Hey parents! We know you're doing an awesome job navigating the world with your neurodivergent kid or those with disabilities.  Today, let's dive into something super important: inclusion . We often hear the word "inclusion," but what does it really  mean for our kids? It's more than just them being in the same classroom as their neurotypical peers. True inclusion is about them feeling like they belong , actively participating, and building meaningful connections. It's about leveling the proverbial "playing field". As you start thinking about the next school year and consider changes that you might want to make to their IEP, let's focus on finding more ways to weave inclusion into your kid's educational journey.  Here are some questions to get those wheels turning: Teamwork & Peer Supports:  Could there be more chances for your child to work on projects or join group activities with the right supports in place? Think about how collaboration can foster friendships and shared experiences. Social Skills in Action:  Instead of just practicing social skills in a separate setting, could these lessons happen within the general education classroom with support from special education professionals? Imagine the real-time learning and connection! Beyond the Classroom Walls:  What sparks your child's joy outside of school? Are there clubs, sports, or activities where their interests overlap with other kids? Let's brainstorm how the IEP can help them participate and connect with peers who share their idea of fun! 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. It's about looking beyond just being present and focusing on belonging and participating. Your Voice Matters: Let's Talk Inclusion & IEPs! We know the end of the school year can feel like a whirlwind, but now is the perfect time to prioritize your child's IEP. Start thinking ahead about the upcoming year and where greater inclusion might comem in to play! Reach out to your child's case manager or special education teacher to schedule an IEP review meeting. Come prepared with your observations, questions, and those fantastic inclusion ideas we just talked about. Not sure where to start when asking for more inclusive opportunities and more support? DJ at Inclusiveology is here to help! With a solution-centered approach, she offers guidance and support to parents of neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities.  Schedule a free initial consultation , and let's work together to make sure your kid is getting everything they need to be their most successful, awesome self! And... be included in ways that work BEST!

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. Think of this as strategic planning! Consider the adjustments and assistance that will enable your unique learner to be successful next year. Reviewing the Past to Inform the Future Take a moment to think about the past year. Consider the following questions: Did the current accommodations and modifications effectively support your kid's learning? Were they consistently helpful and actively implemented? Or did some seem underutilized? What were the challenges? Which accommodations or modifications felt difficult to implement or didn't fit what your kid needed? Are there new areas where your child could benefit from additional support? Maybe a transition to a new grade with different academic demands, navigating new social dynamics, or even moving to a new school environment? Transition planning is so often overlooked when planning for the next school year! Even seemingly minor changes, like switching classrooms or having different teachers for various subjects, require careful planning to ensure a positive and seamless experience. Have any recent assessments or evaluations provided new insights into areas where focused support and strategies could be beneficial? Inclusiveology offers Consultations, IEP Reviews, and Parent IEP Coaching to maximize your knowledge of what's best for your kid's learning, growth, and independence. Reach out and let us know how we can help. Schedule your consultation HERE ! Brainstorming Enhanced Accommodations for the Year Ahead Based on your observations and any new information, brainstorm potential improvements to your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan (these have accommodations, too, and can be adjusted as needed!). Think about this list as different approaches and tools you can utilize to support your kid with more meaningful learning: Refining existing supports:  Exploring new or improved accommodations. For example, perhaps a visual schedule needs more detail to effectively support transitions, or sensory breaks need to be more frequent and intentionally integrated throughout the day. Considering technology:  Investigating different assistive technology . Could a new app or device further enhance your child's learning, communication, and independence? Developing essential skills:  Identifying specific strategies for executive functioning . If organization, planning, or initiating tasks are challenging for your child, let's discuss incorporating explicit instruction and consistent supports in these critical areas. Fostering emotional well-being:  Establishing social-emotional learning goals, as needed. Let's consider adding specific objectives focused on building social skills, understanding and managing emotions, and developing strong self-advocacy skills. Remember, YOU are your kid's first teacher and your insights are so valuable! By taking the time now to reflect and plan, you can collaborate with the school team to ensure that the next year is filled with growth, confidence, and success for your kid! Let's work together to lay the groundwork for a positive and productive academic year, and stop the overwhelm! DJ at Inclusiveology is here to help! With a solution-centered approach, she offers guidance and support to parents of neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities.  Schedule a free initial consultation , and let's work together to make sure your kid is getting everything they need to be their most successful, best self!

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?" Think of ESY not as traditional summer school, but as a targeted support system designed to prevent your child from losing significant skills they've worked so hard to gain during the regular school year. For our amazing neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities, consistent support can make a world of difference in maintaining their progress. Remember, as a parent, you are a huge part of the IEP team!  When the team discusses ESY eligibility, your insights and observations are invaluable. Inclusiveology offers Consultations, IEP Reviews, and Parent IEP Coaching to maximize your knowledge of what's best for your kid's learning, growth, and independence. Reach out and let us know how we can help. Schedule your consultation HERE ! To help you prepare for this conversation, let's consider some important questions based on your child's experiences this past year: Have you noticed significant skill regression after breaks in the past?  Think back to winter break, spring break, or even long weekends. Did your child seem to lose ground on academic skills, communication abilities, self-care routines, or social interactions? If skills tend to slip during time off, ESY could provide the consistent practice needed to maintain those gains. Are there specific IEP goals your child hasn't yet met that could benefit from continued support over the summer?  Perhaps your child is close to mastering a particular reading skill, a social communication strategy, or a self-regulation technique. ESY can offer the extra time and focused attention to help them solidify these skills before the new school year begins. Would consistent routines and academic engagement during the summer months be beneficial for your child's overall well-being and progress?  For many neurodivergent kids, predictability and structure are key to their comfort and success. A consistent ESY schedule can help maintain a sense of routine, prevent boredom and potential behavioral challenges that can arise from unstructured time, and keep their minds actively engaged. If you answered YES to any of these questions, it's time to actively advocate for ESY during your upcoming IEP review or amendment meeting.  Don't hesitate to share your observations and concerns with the team. It's also important to think beyond just academics  when considering ESY. Could this be an opportunity for: Social Skills Development:  ESY programs often have smaller class sizes and a more relaxed atmosphere, which can create a supportive environment for practicing social interactions and building friendships. Continued Support for Self-Regulation Strategies:  If your child has been working on strategies to manage their emotions or sensory needs, ESY can provide a consistent space to practice these skills with support from trained professionals. Ultimately, the decision about ESY should be based on your child's individual needs and what will best support their continued growth and prevent significant skill loss. By reflecting on the past year and actively participating in the IEP discussion, you can ensure your child receives the services they need to thrive, even during the summer months. Need help understanding ESY and other supports? Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start? DJ at Inclusiveology is here to help! With a solution-centered approach, she offers guidance and support to parents of neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities.  Schedule a free initial consultation  and let's work together to ensure your child's IEP truly empowers their growth and success.

The school year is winding down, "testing season" is almost over (thank goodness!), and you might be starting to think about summer plans. But 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). For parents of neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities, the IEP is more than just a document; it's a roadmap for their success through all of their learning years! And just like any good map, it needs to be reviewed and potentially updated to ensure it continues to give them the best supports across all areas of school. Now is the perfect time to proactively engage with your child's IEP team to set them up for success, both during the extended school year (ESY) if applicable, and for the upcoming academic year. Let's Talk ESY: Is it the Right Fit? As the school year concludes, the IEP team (don't forget: that includes YOU!) will be determining eligibility for Extended School Year services. ESY isn't just summer school; it's designed to provide support to prevent significant regression of skills learned during the regular school year. Here are some questions to help you reflect on the past year: Have you noticed significant skill regression during past breaks? Are there specific IEP goals your child hasn't yet met that could benefit from continued support? Would consistent routines and academic engagement over the summer be beneficial for your child's overall well-being and progress? If you answered YES to any of these questions, actively advocate for ESY during your upcoming IEP review/amendment. Think beyond just academics. Could ESY provide opportunities for social skills development or continued support for self-regulation strategies in a more relaxed (and possible smaller) setting? Planting Seeds for Next Year: Accommodations/Modifications and Supports The end of the school year also offers a great opportunity to look ahead. Consider what worked well this year, what challenges arose, and what new supports might benefit your child in the upcoming academic year. Ask yourself: Were the current accommodations and modifications truly effective?  Did your child consistently utilize them? Were there any that felt cumbersome or unnecessary? Are there emerging needs or areas where your child could benefit from additional support?  Perhaps they are transitioning to a new grade level with different academic demands or social dynamics. Or a new school altogether! Have there been any assessments or evaluations that suggest new areas of focus or strategies? Are there considerations for transition planning? Regardless of what the transitions are (i.e. changing schools, moving to a classroom upstairs, rotating through teachers), there must be a plan for transition! Planning for this leads to success, and there are countless transitional situations that can be supported! Based on your observations and any new information, brainstorm potential amendments to the IEP. This could include: New or refined accommodations :  Perhaps a visual schedule needs to be more detailed, or sensory breaks need to be more frequent and structured. Different assistive technology :  Explore options that might further enhance your child's learning and communication. And independence! Specific strategies for executive functioning :  If organization, planning, or task initiation are challenges, discuss incorporating explicit instruction and supports in these areas. Social-emotional learning goals:  Consider adding specific objectives related to social skills, emotional regulation, or self-advocacy. Inclusiveology offers Consultations, IEP Reviews, and Parent IEP Coaching to maximize your knowledge of what's best for your kid's learning, growth, and independence. Reach out and let us know how we can help. Schedule your consultation HERE ! Inclusion: Let's Talk about It! Inclusion isn't just about physical presence in a general education classroom; it's about meaningful participation and belonging. As you review the IEP, think about opportunities to increase your kid's engagement with their neurotypical peers: Are there more opportunities for collaborative projects or group activities with appropriate supports? Can social skills instruction be embedded within general education settings with the support of special education staff? Are there extracurricular activities or clubs where your kid's interests align with those of their peers, and how can the IEP facilitate their participation? Have peer mentoring programs or social skills groups been explored as a way to build connections? Don't be afraid to think creatively and advocate for inclusive practices that go beyond simply being in the same room. Meaningful inclusion requires thoughtful planning and the right supports. Your Voice Matters: Schedule Your IEP Review Eventhough the end of the school year is busy, prioritize your kid's IEP and start thinking ahead. Reach out to your child's case manager or special education teacher to schedule a meeting to discuss ESY eligibility and potential amendments for the upcoming year. Come prepared with your observations, questions, and ideas. Remember, you are a vital member of the IEP team, and your insights are invaluable. You know your kid BEST! Need Extra Support Navigating the IEP Process? Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start? DJ at Inclusiveology is here to help! With a solution-centered approach, she offers guidance and support to parents of neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities. Schedule a free initial consultation and let's work together to ensure your child's IEP truly empowers their growth and success. Inclusiveology offers Consultations, IEP Reviews, and Parent IEP Coaching to maximize your knowledge of what's best for your kid's learning, growth, and independence.

Is your kid always losing things or forgetting assignments? These challenges often happen when there are executive functioning deficits, which can make it difficult to plan, organize, and prioritize tasks. But don't worry! There are strategies and tools to help your kid become more organized. Understanding Executive Functioning Executive functioning is a set of cognitive skills that help us regulate our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. When these skills are impaired, it can lead to difficulties with organization, time management, and completing tasks. Strategies and Tools to Support Organization Good news! There are tips and tricks and toolls to support your kid with organization! Here are five practical tips to help your child stay organized: Create a Visual Schedule:  Use a calendar, whiteboard, or app to help your child visualize their daily routine. This can make it easier to see what needs to be done and when. I like using Lesson Pix for easy creation of all visuals! Establish Routines:  Consistent routines can help your child develop a sense of predictability and reduce stress. Create routines for morning and evening tasks, as well as homework time. Things like getting ready for bed and getting up in the morning can become significantly easier with a routine that's easy to follow. Use Organizational Tools:  Consider using tools like planners, checklists, and color-coded folders to help your child stay on top of their assignments and belongings. With folders, "everything" Math is green, Reading/ELA is red, etc. Break Tasks Down:  Large tasks can be overwhelming. Help your child break down big projects into smaller, more manageable steps. Even for me as an adult, I like the idea of "digestible bites". Practice Mindfulness:  Mindfulness techniques can help improve focus and reduce anxiety, which can be beneficial for children who struggle with organization. Journaling, deep breathing, and a simple kid-friendly meditation can help. Inclusiveology supports moms with kid-friendly strategies and tools for learning, focus, and organization.  Need learning supports or IEP help for your neurodivergent kid? Schedule an appointment HERE ! Remember, it's important to be patient and supportive as your child develops their organizational skills. With the right strategies and tools, they can learn to become more organized and confident. Inclusiveology supports with coaching, resources, and solution-centered ideas and strategies. See what's truly possible for the learning success, independence, and growth of your kid. Grab a spot for us to chat HERE !

Revamping the writing experience for kids: A fresh perspective on pencils. As someone who truly appreciates a good #2 pencil, the traditional pencil is my tool of choice when I am writing and has been since I was a little kid. As it is for millions of little kids and people all over the world. But what do you do when a kid is an emergent writer? They might not yet be ready for a traditional pencil. If that is the case, it is time to consider how we “define” the word pencil. A pencil is a tool that helps EVERY kid (and human) express themselves in writing. In keeping with the idea of a traditional pencil, a kid might use: 📝a marker 📝a crayon 📝a traditional pencil with a supportive pencil grip 📝a jumbo pencil 📝a colored pencil For some kids, they’re not ready for a traditional-type pencil.  It’s not accessible for a variety of reasons: low tone, limited hand strength, physical disability, intellectual disability, sensory concerns, etc.  To support kids that need additional supports or an alternative, we can consider an alternative pencil. What's an alternative pencil? An alternative pencil refers to tools and supports that give kids access to the alphabet for writing. For kids who can't hold a pencil, alternative pencils can facilitate writing, making "written" expressive communication more accessible. 🖍️Partner Assisted Scanning: scan for letters or words to use in composing a writing sample 🖍️an AAC device: used to craft sentences, identify a topic, or share ideas with a verbal output. An image may be used to represent meaning and lead to conversations about what a child "has to say". 🖍️ Alphabet flip charts: Paper-based charts with letters that can be pointed to or reached for.  🖍️a keyboard: use to find letters or words that represent thoughts and ideas 🖍️magnetic or tile letters: used to find the initial sound of a word or to craft words. When used with a photo or an image, meaning can be attached to what they are expressing. Writing is an expressive medium, and EVERYONE has something to say. EVERYONE 💙 So why not think "outside the box" to make writing accessible for all? While I'm a huge fan of #2 pencils (Dixon Ticonderoga… go team!) and use them daily, I absolutely believe that all of us are writers whether we hold a pencil or not. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be expressive.  Everyone deserves the opportunity to be creative.  We just have to find the best tool for them to do just that. Let us know how we can support you and your kid's best learning! From writing supports to reading comprehension, from visual supports to math computation, we've got a tool for that. If your kid has a 504 Plan or an IEP and is still struggling with learning, there might be some supports missing. Schedule an appointment , and let's get solution-centered. The consultation is free: CLICK HERE

Recent news and discussions about changes within the U.S. Department of Education can create a sense of uncertainty and even fear, especially when it comes to your child's education. As parents of children with disabilities, you are already navigating a complex system, and any perceived shifts can feel overwhelming. Please know that you are not alone. Many parents share these concerns, and it’s important to address them with accurate information and a sense of calm.   The Foundation of Support: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) First and foremost, it's crucial to remember that the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)  is a federal law. This means that it is legislatively mandated and provides a strong foundation of rights and protections for children with disabilities from birth through age 21. IDEA's Core Principles: Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE):  Every child with a disability has the right to a free and appropriate public education tailored to their individual needs. Least Restrictive Environment (LRE):  Children with disabilities should be educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. Individualized Education Program (IEP):  An IEP is a legally binding document created by a team of educators, parents, and related service providers to outline a child's specific educational needs and goals. Parent Participation:  Parents have the right to participate fully in all decisions regarding their child's education. Procedural Safeguards:  IDEA provides procedural safeguards to protect the rights of children with disabilities and their parents, including the right to due process. Why IDEA Matters in Times of Change Regardless of any changes within the Department of Education, IDEA remains the law of the land. It provides a stable and consistent framework for ensuring your child's educational rights are protected. Continuity of Services:  Even if there are shifts in departmental priorities, IDEA mandates that your child continues to receive the services and accommodations outlined in their IEP. Your Voice Matters:  IDEA empowers you as a parent to advocate for your child's needs and participate in all decision-making processes.  THIS IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER. Focus on Individual Needs:  IDEA emphasizes the importance of individualized education, ensuring that your child's unique needs are addressed. Don't let uncertainty hold you back. Schedule your free initial consultation today and gain the knowledge and confidence you need to support your child's educational journey. You can schedule an appointment HERE . What Are Your Concerns? We understand that you may still have specific concerns about how potential changes might impact your child. Here are some common questions and considerations: Funding:  While funding levels may fluctuate, IDEA's mandate for FAPE remains. It's essential to stay informed about your local school district's budget and how it affects special education services.  The MAJORITY of funding comes from state and local governments. Implementation:  The way IDEA is implemented can vary from state to state and even district to district. It's crucial to build a strong relationship with your child's school and stay informed about local policies and procedures. Advocacy:  Now more than ever, advocacy is essential. Join parent groups, connect with disability rights organizations, and stay informed about legislative developments.  Know What’s Happening! The best way to alleviate fear is to gain knowledge and take proactive steps. Review your child's IEP:  Ensure it accurately reflects your child's current needs and goals. Document everything:  Keep records of all communication with the school, evaluations, and IEP meetings. Build a support network:  Connect with other parents, therapists, and advocates. We’re Here to Help. We know that every child's situation is unique, and you may have specific questions that require personalized guidance. That's why I'm offering a free initial consultation to address your concerns and provide tailored support. During this consultation, we can discuss: Your child's specific needs and challenges. How recent changes might impact your child's education. Strategies for advocating for your child's rights. Reviewing your child's IEP and 504 plan. Don't let uncertainty hold you back. Schedule your free initial consultation today and gain the knowledge and confidence you need to support your child's educational journey. You can schedule an appointment here: FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION We want what’s best for your kid and are here to guide you along the way with kindness and information you need to make the biggest difference for your kid’s education.

As parents of neurodivergent kids, you're constantly advocating for your kids' needs. If your child already has a 504 Plan, you've taken a big step in ensuring they receive accommodations in school. But sometimes, a 504 isn't enough. You might notice your child struggling despite the accommodations, or that their needs have shifted and changed. That's when it might be time to consider an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Understanding the Difference: 504 vs. IEP Think of a 504 Plan as a ramp for a wheelchair. It provides access . An IEP, on the other hand, is like a personalized physical therapy program. It provides specialized instruction and support to address specific learning needs. 504 Plan:  Addresses disabilities that impact a major life activity (like learning) by providing reasonable accommodations. IEP:  Addresses disabilities that impact a child's ability to make progress in the general education curriculum, requiring Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) and Supplementary Aids and Services (SAS). Why Move from a 504 to an IEP? If your child's 504 accommodations aren't adequately addressing their learning challenges, or if they require specialized instruction to make meaningful progress, an IEP might be necessary. Common signs include: Continued academic struggles despite accommodations. Difficulty with specific skills like reading, writing, or math. Behavioral challenges that interfere with learning. A need for specialized therapies or interventions. If you know that your kid is struggling with learning and school success, and don't know where to start, reach out to Inclusiveology so we can help get you started. Your consultation is free. CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment. Steps to Request an IEP Evaluation (Even with an Existing 504) Here's a simplified breakdown of the process: Written Request: Start with a formal, written request to your child's school principal or special education director. Clearly state that you are requesting an evaluation for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Mention your child's existing 504 Plan and explain why you believe it's no longer sufficient. Keep a copy of your request for your records. School Response and Consent: The school is required to respond to your request. They will likely schedule a meeting to discuss your concerns. Before any evaluations can take place, you must provide written consent . This is a critical step. Don't sign anything you don't fully understand. Evaluations: The school will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine if your child has a disability that qualifies them for special education services. These evaluations may include academic testing, psychological assessments, and observations. It is always a good idea to seek out independent evaluations as well. Ask your child's pediatrican for guidance in this area. IEP Meeting and Eligibility Determination: Once the evaluations are complete, an IEP team (including you, teachers, and school specialists) will meet to review the results. The team will determine if your child is eligible for special education services. If eligible, the team will develop an IEP that outlines your child's specific needs and goals. Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) and Supplementary Aids and Services: An IEP must include SDI, which means instruction that is tailored to your child's unique learning needs. This could involve specialized teaching methods, modified curriculum, or individualized support. It should also include Supplementary Aids and Services, which are supports that help your child access the general education curriculum. Examples include assistive technology, paraprofessional support, or social skills training. Why SDI and Supplementary Aids and Services are So Important These are the core components that distinguish an IEP from a 504 Plan. They provide the targeted support your child needs to be their most successful. Don't hesitate to advocate for specific SDI and Supplementary Aids and Services that you believe will benefit your child. Important Considerations: Documentation is Key:  Keep detailed records of your child's progress, challenges, and any communication with the school. You Are Your Child's Advocate:  Don't be afraid to ask questions, express your concerns, and advocate for your child's needs. Know Your Rights:  Familiarize yourself with IDEA and your state's special education laws. What's the Next Step? Navigating the special education system can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. If you're considering pursuing an IEP for your neurodivergent child, or if you feel they need more support than their current 504 Plan provides, we're here to help. If you're ready to explore additional support for your child, please reach out to Inclusiveology for an initial consultation. We can help you understand the IEP process, advocate for your child's needs, and ensure they receive the tailored education they deserve.

Sometimes, it's like charades with words! "Ms. DJ. I went to the store yesterday with mommy, and I pushed it." I had some idea of what the "it" was, but I began to ask a litany of questions to gather information for her, so she could recall the correct word. 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 impairment and ADHD and word retrieval was a challenge. It made conversations difficult at times, and she would become frustrated when she couldn't think of a word. (Her language impairment also greatly affected her overall reading skills, including fluency and comprehension.) So, I supported her quest to recall the right word. Me: "What color was it?" Nina: Shiny Me: "What did you put in it?" Nina: Stuff Me: "What kind of stuff?" Nina: Food Tell me about the shape... Tell me how you pushed it... You get the idea. So after my litany of questions, I was able to repeat her shared information back to her in the hopes that she could recall the word. But no. Not yet. Does this sound like your kid? Need more supports to increase skills like focus, comprehension, and language deficits? Schedule a time for us to connect HERE , and let's begin the conversation about learning supports that help! I showed her an image on the computer and she exclaimed, "Yes! That's it! That's it!" It was, of course, a shopping cart. Nina was not able to recall the word on that particular day, but the follow week with a few descriptive and visual reminders, the words came to her mind. "Ms. DJ. That is a shopping cart. That's what I pushed at the store." I suppose my purpose in sharing this is: It is so important to talk to kids! Use the word that is assigned to objects rather than "thing", "stuff", and "it". Kids learn so much when you talk to them. That is how their vocabulary starts to grow! If your kid asks about eggplant at the grocery store, give them detailed information rather than simply saying, "That's a vegetable." or "That's not what we're here for." or even worse, "Be quiet". Parents, you have the gift of being your kid's first teacher. Share with them! "That's an eggplant. It's a purple vegetable that can be eaten baked or roasted. You can even put cheese on the top." A curious mind has a lot of room for information. Fill it up! Just like Nina's shopping cart... Inclusiveology supports parents in understanding what's possible for their kid's learning. When autistic and other types of neurodivergent kids get the supports they need to engage in meaningful learning, you see a shift in independence and confidence. You, as the parent, are a key member of the IEP team. Get all of the information you can to best support your kid! Schedule a free consultation HERE to begin the conversation.

Assistive Technology (AT) is not only for communication. Classroom Assistive Technology is an important element in ensuring that neurodivergent kids can access and engage in learning in a way that makes sense to them. Kids are meaningfully learning when they can dig deep into what is being taught using educational tools. And there are so many awesome tools out there! Classroom Assistive Technology tools can be: low tech (or no tech): no electronics, laptops or devices involved! high tech: using apps and programs on phones, devices or computers Today's share is LOW TECH AT tools for reading. Here are 4 "low tech" educational tools for reading that help with focus, attention, comprehension, and fluency. Tool #1 - Color Transparencies Colored transparencies can significantly reduce visual stress for some children with reading difficulties, making text appear clearer and more stable. By filtering out certain wavelengths of light, these overlays can minimize distortions and glare, allowing for improved focus and comprehension. Ultimately, this simple tool can foster a more comfortable and positive reading experience, potentially boosting a child's confidence and engagement with literacy. Tool #2 - Magnification Bar Magnification bars can significantly improve reading fluency for struggling kids by visually isolating lines of text, reducing visual distractions. These tools can also boost confidence by making reading less overwhelming, which encourages more frequent practice. Furthermore, magnification bars can aid in visual tracking, helping children maintain their place and reduce skipping lines or words. Tool #3 - Reading Rulers and Templates Reading rulers can help children with reading difficulties by isolating lines of text, reducing visual distractions and helping to keep their place. These tools can improve focus and tracking, which is particularly helpful for children with dyslexia or visual processing challenges. By aiding in smoother reading, rulers can boost confidence and make reading a less overwhelming experience. Tool #4 - Graphic Organizers Graphic organizers provide a visual structure that helps children struggling with reading to better understand and retain information. By visually mapping out relationships between concepts, graphic organizers simplify complex texts and improve comprehension. Additionally, these tools can aid in organizing thoughts before and after reading, leading to improved recall and deeper engagement with the material. This Story Map is from Brain Pop , and there are so many available for download! Why are AT tools for learning so important? Low-tech assistive technology plays a huge role in supporting neurodivergent kids by providing accessible and adaptable learning tools. These tools can significantly reduce sensory overload and improve focus. By offering tangible and straightforward aids, low-tech solutions empower kids to manage their individual learning needs and foster a sense of independence. Furthermore, these tools are often cost-effective and readily available, making them a practical and valuable resource for both educators and parents. AT tools are simple solutions that make a BIG IMPACT on your kids learning! Have questions about what's best for your neurodivergent kid? Like I stated before, there are a multitude of assistive technology tools for learning that can help your kid with learning, attention, focus, and independence. Inclusiveology helps parents navigate learning supports, guides you through how to get these tools on your kid's IEP (or 504 Plan!), and supports you as you grow your knowledge of what works best for YOUR KID! Grab your coffee and pick a time for us to chat HERE .

What is a 504 Plan?   A 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child with a disability receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the general education curriculum. It is a plan under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. History of the 504 Rehabilitation Act   Folks, it’s been around for a long time, and for good reason! In 1973, the Rehabilitation Act was passed, which included Section 504, a law that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination. This law guarantees that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities in programs or activities that receive federal funding, including public schools. What are the benefits of having a 504 Plan?   504 Plans provide several benefits to students with disabilities, including: Equal access to education:  504 Plans ensure that students with disabilities have the same opportunities to learn as their non-disabled peers. Individualized support:  504 Plans are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. Accommodations and modifications:  504 Plans provide accommodations that help students with disabilities succeed in the classroom. Increased self-esteem:  504 Plans can help students with disabilities feel more confident and capable in the classroom. Examples of Accommodations   Many types of accommodations can be used by kids with 504 Plans, including: Extra time on tests and assignments:  Sometimes, even 10 extra minutes can make a huge difference for students’ academic success. Preferential seating:  Having a spot to engage and focus! Assistive technology :  As a classroom learning tool, assistive technology is a game-changer for access and engagement. Breaks during class: Time to refocus and regulate A quiet place to take tests: To alleviate distractions What if my kid doesn’t qualify for a 504 Plan or is no longer given access to one?   Without a 504 Plan, students with disabilities may: Struggle in school Fall behind their peers Experience frustration and low self-esteem Be at risk for dropping out of school Who is Eligible for a 504 Plan?   To be eligible for a 504 Plan, a student must have a physical, mental or emotional challenge that interferes with one or more life activities. These activities include things like learning, reading, writing, speaking, listening, concentrating, thinking, and caring for oneself.   If a kid has multiple needs and requires support in multiple areas to ensure learning success, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) may be more fitting.   Inclusiveology helps parents with understanding the process for a 504 Plan or an IEP. We help you help your kid! Schedule a time to chat: CLICK HERE How Do I Get a 504 Plan for My Kid? If you believe your kid may be eligible for a 504 Plan, you should contact their school's principal or counselor. They will be able to provide you with more information about the process of getting a 504 Plan. If you believe your kid may be eligible for a 504 Plan, please contact their school.

As a parent, you want the best for your child, and that includes their education. If your child has a disability, you might have heard about the "Least Restrictive Environment," or LRE. But what does it mean? What is the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)? The LRE is a key part of special education law. It states that children with disabilities should be educated with children without disabilities as much as possible. This means that kids should be in regular classrooms with their peers whenever it's appropriate. Why is LRE Important? Inclusion:   LRE helps kids with disabilities feel included and part of the school community. Social Skills:   Being in regular classrooms helps kids with disabilities learn important social skills from their peers. High Expectations:   When kids with disabilities are in regular classrooms, they're held to the same high expectations as everyone else, which can help them achieve more. How is the LRE Determined? The IEP team including YOU, teachers, and other specialists, decides on the LRE for each child. They look at: Your Child's Needs:   What kind of help does your child need to learn? How is your child doing academically? Socially? Available Options:   What kinds of classrooms and support are available in your school district? What's Best for Your Child:   What will help your child learn and grow the most? What supports can be put in place in the general education setting? What's the educational goal? How can Inclusiveology support you on your kid's educational journey? How can we help you ensure the best possible LRE for your kid? CLICK HERE  to grab a time to chat. Your first coaching session is free to get you started. What are Some Examples of LRE? Regular Classroom with Support:   Your child is in a regular classroom but gets extra help, like Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) from a Special Education teacher, or learning tools to support independence and growth. You rchild might spend some of the day in a regular classroom and some of the day in a special education classroom. Special Education Classroom:   Your child is in a smaller classroom with teachers who specialize in helping kids with disabilities. (It is important to remember that a qualified teacher who has extensive knowledge of specialized services and supports is providing instruction to your child!) What if I Don't Agree with the LRE Decision? You have the right to disagree with the LRE decision. You can: Talk to the School:   Meet with the school team to discuss your concerns. Get an Educational Coach or Advocate:   They can help you understand your rights and/or work with the school. File a Complaint:   You can file a complaint with the state education agency. Remember, the LRE is about finding the best way to support your child's education and help them be as successful as possible now and well into the future! So, why is knowing about LRE important for you as parents? Because an inclusive education in the least restrictive environment ensures that your child is not just educated but also part of a diverse community that values and supports each other. It sets the stage for a future where your kid is included, respected, and given the chance to grow. The least restrictive environment is a positive step towards creating a world where all children, regardless of their abilities, can thrive. It's about breaking down barriers, fostering friendships and connections, and building a community that embraces and celebrates every child for who they are. DJ Nicholson is an Educational Coach and Trainer supporting parents and teachers in knowing how to best support the varying needs of kids with disabilities or neurodivergencies with the most inclusive education possible. She's been in the business of inclusive education for 30 years and wants the best educational outcomes for kids!