It’s the perfect time to give parents tips and best practices in navigating IEP meetings and working in collaboration with your school team. THE most important aspect of that collaboration is effective communication, and we have not one, but two communication experts joining us for today’s episode. Join us to learn more!

We are joined by Peggy S. Bud and Tamara L. Jacobson, the co-authors of Navigating Special Education: The Power of Building Positive Parent-Educator Partnerships. Together Peggy and Tamara have over 60 years of experience. Their book provides “a foundation for building proactive, positive partnerships that will lead to 21st century best practices for special needs students.

 Peggy Bud is a licensed speech-language pathologist, communications expert, author, and former school administrator. After leaving public education, Peggy founded Speaking Skillfully, which works with families, educators, and businesses to help them be effective communicators. In addition to blogging and writing policies/procedures, educational materials, and children’s books, Peggy also serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations. 

Tamara Jacobson is an educational consultant, communications expert, speaker, and author. With an extensive background in education, Tamara serves as the executive director of East Coast Educational Consulting, where she helps school districts and families bridge the gap to understand each other and work together for the best interests of each child. 

Show Highlights:

• How to define “effective communication”--both verbal and nonverbal
• Why effective communication happens on the foundation of relationship
• Three basic elements of communication: active listening, perspective taking, and shared vision
• Why data is important in effective communication in IEP meetings
• How parents can foster partnerships of trust and collaboration with the school community
• The 5C Model of Effective Communication in Peggy and Tamara’s book: conversations, collaboration, cooperation, compromise, and consensus
• Final words to parents from Tamara: “You have a voice, and your voice is important. Take the time to build relationships with your school team and ask for ongoing meetings.”
• Final words to parents from Peggy: “Parents have a PhD in their child, and they know him/her best. Have confidence in your communication.”

Links/Resources:

Learn more about Peggy and Tamara’s book and get your copy! www.navigatingspecialeducation.com 

Connect with Peggy:  Website

Connect with Tamara:  Website

Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center, and send us your questions for Nadia Bennett for a future episode: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org   

Thank you for listening! 

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