A lot of people believe that children only require emotional support at school if they are getting bullied; however, there are a number of reasons why children might require emotional support. A lot of children have a difficult time comparing themselves to other kids or feeling like they don’t measure up to their peers. Some children require further explanation of certain topics in the classroom. They might not speak up because they don’t want to annoy their peers or the teac

A 504 plan and an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) are covered by specific laws and work differently but both are a blueprint designed to support kids and their parents. The end goal is the same, these plans list accommodations to help students find success in school. Many kids with learning deficits and attention issues don’t need individualized instruction or special education but might need support or services at school. A 504 Plan and an IEP specify how school administ

Parents, Yes, there is a difference between IEP (Individualized Education Programs) and 504 Plans. In some areas it’s quite subtle and in others areas there are great differences. We have some great information on our blog about IEPs and 504 Plans including some nuances between the two. Choosing the right plan for your child may feel daunting if you do not know what these plans entail. Also knowing your child’s legal rights for assistance is important if they have any type of

Dear Parents, Are you aware that Common Core State Standards aren’t the same as standardized testing? If your child has an IEP or 504 Plan there are accommodations that your child is entitled to receive to assist them in the testing process. I do not think many parents are aware of this fact. This article from Understood.org will help you understand what these accommodations are and how to get them for your student. #504plan #IEP #parentingtips

Too many students feel dumb in school. When the support systems are set up through IEP, 504 or other accommodations, students then shift to feeling like cheaters….like it is not deserved. How horrible!! This article brings this issue home, explaining how it feels and also the shame that surrounds many. It’s a great read. Let us know what you think. My favorite quote in the article: Tell your child: Behind that army of support, it is you who won the battle. Celebrate that and

Are you concerned about your child? Want to know if your child qualifies for extra support at school? Here are 6 steps that truly make it simple to request an evaluation for your child. Let me know what you think. If you think your child might have a learning or attention issue and decide to have her evaluated, you need to make a formal request to her school. Here are the steps to take when you’re making that request. Read it on Understood #understoodorg #teacherdisclosures #

Whew!  The 1st term is finally over! How did your child do?  Here are 5 ways to help your child improve or to stay steady. #1. Clean out the backpack. Remember the “dump and go through?”  Well, this is the final one for term 1. Go through each folder, taking out everything that is from 1st term Don’t recycle it just yet. Instead, put it in on a shelf at home, just in case it is needed for a future test There should not be any changes in the schedule yet, so the folders can ke

Parents, Getting your child’s school year started with IEP tracking is a very critical part of their school success. Here are some valuable links from Understood.org to get you and your child off to a great beginning. Making an IEP binder is a great way to keep information organized and at the ready when you need it. An IEP binder can help you prepare for IEP meetings and stay up to date on your child’s progress. This powerful tool can also help you communicate and collaborat

Back-To-School: Setting Up Your Home Office Space for Success “Good order is the foundation of all good things.” — Edmund Burke, Reflections on the Revolution in France As we prepare our space, our minds, and our lives for the “back to school” season, many of us our preparing a home office space. And let’s be honest, where you study is important. The following information has been published previously in a book that I co-wrote with Claude W. Olney: Where There’s A Will, There

School is just around the corner!  Where did summer go? Going back to school brings many new opportunities and challenges.  Parents and students need to be prepared.  Don’t “cross your fingers” and hope that this year will be better than last. Be proactive, not reactive!  Teach your kids to advocate for themselves this year. Let’s start this school year off with a bang! Back To School Success Plan Start the school year with a “4 week massive attack!”  This means never miss cl

According to GreatSchools.org , “the IEP, Individualized Education Program, is a written document that’s developed for each public school child who is eligible for special education. The IEP is created through a team effort and reviewed at least once a year.” Managing your child’s IEP can be cumbersome. Here are some great tips from Understood.org to help with creating an IEP Binder for your child. Video Credit: Understood.org Let me know your thoughts or if you have question