October is Dyslexia Awareness Month!
Dyslexia means that someone has significant problems with reading and spelling. I like to tell students that I work with that their brain is wired differently… not bad… just different! Having dyslexia does not mean that someone will not learn to read. It just means that they might need a different approach to learning to read!
As a School Psychologist, I work with educators and parents who have children with significant behavioral, cognitive, and communication needs. Research indicates that as many as 25-37% of people with significant cognitive disabilities do not use oral speech.
I am sharing communication strategies that are evidence based, and have been proven to support students with their communication needs. I HIGHLY recommend having a Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP), and possibly even an Augmentative and Adaptive Communication specialist as part of your child’s care team.
To determine if a child qualifies for special education services, a free and comprehensive special education assessment is required as part of the process. Through the evaluation, the suspected areas of disability are evaluated, and then eligibility for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is determined. If a student is eligible for special education services, they will be eligible under one of the 13 eligibility categories outlined in this post.
Parents often ask me about Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings. Common questions include:
What is an IEP meeting? What is the purpose of an IEP meeting? What should I expect? What do I do as a parent?
These are great questions!
I’m here to help break down the IEP process, and hopefully make it less daunting!
The intent of a psychoeducational evaluation is to look at your child’s strengths and weaknesses, look at eligibility for special education services, and ensure that your child has access to a Free and Appropriate Education (FAPE).
Looking for strategies to help support your child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) at school or at home? Here are 7 helpful accommodations to consider to help your learner be successful in the classroom or at home.
Has your child’s doctor told you to request a 504 plan or Individual Education Plan (IEP) for your child in school? Or maybe a friend has mentioned that their child has one, and you are wondering if that is the right route for your child? Maybe you are looking for ways to support your struggling learner in the classroom.
But what does 504 or IEP even mean? How can they help your child or teen? I’m here to help break down the differences for you.