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.

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

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

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!

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

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/

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.56Pre-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

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/8rlqyiqG2zZKatie 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

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/suzannelezotteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannelezotte/

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/yn22e7YdH7kAdults 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=8vSf41YWZyraVIyb2ZhQWebsite: https://mckenziecoachingandconsulting.coInstagram: http://instagram.com/laurenmckenziecoaching LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurencmckenzie/Facebook: http://facebook.com/laurenmckenziecoaching

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/MEfKxAszEV0Bryan 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.comInstagram: https://instagram.com/bryanholy.fit

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/k8x7h2ybkokMeet 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.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusionstartsnow/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusionstartsnowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-coburn-78970685/

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/5aT6eFG2qSJMeet 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.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.dr.tay/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.dr.tay/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-dr-tay/

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/pFlaJpGM2mEMeet My Guest: Abigail MoehringerI 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_modificationsWebsite: http://www.mrsmoesmodifications.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063699362515

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 Chaos01:53 The Power of Parent Advocacy04:11 The Journey of Inclusion Advocacy07:36 The Role of Optimism in Advocacy09:35 The Struggle and Success of Advocacy11:50 The Importance of Collaboration and Persistence14:21 The Reality of Advocacy: It's Not Easy15:35 The Need for Stress Relief in AdvocacyTranscript:https://share.descript.com/view/Lp3UmyIQuJf

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 Chaos01:02 The Importance of Structure01:53 The Role of Parents in Advocacy04:11 The Journey of Inclusion Advocacy07:36 The Power of Relentless Optimism09:35 The Struggle and Success of Advocacy11:54 The Importance of Collaboration14:17 The Reality of Advocacy15:35 The Need for Stress ReliefTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/KdYRvD3YiwrMentioned 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/

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-Perception03:12 Announcement about the Upcoming Conference04:52 The Importance of Scheduling Relaxation10:07 Practical Tips for Scheduling and Self-Care15:26 Applying Self-Care Strategies During the Holiday Season16:38 Conclusion and FarewellTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/PuxA11Wj0Lj

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 Welcome00:45 Meet Marissa Rothermel: Special Education and Behavior Enthusiast01:27 Understanding the Role of a Behavior Consultant02:20 The Importance of Collaboration in Special Education02:50 Marissa's Professional Background and Experience04:29 The Business Aspect of Special Education06:22 The Importance of Understanding Student Behavior06:48 The Initial Steps in Addressing Behavioral Issues08:15 The Role of Sensory Integration in Classroom Behavior10:48 The Importance of Building Trust and Relationships11:10 The Concept of 'Be the Cookie': Building Bonds with Students15:39 The Importance of Feeling Loved and Safe in School17:29 Understanding the Purpose Behind Every Behavior19:15 Discussing Client Strategies19:50 Personal Anecdotes and Reflections20:20 Coping Skills and Sensory Processing21:17 Parenting Challenges and Humorous Moments22:52 Impact of Trauma on Behavior23:41 Effects of Screen Time and Lack of Resilience24:21 Teaching Social Skills and Coping Mechanisms28:37 Impact of Pandemic on Education and Development30:09 Practical Tips for Parents35:44 Closing Remarks and Contact InformationTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/hLIzqQPswm3Connect 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 learners. Her special interest areas also include virtual education, music in education, and sensory support. In conjunction with ABCo., Riss offers Behavior Foundations consultation - working with families to support behavior needs in the school and home setting, developing plans and support documents, and meeting with teams to discuss behavior intervention strategy. When dealing with challenging, surprising, or confusing behaviors, let Riss help you navigate your approach!

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/IGJk7uodRs6Connect with Ellen:Website: https://www.standupfordowns.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standup4downs/

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/8j3z4faYtnCConnect with Mary:Website: https://www.maryvangeffen.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryvangeffenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/parentcoachforspicyones