Avoiding the February IEP Freakout: Proactive Tips for Parents
Don't IEP Alone.
In this episode of Don't IEP Alone, Lisa Lightner shares why February can be a stressful month for IEP parents, what causes the annual "February freakout," and proactive steps you can take now to better advocate for your child. Get essential advice on IEP renewals, kindergarten and transition webinars, progress monitoring, and how to avoid last-minute panic as spring approaches. All the tools and resources you need are in the show notes!
🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/
ℹ️ IEP Present Levels for Teachers: https://dontiepalone.com/sale-iep-present-levels/
🧰 IEP Meeting Toolkit: https://dontiepalone.com/iep-meeting-preparation-toolkit/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: https://access.dontiepalone.com/dont-iep-alone-sale/
⚠️More on IEP Progress Monitoring: https://adayinourshoes.com/how-to-monitor-iep-progress-for-parents/
🎯 Free IEP Goal Tracker: https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-goal-tracker/
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com
Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP
Free Webinar: Middle & High School IEPs https://dontiepalone.com/free-webinar-middle-high-school-ieps/
Free Webinar: The Preschool to Kindergarten IEP Transition: https://dontiepalone.com/free-webinar-kindergarten-iep-transition/
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Navigating Family Boundaries: Grief, Politics, and Advocacy
Don't IEP Alone.
In this special episode of "Don't IEP Alone," Lisa Lightner shares her personal journey of setting boundaries with family amid political and social divides, especially as a special needs parent and advocate. She discusses the grief of lost relationships, the importance of protecting your energy, and how the disability community can find support and understanding—even when it means creating your own village. An honest conversation about family, advocacy, and staying strong when facing adversity.
🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/
ℹ️ IEP Present Levels for Teachers: https://dontiepalone.com/sale-iep-present-levels/
🧰 IEP Meeting Toolkit: https://dontiepalone.com/iep-meeting-preparation-toolkit/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: https://access.dontiepalone.com/dont-iep-alone-sale/
⚠️More on IEP Progress Monitoring: https://adayinourshoes.com/how-to-monitor-iep-progress-for-parents/
🎯 Free IEP Goal Tracker: https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-goal-tracker/
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com
Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
New Year, Fresh IEP Data: How to Track Progress and Advocate Effectively
Don't IEP Alone.
In this episode of Don't IEP Alone, host Lisa Lightner shares actionable tips for parents on IEP data collection after the holiday break. Learn how to track skills at home, compare school reports, and use documentation to advocate for your child’s needs. Plus, discover new IEP toolkits and resources to start your year empowered!
🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/
ℹ️ IEP Present Levels for Teachers: https://dontiepalone.com/sale-iep-present-levels/
🧰 IEP Meeting Toolkit: https://dontiepalone.com/iep-meeting-preparation-toolkit/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: https://access.dontiepalone.com/dont-iep-alone-sale/
⚠️More on IEP Progress Monitoring: https://adayinourshoes.com/how-to-monitor-iep-progress-for-parents/
🎯 Free IEP Goal Tracker: https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-goal-tracker/
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com
Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP
Instagram: @DontIEPalone
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
They Used a REED to Skip Testing? Yeah, Let’s Talk About That…
Don't IEP Alone.
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Every question is answered by an advocate--Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com
🔴 IEP Transition Workshop Series: adayinourshoes.com/iep-transition-workshops/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉 dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-...
⚠️More on IEP Transition Planning: adayinourshoes.com/iep-transition/
🎯 Free IEP Binder for Parents: adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/
Your IEP Playbook: https://adayinourshoes/book/
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
They Don’t Have to Train You...Unless You Ask. 🙄
Don't IEP Alone.
No, the School Isn’t Going to Offer Training (Unless You Demand It)
🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉 https://dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-advocacy-training/
⚠️More on IEP Progress Monitoring: https://adayinourshoes.com/how-to-monitor-iep-progress-for-parents/
🎯 Free IEP Goal Tracker: https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-goal-tracker/
Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
The School Suspended Your Child. Now What?
Don't IEP Alone.
How to Prepare for an IEP Manifestation Determination Hearing at School.
🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉 https://dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-advocacy-training/
⚠️More on FAPE: https://adayinourshoes.com/fape/
🎯 Free IEP Binder for Parents: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/
https://Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP
https://Instagram.com/DontIEPalone
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Every question is answered by an advocate--Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
What am I doing differently as an advocate right now? Lemme tell you...
Don't IEP Alone.
Times are different, and challenging. Here's what I'm doing a little bit differently.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
12 Tips for Special Education Parent-Teacher Conferences
Don't IEP Alone.
Welcome to "Don't IEP Alone," the podcast that provides support and guidance for parents navigating the world of Individualized Education Programs.
In today's episode, we'll be sharing 12 valuable tips for special education parent-teacher conferences during IEP season. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to this journey, these insights will help you approach these important meetings with confidence and clarity. From setting expectations and communication strategies to addressing concerns and understanding your rights, we've got you covered. So grab a pen and paper, and let's dive into these essential tips to ensure you make the most of your parent-teacher conferences.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
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As Jerry Springer would say-- take care of yourselves, and each other.
Don't IEP Alone.
When one door closes, another opens.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
ADHD Month means Executive Functioning Chats
Don't IEP Alone.
Executive functioning-- always a popular topic.
🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉 https://dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-advocacy-training/
⚠️More on FAPE: https://adayinourshoes.com/fape/
🎯 Free IEP Binder for Parents: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/
https://Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP
https://Instagram.com/DontIEPalone
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Every question is answered by an advocate--Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com 🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
OSEP and OSERS Staff Elimination
Don't IEP Alone.
Mentioned in Episode:
OSERS Has Been Dismantled: What This Means for Disabled Adults and Their Families.
OSEP Is Gone: What It Means for Your Child’s IEP and What Parents Must Do Now.
🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉 https://dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-advocacy-training/
⚠️More on FAPE: https://adayinourshoes.com/fape/
🎯 Free IEP Binder for Parents: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/
https://Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP
https://Instagram.com/DontIEPalone
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Every question is answered by an advocate--Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Buzzword: Trust Recession
Don't IEP Alone.
Going off topic for a moment... but trust matters!
🔴 Is Your Child's IEP Working?: 👉https://dontiepalone.com/iep-progress/
🚀 Sign Up for Special Education Advocacy Training: 👉 https://dontiepalone.com/online-special-education-advocacy-training/
⚠️More on FAPE: https://adayinourshoes.com/fape/
🎯 Free IEP Binder for Parents: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/
https://Facebook.com/ADayInOurShoesIEP
https://Instagram.com/DontIEPalone
🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼 Every question is answered by an advocate--Join A Community of Parents and Advocates who "get it": https://village.adayinourshoes.com 🧑🏼🤝🧑🏼
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
What is Explicit Instruction?
Don't IEP Alone.
Mentioned in Episode:
What is Specially Designed Instruction in Special Education?
50 Practical Instructional Strategies for Specially Designed Instruction in IEPs (examples)
Special Education Advocacy Training
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Is This Podcast Working? Reflections on Content, Format, and Listener Feedback
Don't IEP Alone.
Welcome back to "Don't IEP Alone" with Lisa Lightner! In this candid episode, Lisa gets real about the behind-the-scenes struggles of podcasting, from wrestling with ADHD and perfectionism, to navigating technical hiccups and the pressure of social media.
She shares her recent attempts to revamp the show, including her "5 Minutes to FAPE" experiment (and why it ended up in the digital trash bin), and reflects on the art of finding engaging content without falling into the trap of endless, one-sided rambling. Lisa also drops timely advice for the new school year, including tips on getting organized and making the IEP process more manageable for parents.
It’s an honest, relatable look at both the challenges of advocacy and the reality of being a one-woman podcast team, plus a friendly invitation to share your suggestions for future episodes!
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Most important part of an IEP.
Don't IEP Alone.
If your Present Levels are wrong, everything else in the IEP will fall like dominoes.
Article mentioned in video: https://adayinourshoes.com/present-levels-iep/
IEP Toolkit for Parents: https://dontiepalone.com/my-parent-iep-toolkit/
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Have you been asked to come pick up your child at school?
Don't IEP Alone.
The Secret Suspension Problem: a MUST WATCH if the school is constantly calling you to come get your kid at school.
Resources mentioned in video:
Behavior Info for Families: https://adayinourshoes.com/tag/behavior/
Behavior mini course: https://www.dontiepalone.academy/courses/all-things-behavior-and-your-iep/preview
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Can you show me where it says.....
Don't IEP Alone.
IDEA is surprisingly non-specific about a lot of special education. Here's how to advocate when you're pretty sure you've been told something incorrect....but struggle to find proof.
Get your free FAPE guide here: https://birdsend.page/forms/1628/IrX2XebqwQ
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Good news, bad news.
Don't IEP Alone.
I'm getting a facelift!
Ha, no, not me. The podcast. Details in this episode.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Don’t IEP Alone: Essential Advocacy Tips for Today’s Unstable Education Landscape
Don't IEP Alone.
Parents, get your free IEP binder: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/
Get your free IEP goal tracker: https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-goal-tracker/
Welcome back to Don't IEP Alone with your host, Lisa Lightner. In this episode, Lisa dives into the rapidly changing landscape of special education and the overwhelming wave of recent changes in the Department of Education. She unpacks the intentional chaos designed to wear families thin, from high-profile firings—especially in the Office for Civil Rights—to the ongoing debate about "returning education to the states." Lisa shares practical advice for navigating this uncertainty, including the importance of understanding your state's regulations, building supportive relationships with school and community teams, staying vigilant with IEP progress monitoring, and creatively seeking out additional resources for your child.
Whether you're feeling discouraged by national developments or just looking for concrete steps to better support your family, Lisa offers perspective, advocacy tips, and a reminder that you’re not alone. Tune in and get equipped for the road ahead!
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Good News and Bad News: Navigating What to Request at Your IEP Meeting
Don't IEP Alone.
Parents, get your free IEP binder: https://adayinourshoes.com/free-iep-binder/
Get your free IEP goal tracker: https://adayinourshoes.com/iep-goal-tracker/
Welcome back to Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner! In today's episode, Lisa tackles one of the most common questions she gets from parents: "What can I ask for on my IEP?" Drawing from over 15 years of advocacy experience, Lisa breaks down the good news—and the bad news—about IEP requests. She explains why there's no one-size-fits-all list of options, and instead emphasizes the importance of becoming an expert in your child's unique needs.
Lisa shares practical tips for finding ideas, advocating effectively with data and documentation, and pushing past the initial "no" you might hear from your team. Whether you're stepping into your first IEP meeting or looking for fresh strategies, this episode is filled with honest guidance and encouragement. Tune in and get empowered to ask for what your child truly needs!
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Sustained Advocacy: The Real Secret Behind IEP Progress
Don't IEP Alone.
Lisa Lightner is a dedicated advocate for parents navigating the IEP process. With her trusty mini desk fan by her side—an essential comfort for women of a certain age—Lisa brings warmth, humor, and understanding to her work.
Through her podcast and social media reels, stories, and videos, she shares practical advice and encouragement for families working through IEP meetings and advocacy efforts. Lisa’s mission is to help parents feel supported, reminding them they are not failures if results take time and that their persistence truly matters.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
From Phone Calls to Handwritten Letters: Tips to Make Legislators Listen on Issues
Don't IEP Alone.
Welcome back to the Don't IEP Alone podcast with Lisa Lightner! In today’s episode, Lisa dives into the importance of contacting your representatives—even if you sometimes feel like your voice won’t make a difference. Drawing from her own advocacy experiences and conversations with legislators, Lisa explains why it’s crucial for constituents to reach out, share their stories, and hold elected officials accountable, even in districts where the odds seem stacked against you.
She also shares actionable tips on how to increase the impact of your outreach—whether through heartfelt phone calls, original emails, or handwritten letters—and encourages persistence and creativity when engaging with policymakers. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or just beginning your journey, Lisa’s insights will help empower you to make your voice heard for the special education community. Be sure to visit dontiepalone.com and adayinarshoes.com for more resources.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Reviving Parent Groups: The Old and New of Special Ed Advocacy
Don't IEP Alone.
Welcome back to Don't IEP Alone! In this episode, host Lisa Lightner shares a heartfelt update from the thick of summer, reminding parents to communicate their children's special health needs—like temperature regulation—to their IEP teams. Lisa dives into some unique Pennsylvania special education history, spotlighting the origins of IEPs and the creation of "intermediate units" and local task forces that advocate for families. She reflects on her experiences leading one of these groups, the ongoing challenges in keeping parents engaged, and the vital role these task forces play in supporting special education.
This week, Lisa also shares her recent advocacy efforts, including an important conversation with her local Congresswoman about Medicaid and HCBS services. The big takeaway? Your voice matters—even if your district feels impossible to influence. Lisa encourages everyone to keep reaching out to policymakers because persistent advocacy does make a difference, especially as we head into a pivotal year for policy and representation. Stick around for practical advocacy advice, a dash of inspiration, and a reminder to check out the new Don't IEP Alone website for more tools and training. Stay cool and enjoy the episode!
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Medical Records and the IEP
Don't IEP Alone.
The school has asked for access to your child's medical records. Now what?
Do I have to share my child’s medical records with the IEP team?
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Is ESY starting this week? And, yeah, the Medicaid thing.
Don't IEP Alone.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
Avoiding the February IEP Freakout: Proactive Tips for Parents
14:48
Navigating Family Boundaries: Grief, Politics, and Advocacy
29:27
New Year, Fresh IEP Data: How to Track Progress and Advocate Effectively
14:48
They Used a REED to Skip Testing? Yeah, Let’s Talk About That…
10:20
They Don’t Have to Train You...Unless You Ask. 🙄
9:20
The School Suspended Your Child. Now What?
12:55
What am I doing differently as an advocate right now? Lemme tell you...
22:59
12 Tips for Special Education Parent-Teacher Conferences
39:31
As Jerry Springer would say-- take care of yourselves, and each other.
15:38
ADHD Month means Executive Functioning Chats
13:23
OSEP and OSERS Staff Elimination
20:51
Buzzword: Trust Recession
19:44
What is Explicit Instruction?
12:26
Is This Podcast Working? Reflections on Content, Format, and Listener Feedback
16:37
Most important part of an IEP.
6:51
Have you been asked to come pick up your child at school?
8:10
Can you show me where it says.....
5:42
Good news, bad news.
10:32
Don’t IEP Alone: Essential Advocacy Tips for Today’s Unstable Education Landscape
14:23
Good News and Bad News: Navigating What to Request at Your IEP Meeting
10:14
Sustained Advocacy: The Real Secret Behind IEP Progress
10:10
From Phone Calls to Handwritten Letters: Tips to Make Legislators Listen on Issues
9:59
Reviving Parent Groups: The Old and New of Special Ed Advocacy
14:24
Medical Records and the IEP
22:28
Is ESY starting this week? And, yeah, the Medicaid thing.
9:45