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PODCAST

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

education self-improvement

All Episodes

5:36

T is for Timelines: The Deadlines Parents Should Know

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/04/10

IEP timelines can feel like a mystery—but they’re actually one of your most powerful tools as a parent.In this episode, Monica breaks down the key deadlines that shape the IEP process, including how long schools have to assess your child, when meetings should happen, and what to do when things get delayed. You’ll also hear a real-life example of how preschool timelines can play out—and why writing things down (with dates!) makes all the difference. 👉 Grab the free companion handout for this

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3:37

IEP Inbox: “Can I Pick Who Works With My Child on...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/04/03

You can’t choose your child’s speech therapist or special ed teacher like you’d pick a doctor—but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless.In this mini episode, Monica explains what the law actually says about staff assignments in IEPs, when it’s okay to speak up, and how to start the conversation if something just isn’t working. Whether it’s a provider mismatch, a sudden staffing change, or your gut saying “this isn’t the right fit,” this episode walks you through your rights, your options, and what

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4:41

S for Supports & Services: The Building Blocks of...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/03/27

Supports and services are where the IEP shifts from paper to practice—where goals turn into real, daily help.In this episode, Monica breaks down the difference between supports and services, why delivery model and frequency matter, and how parents can make sure these pieces actually meet their child’s needs. You'll also hear how school teams track services, what to ask during IEP meetings, and how to troubleshoot if support starts slipping through the cracks. Because knowing what’s written into the

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3:34

IEP Inbox: “Does More Therapy in the IEP Mean Better...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/03/20

More speech? More OT? More minutes in the IEP? It’s a common instinct—but more therapy isn’t always better therapy.In this quick episode, Monica breaks down why more minutes don’t always lead to more progress, and what to ask the IEP team instead. Learn how to focus on quality, alignment, and student engagement, not just quantity. Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit

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4:57

R for Related Services: Beyond Academics — Speech,...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/03/13

IEPs aren’t just about academics. In this episode, we explore Related Services—the essential supports like speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and more that help your child access learning and make meaningful progress.Monica breaks down what counts as a related service, how these services are decided, and what questions to ask to ensure they’re not just on paper—but actually helping your child thrive. 👉 Find more IEP tips and free resources at

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3:28

IEP Inbox: What Questions Should I Ask at an IEP...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/03/06

Not sure what to say once the IEP meeting starts? You’re not alone. In this IEP Inbox mini episode, Monica shares simple, go-to questions that help you stay grounded and informed—plus how to tailor your questions based on what’s happening with your child’s services, goals, or placement.Whether you’re brand new to the IEP process or just want a quick reset before your next meeting, this episode is packed with practical ways to make your voice heard. 👉 Find more support and free resources at

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5:02

Q is for Questions to Ask at IEP Meetings: Your Go-To...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/02/27

Ever leave an IEP meeting thinking, I should’ve asked more questions—but I didn’t know where to start? You’re not alone. In this episode of ABC of the IEP, Monica shares a practical cheat sheet of go-to questions you can use at any IEP meeting—plus how to tailor your questions to your child’s unique needs. Learn why asking the right questions (at the right time) helps you slow things down, clarify decisions, and build stronger collaboration with your team.👉 Get your free companion handout and more

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4:18

IEP Inbox: Can the School Hold an IEP Meeting Without...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/02/20

What happens if you can’t attend the IEP meeting… and the school holds it anyway? In this quick episode of IEP Inbox, Monica breaks down what the law says about parent participation, when schools can legally meet without you, and what to do if it happens. You’ll also hear how to prevent this situation—and how to stay involved, even if scheduling gets tricky.👉 For more IEP support and free handouts, visit preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram:

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4:57

P for Parent Participation: Your Legal Rights &...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/02/13

You’ve probably heard that parents are part of the IEP team—but what does that really mean? In this episode, we break down your legal rights under IDEA, what meaningful parent participation looks like, and how to stay grounded and involved even when the process feels rushed or overwhelming. Monica shares insights from both the school and parent side—and offers practical tips to help you speak up with clarity and confidence.👉 Find free handouts and more support at

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4:22

IEP Inbox: Should I Get a Private Evaluation If I...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/02/06

Feeling unsure after a school evaluation? In this mini episode, Monica walks through when a private assessment might help, what to watch out for, and how to choose the right evaluator. You’ll also hear what happens when you share an outside evaluation with your IEP team—and how to keep the conversation collaborative, not confrontational.👉 Find more IEP tips and download free handouts at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram:

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6:18

O is for Outside Evaluations: When & Why to Consider...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/01/30

Wondering if you should get a private evaluation for your child? In this episode, Monica breaks down when outside assessments (including IEEs) make sense, what schools are legally required to do with them, and how to share results without creating conflict. You’ll also learn what to look for in a quality evaluator—and what red flags to avoid.👉 Grab the free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram:

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3:25

IEP Inbox: “Can I Ask the Team to Include My Child’s...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/01/23

Yes—you can ask the IEP team to include your child’s strengths. In fact, the law already requires it. In this mini episode, Monica explains why strengths belong in the IEP, how to bring them into the conversation, and what to say if that section of the plan has been left blank. Whether your child loves structure, stories, or science, their interests matter—and should be part of the plan.👉 Grab the free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on

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4:56

N is for Neurodivergent Strengths: Shifting the Focus...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/01/16

Ever feel like your child’s IEP focuses only on what’s “wrong”? In this episode, we talk about how to bring neurodivergent strengths into the room—on purpose. You’ll learn how schools can center student interests, how parents can advocate for strength-based language in the IEP, and why it matters for both motivation and self-worth. Monica also shares a personal story about pushing back on labels and advocating for placements that build on connection and joy.👉 Includes a free companion handout at

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3:35

IEP Inbox: "Will Accommodations or Modifications...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/01/09

Worried about how IEP supports might impact your child’s ability to graduate? In this mini episode, we break down how accommodations and modifications are treated differently—especially when it comes to high school diploma requirements. Learn which supports won’t affect graduation at all, which ones might, and the exact questions to ask your IEP team to make sure you’re in the loop early—not surprised later.Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram:

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4:57

M is for Modifications vs. Accommodations: Know the...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2026/01/02

Not all supports are created equal—and knowing the difference between accommodations and modifications can help you better understand your child’s IEP or 504 Plan. In this episode, we’ll break down what each one means, how they affect learning expectations, and why it matters long-term. You’ll also hear a real-life story that shows just how blurry the line can get—and a simple question to help you clarify what’s really happening in the classroom.👉 Includes a free companion handout at

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3:59

IEP Inbox: Does an IEP Mean Special Day Class?...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2025/12/26

When your child qualifies for special education, do they have to start in a special day class? In this IEP Inbox mini episode, we break down what the law actually says, why inclusion sometimes gets skipped, and how to advocate for the least restrictive environment—especially if your district doesn’t offer inclusive preschool options.Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit

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5:36

L is for Least Restrictive Environment: What It Means...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2025/12/19

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) is one of the most important—and misunderstood—concepts in special education. In this episode, we break down what LRE really means, what it doesn’t, and how placement decisions should be made. You’ll hear how Monica navigated pushback on her own child’s IEP and walked the team toward collaboration—with a reminder that services are portable, and inclusion is a legal right.Don't forget to grab your free handout at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow

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3:55

IEP Inbox: “What If My Child Isn’t Ready for...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2025/12/12

Worried your child isn’t “ready” for kindergarten? You’re not alone. In this episode, we unpack what readiness really means, explore the pros and cons of delaying entry, and share the one question that shifts the conversation from doubt to planning. Whether your child has an IEP or you're just unsure what comes next, this is your quick guide to making a confident, supported decision.Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advocacy

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5:26

K is for Kindergarten Transitions: Starting School...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2025/12/05

Kindergarten is a big leap—especially when your child has an IEP. In this episode, we break down what transition planning should include, how to ease first-day nerves (for both you and your child), and what schools should be doing to support the shift from preschool to kinder. With personal stories and actionable tips, this one’s all about starting strong.Don't forget to grab the free handout that goes with this episode at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on

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4:51

IEP Inbox: Can the School Finalize an IEP If I Don’t...

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents ·

2025/11/28

If you’re handed an IEP full of jargon and asked to sign on the spot, pause. In this quick episode, we break down what informed consent really means under IDEA, what to say when you’re confused, and why “not yet” is a perfectly valid answer. Your understanding matters—and no one should rush you into signing what you don’t fully grasp.Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit

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