In this insightful episode of ABC of the IEP, we dive deep into the world of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Danielle Gordon. With nearly two decades of experience in the field, Danielle shares her expertise on how ABA can effectively support children with autism and their families. We explore the core principles of ABA, the importance of building rapport, and how to create meaningful, individualized learning plans that prioritize a child's quality of life. Danielle also discusses the nuances of behavior intervention plans and the significance of communication between parents and educators in ensuring a child's success across different environments. Whether you're new to the IEP process or looking to deepen your understanding of ABA, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.

Monica Trost is a licensed educational psychologist, and mother of children with disabilities. She conducts independent educational evaluations (IEEs) in the East Bay Area, CA., specializing in autism and preschool/elementary transitions. 

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Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

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Danielle Gordon, MA, BCBA, LBA, is a seasoned Board Certified Behavior Analyst with nearly two decades of hands-on experience in the field of autism and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Since beginning her career in 2006, she has remained deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals with autism and their families through evidence-based interventions and compassionate, individualized care.

Contact Danielle at www.daniellegordonBCBA.com

Disclaimer: podcast is for educational purposes only. 

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of giftedness with Dr. Kandece Skinner from Pivotal Pathways Psychology. Join us as we explore the misconceptions surrounding gifted assessments in California's public schools, the importance of recognizing twice exceptional students, and how parents can advocate for their child's unique educational needs. Dr. Skinner shares her insights on the evaluation process, what to look for in a gifted assessment, and the collaborative approach families can take when navigating the school system. This conversation is packed with valuable information for parents seeking to understand and support their gifted children.

Monica Trost is a licensed educational psychologist, and mother of children with disabilities. She conducts  independent educational evaluations (IEEs) in the East Bay Area, CA, specializing in autism, and the preschool and early elementary school transitions 

Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/

Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

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Dr. Kandece Skinner is a Licensed Educational Psychologist with over a decade of experience supporting students, families, and schools in achieving positive educational and mental health outcomes. Dr. Skinner specializes in evaluating learning differences, ADHD, Autism, and emotional/behavioral differences. She utilizes a collaborative and inclusive approach that honors individual strengths while addressing barriers to learning and emotional well-being.

Contact Kandece Skinner: https://www.pivotalpathwayseps.com/

Disclaimer: podcast is for educational purposes only. 

Are virtual IEP meetings less effective than in-person ones? In this episode, Monica Trost addresses this common concern, exploring the potential pitfalls of virtual meetings, such as technical issues and the lack of personal connection. However, she emphasizes that the effectiveness of any IEP meeting—regardless of format—depends on preparation and participation. Discover how to leverage the virtual format to your advantage, ensuring your voice is heard and your child's needs are met. As we wrap up Season One, Monica also shares a sneak peek into Season Two, featuring expert insights to support your advocacy journey.

We've reached the final letter in our ABC Journey, and in this episode, we dive into the world of Zoom and virtual IEP meetings. Monica shares the pros and cons of this format, offering practical tips on how to prepare and stay engaged while navigating meetings from home. Discover effective strategies like screen sharing, utilizing the chat for questions, and the importance of keeping your camera on to foster connection. Monica emphasizes that, regardless of the meeting format, your rights and voice remain unchanged. Whether virtual or in-person, being prepared is key to feeling empowered. As we wrap up this series, get ready for a transition into preschool evaluations in our upcoming season. Tune in for insights that will help you support your child every step of the way!

In this episode of ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents, Monica shares practical tips on how to get parent's input heard and considered during school meetings. 

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Parents are not guests at the IEP table—they are equal team members under the law. In this episode of ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents, Monica shares how to confidently take your seat at the table, balance collaboration with assertiveness, and keep the focus on your child’s needs without letting emotions or personalities derail the process. You’ll learn what the law says about parent participation, what effective teamwork looks like, and practical phrases to use when you need to slow things down or push for clarity.

🎁 Get the free handout for this episode: preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast

Summer school and ESY aren’t the same thing—and mixing them up can lead to missed services. In this quick IEP Inbox episode, Monica explains the difference between general education summer programs and Extended School Year (ESY)services under IDEA, including:

Why ESY is tied to your child’s IEP (not just availability)

What to say if the school offers summer school but not ESY

When and how to start the ESY conversation

💡 Field Note: Ask early—don’t wait until May.

🎁 Grab the free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast

eXtended School Year—aka ESY—isn’t just summer school.

🎧 Visit preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast for free tools, tips, and handouts.

Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/

Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

“Do I really need to write that down?”

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 for free tools, tips, and handouts.

Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/

Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

If there’s one IEP tip parents should remember—it’s this: put it in writing.

🎧 Get free tools at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast

Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/

Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.