IEPs Uncovered: Navigating Special Education with Confidence

IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) can feel overwhelming, but understanding them is crucial for advocating for your child’s education. In this episode, I share my personal experience navigating the IEP system for my son, Eli, and the key lessons I’ve learned along the way. From early intervention to working with (or pushing back on) schools, I’ll break down what every parent needs to know to ensure their child gets the right support.

We’ll cover how IEPs are determined, the role of advocates, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to make sure your child’s accommodations actually help them progress. If you’ve ever felt lost in the system, this episode will give you the confidence and tools to navigate it like a pro.

Episode Highlights:

[02:10] – What is an IEP, and who qualifies for one?
[07:25] – Understanding autism classifications and their impact on education
[21:15] – The testing process: How schools determine eligibility for an IEP
[35:10] – Why every parent should consider bringing an advocate
[42:25] – The mistake I made that almost cost my son crucial support
[50:10] – The difference between an IEP and a 504 plan

 

If this episode helped you, please rate, review, and share the podcast! Your support helps more parents access this important information. 💙