Special Education Strategist: Expert Advice for IEPs, 504 Plans, Dyslexia, Parent Advocacy, Learning Disabilities, Executive Function, Dysgraphia, ADHD, Autism, Neurodivergent

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Special Education Strategist: Expert Advice for IEPs, 504 Plans, Dyslexia, Parent Advocacy, Learning Disabilities, Executive Function, Dysgraphia, ADHD, Autism, Neurodivergent episodes

July 08, 2025138: What Makes a Goal Realistic? How to Know If Your Child’s IEP Goals Are Too Easy (or Too Much)
What does a realistic IEP goal actually look like? In this episode of our Summer Question Series, host Wendy Taylor is joined by Jackie Beach, M.Ed., founder of Rally Family Support, to unpack the “just right” goal—ambitious yet achievable. Learn how to collaborate with your school team, trust your gut, and use data (from home and school) to shape meaningful goals that support the whole child. Because goals only matter if they help your child grow.

Key Takeaways:
A good goal balances challenge with achievability—aim for growth, not shutdown.
Parent-school collaboration thrives when you bring data, clarity, and curiosity to the table.
Use SMART goals to guide IEP conversations and create shared expectations.
Connect with Jackie Beach
Website: www.RallyFamilySupport.com
Instagram: @rallyfamilysupport
Email: [email protected]
Connect with Wendy Taylor
Instagram: @learningessentials
LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor
Facebook: Learning Essentials
Website: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com
Course: Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility
Listen on Apple Podcasts: The Special Ed Strategist
Or your favorite app: Podcast Link
Additional Resources
For parents who want to dive deeper into IEP goal-setting and school collaboration:
SMART IEP Goal Guide – Wrightslaw
Parent Center Hub: Understanding IEP Goals
Understood.org: IEP Goal Examples by Disability
17 min
June 24, 2025137: What Do IEP Services Actually Look Like?
Ever stare at your child’s IEP and wonder, “What actually happens during those service minutes?” You’re not alone—and we’re breaking it down. In this kickoff to our 12-week summer series, host Wendy Taylor and co-host Jackie Beach dive into what related services like speech, OT, and behavioral support really look like in the school day. You’ll learn the difference between push-in, pull-out, and consult models—and why asking “who, where, and how” matters just as much as the number of minutes. This episode arms you with real questions, real strategies, and real confidence.

3 Key Takeaways
Service clarity matters – Ask who, what, where, why, and how your child receives related services: pull‑out, push‑in, consult.
Context drives success – Understanding where and how OT, speech, and behavior services happen shapes more effective IEP planning.
Collaborate purposefully – Go in informed, curious, and collaborative—alignment promotes teamwork and reduces overwhelm.
Connect with Wendy & Jackie

Wendy Taylor / Learning Essentials
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/learningessentials/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-taylor-7106b6a6/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TutoringLE
Website: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com
Cracking the Code course: https://learningessentialsedu.com/course/
Jackie Beach – Founder & Executive Director of Rally Family Support; early-childhood advocate and parent coach

Website: rallysupportsfamilies.com
15 min
June 17, 2025136: Dyslexia Advocacy & Assessment: How Parents Can Partner with Schools to Identify and Support Struggling Readers
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, Wendy Taylor is joined by Jenny Ponzuric, a Licensed Educational Psychologist and certified school neuropsychologist with over two decades of experience in psychoeducational assessment. Together, they walk listeners through how to recognize early signs of dyslexia, how to advocate for meaningful school-based evaluations, and what effective intervention actually looks like—beyond just extra time and preferential seating.

You’ll hear about the importance of asking the right questions, how to understand the difference between medical and educational definitions of dyslexia, and what it really means to collaborate with your IEP team as a data-informed parent. Whether your child is just starting to struggle with reading or already has an IEP in place, this conversation is filled with guidance, clarity, and actionable next steps.

Key Takeaways:
How to ask data-driven, strategic questions at IEP meetings
What a comprehensive dyslexia evaluation should—and should not—look like
Why early intervention and targeted instruction matter more than generic supports
Connect with Wendy Taylor
Website: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com
Course: Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility
Instagram: @learningessentials
LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor
Facebook: Learning Essentials
Podcast: The Special Ed Strategist on Apple | All platforms

Connect with Jenny Ponzuric
Website: www.jennyponzuric.com
Podcast: The Prepared School Psych Podcast

Further Resources to Explore:
International Dyslexia Association: Dyslexia Basics
U.S. Department of Education “Dear Colleague” Letter (2015)
Understanding the PSW (Pattern of Strengths and Weaknesses) Model
1 hr
June 03, 2025135: Neurodiversity-Affirming IEPs: Moving Beyond Compliance with Breea Rosas
What does it really mean to be neurodiversity-affirming? Breea Rosas, licensed educational psychologist and founder of the Neurodiversity Affirming School Psychologist Group, joins Wendy Taylor to unpack how schools, families, and IEP teams can shift from a deficit-based lens to an affirming, strength-centered approach. From actionable language swaps to rethinking token boards and goal-writing, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to do better—for real.

Top 3 Takeaways:
Language is the First Shift: Changing “non-compliant” to “self-directed” transforms perceptions—and outcomes.
Parent Power is Real: Input statements and pre-meeting advocacy can reframe the entire IEP experience.
Affirming ≠ Ignoring Needs: Reframing challenges as “support needs” aligns goals with neurotype, not pathology.
Connect with Breea Rosas:
Instagram: @NDaffirming_SP
Website: Neurodiversity Affirming SP Resources

Connect with Wendy Taylor:
Instagram: @learningessentials
LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor
Facebook: Learning Essentials
Website: LearningEssentialsEDU.com
Enroll in Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility:
Access Course

Mentioned in the Episode:
The Neurodiversity Podcast with Emily Kircher-Morris
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) – position statements on identity-first language
Collaborative & Proactive Solutions – Dr. Ross Greene
55 min
May 27, 2025134: Rethinking Behavior: Play, Regulation & Neurodiversity
Is it misbehavior—or a regulation challenge? In this powerful episode, Wendy Taylor sits down with Polina Shkadron, trauma-certified speech language pathologist and founder of Play to Learn Consulting. Together we explore how play, trust, and brain-based support strategies can transform how we support neurodivergent learners. With over 15 years of experience in Autism, ADHD, and ARFID, Polina shares the science and soul behind behavior, regulation, and connection.

3 Key Takeaways
Behavior is communication: regulation, not punishment, is the entry point.
Play is not just fun—it’s a vehicle for building working memory, impulse control, and cognitive flexibility.
Autonomy, connectedness, and competence are the cornerstones of sustainable learning and self-advocacy.
Connect with Wendy
Instagram
LinkedIn
Facebook
Learning Essentials
Podcast
Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility

Connect with Polina Shkadron
Website
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
Speaking Engagements
1 hr 6 min
May 20, 2025133: How to Write a Parent Input Statement That Drives Services
Your voice isn’t just welcome at the IEP table—it’s legally required. In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, host Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, breaks down how to write a powerful Parent Input Statement that reflects what you’re seeing at home and in the community. You’ll learn how to collect meaningful data, prioritize your concerns, and communicate them effectively to shape your child’s IEP. Whether you’re new to the process or a seasoned advocate, this episode will help you speak up, be heard, and drive real change.

Key Takeaways:
Parent Input Is Protected by Law
Under IDEA (34 CFR §300.324), schools must consider a parent's concerns—making your input a vital part of the IEP.

The CARE Model Empowers Parents
Learn how to Collect, Assess, Reflect, and Express home and community observations to advocate with clarity and impact.

Needs Drive Services—Your Voice Defines Those Needs
Discover how to ensure your input aligns with the IEP’s present levels, accommodations, and goals.
Contact Wendy or Learn More:
Instagram: @learningessentials
LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor
Facebook: Learning Essentials
Website: LearningEssentialsEDU.com
Cracking the Code Course (Module 1 Free in May with Code: GOGRAY): Enroll Here
Podcast Link: The Special Ed Strategist
14 min
May 13, 2025132: Early Intervention, Empowered Parents: Real Talk with Jackie Beach, M.Ed.
What should you really be looking for in early childhood development—and what do you do when it feels overwhelming? Wendy sits down with Jackie Beach, founder of Rally Family Support and early childhood expert, for a candid, empowering conversation about noticing red flags, collecting meaningful data, and making the leap from early intervention to IEPs. Jackie blends wisdom and warmth as she reminds parents: you can trust your gut—and you’re not alone.

Tune in for actionable advice, advocacy tips, and heartfelt encouragement.

3 Key Takeaways:
Data is power: Learn how to collect developmental data through everyday routines and how to bring it to your pediatrician or school team.
Your voice matters: How to use the parent input statement strategically during the IEP process.
Be the quarterback: Jackie explains why parents must stay at the center of the conversation, especially during transitions between early intervention and school services.
Connect with Wendy Taylor:
Instagram: @learningessentials
LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor
Facebook: Learning Essentials
Website: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com
Course: Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility
Podcast link: The Special Ed Strategist
Contact Jackie Beach:
Website: www.RallyFamilySupport.com
Instagram: @rallyfamilysupport
1 hr 1 min
May 06, 2025131: When College Feels Like Too Much (or Not Enough): Finding the Right Fit
Is your teen overwhelmed by the idea of college? Or maybe you’ve realized that mainstream college—or even high-support programs like CLE—just don’t feel like the right fit. In this powerful conversation, Wendy Taylor sits down with Anne-Marie Stripling, an expert in college transition for students with learning and anxiety challenges, to explore how to build just-right support for young adults.

With two decades of experience in special education and counseling, Anne-Marie shares what students really need before they ever pack their bags—and how parents can set the stage for success without stepping on independence.

3 Key Takeaways:
Know Yourself First: Students must understand their learning profile and hidden supports before asking colleges for accommodations.
Preview, Don’t Panic: Visiting the disability office isn’t just allowed—it’s essential. Ask smart questions, notice the vibe, and make support part of your selection criteria.
Support ≠ Hovering: Parents can empower independence by asking, “What do you think the first step should be?” instead of jumping to solutions.
Connect with Wendy Taylor & Learning Essentials
📸 Instagram | 💼 LinkedIn | 📘 Facebook
🌐 LearningEssentialsEDU.com
🎓 Enroll in Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility

Contact Our Guest – Anne-Marie Stripling
🌐 focuscollegiate.com
📞 (800) 674-3397
📱 (617) 807-0055
📧 [email protected]

Helpful Extras for Curious Listeners:
Understood.org – College Planning with Learning Differences
AHEAD – Association on Higher Ed and Disability
U.S. DOE Transition Resource Guide
56 min
May 01, 2025130: Go Gray with Me: The Story Behind My Mission
This solo episode is raw, real, and rooted in love. Host Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, shares her family’s deeply personal journey—how her son’s brain tumor diagnosis flipped her world and transformed her as a special educator and advocate. You’ll learn why she created the $19 course Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility—and how it can help you move from fear to clarity.

3 Key Takeaways:
The emotional toll of sitting at the IEP table as a parent
Why trusting your gut matters more than credentials
A free resource to start your IEP journey with confidence
Connect with Wendy:
📸 Instagram
🔗 LinkedIn
📘 Facebook
🌐 Website
🎓 Cracking the Code Course – $19
🎧 Podcast on Apple
🎧 Podcast on All Platforms

Cracking the Code – Get free access to Module 1 during Brain Cancer Awareness Month with code: GoGray

Course Link

Explore More:
Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
WrightsLaw – IDEA Law Resource
Understood.org – IEP Basics for Parents
14 min
April 15, 2025129: Out-of-Sync No More: Playful Tools for Sensory Success with Carol Kranowitz (Part 2)
Feeling overwhelmed by your child’s sensory needs? In Part 2 of our conversation, sensory integration expert Carol Kranowitz returns to share practical, joyful strategies to help your child feel more confident and connected. From Ziploc paint bags to backyard crash pads, this episode is filled with simple tools to bring calm, play, and purpose into your day. Missed Part 1? Be sure to go back and catch it first!

About the Guest:
Carol Stock Kranowitz, M.A., is a pioneer in sensory integration education and author of the bestselling The Out-of-Sync Child. Her newest book, Good Times with Out-of-Sync Grandkids (coming March 2025), continues her mission to help families make sense of sensory challenges through play.

3 Key Takeaways:
Behavior is communication — learn to spot what your child avoids, seeks, and finds calming.

“Just right” challenges build skills and self-esteem (think pushing a laundry basket, not scrolling a tablet).

Everyday items like rope, paint, and pebbles can become powerful sensory tools.
Contact Wendy Taylor
Instagram: @learningessentials
LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor
Facebook: Learning Essentials
Website: LearningEssentialsEDU.com
Check out Wendy's course: Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility

Listen & Subscribe:
Apple Podcasts: The Special Ed Strategist
Other platforms: https://pod.link/1639953041

Connect with Carol Kranowitz:
Website: https://out-of-sync-child.com
Book coming soon: Good Times with Out-of-Sync Grandkids (March 2025)

Want to Learn More?
The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz

STAR Institute for Sensory Processing

Sensory Integration Education

Watch the live presentation on YouTube
1 hr 8 min