top of page

Search


Beyond "High" and "Low": Seeing Kids Through the Lens of Support Needs
For years, we've often heard kids, particularly those who are neurodivergent or have disabilities, described using terms like "high-functioning" or "low-functioning." While seemingly convenient labels, these categories can paint an incomplete and sometimes damaging picture of a kid's unique strengths and challenges. Thankfully, a more nuanced and, frankly, more respectful way of understanding our kids is gaining traction: focusing on individual support needs.

DJ Nicholson
Apr 283 min read
6 views
0 comments


Let's Talk About It: Creating More Inclusive Opportunities for the Next School Year
Think outside the box! Inclusion isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Don't hesitate to suggest creative ideas and advocate for practices that truly support your child's meaningful engagement.

DJ Nicholson
Apr 282 min read
5 views
0 comments


Preparing for a “Next” Successful School Year: Focusing on Accommodations, Modifications, and Support
As the current school year concludes, it's a great time to reflect on successes. Before fully embracing the summer break, take time to consider how to best support your neurodivergent kid in the upcoming academic year.

DJ Nicholson
Apr 282 min read
4 views
0 comments


Let's Talk ESY: Is it the Right Fit for Your Child?
As the school year winds down, a new topic often comes up in IEP meetings: Extended School Year (ESY) services. You might be wondering, "What exactly is ESY, and is it something my child needs?"

DJ Nicholson
Apr 283 min read
13 views
0 comments


Spring into Action: Making the Most of Your Child's IEP Before Summer
Before you pack away the backpacks and celebrate the break, there's one important piece of business that deserves your attention: your kid's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

DJ Nicholson
Apr 214 min read
12 views
0 comments


Unleashing Your Kid's "Inner Organizer"
Is your child always losing things or forgetting assignments? These challenges often stem from executive functioning deficits.

DJ Nicholson
Apr 72 min read
28 views
0 comments


Redefining the Pencil: Let Them “Write”.
But what do you do when a kid is an emergent writer? They might not yet be ready for a traditional pencil.

DJ Nicholson
Mar 312 min read
10 views
0 comments


How My Learning Style Took Me From an 'A' to a 'D' in One Fell Swoop!
While this recount is from 1985, this practice of insisting that EVERY child do EVERYTHING the SAME way is still happening! What was the

DJ Nicholson
Mar 233 min read
10 views
0 comments


Supporting Your Kid with Disabilities in a Changing Educational Landscape
Recent news and discussions about changes within the U.S. Department of Education can create a sense of uncertainty and even fear...

DJ Nicholson
Mar 173 min read
15 views
0 comments


From 504 to IEP: When Your Neurodivergent Kid Needs More
As parents of neurodivergent kids, you're constantly advocating for your kids' needs. If your child already has a 504 Plan, you've taken...

DJ Nicholson
Mar 103 min read
24 views
0 comments


Supporting the Language of Kids with ADHD/Neurodivergent Kids
Years ago, when I was still in the classroom, I had the pleasure of teaching and suppporting Nina with learning. Nina had a severe language

DJ Nicholson
Mar 22 min read
34 views
0 comments


Reading & Writing "Low Tech" Educational Tools for Neurodivergent Kids
Classroom Assistive Technology is an important element in ensuring that neurodivergent kids can access and engage in learning.

DJ Nicholson
Feb 223 min read
16 views
0 comments


What’s the Big Deal with 504 Plans? Understanding the History and Benefits for Kids That Learn Differently
A 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child with a disability receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and

DJ Nicholson
Feb 172 min read
25 views
0 comments


Understanding the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for Kids with Disabilities
What is the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)?
The LRE is a key part of special education law. It states that children with disabilities

DJ Nicholson
Feb 103 min read
42 views
0 comments


Understanding the Specially Designed Instruction in Your Kid's IEP
Let’s break down the concept of Specially Designed Instruction in simple terms, helping you understand its importance and how it can make...

DJ Nicholson
Feb 23 min read
89 views
0 comments


Writing Supports for Neurodivergent Kids!
As a "kid author", you are expected to use a pencil or other writing implement. TRUE or FALSE? NOT TRUE! Writing is an expressive medium...

DJ Nicholson
Jan 272 min read
25 views
0 comments


Support and Supercharge Executive Functioning!
Let's get creative when considering how to support kids that struggle with executive functioning, skills that help kids focus, make decision

DJ Nicholson
Dec 28, 20242 min read
39 views
0 comments


The Importance of the "Right" Accommodations for Kids with Disabilities
Learning accommodations step in as the compass, guiding kids toward success, growth, and a sense of accomplishment. And remove barriers to

DJ Nicholson
Dec 27, 20243 min read
31 views
0 comments


Low-Tech Super-Power: Empowering Kids with Simple Tools
Would your kid benefit from AT?!
Assistive technology (AT) is a powerful ally for creating inclusive classrooms, but it doesn't have to..

DJ Nicholson
Dec 27, 20242 min read
54 views
0 comments


How Social Stories Can Be a Game-Changer for Autistic Kids in School
But what if there was an easy-to-use tool that could bridge this gap, making the school environment more accessible and less daunting? Enter

DJ Nicholson
Dec 27, 20243 min read
76 views
0 comments
bottom of page