Are your child's IEP goals actually SMART? In this episode, we break down what makes IEP goals specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Learn to spot weak goals that won't drive progress, understand what effective progress monitoring should look like, and discover red flags that signal goals need to be rewritten. We'll share real examples of vague vs. strong goals, explain how progress should be tracked and reported, and give you the questions to ask your IEP team. Essential listening for parents who want meaningful, measurable goals that actually help their child succeed.

Grab your IEP meeting prep check list here

What are PLAAFPs and why do they matter so much? Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance are the foundation of every IEP, yet they're often the most misunderstood section. In this episode, we break down what strong present levels should include, share real examples of effective vs. weak PLAAFPs, and explain how this section drives your child's entire IEP. Learn to spot red flags, understand why detailed present levels matter for goal writing, and discover how to advocate for accurate, comprehensive information about your child's current abilities and needs.

Don't forget to grab your IEP meeting checklist here.

Wondering if your child qualifies for special education services? In this episode, we break down the 13 IDEA disability categories and explain exactly how special education eligibility is determined. Learn the difference between having a diagnosis and qualifying for an IEP, understand what educational impact means, and discover the exclusionary factors that schools sometimes use incorrectly. Whether your child has autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, or other challenges, this episode gives parents the knowledge to advocate for proper evaluation and special education services. Perfect for parents navigating the IEP qualification process for the first time.

In-Depth Eligibility Areas Reference Sheet

Quick Reference Sheet (you can take it to IEP meetings)

Episode 4: Sitting on the Other Side of the Table

In this episode, Paige opens up about her personal experience transitioning from educator to parent when her own child entered early intervention services. From navigating feeding challenges to sitting in her first IFSP meeting, she shares what it was like to help write goals not for a student—but for her son.

We’ll walk you through the key differences between an IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan) and an IEP (Individualized Education Program), explain what changes at age three, and talk about how to make that transition smoother for families. Whether you're a parent approaching your child’s third birthday or a professional supporting families through this shift, this episode brings insight, empathy, and real talk to the table.

🎧 Grab our free IEP Preparation Meeting Checklist to help you prepare.

Whether you're a parent approaching your child’s third birthday or a professional supporting families through this shift, this episode brings insight, empathy, and real talk to the table.

In this very first episode of Behind the IEP Table, hosts Paige and Allie introduce themselves and the heart behind the podcast. Whether you're a parent brand new to special education or someone who's been to dozens of meetings, this show is here to guide, support, and empower you.

We’re breaking down what an IEP is, what it isn’t, and why parents deserve to feel informed—not overwhelmed—at every step of the process. You’ll also learn what to expect in future episodes, how we plan to tackle myths and red flags, and why your voice matters more than ever.

This is your seat at the table. Welcome—we’re so glad you’re here.

If you liked our episode, please don't forget to share it and see here for our free IEP Meeting checklists: https://behind-the-iep-table.kit.com

You’ve requested an evaluation—now what?

In this episode, we’re walking you through what really happens during the evaluation process and how the team determines eligibility for special education services. From the assessments that might be used, to the questions you can ask, and how eligibility decisions are made, we’re breaking it all down in simple, clear terms.

We’ll also share:

• What to expect during the eligibility meeting

• Why having a diagnosis (like ADHD or dyslexia) isn’t always enough to qualify for services

• How to prepare for the wave of testing data that comes your way

• What your options are if you don’t agree with the school’s decision

Our goal? To help you walk into this process feeling confident and informed—because your voice matters at the table.

🎧 Loved this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another caregiver who could use a little extra support. Got a question or a topic you’d love us to cover? Reach out through our website or social media—we’d love to hear from you!

In this episode, we’re breaking down the very first step in the special education journey: requesting an evaluation. Whether you’re seeing red flags or just have a gut feeling something isn’t quite right, we’ll walk you through what to say, how to say it, and why this step matters so much. We’ll cover key timelines, your legal rights, and how to put your request in writing so it gets taken seriously. If you’ve been wondering how to get support started for your child—this is the place to begin.