Advocating 4 Fair Education - Blog #Executive FunctioningAdvocating 4 Fair Education - Blog #Executive Functioninghttps://www.advocating4faireducation.com/blogs/tag/executive-functioningSat, 08 Aug 2026 23:42:10 -0700http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Vacation With Sensory Kids? Yes You Can! 8 Tips for Travel That Actually Works]]>https://www.advocating4faireducation.com/blogs/post/vacation-with-sensory-kids-yes-you-can-8-tips-for-travel-that-actually-worksTraveling with kids who have sensory concerns, ADHD, or autism doesn't have to be a nightmare. This guide provides 8 practical, parent-tested tips for sensory-friendly travel, focusing on kid buy-in, visual schedules, and sensory kits to ensure a successful family vacation.]]>

I’ve been there. The mere thought of packing a suitcase, navigating a crowded airport, or sitting in a car for six hours makes your heart race. When you have a child with sensory processing needs, ADHD, or autism, "vacation" often feels like just another word for "parenting in a place with fewer resources and more triggers."

For years, I stayed home. I was afraid of the meltdowns, the "picky" eating struggles in unfamiliar restaurants, and the sheer exhaustion of managing sensory overload in a world that isn't built for our kids. But here’s what I’ve learned: Travel with sensory kids is not only possible, it can be wonderful.

It won’t look like a glossy travel brochure. It might involve noise-canceling headphones, a suitcase full of familiar snacks, and a much slower pace. But the memories? They are worth every bit of extra planning.

Inspired by some of the best advice from the neurodivergent community, here are my eight tips for successful, sensory-friendly family travel.

You don’t have to start with a cross-country flight to Disney. In fact, please don’t! Just like we scaffold learning in an IEP, we need to scaffold travel.

Start with a "staycation" or a local day trip. Visit a nearby museum, take a short train ride, or spend one night at a hotel thirty minutes away. This helps you identify triggers: does the hotel air conditioner hum too loudly? Does the car seat get too hot?: without the high stakes of a thousand-dollar vacation.

Our kids often feel like life is something that happens to them rather than something they are a part of. To get buy-in, involve them in the planning.

Give them two or three "parent-approved" options for a destination or an activity. "Would you rather go to the park with the big splash pad or the museum with the dinosaur bones?" When they choose, they have skin in the game. They aren't being dragged along; they are on their vacation.

For a child with sensory concerns, the unknown is a threat. Use visual schedules and social stories to walk them through the day.

  • Photos are your friends: Show them pictures of the hotel room, the airplane cabin, or the beach.
  • The Schedule: Create a simple visual timeline. "First, we wait in line. Then, we sit on the plane. Then, we get a snack."
  • The "Why": Explain why things happen (like security checks) so they don't feel like they're losing control.

This is your survival bag. It should be within arm's reach at all times: not buried in the trunk or an overhead bin.

Your kit might include:

  • Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs.
  • Familiar textures: A favorite soft blanket or a weighted lap pad.
  • Fidgets: Anything that keeps hands busy and brains regulated.
  • Chewies: For those who need oral input to stay calm.
  • Sunglasses and hats: To block out harsh terminal lights or the bright sun.

The biggest mistake we make is trying to "do it all." If you try to hit three monuments, two museums, and a fancy dinner in one day, someone will melt down (and it might be you!).

Follow the One Big Thing Rule: Plan one main activity per day. Spend the rest of the time at the hotel pool, a quiet park, or just decompressing with a movie. Regulation is more important than sightseeing.

Unfamiliar food and scratchy hotel sheets can derail a trip fast.

  • Bring the "Safe" Foods: Pack a supply of the snacks and meals you know they’ll eat.
  • Kitchenettes are Key: Whenever possible, book a room with a fridge and microwave.
  • The "Home" Smell: Bring their pillowcase from home or use the same laundry detergent for their travel clothes. Those small sensory anchors tell their nervous system, "You're safe."

Keep those hands busy! Boredom often leads to sensory seeking (which can look like kicking the seat in front of them).

  • Travel Trays: A flat surface for LEGOs, coloring, or playdough.
  • New-to-Them Toys: Wrap a few small, cheap toys from the dollar store. The novelty of unwrapping them can buy you 20 minutes of peace.
  • Audiobooks: A great way to engage the brain without the eye strain of a screen during a long car ride.

Things will go wrong. There will be a missed flight, a spilled juice box, or a sensory overload in the middle of a theme park. It’s okay.

When it happens, take a breath. Remind yourself that your child isn't giving you a hard time; they are having a hard time. If you have to leave an event early or skip a "must-see" spot to keep everyone regulated, you haven't failed. You're being the advocate your child needs.

You’ve Got This!

Traveling with neurodivergent kids requires a different kind of "itinerary," one built on patience, preparation, and a whole lot of snacks. But seeing your child experience the world: on their own terms: is a victory worth celebrating.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the upcoming school year or need help navigating your child’s IEP to ensure they get the support they need to thrive (even when you're not on vacation!), I'm here for you.


Working together, we can make sure your child has the tools they need to succeed both in the classroom and out in the world.

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]]>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 17:13:15 +0000<![CDATA[Empowering Your Child with Executive Functioning Disorder: Help Through Middle and High School]]>https://www.advocating4faireducation.com/blogs/post/executive-functioning-disorderExecutive Functioning Disorder (EFD) is akin to the maestro of cognitive abilities, harmonizing tasks like planning, organization, time management, and problem-solving.]]>

Introduction to Executive Functioning Disorders

Executive Functioning Disorder (EFD) is akin to the maestro of cognitive abilities, harmonizing tasks like planning, organization, time management, and problem-solving. As children enter the labyrinth of middle and high school, those with EFD might find themselves struggling to keep pace with their peers.

In this exploratory guide, we will traverse the rocky terrain of EFD, offering a beacon of strategies to illuminate the path for parents and educators alike.

The Middle School Transition: Challenges and Strategies

The leap from elementary to middle school can be like stepping into an entirely new cosmos, where students encounter myriad novelties—locker combinations, class rotations, and a new social milieu. For a child with EFD, these changes are like a labyrinth of confusion.

Strategies to ameliorate these challenges include:

• Implementing a meticulous and consistent routine.

• Utilizing visual aids to assist in time management.

• Structuring study time with breaks to prevent cognitive fatigue.

High School Hurdles: Preparing Your Child for Success

High school introduces a new complexity in academic and social demands. To vault over these hurdles, students with EFD often require a lot of support, encompassing both academic accommodations and skill-building techniques. Here are some suggestions on how to foster self-advocacy in your child.

Techniques to Prepare for High School:

• Develop time management skills

• Encourage proactive communication with teachers

• Explore technological tools for organization

• Encouraging and understanding of their disability and helping them self-advocate for support in their disability .

• Establishing an organized and distraction-free study environment.

• Exploring therapeutic methods or academic accommodations.

Parental Support: Best Practices for Home and School Collaboration

The role of the parent is paramount in the educational journey of a child with EFD. We will outline an arsenal of best practices for parental involvement, from establishing a symbiotic relationship with educators to implementing supportive structures at home to reinforce learning.

Tips for Parental Involvement:

• Attend school meetings and advocate for your child's needs

• Work with educators to implement IEP or 504 plans

• Foster a supportive home environment that encourages independence

• Frequent communication with teachers and school counselors.

• Seeking external resources, such as therapists or support groups.

Conclusion: Empowerment Through Education and Advocacy

Our expedition concludes with a rallying cry for empowerment. Navigating the scholastic voyage with EFD is not insurmountable. With the right tools and collaborative effort, students can emerge triumphant, equipped with the skills to conquer academic challenges and flourish in their educational endeavors.

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Don't wait for your child to drown in missing assignments. Let's build their scaffolding now. We're here to help!

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]]>Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:10:57 +0000<![CDATA[Why You Need an Advocate: Traversing the World of Fair Education and Special Needs]]>https://www.advocating4faireducation.com/blogs/post/special-education-advocateAn advocate should be your ally, a knowledgeable and experienced professional who understands the needs of kids like yours, the balance of the classroom questions, the rights of children with special needs and the laws that protect them.]]>

Restoring Balance

As parents of special kids, we often find ourselves facing the complex and overwhelming public education system. We juggle appointments, therapy sessions, and IEPs while also trying to ensure our child receives a fair and appropriate education. Amid this whirlwind, an advocate can be your guiding light, helping you traverse this tiring process.

What an Advocate Should Do:

An advocate should be your ally, a knowledgeable and experienced professional who understands the needs of kids like yours, the balance of the classroom questions, the rights of children with special needs and the laws that protect them.

I work tirelessly to:

Ensure fair and appropriate education: I help you understand your child's IEP, advocate for the most appropriate placement to help them find success, and ensure they receive the necessary accommodations and modifications to succeed.

Traverse complex systems: From school districts to government agencies, I can guide you through the maze of bureaucracy and help you understand your rights and options.

​Empower parents and guardians: I can help you become a more confident and effective advocate for your child. They will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed decisions and speak up for your child's needs.

Why You Need an Advocate:

You're not alone: Parenting a child with special needs can be isolating. I provide support, understanding, and a listening ear.

Level the playing field: The education system can be intimidating, especially when you're facing complex issues. I help you communicate effectively with school officials and ensure your child's needs are met, while documenting the issues and agreements.

​Maximize your child's potential: I help you identify and access resources that can unlock your child's full potential.

Think Back:

Remember that time you felt lost in a meeting with school officials, unsure of what questions to ask or how to advocate for your child's needs? I would have been there to guide you and ensure your voice was heard.

Recall the frustration of trying to decipher your child's IEP and understand the legalese? I can help you break down the jargon and make sense of the document.

​Think about the countless hours you've spent researching resources and support services for your child. I can save you time and energy by connecting you with the right people and organizations.

As an advocate for fair education and children with special needs, I understand the challenges you face. I'm here to support you and help you traverse this journey.

Follow us on social media for more information and resources, and don't hesitate to reach out to set up a 20-minute consultation to share your story with me and see how I can help. Together, we can ensure that all children, regardless of their abilities, receive the education they deserve.

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Need an advocate on your team? We're here to help!

Contact us for expert advocacy support. Our team is ready to assist you with your special education needs and concerns.

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​References:

]]>Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:04:01 +0000<![CDATA[From Overwhelmed to Confident: How to Prepare for an IEP Meeting]]>https://www.advocating4faireducation.com/blogs/post/how-to-prepare-for-an-iep-meetingAs parents of children with special needs, we know that preparing for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting can feel overwhelming. It's a pivotal moment where we advocate for our child's education and ensure they receive the support they need.]]>


As parents of children with special needs, we know that preparing for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting can feel overwhelming. It's a pivotal moment where we advocate for our child's education and ensure they receive the support they need. In this post, I'll guide you through the process of preparing for an IEP meeting, drawing from personal experience, professional expertise, and valuable insights. As a community, let's help each other and navigate this journey together.

Understanding the IEP Meeting


An IEP meeting is a legal process that involves parents, the school team (at least the case manager and general education teacher), and a representative from the district to develop or review an Individualized Education Plan for a child with a disability. The purpose of the IEP meeting is to identify the child's unique needs and goals, assess the educational program, and determine how to support the child's academic and functional success.
IEP meetings should be held at least annually, but can be as frequently as needed. Additional meetings may be requested by either the parent or the school team to address any new concerns or changes in the child's needs.

Gathering Essential Documents


Before an IEP meeting, parents should gather essential documents that will help inform the meeting's discussion. These documents include previous IEPs and progress reports, medical and evaluative information, emails from teachers or communication from the school, letters from doctors or therapists, and parent observations and concerns. By reviewing previous IEPs and progress reports, parents can access information on their child's academic goals, progress, and any modifications or accommodations that were previously implemented. School/teacher communication can shed light on behaviors or struggles and will hold a lot of weight at the IEP meeting because it is behavior at school. Parent observations and concerns can help identify areas of need that may not have been addressed in previous IEPs or evaluations. I always recommend that parents create "THE LIST." This is a list of concerns they have for their child: academics (don't forget writing), behavioral, social, emotional, etc. Make sure each of the areas of concern is not only noted in the Parent Concerns section of the IEP, but also addressed one by one during the meeting. If something is not addressed, pause the conversation and ask to have it addressed. If you are running out of time, ask to reconvene.
I highly recommend asking for a draft copy of the IEP from the school. At the very LEAST this draft should cover the present levels of your child, it is good to review this section with a find tooth comb, this will give you some insight into what the school team is thinking. Most schools will also provide proposed goals and accommodations in the draft. This inclusion will also allow you to go over "the list" before even walking into the room and write down your thoughts and suggestions for improvement.

Effective Communication and Advocacy

During an IEP meeting, parents should express their child’s unique strengths and needs, share their vision with the team, and utilize clear, jargon-free language. Parents should also be active listeners and responders, clarifying any uncertainties and acknowledging the school team’s input.

Collaborating with the IEP Team
Collaboration is key in ensuring the success of a child's IEP. To foster positive relationships, parents should take an active role in developing trust and open communication with the IEP team. Understanding the various roles of different IEP team members will help parents navigate the process and build mutual respect and knowledge.

Addressing Parents' Concerns and Questions

It's normal to feel overwhelmed or concerned during an IEP meeting. Assertive communication techniques and asking questions that ensure clarity and understanding can help parents address their child's needs and goals effectively. Parents should also request that any refusals be well documented in the PWN and specify that the team needs to include their specific reasons for the refusal or denial.



Seeking Further Support and Resources

There are many resources available to parents who want to further educate themselves on the IEP process. Advocacy groups and networks, training and workshops, and online resources and guides can be helpful tools. Understood.org and Wrightslaw.com are great options for researching IEP guidelines and issues. Parents can also seek out an advocate to accompany them during the meeting and provide additional support. (I know a fabulous advocate if you are looking).

I'm looking for an advocate to help me navigate Special Education - Meet with Lisa
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IEP Compass

Do you feel like you need more support guidance but don't necessarily need an advocate at the table with you? I have just the thing. I have taken my $698 package and put it in a step by step workbook. Please note, it is not easy to get all my expertise in a short guide, this guide is 55 pages long, but it is designed to give you all of the support you need to have confidence in the meeting. And let me assure you confidence is half the battle. You can have this package for $239, BUT WAIT THERE IS MORE!!! I don't want to leave you without a way to get your questions answered, so the workbook comes with 1 hour of 1:1 facetime with me. You will work through the book and then before your meeting meet with me and ask all your questions. You will be prepared!!!

Learn More about the IEP Compass - The Parent Handbook to IEPs

Conclusion

Navigating the IEP meeting process shouldn't be daunting. By understanding the purpose of the meeting, preparing relevant documents, communicating effectively with the IEP team, collaborating with them, and seeking further support, parents can confidently approach the meeting to ensure the best outcomes for their child. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With the appropriate preparation and resources, we can all navigate through the complexities of special education and empower our children to thrive.

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The school team is already prepared for the IEP meeting. Let's make sure you are, too. We're here to help!

Contact us for expert advocacy support. Our team is ready to assist you with your special education needs and concerns.

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]]>Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:55:27 +0000<![CDATA[The Secret of the PWN]]>https://www.advocating4faireducation.com/blogs/post/the-secret-of-the-pwnAs a parent of a child with special needs, navigating the special education process can be overwhelming. However, one of the most essential tools for parents is Prior Written Notice (PWN). This legal requirement ensures parents are informed and involved in their child's education.]]>
Introduction

As a parent of a child with special needs, navigating the special education process can be overwhelming. However, one of the most essential tools for parents is Prior Written Notice (PWN). This legal requirement ensures parents are informed and involved in their child's education. In this blog post, we will discuss what PWN is, why parents need to know about it, and when to request IEP meeting information be added to the PWN.

What is Prior Written Notice (PWN)?

Prior Written Notice is a legal requirement under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that mandates schools to provide written notice to parents before making any significant changes to their child's special education program. A PWN must be provided each time the school proposes to initiate or change a child's eligibility category, evaluation, or educational placement or proposes to start or change the provision of a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to the child. A PWN must include a description of the action proposed or refused by the school, an explanation of why the school proposes or refuses to take action, and a description of any other options considered by the school.

Why is it important for parents to know about PWN?

Parents of children with special needs have the right to be informed and involved in their child's education. PWN is a powerful tool that helps parents exercise this right by ensuring they are fully informed of any changes that may affect their child's education. The PWN also provides parents with a clear understanding of their rights and helps them advocate for their child. By understanding the PWN, parents can make informed decisions and work collaboratively with the school to provide their child the support they need.

When to request IEP meeting information is added to the PWN?

Parents can request that IEP meeting information be added to the PWN when they disagree with a decision made by the school. For example, suppose a parent makes a request for a different placement, more evaluations, or a different eligibility category, and the school refuses. In that case, the parent can request that the denial and school reasoning be added to the PWN. This ensures that the parent clearly understands why the school refused their request and can make informed decisions about how to proceed.

Take NOTE!!

When we include disagreements in the PWN, we create a paper trail in this legal document, which can be crucial for future reference.

In situations where the initial concern continues to be an issue, having a well-documented paper trail in the PWN can serve as evidence that the parent requested the problem be addressed, and the school refused. This documentation can be vital if a parent decides to escalate their concerns or take legal action to ensure their child receives appropriate support and services. As a result, parents must understand the importance of adding their disagreements to the PWN and maintaining a clear record of their requests and the school's responses.

If you request that information be added to the PWN, note that you made that request, and when you get your copy of the IEP, ensure each item discussed is included in the document.

Conclusion

Prior Written Notice is a critical tool for parents of children with special needs. It ensures that parents are informed and involved in their child's education and helps them advocate for their child. By understanding PWN, parents can make informed decisions and work collaboratively with the school to ensure their child receives the support they need.

If you are struggling with getting an APPROPRIATE education for your child in place, make an appointment with me. Adding an advocate to your team is often the key to getting the ball rolling in the right direction.

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Want to unlock the full power of the PWN at your next IEP meeting? We're here to help!

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]]>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:56:38 +0000<![CDATA[Understanding the Functional Behavioral Assessment: Why Comprehensive Data Collection is Critical]]>https://www.advocating4faireducation.com/blogs/post/why-comprehensive-data-collection-is-criticalIf you're a parent of a child with behavioral issues at school, you may have heard the term "functional behavioral assessment" (FBA) thrown around.]]>

If you're a parent of a child with behavioral issues at school, you may have heard the term "functional behavioral assessment" (FBA) thrown around. But what exactly is an FBA, and why is it important? In this blog post, I'll share the red flags of an FBA that is not done correctly, how to spot if the school had not done due diligence while also discussing the importance of having a qualified person taking data, preferably a BCBA, it should include ABC data and data taken in different times of day, locations, with different people.

An FBA is a process that is often used to help identify the underlying causes of a child's challenging behavior. By examining the behaviors themselves (the "B"), the events or situations that trigger the behaviors (the "A"), and the consequences that follow the behaviors (the "C"), a team can use data to identify patterns and develop effective interventions. An FBA may be conducted by a team of school specialists or whenever possible in should be conducted by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). When done correctly, the information gathered can be incredibly helpful in developing effective interventions for a child.

Unfortunately, not all FBAs are created equal. Here are some red flags that the FBA may not have been done as thoroughly or comprehensively as it should have been:

Lack of data

One of the most common issues with FBAs is that data is not collected from a variety of sources, such as different times of day, locations, and with different people. When data is only taken in one or two situations, it may not present a complete picture of the child's behavior.

Incomplete data

Data that only focuses on what triggers the behavior or what happens immediately following the behavior is not enough. A good FBA should also include information about what happens leading up to the behavior, what the behavior itself looks like, and what happens after the behavior occurs. This is often referred to as ABC data.

Lack of specificity

A good FBA should be specific to the child's behavior and should not rely on generalizations or assumptions. For example, an FBA that identifies "attention-seeking behavior" as the main issue may not provide enough information to develop effective interventions.

Lack of expertise

In order for an FBA to be done correctly, it's important that the person(s) collecting and analyzing the data have the necessary expertise. Ideally, this would be a BCBA or someone else who has specific training and experience in behavior analysis. When data is collected by someone without this expertise, it may not be as accurate or useful.

If you suspect that your child's FBA may not have been done correctly, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure you have a copy of the FBA report and go through it carefully. Look for the red flags mentioned above, as well as any other issues that concern you. If you have questions or concerns, bring them up with your child's school team and/or the evaluator who conducted the FBA.

Additionally, if you disagree with the outcome of the data or believe it has not been accurately collected, you can request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) for the FBA.

It's important to note that not all schools or evaluators will automatically offer an FBA, even if one is needed. As a parent, it's important to advocate for your child and ask for an FBA if you feel it is necessary. You may also want to consider seeking an outside evaluation if you don't feel comfortable with the FBA conducted by the school.

In conclusion, an FBA can be an incredibly helpful tool in identifying and addressing a child's challenging behavior at school. However, it's important to make sure that the FBA is done correctly, with a focus on collecting comprehensive and specific data from a variety of sources by a qualified individual. If you have any concerns about your child's FBA, reach out to a behavior specialist.

If you are looking to add an advocate to your team, please reach out to me. I earned my Masters in Education in Behavior Science. I can help you navigate the system and help put supports in place for your child at school to encourage them to be their best self and find success at school.

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]]>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 18:32:16 +0000