ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents

IEP Inbox: “Do I really need to put everything in writing?”

“Do I really need to write that down?” If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s overkill to follow up with an email—this episode is for you. In this quick IEP Inbox episode, Monica explains: * Why writing things down helps protect your child’s rights * What kinds of requests should always be in writing * How to phrase things clearly (without sounding confrontational) * Why email beats verbal conversations—especially when timelines matter 💡 Field Note: Don’t wait for the school to put it in writing—do it yourself. 🎧 Visit preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast] for free tools, tips, and handouts. Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/] Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

W for Written Requests: Why Everything Should Be in Writing

If there’s one IEP tip parents should remember—it’s this: put it in writing. In this episode, Monica breaks down why written communication is a must in the world of special education, what types of requests should always be documented, and how written words protect your child’s rights without creating conflict. 🎧 Get free tools at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast] Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/] Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

IEP Inbox: “Should visual supports be written into the IEP?”

Should visual schedules, First/Then boards, or behavior icons actually be written into your child’s IEP—or is it enough that the team “just uses them”? In this IEP Inbox episode, Monica explains why putting visual supports in writing matters for consistency, clarity, and long-term success. 🎧 For more free tools, visit preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast] Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/] Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

V for Visual Supports: How They Help at School & Home

Visual schedules, First/Then boards, and checklists—oh my! In this episode of ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents, Monica dives into the power of visual supports and how they can make a big difference in your child’s day—both at school and at home. 👉 Get the free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast] Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/] Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

IEP Inbox: “What if my child isn’t making progress on their IEP goals?”

Not seeing the growth you expected? You're not alone. In this IEP Inbox mini episode, Monica tackles a tough but common question: What should you do when your child isn’t making progress on their IEP goals? Learn how to spot the red flags, what to ask at your next meeting, and why “no progress” is actually a signal—not a dead end. 👉 Download the free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast] Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/] Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.