The Special Ed Strategist Podcast with Wendy Taylo

148: From Home to School: Bridging Health, Neurodivergence, and Advocacy with Dr. Karin Varblow

Feeling overwhelmed by neuropsychological evaluations, audiology reports, or conflicting advice from doctors and schools? In this empowering episode, Dr. Jennifer Linton Reesman—board-certified clinical and pediatric neuropsychologist and Director of Neuropsychology Training at The Chesapeake Center—shares how families can translate complex medical findings into practical, everyday strategies. Learn how to bridge the gap between health and education systems, strengthen collaboration with school teams, and center your child’s unique voice, including for D/HH learners and families using ASL. Calm, doable steps for parents of neurodivergent children—without the burnout. Three Key Takeaways Start small: Begin with the report’s summary or recommendations and choose one to three priorities to focus on. Bridge the silos: Identify a single point person—at school or in the clinic—so communication flows and teams truly share information. Trust, then verify: Keep a simple home log of dates and notes to see what’s actually working for your child. Listeners: Connect with me, Wendy Taylor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/learningessentials/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy‑taylor‑7106b6a6/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TutoringLE Website & Course: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com | Cracking the Code: https://learningessentialsedu.com/course/

146: Turning Parent Concerns into Actionable IEP Goals

Feeling overwhelmed by constant IEP meetings, doctor visits, and behavior struggles? Join Wendy Taylor as she interviews developmental-behavioral pediatrician Dr. Amir Miodovnik—an expert who trained at Boston Children’s and Kennedy Krieger—on how medical factors like sleep, anxiety, and ADHD shape learning and behavior. Discover how to transform your observations into action: translate clinical insights into school strategies, prioritize child-centered supports, and plan ahead as your child grows. Warm, clear, and deeply empowering—this episode gives you a strategy you can use immediately. Three Key Takeaways Sleep first: Establish sleep routines before tackling attention or emotional issues. One-page strategy: Create a “Student Health Snapshot” to share medical insights clearly with your school team. Expect change: Be vigilant through transitions—behaviors evolve, so adapt supports accordingly. About Dr. Amir Miodovnik Board-certified developmental-behavioral pediatrician, Dr. Miodovnik trained at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard, led developmental medicine at Kennedy Krieger Institute, and now offers private, family-centered care in the DMV area—prioritizing clarity, shorter wait times, and tangible tools for advocacy. Learn more at drmio.com Connect with Wendy Specialized Tutoring/Coaching: Expert help with Dyslexia intervention, strategic writing, and executive function. IEP Course: Learn how to get IEPs with our Cracking the Code course. Instagram LinkedIn Facebook

In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, host Wendy Taylor sits down with pediatric neuropsychologists Dr. Yael Rothman and Dr. Katia Fredriksen—co-authors of the Different Thinkers children’s book series—to explore how families can help children understand diagnoses with compassion and clarity. With a strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming lens, they offer practical ways to shift conversations from “what’s wrong” to “what’s unique,” empowering both home life and school advocacy. Three Key Takeaways: Reframe diagnosis as a narrative shift toward understanding, not limitation. Use personalized storytelling and concrete examples to highlight what the child does best. Equip children with words and self‑advocacy tools early and revisit them as they grow. Listeners: Connect with me, Wendy Taylor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/learningessentials/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy‑taylor‑7106b6a6/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TutoringLE Website & Course: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com | Cracking the Code: https://learningessentialsedu.com/course/ Find the full episode here: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the‑special‑ed‑strategist‑podcast‑with‑wendy‑taylor‑m‑ed‑et‑p/id1639953041 Other platforms: https://pod.link/1639953041

In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, Wendy Taylor sits down with Kristin Lombardi, MA, BCBA, founder of Zeal Behavior Analysis, and Dr. Christine Drew, BCBA-D, Assistant Professor at Auburn University, to discuss their groundbreaking book, Spectrum of Independence: How to Teach Your Neurodiverse Child Daily Life Skills. Kristin and Christine share practical, science-backed strategies for helping neurodiverse children gain independence—one “microstep” at a time. From scaffolding skills at home to collaborating with IEP teams at school, this conversation empowers parents to reduce overwhelm, celebrate small wins, and build confidence for both kids and families. Three Key Takeaways: Small Steps, Big Wins: Break routines into microsteps to build confidence and independence without overwhelm. Home-to-School Bridge: Align daily routines at home with IEP goals to support skills that are relevant across settings. Progress Over Perfection: Independence looks messy sometimes—celebrate the small victories along the way. Connect with Wendy (Host): Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/learningessentials/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy‑taylor‑7106b6a6/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TutoringLE Website & Courses: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com | Cracking the Code: https://learningessentialsedu.com/course/ Connect with the Guests: Spectrum of Independence website: https://www.spectrumofindependence.com/

In this solo episode of The Special Ed Strategist, Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, unpacks a question many parents whisper with concern: How will the general education teacher know—and follow—my child’s IEP? Discover what the law requires, what often happens in practice, and proactive ways you can bridge the gap between the IEP document and daily classroom implementation. 3 Key Takeaways Ask the right questions: Clarify how general education teachers are updated after an IEP is finalized. Share a one-page student snapshot: Highlight strengths, needs, and preferred strategies in a friendly, visual format. Foster ongoing collaboration: Keep communication open, start with gratitude, and track patterns at home to share with the team. Contact Wendy Website: LearningEssentialsEDU.com Instagram: @learningessentials LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor Facebook: TutoringLE Explore the Course Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility – Learn the 4 Es and unlock services your child deserves: Click here

Understanding your child's unique behaviors can feel overwhelming—but clarity is possible. In this empowering, listener-favorite episode from our archives, host Wendy Taylor welcomes Dr. Dan Shapiro, renowned developmental-behavioral pediatrician, author, and founder of the Parent Child Journey. Dr. Shapiro demystifies the complexities of autism, ADHD, and anxiety by explaining how these conditions interact and providing practical strategies tailored to your child's everyday needs. Three Essential Takeaways: Discover how autism, ADHD, and anxiety can coexist and fluctuate, explained through Dr. Shapiro's accessible "brakes too tight vs. brakes too loose" analogy. Learn why functional assessments that track specific daily triggers and behaviors are more insightful than a diagnosis alone. Get practical guidance on medication, therapy, and educational interventions, focusing on prioritizing realistic, achievable goals—small wins over sweeping changes. Connect with Wendy Taylor (Learning Essentials): Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Website Cracking the Code Course Connect with Dr. Dan Shapiro: Parent Child Journey Website A compassionate and informative conversation for any parent feeling uncertain about supporting their child's complex developmental needs.

Join Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P and special education strategist, alongside guest Jackie Beach—early childhood expert and founder of Rally Family Support—as they unpack the real impact of pull-out vs. push-in services. Are students gaining what they need or missing what matters most? This episode is part of our 12-week, parent-focused summer series answering real IEP questions with real strategies. 3 Key Takeaways Ask the right questions: Timing, impact, and provider consistency matter. Balance is everything: A strong IEP should support both learning and belonging. Collaboration counts: General and special ed teams must align goals to keep kids connected. Resources Mentioned Learn more about LRE (Least Restrictive Environment): Center for Parent Information and Resources Understand your rights under IDEA: Wrightslaw’s Parent Guide to IDEA Visualize service time: Use this sample IEP service tracker from Understood.org Contact Wendy Website: LearningEssentialsEDU.com Instagram: @learningessentials LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor Facebook: TutoringLE Explore the Course Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility – Learn the 4 Es and unlock services your child deserves: Click here Listen & Subscribe Apple: The Special Ed Strategist with Wendy Taylor All platforms: pod.link/1639953041 Connect with Jackie Beach Jackie Beach is the founder of Rally Family Support and an expert in early childhood systems and family engagement. Learn more: https://www.rallysupportsfamilies.com/

This listener favorite is especially important because it sheds light on how often autistic girls are misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or simply missed—keeping them from the support they truly need to thrive. Dr. Donna Henderson, a clinical neuropsychologist and expert in autism in women and girls, joins Wendy to break down the subtle signs, the cost of delayed diagnosis, and how families and clinicians can better support these bright, complex learners. 3 Key Takeaways Autism in girls often presents as anxiety, perfectionism, or social exhaustion. Camouflaging behaviors can mask serious needs. A correct diagnosis brings not just services—but understanding and peace. Connect with Dr. Donna Henderson Website Email: dhenderson@stixrud.com

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: jbeach@rallysupportsfamilies.com  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

Welcome to a brand-new 12-week series on The Special Ed Strategist Podcast, where we take the guesswork out of special education. I’m Wendy Taylor—certified educational therapist, IEP coach, and your go-to guide through the IEP maze—and I’m thrilled to co-host this series with the brilliant Jackie Beach, founder of Rally Family Support and expert in early childhood and family advocacy. Each week, we’ll answer the real questions parents are asking. From “How do I even start the IEP process?” to “What if the school says no?”—we’re cutting through the confusion and offering straight talk, real strategies, and supportive guidance. In today's episode answer the question: Can you explain what each service actually looks like during the school day? We often hear parents say: "I see the minutes listed, but I don't know what's actually happening in those sessions." Well, today we give you the answers you've been looking for! 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

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

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

About Polina  Polina Shkadron, MA/SLP, MSNE, CTP, ADHD-RSP, is a trauma certified speech-language pathologist, communication, and feeding expert specializing in Autism, ADHD, and ARFID. Her therapeutic approach explains why your family is struggling and how you can shift your relationship. Her fascination with brain-based research gives her a unique perspective into language and learning challenges.  With over 15 years of experience in supporting the development of neurodivergent children, Polina continues to successfully coach families through emotional and behavioral difficulties using play as a therapeutic tool.  The Links Socials  https://playtolearnconsulting.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/polina-shkadron-ma-ccc-slp-msne-ctp-adhd-rsp-3324a3126/ https://www.instagram.com/playtolearnconsulting/  https://www.youtube.com/@playtolearnconsulting  Connect With Polina  https://playtolearnconsulting.com/speaking-engagements/  Podcast Interview Talking Points  ● NOT Misbehaviors, Regulation Challenges: Polina will share common behaviors that indicate dysregulation and how to utilize play to promote growth in working memory, impulse inhibition, and cognitive flexibility.  ● Building relationships, building trust: learn how a dynamic, relationship-based approach is the key to unlocking limitless potential for kids that need extra support.  ● Whole-brain integration: dive into the needs of the brain hierarchy to help neurodivergent people thrive and discover how theory of mind is connected to social-skill challenges.  ● Dynamic solutions and flexibility: solutions are not one size fits all, and you’ll hear from Polina how to continue evolving and adapting your approach to supporting neurodiversity.

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

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

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 📧 info@focuscollegiate.com 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

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

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