Why do our kids’ IEPs sometimes read like a list of everything they need to “fix?” Why are outdated ideas about disability still shaping how our kids are taught and supported? Some school questions seem to come up again and again, and this week, we’re getting into a few of them. Plus, join us at our upcoming events to ask your burning questions, swap stories with fellow parents, and get expert insights on friendship, belonging, sexuality, IEPs, and more!
Dear Undivided
“Why are all my child’s behavior goals about making them comply instead of supporting their needs?”
We’ve all seen IEP goals that seem more focused on changing our kiddos than supporting them, whether it’s encouraging them to mask their traits, make more eye contact, or give “appropriate” responses. Here are 10 ways to help everyone on your child’s team understand your child’s behavior — and what they actually need.
“The school says they can’t make push-in services work in gen ed. Why should my child miss out?”
Schools sometimes push back on providing services in the general education classroom, citing scheduling conflicts or concerns about disruptions. But what if push-in services are what your child needs? Here’s how to advocate for them when your school says no. Hint: getting the principal on your side could be a huge step in the right direction!
“Everyone says my child is doing fine but they’re not making progress, and nobody seems concerned but me. What can I do?”
It’s frustrating when you’re worried your child is falling behind, but the school keeps telling you everything is fine — or recycling the same IEP goals year after year. So how can you tell if your child is actually making progress? Your child’s IEP progress reports should have the data to back it up. Here’s what to look for.
Parent tip: Read, watch, advocate, repeat
Looking for a little inspiration to get more involved in disability advocacy with your kids? From books and memoirs to documentaries, TED Talks, and websites, we’ve rounded up resources to help. The list includes the new Judy Heumann film, the memoir Mother Tongue, a letter to mothers, and plenty more to add to your reading and watch lists!
Members-only · October 14, 12:00 p.m. PT
Office hours → Special education
Bring your questions about special education and IEPs to this week’s office hours with non-attorney education advocate Lisa Carey. If you’re not an Undivided member yet, join here to participate in office hours→
FREE live event · October 20, 1:00 p.m. PT
Beyond the Classroom: Building Friendships and Belonging
Join us for a conversation with inclusion expert Dr. Zach Rossetti, associate professor of special education at Boston University, about helping kids build friendships, connect with peers, and find a sense of belonging at school and in the community. RSVP here→
Members-only · Thursday, October 22, 12:30 p.m. PT
The Parent Circle → A monthly gathering
Join us for The Parent Circle, a monthly members-only gathering over Zoom to connect with other parents who understand the journey of raising kids with disabilities — led by a licensed therapist and fellow parent. RSVP here→
NEW: Members-only · Friday, November 6, 12:30 p.m. PT
Let’s Talk About…Sexuality Education
The next topic of our “Let’s Talk About…” series is how to teach our kids about sexuality and consent. Join Navigator Natalia Geldin for an informal conversation between parents about the things families are figuring out together. RSVP here→
