Sign up to save your podcasts
Or
Share Fighting Isolation With Advocacy Ep. 2 - PART 1
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Or
Fighting Isolation With Advocacy Ep. 2 - PART 1
Summary:
In this powerful episode of Diverge & Disrupt, host Liz Vossenkemper sits down with Nikki Zimmerman, a parent and fierce advocate, to discuss the relentless pursuit of systemic change for children with higher support needs. Nikki shares her journey of navigating the world of special education, community inclusion, and systemic barriers, all while ensuring her child’s voice is honored.
The conversation dives deep into the emotional, systemic, and logistical challenges faced by parents advocating for their children, the need for true acceptance, and how awareness must lead to action. Nikki opens up about her personal experiences—taking the fight to school boards, pushing for better Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and finding moments of hope and joy in her advocacy journey.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or professional, this episode sheds light on the power of love, determination, and advocacy in creating a world where every child has a place and thrives.
Individualized Education Program (IEP):
A legally binding document in the U.S. public school system that outlines specific accommodations, services, and goals tailored to meet the educational needs of a child with a disability.AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication):
Tools and strategies, such as speech-generating devices or communication boards, used by individuals who cannot rely on verbal speech alone to communicate.PEC (Picture Exchange Communication):
A system where individuals use picture cards to communicate their needs, often used as an introductory communication tool for non-speaking individuals.Presume Competence:
The belief that all individuals, regardless of disability or communication differences, are capable of understanding and learning and should be treated with respect and age appropriate approaches.High Support Needs:
Refers to individuals who require significant assistance across multiple areas of their lives, such as communication, emotional and sensory regulation, or personal careToe Walking:
A gait pattern where an individual primarily walks on the balls of their feet rather than using a heel-to-toe motion, sometimes linked to sensory processing differences in autistic individuals.Caroline’s Cart:
A shopping cart designed for individuals with disabilities that includes a secure, supportive seat to make grocery shopping more accessible.
View all episodes
By Liz Vossenkemper, The Neurodivergent NPSummary:
In this powerful episode of Diverge & Disrupt, host Liz Vossenkemper sits down with Nikki Zimmerman, a parent and fierce advocate, to discuss the relentless pursuit of systemic change for children with higher support needs. Nikki shares her journey of navigating the world of special education, community inclusion, and systemic barriers, all while ensuring her child’s voice is honored.
The conversation dives deep into the emotional, systemic, and logistical challenges faced by parents advocating for their children, the need for true acceptance, and how awareness must lead to action. Nikki opens up about her personal experiences—taking the fight to school boards, pushing for better Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and finding moments of hope and joy in her advocacy journey.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or professional, this episode sheds light on the power of love, determination, and advocacy in creating a world where every child has a place and thrives.
Individualized Education Program (IEP):
A legally binding document in the U.S. public school system that outlines specific accommodations, services, and goals tailored to meet the educational needs of a child with a disability.AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication):
Tools and strategies, such as speech-generating devices or communication boards, used by individuals who cannot rely on verbal speech alone to communicate.PEC (Picture Exchange Communication):
A system where individuals use picture cards to communicate their needs, often used as an introductory communication tool for non-speaking individuals.Presume Competence:
The belief that all individuals, regardless of disability or communication differences, are capable of understanding and learning and should be treated with respect and age appropriate approaches.High Support Needs:
Refers to individuals who require significant assistance across multiple areas of their lives, such as communication, emotional and sensory regulation, or personal careToe Walking:
A gait pattern where an individual primarily walks on the balls of their feet rather than using a heel-to-toe motion, sometimes linked to sensory processing differences in autistic individuals.Caroline’s Cart:
A shopping cart designed for individuals with disabilities that includes a secure, supportive seat to make grocery shopping more accessible.