will also enjoy: https://ashleybarlowco.com/functional-behavior-assessments-and-behavior-intervention-plans-with-dr-solandy-forte/
S1 E26 · Tue, February 16, 2021
Adding and All About Me Book to Your Advocacy at the IEP Table
You’ve probably heard me talk about All About Me Books, and you may be wondering what goes in this kind of document. In today’s podcast episode, I walk you through All About Me Books (let’s just call them AAMBs) – why to draft them, what kind of information to include, how to format them, and how to use them in your advocacy. I like to start an AAMB with a good description of the child and the way the child’s diagnoses affect the child. Then, I recommend that parents organize the additional pages by category. Maybe that looks like a page each for OT, PT, Speech, academics, etc. Maybe it looks like a page each for Reading, Reading Fluency, Math Computation, and Math Fluency. However it looks will be unique to the child, but communicating it in an organized, objective manner will be such an asset to the rest of the IEP team. I always end an AAMB with an expression of gratitude, an offer to help in any way, and a willingness to address any questions or concerns. This kind of communication goes such a long way in setting a collaborative tone on an IEP team. I’ve also got a Freebie on my website that describes All About Me Books. Hop over the link to download yours!!! https://ashleybarlowco.com/all-about-me-books
S1 E25 · Tue, February 09, 2021
Three Common Mistakes Made in IEP Meetings
You’re getting the inside scoop on today’s podcast! Tales from the trenches. I sat down and thought about three common mistakes that people make in IEP meetings and am serving them up – with recommendations for doing better – for you today! The mistakes: Agreeing to decisions without the knowledge to back it up, not knowing the people on the team, and not reading “the stuff.” I’m going to walk you through each mistake with examples and then provide you with strategies for doing better. Then, we’ll tap into last week’s podcast with one additional collaboration tip – to avoid being adversarial, accusative, or combative during a meeting.
S1 E24 · Tue, February 02, 2021
The Fear of Conflict
In today's episode we talk about the thing everybody fears: conflict. We don't only talk about it, but I actually encourage conflict. Keep reading. It gets better. You see, I always say that conflict yields effective change. I believe in constructive discord , allowing everyone to be heard, accountability for all team members, and interest-based negotiation. Sound better than conflict? Yes! Conflict does not have to include adversaries going toe to toe, fists banging on tables, and red faces. I want to walk you through one of my favorite books, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, by Patrick Lencioni, applying each of his five points to the IEP team. I bet you leave a little more empowered and ready to dive in with deeper, more meaningful conversations with the other people on your IEP team!
S1 E23 · Tue, January 26, 2021
A Success Story with Chrissy Bailey, Lab student
Meet Chrissy Baily, mom extraordinaire and graceful advocate for her adorable children, Juni and Johnnie. Chrissy had talked with representatives at her local Down syndrome organization and her state’s disability rights staff but was still putting out fires advocating for her two children. Then, her Down syndrome organization gave her a scholarship to my Special Education & Advocacy Lab. In just a little over 8 hours of content and the passion that lives in her soul, Chrissy empowered herself to become a more effective and efficient advocate for her children. In fact, she was so inspired by the Lab that Chrissy is now working as a surrogate for other children in her kids’ school district that need advocates at the IEP table! During our chat, Chrissy said, “I was Googling, and I didn’t know the parts of the IEP, and then when COVID hit, it was like a whole new set of problems… that sparked me… ‘I need to know this stuff.’ I had attended [a few seminars] and I didn’t think I was going to need them. I read on your website about the Lab, and I thought… ‘This will solve all my problems!’” Listen along as you learn how Chrissy made the choice to attend the Lab and the impact it’s already having on her family and her community!s of it – that you’ll have some take aways that work in your team. Educate. Advocate. Collaborate. Links: Join me for The Special Education & Advocacy Lab: https://specialedadvocacylab.ashleybarlowco.com/ Meet My Guest: Chrissy Bailey lives in Worthington, OH with her partner Matt, 6 year old daughter Juniper, 3 year old son Johnnie, and their 3 legged black cat Magic. She is a former children's librarian and currently stays home full time with the kids. She loves reading, jogging, listening to podcasts, cooking, and meditating.
S1 E22 · Tue, January 19, 2021
My Story
My divorce clients sometimes say, “I’m sorry, Ashley, but you don’t understand,” often while pushing back on some optimistic or uber-reasonable advice I’ve given. My patent response is, “You’re right. I’m not divorced, so I don’t understand your experience, but I’ve had a lot of experiences that have given me perspective. I have four broken vertebrae in my back and live in chronic pain, I have a child with a disability that affects nearly all of his life activities, and my husband has had cancer. I understand hardship, stress, and pain. Reasonableness, objectivity, optimism – those are choices.” In today’s podcast, I share some of my story – including the story about the accident that gave me four compression fractures in my back and Jack’s birth story- and I deliver some of the best lessons I’ve learned as a result. I was fifteen when my waverunner exploded, leaving me with four compressed vertebrae and a life of chronic pain. I could have chosen negativity. I could have chosen to be a victim. Instead, I chose to be a survivor. The lessons I have learned in navigating life in chronic pain and with PTSD have really yielded unwavering grit, fortitude, and relentless optimism. Which helped immensely when Jack was born. The doctor told me that Jack had Down syndrome moments after he was born – when I was still on the operating table. My response: “What do we do next.” Sure, I’ve taken many moments to grieve throughout Jack’s life, but I always come back to, “What’s next? What do we do to make Jack the best Jack he can be? How do we love him more? How do we support him more? How do we make the world a better place for him?” The relentless optimism – the grit – the fortitude- it’s as much for him as it is for me. These traits have yielded true team work with Jack’s IEP teams and have yielded so much communication and respect in his community. I hope that in sharing my story – or little pieces of it – that you’ll have some take aways that work in your team. Educate. Advocate. Collaborate.
S1 E21 · Tue, January 12, 2021
Beginning A Journey In Parent Advocacy with Diana Abril
Join me on today’s podcast episode as I chat with my good friend, Diana Abril, special education attorney and parent. Diana and I not only talk about the importance of parent advocacy but also about steps that she’s taken to get started on her journey as a parent. She offers lots of tips on where to get started in a parent advocacy journey, what skills to develop (and where to find training for them), and how she tackles the inevitable mommy guilt that often accompanies parent advocacy. Diana’s not only a brilliant attorney – she’s an endearing friend, and that vibe comes across in today’s episode. Diana’s speaking at the Special Education & Advocacy Conference in a little over a week. If you haven’t registered, hop over to do while you’re listening! Meet My Guest: I am an executive with 16 years of legal and business experience having worked in the Corporate and M&A department of an AMLAW 200 law firm and as General Counsel of two medium sized companies, one of which was publicly traded. In February of 2020, I decided to start my own law firm and founded ABRIL LAW, PLLC. This decision was born out of a desire to start a special education law practice in addition to my corporate and business law work. This is truly a passion project for me, as a disability rights advocate and mother of a child with a disability. I am a Florida Partners in Policymaking graduate and a member of COPAA. Join me January 23, 2021 for a FREE Virtual Conference, The Special Education 7 Advocacy Conference: https://ashleybarlowco.com/conference
S1 E20 · Tue, January 05, 2021
We’re Talking Inclusion and Least Restrictive Environment with Courtney Hansen
Do you ever wonder how the experts do it? What if a poli-sci major that worked as a journalist and knew how to get the bottom of things got a Masters degree in education and then had a child with Down syndrome? How would SHE advocate for inclusion? Friends, meet Courtney Hansen, Rockstar Inclusion Advocate! Courtney joins me in this week’s episode to talk all things Inclusion. Her story as a mother to twins, one of whom has Down syndrome, is where we start, because the fact that her boys are twins is the fuel behind her advocacy fire. Courtney’s unique spin on inclusion sure left me inspired and contemplative. In this discussion Courtney addresses lots of FAQs about inclusion like: Why does inclusion work? How can school staff and parents collaborate to build the best inclusive plan for a child? And what strategies do you use to help families get more inclusive placements for students on IEPs? Courtney talks a lot about relationships and the importance of really describing your child to his or her teachers. She encourages parents to work hard on their Parent Interest Statements, to communicate with teachers and school staff, and to get involved in school. Her specific examples are super helpful, and if you’re looking for a place to start, you could download my free guide on writing Parent Interest statements here . Want to know more about Inclusion? Check out the Inclusion Workshop and download Episode 7, where we talk about LRE and inclusion, as well! Parent Interest Statement: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f64a77f384d147ed5a41a80 Inclusion Workshop: https://ashleybarlowco.com/product-page-inclusion-workshop-workbook Join me for the 2021 New Year's SPED Parent Challenge here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5fea849129dbe85ae36327db Episode 7: Least Restrictive Environment/ Inclusion: https://ashleybarlowco.com/starting-the-school-year-on-the-right-foot/ Never miss out on a new episode by joining my mailing list here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f43ff3f99
S1 E19 · Tue, December 29, 2020
Three Tips for Preparing for Second Semester --- During a Pandemic
We met on the podcast at the beginning of the semester – what was that eight years ago?- to discuss Preparing for the First Semester. It felt like a more important semester but not the beast that it actually became! It seemed natural therefore to give you some suggestions for this important second semester. This week’s podcast is called “Three Tips for Preparing for Second Semester --- During a Pandemic.” We’ll first talk about looking at data from multiple sources – like school, outside therapists, and home. If that data doesn’t exist or seems incomplete, I provide strategies for creating something objective to communicate to the rest of the team. Then, we’ll talk about how to communicate that information. We’ll start by brainstorming addiitioanl things that could be going better – like more inclusive opportunities, additional social opportunities, access to in-person learning, different accommodations or modifications, better use of Supplemental Aids and Services. I’ll then guide you to think critically about it to gracefully communicate with the IEP team on areas of growth opportunity and improvement. I’ll detail some thoughts about student-centered advocacy and interest-based negotiation, two really important skills in team collaboration. Finally, we’ll talk about Compensatory Education, the elephant in the room. Maybe after you listen, you’ll think of her as a mouse! I share what the USDOE has said about IEP services during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a couple of quotes from the DOE about CompEd and finish the episode with specific tasks that you can undertake to prepare for your CompEd claim. I get way detailed in this can’t miss episode! I hope you’ll join me! Links: --> --> Join me for the 2021 New Year's SPED Parent Challenge here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5fea849129dbe85ae36327db --> --> Questions and Answers on Providing Services to Children with Disabilities During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Outbreak. March 2020 (PDF) (ed.gov) : --> --> Supplemental Fact Sheet: Addressing the Risk of COVID-19 in Preschool, Elementary and Secondary Sc
S1 E18 · Tue, December 22, 2020
3 Communication Tips That Teachers Can Use in the New Year
Communication is the name of my game! IEP teams are just that – teams. In order to work as a team through each year, and in some cases year after year, communication must flow from school to home and from home to school. I know first-hand how difficult it is for teachers to put together all of the pieces to really understand a child. I also know how amazing it is when a teacher shows extra interest in getting to know my child. In today’s episode I marry those two concepts to describe three communication tips that teachers can use to elicit more communication with parents and to better understand their students right from the start of the semester. If you’re making New Year’s Resolutions, better communication may be a good place to start! This short listen will get you started in the right direction.
S1 E17 · Tue, December 15, 2020
Caring for the Caregiver: Mind, Body, and Spirit
The second I met Kara Ryska, I knew I wanted to share her wisdom with you. Kara is a Life Coach that specializes in helping mothers that are raising children with special needs. The mother of a child with a brain tumor and secondary diagnosis, Kara knows first hand what it is like to manage all of the doctors’ appointments, therapies, school meetings, special instructions for child care, and the like. Her own experiences led her to her career as a Life Coach , and talking to her is like drinking a warm cup of hot chocolate! In today's episode Kara and I talk about why it is so important for parents of children with disabilities to care for themselves . Kara describes it from the standpoint of the mind, the body, and the spirit. I promise you that you will not want to miss this episode, particularly as we conquer two of the most stressful weeks of the school year and the beginning of a new semester. Want more of Kara and I? Check out the episode of Special Needs Mom Podcast we did together here: https://www.kararyska.com/2020/09/30/coffee-talk-with-iep-attorney-ashley-barlow-part-i/ and https://www.kararyska.com/2020/10/07/coffee-talk-with-iep-attorney-ashley-barlow-part-ii/
S1 E16 · Tue, December 08, 2020
Using Evaluation Data to Plan Specially Designed Instruction
You’ve probably heard me say, “Data drives instruction.” Here’s a new one for you. “Evaluation data plans specially designed instruction.” It doesn’t roll off the tongue as easily, and it means the same thing. It’s just far more specific and really, really important. There are way too many IEPs out there that aren’t specially designed to a child’s unique needs – that don’t take a child’s profile into account – that don’t consider a child’s specific strengths and weaknesses. That’s a problem. The heart of the IEP is the specially designed instruction. It’s supposed to be uniquely tailored to meet the needs of the child, but far too often, a school district will say, “We use [this program] for dyslexia” or “Our students in the self-contained room use [this program] for math” or “Our visually impaired students get O&M twice a week.” That. Is. Not. SDI. We’re supposed to take information from evaluations and progress monitoring and then use it to specially design instruction for students. We’re supposed to look at a student’s strengths and teach to them, capitalize on them. We’re supposed to look at a student’s weaknesses and address them. We rely on data in our every day lives all the time. We look at the gauges in our cars, health and exercise information on our phones, and the temperature on our thermostats. We use that data to make plans. If we’re hot, we look at the thermostat and turn down the heat, remembering that 74 degrees is too hot. We work harder when our heart rates aren’t elevated. We walk a little further when we haven’t hit the 4-mile mark. If we want to improve on something, we use the data and make a plan. If I want my resting heart rate to be lower, I decide to eat better, to exercise, to meditate, and to get acupuncture. We have to use that kind of data to plan instruction for students on IEPs. We need to look at what the evaluation tells us to make a plan. Evaluations tell us so much about a child’s profile. An incomprehensive list of things we may evaluate includes visual, verbal, motor, cognitive, sensory, communication, vision, and hearing skills and strength / needs and weaknesses. We should take what we know about the child’s specific profile and make a plan for learning that capitalizes on the child’s strengths and addresses the child’s needs. If a child is really visual, we should ensure that there are lots of visual supports in his learning. If a child’s auditory processing is impaired, her specially designed instruction should not necessitate a lot of auditory processing. If a child needs sensory regulation to condition herself to learning, those strategies should be added to supplementary aids and services. Parents and sometimes even teachers or other IEP team members often know very little about specific programs that other school staff want to use. In order to ensure that programming a
S1 E15 · Tue, December 01, 2020
Managing the Overwhelm with 3 Strategies
We’ve spent a lot of time talking about the mechanics of an IEP and advocacy strategies, but we haven’t spent much time talking about parents’ and other team member’s emotions. The ability of each team member to be present and available for discussions and to actively participate is of extreme import. Parents can’t be fully present when they’re feeling overwhelmed. Whether parents are facing new diagnoses or are overwhelmed by managing the day-to-day stresses of raising a child with a disability, the same strategies work. In this week’s podcast I suggest three strategies to manage the overwhelm so that parents can effectively participate in school meetings and advocacy. The three steps have worked for me in my personal life, and they’ve also worked for lots of clients in my special education advocacy practice. They’re simple, easy to implement, and effective! Do you do something else to manage the overwhelm? Reach out to tell me what works for you.
S1 E14 · Tue, November 24, 2020
Four Communication Tools to Facilitate Better Collaboration in IEP Teams
Communicate communicate, communicate! If you’ve been around here long enough, you know how much I preach communication on IEP teams! I really think communication is the key to collaboration. In today’s episode we go through four communication strategies that I have my clients and students use to improve IEP team collaboration. We talk about emails that I recommend families send every Sunday night to describe a child’s experiences and interests, as well as any concerns that the family might have. I also discuss another email that I recommend sending at the beginning of the school year to catch the school team up on the child’s summer experiences, any changes to his or her profile, and anything else of interest. Then, I talk about small monthly gifts – like apples or chocolate - that many of my clients and student send to their school team to just say, “Hey, I see you. I’m happy we’re on the same team!” Finally, I will explain how an All About Me Book can help to increase collaboration with the members of an IEP team in addition to other school personnel. FREEBIES MENTIONED: ⟶ All About Me Books: https://ashleybarlowco.com/all-about-me-books ⟶ Preparing for an IEP Meeting: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f91d534fe39018fde23ba86
S1 E13 · Tue, November 17, 2020
The Wright Way with THE Special Education Guru, Pete Wright
Chances are you’ve read a Wrightslaw book or attended a Wrightslaw training! I’m thrilled to host Pete Wright, THE special education guru, on today’s podcast! Pete tried a special education case, Florence County School District Four vs. Shannon Carter, before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993 and has been famous in special education circles since! His books and trainings bring practical information to parents in language they can understand. Pete and I do a roundtable of sorts in today’s episode. We talk about his concept of a Letter to a Stranger, something I use at least weekly in my own special education law practice. Pete stresses effective communication throughout the school year and goes into details ith tips and strategies you can implement now! Having built a successful business that empowers parents to advocate for their children, Pete explains why advocacy is so important from his perspective, and it’s powerful. Then, we do a rapid fire round, talking about quick tips for behavior supports, inclusion, SLD eligibility. If you need inspiration, THIS should do it! Enjoy, friends! FREEBIES MENTIONED: ⟶ Effective Communication: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f6e3aa42bc69e9b8b014917 ⟶ Preparing for an IEP Meeting: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f91d534fe39018fde23ba86 WEBSITES MENTIONED: ⟶ http://www.wrightslaw.com ⟶ https://law.wm.edu/academics/programs/jd/electives/clinics/specialed/isea/index.php
S1 E12 · Tue, November 10, 2020
Functional Behavior Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans with Dr. Solandy Forte
Behavior is always a hot topic in special education. If a school struggles to support a child’s behavior, the child often struggles comprehensively. One solution is a comprehensive functional behavior assessment, which is an evaluation of the child’s trigger behaviors. Once an FBA is done, the team can develop a BIP. Dr. Solandy Forte of Milestones Behavioral Services walks us through the components to a well-written, comprehensive FBA in today’s episode. Solandy is my friend. We met at the COPAA Convention through her husband, Jeff, who is a special education attorney in Connecticut. I’d met Jeff at Wrightslaw’s ISEA a few years prior. I met Solandy at a happy hour and knew I wanted to sit by her at dinner, as her passion and wisdom are contagious! I could listen to her talk behavior all day! Dr. Forte’s explanation of the FBA is practical and thorough. I have read so many FBAs that tell me very little about the child. She explains the components of the FBA (which are listed in the FREE resource on my website here ) and also the reasons that you need them. This is amazing information that you can tote along with you to your next IEP meeting! Then, she explains how to take the recommendations from an FBA to draft a Behavior Intervention Plan, which both supports the child with proactive and preventative strategies but also reactive interventions. I have a lot of cases that involve behavior, and Solandy taught me a thing or two in today’s episode! It’s just that good! Meet My Guest: Solandy Forte, PhD, LCSW, BCBA-D Licensed Behavior Analyst in CT, MA Director, Consultation Services and Community Outreach Dr. Solandy Forte is a doctoral level Board Certified Behavior Analyst licensed in Connecticut and Massachusetts and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Milestones Behavioral Services in Connecticut. Solandy provides consultation services to the Milestones’ School Programs, Advanced Intervention and Daycare. She is also leading the Community Outreach initiative. Solandy has worked with children and young adults with a wide range of developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, autism and related disorders in their homes, schools, and community settings. She has coordinated with multi-disciplinary teams to promote capacity for educating children within the least restrictive educational setting. Currently, Solandy serves on the Board of Directors for the Behavior Analyst Leadership Council (BALC) and has been a member of the Executive Council for the Connecticut Association for Behavior Analysts (CTABA). She has presented at regional and national conferences on topics related to staff training, behavioral assessment, navigating through cultural ba
S1 E11 · Tue, November 03, 2020
Inclusion: Teacher Certificates and Disability Category
“Your child has to have a teacher with a certificate that allows her to teach children with more significant needs.” Or, “you child has ___ disability category, so you’re child belongs in ___ room.” Ever hear that? If you have, you need to hear this: Disability category and diagnosis do not drive placement. Disability category and diagnosis do not induce teacher certificate. There, I said it. Now, can I back it up? In today’s episode I debunk these two common misperceptions using guidance documents from the United States Department of Education and little primer on a part of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. I know, it sounds boring, but I promise, I break the law down for you in a way that will make you say, “Ah hah!!!” Every year I have oodles of parents that call me looking for a more inclusive IEP. Nearly every one of them says something like, “My child has autism, so he’s in a self-contained room,” or “He qualifies as having a Functional Mental Disability, so his teacher has to be certified to teach child with moderate or severe needs,” or “Every other child that has Down syndrome has gone to ‘the unit.” Unfortunately, schools continue to spew these falsities, and parents, lacking the training on special education laws, simply agree. I am here to provide the information, the advocacy tips, and the practical strategies to advocate for less restrictive and more inclusive environments. This is a tip of the inclusion iceberg. If you’d like to know more, hop over to https://ashleybarlowco.com/product-page-inclusion-workshop-workbook and download my Comprehensive Inclusion Training, which deeper into the topic.
S1 E10 · Tue, October 27, 2020
Functional Movement with Amy Martin, PT
In today’s episode I welcome our favorite physical therapist, Amy Martin! Amy was my son’s PT from the time he was about 3 months old until he was 9 when we took PT off of his IEP. Amy has always provided me and our IEP team with wisdom on the importance of functional movement. Amy describes functional movement in terms of strength, positioning, balance, flexibility and provides lots of examples of how functional movement impacts a child’s access to school. Amy and I discuss how IEP teams can add motor breaks and activities into the Supplementary Aids and Services, and then she describes how PTs can train the rest of the team in implementing those breaks, giving us lots and lots of examples. Then, she provides insight into the many benefits of movement breaks throughout the day and describes how such breaks can help to organize a child’s systems and regulate him or her. Of course, I can’t talk about movement without talking about behavior, and Amy has provided a lot of insight into the intersection of these two topics over the years, so I had her describe how motor breaks can help a child access their school environment with fewer behavioral issues, as well. Learn more about Amy here: https://empowerhouseky.com/
S1 E9 · Tue, October 20, 2020
Preparing for an IEP Meeting With Effective Communication
The IEP team is supposed to collaborate to develop an effective, meaningful plan with annual goals, specially designed instruction, and uniquely designed special education and related services. That’s a big charge, and all too often, IEP team meetings are rote, bland, and driven by the school team with little parent participation encouraged or allowed. In this episode I’ll walk you through the following six steps I take to prepare for every IEP meeting I attend. Take a listen, and let me know what you think!
S1 E8 · Tue, October 13, 2020
Getting More Services Out Of An IEP
Do you feel like your child’s IEP lacks services that would benefit your child? Have you asked for additional services when you get to that time in the IEP meeting, only to be denied? I’ll let you in on a secret--- the timing of your request may be the problem. All too often parents ask for services at the wrong time during an IEP meeting. Let me explain. The IEP document should be reviewed in order. If the Present Levels don’t establish a need for goals--- if the Goals don’t establish a need for specially designed instruction --- if the SDI doesn’t mandate more services --- you guessed it--- the child doesn’t get additional services. In today’s episode I’ll walk you through this approach in more detail and provide a few common examples. We’ll also briefly discuss the opposite strategy, which involves considering less services in order to increase time in the general education environment, a really nuanced argument. Finally, we’ll discuss some common pitfalls in this strategy, as well as solutions to them.
S1 E7 · Tue, September 29, 2020
Least Restrictive Environment/ Inclusion
I’m no stranger to an inclusion argument, and while they’re always tricky and emotional, they’re among my favorite kind of cases. The law is so simple, but the discussions around Least Restrictive Environment can get so convoluted. In today’s episode, I’ll walk you through what the law mandates, a few factors to consider in an LRE case, and ton of strategies I use in my law practice when addressing an LRE case. The IEP mandates that “to the maximum extent appropriate, children with disabilities . . . are [to be] educated with children who are not disabled; and special classes, separate schooling, or other removal of children with disabilities from the regular educational environment [should] occur only when the nature or severity of the disability of a child is such that education in regular classes with the use of supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily.” Utilizing the continuum of placements and the availability of supplementary aids and services can help with an inclusion argument.
S1 E6 · Tue, September 22, 2020
Introduction to Special Education Evaluations
Evaluations are a fact of life in special education. They are the gateway to the IEP. School districts are required to identify, locate, and evaluate children that are suspected as having a disability. That requirement is often called the “Child Find” requirement. As a result of Child Find, once a district or a parent identifies a child as possibly qualifying for special education services, the district must conduct an evaluation. The evaluation will result in an eligibility determination. That is, once the child is evaluated, the IEP team will consider whether the child qualifies for special education services; and then, of course, if the child qualifies, then, the child receives the desired IEP. In this episode, we’ll walk through the evaluation process, how to read the report, and then what to do with them once you have them.
S1 E5 · Tue, September 15, 2020
Common Topics in Special Education During COVID-19
In this episode I address the most commonly asked questions during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the past six months I’ve helped my own clients and have spoken with parents and staff at many disability organizations about decision-making during the COVID-19 pandemic. Things have twisted and turned, but we always land on the same themes. I have compiled a list of the questions that I’ve been asked most, and I’ve answered them. We’ll talk about how to address regression, what compensatory education is, when to schedule a meeting and what kind of meeting to schedule, how to prepare for an IEP or informal meeting, how to advocate for more adult support (like an aide, teacher’s assistant, instructional assistant), how to decide on the right learning platform for your child (even if you’re divorced), and how to know if it’s time to make a change. This episode if super content-rich, so I recommend that you grab your favorite pen and a pad of paper!
S1 E4 · Sat, September 12, 2020
Starting the School Year on the Right Foot
Sara Platenberg has a Masters Degree in Education with a focus in Gifted and Talented and Twice Exceptional Populations. She served the public school system in Virginia as a Gifted and Talented Specialist where she focused on Twice Exceptionality and meeting the needs of 2E students while utilizing researched based inclusion strategies. Her years as an educator and experience implementing strategies to meet the needs of students with learning differences, helped support Sara as she began navigating the public school special education system on a personal level. Her 12 plus years of experience include: Gifted and Talented Educator in Fairfax County; Private tutor in written expression/language and SAT prep, and Educational Advocate. Sara is a member of the Council of Parents, Attorneys, and Advocates, the National Association for Gifted Children, and is a listed provider in the Wrightslaw Yellow Pages for Kids.
S1 E3 · Tue, September 08, 2020
The 6Ws of the IEP Team Meeting
IEP Meetings can be intimidating. This episode takes the stress out by bringing basic, easily laid out information on what the meetings are, who attends them, why they occur, when they occur, where they are, and how they are scheduled. Sometimes the meeting is the most intimidating part of advocating for a child with a special education plan. My husband , Brandon, joins me in this episode as we reflect back on our journey as parents in special education thus far. He provides information as a parent that’s been at the table.
S1 E2 · Tue, September 08, 2020
5 Basic Advocacy Tips
Episode 02 delivers five basic advocacy skills that are aimed to help parents but will be applicable to anyone supporting a child in special education. They’re skills I’ve used in advocating for my own child and in coaching clients as their special education attorney. They’re tried, true, and easy to implement. If you remember one tip, it is to Communicate, Communicate, Communicate! Keeping lines of communication open between home, school, and other professionals is so important.
S1 E1 · Mon, August 31, 2020
Welcome to Special Education Advocacy with Ashley Barlow
In today’s episode, you’ll get to know me a little more. You’ll understand how I see things as a parent, a teacher, and a self-advocate. You’ll understand my “why” and be the first to know about the roadmap for the first course series at Ashley Barlow Co. I’m so glad you found us! Grab a glass of lemonade, get cozy, and settle in to listen!
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