If there’s one thing parents of struggling learners understand, it’s that the IEP process is complex. Between the law (IDEA), qualifications, the IEP document, goals, measurements, and formal meetings, there’s a lot to know and navigate to ensure that your neurodivergent child receives the education they deserve (and have a right to).
 
In this episode, I’m joined by Master IEP Coach, Catherine Whitcher. Catherine shares insights on the IEP process,  two main strategies for IEP meetings and what to expect in those meetings, and all the facets of a student should be addressed with special education, not just grades and test scores. Join us to discover your voice of advocacy for your child.

215: IEP Strategies for Parents, with Catherine Whitcher, M.Ed.

Join parenting coach and mom-in-the-trenches, Penny Williams, as she helps parents, caregivers, and educators harness the realization that we are all beautifully complex and marvelously imperfect. Each week she delivers insights and actionable strategies on parenting and educating neurodivergent kids — those with ADHD, autism, anxiety, learning disabilities... Her approach to decoding behavior while honoring neurodiversity, and parenting the individual child you have will provide you with the tools to help you understand and transform behavior, reduce your own stress, increase parenting confidence, and create the joyful family life you crave. Penny has helped thousands of families worldwide to help their kids feel good so they can do good.

Kids & Family

Parenting

Health & Fitness

Mental Health

Today, I'm so excited to be talking with Dr. Adam Price, a nationally known clinical psychologist and best-selling author with over 30 years of experience working with kids and adults. He's the author of "He's Not Lazy: Empowering Your Son to Believe in Himself" and "The He's Not Lazy Guide to Better Grades and a Great Life."
In this episode, we’re talking about the myth of laziness — that’s right, I said “myth.” We explore why adults often jump to labeling kids as lazy and Dr. Price shares valuable insights about motivation, empathy, the importance of understanding our kid’s unique challenges, and how to foster autonomy and competence in them. We also share how crucial it is to build a strong connection with your kids and find ways to help them feel seen, heard, and understood.
If you're ready to reframe your perspective on laziness and learn practical strategies to better support your neurodivergent child, you won't want to miss this conversation. So, let's get started!

267: The Myth of Laziness, with Adam Price, Ph.D.

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, we’re focusing on making summertime rewarding and manageable for neurodiverse families. I’ll guide you through a summer plan that encompasses structured activities, personal growth, and meaningful connections.
This episode is packed with strategies starting with how to create an adaptable visual plan using tools like a Post-it calendar or a Mighty & Bright schedule board, perfect for kids who find comfort in visual aids and might struggle with schedule changes.
Then, we move into exploration — encouraging our kids to follow their interests and passions, which is crucial for their confidence and sense of belonging in the world. Whether through specialized camps like SOAR or simple nature walks, exposure to new experiences is key.
We also discuss growth through just-right challenges that push kids slightly out of their comfort zones to build resilience, but not so far that it isn’t doable for them. Whether it's working on a complex project or trying a new sport, it's about finding that sweet spot of challenge that is both challenging and attainable.
Lastly, connection remains a cornerstone of our discussion, emphasizing the importance of cultivating strong bonds with our kids. This summer, let’s lean into activities that strengthen our relationships and foster communal growth.
Remember, parenting is more about nurturing relationships than just managing tasks. Let’s dive into this summer with intention and joy.

266: A Summertime Plan that Can Work for Everyone, with Penny Williams

In this episode, I’m joined by Tara Phillips, speech language pathologist and founder of Autism Little Learners. She shares some transformative tools and techniques which have significantly benefited her students, such as the use of visual supports and predictable routines.
Together, Tara and I explore the importance of positive connections and a strengths-based approach in early education, practical tips for implementing adapted board books, and strategies to reduce anxiety for both children and parents.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or therapist, this episode is packed with resources and actionable advice to support the development of young autistic learners. Tune in to transform your approach and enrich your toolkit.

265: Strategies for Young Autistic Learners, with Tara Phillips, SLP

This time on Beautifully Complex, I'm exploring behavior struggles and conscious discipline with my guest, Wendy Snyder, a positive parenting educator and family life coach. We discuss how understanding behaviors as communication changes our perspective, helping us view challenges as signals of need and teaching opportunities.
Join us as we dive into how creating a sense of belonging and safety at home allows our kids to thrive under our guidance. Wendy shares her expertise on managing our own triggers and approaching parenting with empathy and intention. Tune in for practical advice to help you be the parent your kids need.

264: Handling Behavior Struggles with Dignity, with Wendy Snyder

The terms IEP and 504 plan may come up a lot when you’re looking into special education for your child. These school supports do some of the same things, but one can provide more services and the other is easier to get. And it’s important to know the differences in order to get your child the support they need. On this episode of Beautifully Complex, you will hear an episode of Understood Explains, where host Juliana Urtubey breaks down the differences between IEPs and 504 plans, and which one might be right for your child.

215: IEP Strategies for Parents, with Catherine Whitcher, M.Ed.

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