ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents
ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents is your go-to guide for understanding the IEP process—without the overwhelm. Hosted by Monica Trost, a Licensed Educational Psychologist (#4660) and parent, this podcast breaks down special education terms, systems, and strategies in clear, bite-sized episodes. Each week, we walk through one IEP concept from A to Z—like accommodations, behavior plans, and extended school year—along with real-life stories and practical tips you can actually use. Whether you’re new to special education or deep in the IEP world, these episodes are designed to help you build confidence, feel more informed, and advocate with clarity. 📎 Free companion handouts available for every episode at www.preparedparentadvocate.com
Episodes
FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) is one of the most important—and misunderstood—concepts in special education. In this episode, we break down what FAPE really means, what schools must provide, and what they’re notrequired to do. I also share a personal story from my child’s IEP and how a well-worded letter turned things around. ✨ Download the free handout for quick reminders and reflection prompts.
What counts as an accommodation? In this first episode, I break down the role of accommodations, how they support students without lowering expectations, and how to tell if they’re actually helping.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/
If you're wondering how to get your child evaluated for special education—or what happens after you do—this episode walks you through the entire process. From timelines and assessment types to your legal rights and how to make your voice count, you'll get a clear roadmap so you can feel more confident and prepared. ✨ Don’t forget to download the free handout with key takeaways and next steps.
You finally get a diagnosis—and then the school says your child doesn’t qualify? Let’s talk about it. In this episode, we unpack the difference between medical diagnoses and school-based eligibility, walk through the 13 IDEA categories, and explain why educational impact is the key to qualifying for special education. If you’ve ever felt confused or frustrated by the IEP eligibility process, this one’s for you.
If you’ve ever felt like school communication is inconsistent or unclear, you’re not alone. In this mini episode, we look at why communication breakdowns happen—and what you can do to gently open the lines. From asking for a point person to suggesting simple check-ins, you’ll walk away with practical, collaborative ways to stay connected. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedpa...
What do schools mean when they say “behavior”? In this episode, we unpack what qualifies as a concern, when a formal plan might help, and what a strong Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) actually includes. Plus, a parent story and key questions to ask at your next IEP meeting.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
If you’ve ever been told your child doesn’t need accommodations—but your gut says otherwise—this one’s for you. In this quick Q&A episode, I’m breaking down why schools sometimes say no, what to ask in response, and how to share what you’re seeing at home.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://ww...
If you’re worried your child is being seen only for their challenges—not their strengths—you’re not alone. In this short episode, I’m sharing what to ask, how to shift the conversation, and ways to advocate without conflict. This one blends personal reflection with practical, calm guidance.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
When communication breaks down, the IEP process can too. In this episode, we look at what strong communication really means between parents and school teams, where things tend to fall apart, and how to stay connected without constant conflict.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p...
What counts as an accommodation? In this first episode, I break down the role of accommodations, how they support students without lowering expectations, and how to tell if they’re actually helping.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/
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