What’s everyone talking about this week? Our phones, inboxes, and FB parent group have been busy keeping up with IEPs, watching the Being Heumann movie, RSVPing to our brand-new “Let’s Talk About…” series, and more. Here are the hot topics and conversations happening in the Undivided community this week — including a few Dear Undivided IEP questions parents are asking a month into the school year.
Permission slip: “Let the little things go.”
A few weeks into school, what’s worth speaking up about — and what can you let go? Watch Lisa Carey’s tip for prioritizing the IEP issues that really matter.
Dear Undivided
“We’re a month in, and some accommodations still aren’t happening. Should I call a meeting?”
Not necessarily. Start by reaching out to the teacher or provider directly. Sometimes a quick, “Hey, can you check on this?” is enough to figure out what’s going on. And get specific! Try asking questions like, “Is my child asking for breaks, or is someone prompting them?”
“I have no idea what’s happening once my child gets to school. Can I observe?”
Yes, ask about observing your child’s classroom or service sessions. Just speak to your child’s teacher or principal beforehand! And if you can’t go yourself — or think your presence might affect your child — you can ask someone you trust, like an advocate, psychologist, or friend, to observe instead.
“Wait, my child is supposed to get more than 30 minutes of OT a week?”
Ask for the receipts. Request the service logs and compare the dates and minutes with what’s written in the IEP. And if you need more day-to-day information, ask about a shared communication log.
“Raising kids with neurodivergence has been the most taxing (and beautiful) thing I have ever done. . . .one of the brightest spots has been you, Undivided, and the connections you have brought my way. . . . I truly appreciate ALL the information you send, insight you have, kindness you show, and that you are a constant calming point that can bring me back to clarity. Thank you for all you do!”
You survived the IEP meeting! Time to exhale…until the next email or hiccup that brings up a whole new set of questions. The reality is, the IEP is one meeting, but supporting your child happens all year long. We can help.
.png){kind=icon}
This week in our private parent group: all-terrain wheelchairs, board game recommendations, social-rec in SDP, and more. Join the discussion on Facebook→
.png){kind=icon}
Have any safety concerns come up in the first week of school? Here’s how to address them with your team. Watch on YouTube→
.png){kind=icon}
Did you see Undivided at Momentum’s Community Resource Fair? Check out the highlights on Instagram→
.png){kind=icon}
Check out top stories and news in the disability community. Connect with Undivided on LinkedIn→
Undivided Voices Podcast
Season 3, Episode 1: What Are Standards-Based IEPs (and Why Do They Matter)?
🎙️ We’re kicking season 2 off with a big one as Undivided’s Lindsay Crain sits down with Dr. Diana Fannon, former special ed director, to talk about standards-based IEPs — and how can every kid get one, no matter their placement or support needs. Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and anywhere you get your podcasts.
