Don't IEP Alone.

Welcome to "Don't IEP Alone" with your host, Lisa Lightner. If you're navigating the world of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and special education, this podcast is your go-to resource. 

In this episode, Lisa delves into the intriguing concept of parents as the IEP police. Drawing from her own experiences as a former special education compliance monitor in Pennsylvania, she unveils the inner workings of the compliance monitoring process and sheds light on the limitations it presents.

As Lisa passionately shares her insights, she reveals the disconnect between the administrative checkboxes of compliance monitoring and the actual substance of education. The podcast explores the challenges faced by parents, highlighting the critical role they play in advocating for their children's meaningful progress within the IEP system.

From the intricacies of compliance audits to the lack of focus on outcomes and meaningful participation, Lisa challenges the status quo and calls on parents nationwide to become proactive advocates. She emphasizes the need for collective understanding and action to bring about much-needed change in special education.

With a blend of personal anecdotes, expert interviews, and practical advice, "Don't IEP Alone" is more than a podcast—it's a community for parents navigating the complexities of the special education system. Join Lisa as she empowers parents to be informed, engaged, and proactive advocates for their children's education and future. Tune in and be part of the movement to reshape the narrative around IEPs and special education.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Welcome back to another episode of "Don't IEP Alone." I'm your host, Lisa Lightner, a special education advocate based near Philadelphia. 

In today's episode, we're diving into the world of social skills, just in time for the upcoming Thanksgiving festivities. As we gear up for the holiday season, it's essential to recognize that our children, especially those with ADHD, intellectual disabilities, or autism, may not always exhibit traditional social skills.

Join me as we navigate through the changing landscape of social expectations. In a world that's constantly evolving, our approach to social skills also needs to adapt. Remember that what may have been considered a social faux pas in the past may simply be a different way of engaging with others.

I share insights into the challenges our kids face, from difficulties with eye contact to the nuances of reciprocal conversations. Drawing from personal experiences and anecdotes, we explore the importance of accepting and celebrating differences, not just preaching the idea of "different, not less."

Let's make this holiday season a time for connection, understanding, and embracing the uniqueness of every individual.

Tune in, and I'll catch you in the next episode of "Don't IEP Alone."!

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Welcome back to another episode of Don't IEP Alone. I'm Lisa Lightner, your host, and in today's episode, we dive into the important topic "No-Meet Addendum". 

In this episode, I encourage parents to consider the no-meet addendum for manageable changes, emphasizing its efficiency and time-saving benefits. I recently used it for a transportation tweak and even when my son was temporarily without a nurse.
So, as we approach the holiday rush, remember, that a no-meet addendum can be your ally for streamlining the IEP process. Check out my blog post on the topic for more details. And with that, I'll keep it short and sweet. I wish you all a thankful and peaceful week ahead, filled with joy and perhaps some ribs and mac and cheese, as my family and I celebrate together. Take care, and remember, you don't have to navigate the IEP journey alone.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone podcast! This episode is the Part 2 of "Let's Talk About Behavior". 

Children with autism and other learning disabilities often struggle with negative behaviors. These behaviors are often a result of the child's lack of skills or sensory experiences. Behavior plans are often used to address these behaviors. However, behavior plans should not be used to punish or reward a child for a skill set or a sensory experience. Instead, behavior plans should be focused on addressing the underlying cause of the behavior.

Parents should learn their rights in the process and use them to help their children. It is also important to engage the child to the maximum extent possible so that they can understand why they are doing the behavior.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone podcast! In this episode, we will talk about BEHAVIOR!

Lisa Lightner, host of the Don't IEP Alone Podcast, discusses the flaws and trends she's seeing with problematic FBAs. She argues that anyone can do an FBA, but not everyone has the necessary training to do so effectively. She also points out that FBAs often don't go deep enough to identify the root cause of a child's behavior. 

Finally, she suggests that parents should make sure that their child's IEP is being implemented with fidelity before requesting an FBA.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!