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Early Intervention Matters
The Early Intervention Matters Podcast is a podcast that informs, inspires and equips parents and professionals who live and work with children with neurodevelopmental difficulties and disabilities like autism, adhd, tic-disorders, and learning difficulties.
Early Intervention Matters
Better IEP Meetings: A guide for Special Needs Parents - Dr. Inyang Takon interviews Dr Diane Fannon
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In this episode of Early Intervention Matters, Dr. Takon and Dr. Diana Fannon explore the challenges families face following a neurodiversity diagnosis and what it truly means to advocate effectively for your child.
Drawing on her extensive experience in special education advocacy, Dr. Fannon shares practical strategies to help parents navigate complex school systems, communicate with confidence, and understand their educational rights. The conversation also highlights how these challenges are shared globally, with many families struggling to access the support their children need.
Alongside practical guidance, Dr. Fannon offers an important reminder: advocacy matters—but so does connection. She encourages parents to find moments of joy in their journey, even in the midst of challenges.
Key topics
- IEP preparation and questions
- Parent advocacy and rights
- Effective communication with schools
Bio
Dr. Diana Fannon is a former Director of Special Education, bilingual school psychologist, and founder of DisabilityEdPros. She is also the very proud parent of an autistic child. With over 20 years of experience in public schools, she works at the intersection of inclusion, systems change, and family advocacy. Through her courses, content, and consulting, she helps families understand their rights and navigate special education with clarity and confidence.
Resources:
Dr Diana Fannon’s work focuses on helping parents navigate special education more effectively, including:
* New Course, (launches on April 8): AI in Action: Transform your IEP Advocacy
* Platform: DisabilityEdPros, which provides tools, resources, and guidance for families
* Articles on Substack, where she explores inclusion, IEPs, and how decisions impact what children with disabilities can access in school
Website & Social Media Links
Website: https://www.disabilityedpros.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/disabilityedpros
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@disabilityedpros
Substack: https://dianafannon.substack.com
Resources
General Information for Parents
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