Brain waves and Backpacks
Brainwaves & Backpacks is the go-to podcast for parents navigating school systems with neurodiverse or behaviorally complex children. Hosted by a school psych and child advocate, we decode IEPs, behavior plans, and district systems—so you don’t have to.
Disclaimer: The information and opinions shared are for general informational purposes only and reflect the hosts’ personal views. This podcast does not constitute professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for specific concerns regarding your child’s education and mental health.
Podcasting since 2024 • 30 episodes
Brain waves and Backpacks
Latest Episodes
Bringing SEL Home: How Parents Can Teach and Model Social Emotional Learning
In this episode of Brain Waves and Backpacks, we’re diving into how families can support Social Emotional Learning (SEL) at home—through simple, everyday moments. We’ll break down the core SEL competencies—self-awareness, self-management, socia...
•
30:05
School Counseling: When Is It a Related Service—and When Do Students Need More?
In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we dive into the critical role of counseling as a related service under IDEA and how it supports students’ access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). We unpack when counseling is provide...
•
23:34
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE): Why It Matters, What Data to Review, and How to Advocate
In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we dive deep into the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)—a cornerstone of special education under IDEA. We explore why LRE matters for student outcomes, what critical data should be reviewed durin...
•
32:23
Child Find Failures in Texas: Austin ISD, OSEP’s CAP, and the Ongoing Backlog in Special Education Evaluations
In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we dive deep into the legal and ethical obligations under Child Find, the federal requirement ensuring that all children with disabilities are identified, located, and evaluated in a timely manner....
•
34:16
Demystifying Procedural Safeguards: Consent, MDRs, and Private School Placements
In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we break down the critical components of procedural safeguards under the IDEA, with a special focus on parental consent, Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs), and unilateral private school pl...
•
40:03
