Last week we scratched the surface on the Science of Reading. Last week I also dropped all the balls, and I had to cancel a free webinar on the Science of Reading. So, this week’s podcast is basically a deeper dive into SOR – and it’s exactly what I would present at the webinar. We’re killing two birds with the SOR--- a podcast and a webinar in one! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/a8P9LUVyXIO ..read more

Science is a systematic and logical approach to discovering how the natural world works.  So, the Science of Reading is the result of a systematic and logical approach to how we learn to READ!  Wanna know more?  Join me in today’s webinar where we discuss the Science of Reading.  We’ll talk about what this research shows, and we’ll break it down so you can choose and advocate for the right programming for your child.  Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/O6xeJYsDpHM ..read more

Today we welcome Michelle Morgan, SLP and dyslexia guru, to the podcast! Michelle is walking us through a hand-writing program she designed, giving us lots of tips and information on how hand-writing supports the process of learning to read. Michelle was our guest in Season2, Episode 77 and you all loved it! I can’t wait for you to listen to this episode! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/GsPmcgQWsMN Meet my guest: Michelle Morgan is a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in dyslexia. Her youngest daughter was diagnosed with dyslexia in 2013, which motivated her to learn more abo ..read more

I know from my time on non-profit boards that Potty Training is always a popular topic amongst parents.  That’s why I couldn’t believe that it had taken me this long to invite Molly Johnson from @theautismconsultant onto the pod!  Molly is a special educator with a Masters in Special Education and Administration, who started a consulting  business while still teaching.  She now owns and operates the Autism Consultant full time and offers two digital courses, a monthly membership, and a ton of additional resources.  In today’s episode Molly answers all my questions abou ..read more

Of all the educators on IG that I follow, I think I’m the biggest fangirl of Hanna at My Literacy Space.  Over the past few years, I’ve so enjoyed what Hanna has put into their space – creative ways to teach literacy, helpful information about the science of reading, and a health smattering of fun!  In today’s podcast, I discuss why multi-sensory reading programs work with Hanna.  If you’ve found yourself knowing that you child needs multi-sensory reading programs but not knowing a ton of supporting details, this episode is for you!  Transcript: https://share.descript.com/v ..read more

What's Your IEP Meeting Personality Type?  Are you Frazzled Frances, the mom that's always running behind, completely capable of advocating more but overwhelmed with all that life throws at you? Or could you be Courteous Carol, a "yes man" through and through. Perhaps you'll be Hesitant Hannah, who distrusts the sweet Kindergarten teacher and has research to back up everything she says. Of course, you could be Organized Olive, who's got it all together and knows exactly how things are going to go. Give this week’s episode a listen, and then take our QUIZ to see what IEP Meeting Type you a ..read more

Don’t stress before your annual IEP meeting. I’ve got three simple tips that will help you prepare and feel calm before your meeting! These are all things you’ve heard before - but infused with experience from hundreds of IEP meetings I’ve attended! Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/RMNWzDtN2DX ..read more

It’s IEP Season, and that can only mean one thing.  Parents in special education are freaking out!!!!  In today’s episode, I talk about why the annual meeting is just like any other meeting, give you tips for preparing for the meeting, and also give you four ideas or strategies that you may employ at this year’s annual meeting in order to get more out of the special education process for your student.  It’s a balance of “shake things up” and “same old, same old!”  Hot and cold. Sandy beaches and snowy mountains. Yin and yang.  You get the point!  Give it a listen ..read more

Chances are you’ve experienced the Unexpected, and if you’ve stuck around here in the make-lemonade place that I’ve created, you have probably embraced the Unexpected as a Gift.  Today I welcome author, blogger, and speaker Jillian Benfield, whose relatable book, “The Gift of the Unexpected,” explores how she unpacked her son’s Down syndrome diagnosis during a time of transition in her life.  My favorite part is when Jillian and I discuss her explanation of how we undergo hardship rather than overcoming it.  I’m telling you – it’s deep, and it’s beautiful!  Have a listen to ..read more

In today’s episode we talk with Olivier and Hilda Bernier about their documentary, Forget Me Not, and man alive, are your advocacy bones going to tremble!  The documentary features their story regarding their son’s education.  As 3-year-old Emilio prepares to start school, his family finds itself embroiled in a challenge all too common for children with disabilities - to secure the right to an inclusive education. Cornered in one of the most segregated education systems, New York City public schools, filmmaker Olivier and his wife Hilda turn the camera on themselves and their child w ..read more