Navigating Special Education and Advocating for Your Child

Navigating special education can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode, we’re joined by Paula J. Yost, a licensed clinical mental health therapist, special education advocate, lawyer, educator, and author who breaks down IEPs, 504 plans, evaluations, and how to effectively advocate for your child. In this episode, we discuss: 1:21 - What led you to focus on helping families navigate the special education system? 3:15 - For parents and caregivers who may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, or even intimidated by this process, what would you want them to know right at the beginning? 4:36 - Is there a preferred or more respectful language we should be using—special education, exceptional children education, or something else? 7:56 - What are the key laws that govern special education in the United States? 10:37 - What are some of the most common acronyms parents & caregivers will encounter, and what do they mean? 14:08 - What are some early signs that a child might need additional support or an educational assessment? 17:17 - How does trauma impact a child’s ability to learn and show up in the classroom? 20:31 - What are the first steps a parent or caregiver should take if they believe their child needs to be evaluated? 25:27 - What is involved in an educational assessment, and what should families expect from that process? 26:42 - Once a child is evaluated, how do families understand the results and translate them into meaningful support? 31:48 - Can you explain the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan in terms of the support and accommodations they include? 38:52 - What kinds of accommodations or supports should parents and caregivers be aware of that they can request in an IEP or 504 plan? 42:36 - What are some common mistakes or misconceptions parents have when entering this process? 47:03 - What rights do foster or kinship parents have when it comes to requesting evaluations and services? 49:53 - How can foster or kinship parents support a child with learning differences or disabilities at home, to reinforce what is being done at school? 51:48 - What should parents do if they feel the school isn’t providing adequate support or following through on a plan? 53:57 - For families just beginning this journey, what are a few practical first steps they can take this week to start advocating for their child? 55:08 - What message of encouragement or reassurance would you like to leave with parents and caregivers who are walking this path? This podcast is brought to you by CreatingaFamily.org. For more tipsheets, resources, and practical information, visit our website. Music Credit: Michael Ashworth Podcast Producer: megownsoundworks.com