As a parent, you are your child’s greatest advocate, and you play a vital role in ensuring they receive the support they need at school. But advocating for your child’s needs can sometimes feel like a delicate balance—especially when it comes to navigating the school system. You want to make sure your voice is heard, […]
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When it comes to helping children with challenging behaviors, the IEP team shouldn’t waste time developing supports by throwing random strategies at the wall to see what sticks. Instead, a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) can help the team pinpoint the underlying reasons for your child’s behavior, creating a plan that hits the bullseye. An
Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) in the School Read More »
If you’re feeling unsure about whether your child needs more support through school services or ABA therapy—or a mix of both—you’re not alone. It’s a big decision, and you want to make sure your child is getting exactly what they need. Let’s walk through the key differences in ABA and School Services, where they overlap,
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First, let’s define what it means for behavior to interfere with learning. This can look different depending on your child’s age, the school setting, and the type of challenges they face. Generally, behaviors that interfere with learning are those that: Prevent your child from focusing on classroom activities Hinder their ability to complete academic tasks
Recognizing the Signs: When Is Behavior a Concern? Read More »
What can we learn about a complex concept, like the principle of reinforcement, from a kids’ cartoon? Quite a lot, especially when it comes to Bluey, a favorite in my house. One of my favorite episodes of the cartoon, Bluey, is “Duck Cake.” This episode brilliantly illustrates the principal of reinforcement better than any
Because you ‘Just Should’! Read More »
If you’re a parent with a child receiving both clinic-based services and special education support, you’ve probably experienced the frustration of trying to get everyone on the same page. You might go through the painstaking process of scheduling your private BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) to attend an IEP meeting, only to have the school
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Ensuring the IEP has identified meaningful areas of need requires a collaborative approach that includes careful data analysis, open discussion, and ongoing assessment. Here are key strategies to help you feel confident that your child’s IEP is focused on the skills that will have the most significant impact: Data-Driven Decision-Making Collaborative ARD Meetings Regular Goal
How to Review and Question the PLAAFP Read More »
The Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) section of your child’s IEP is more than just a summary of test scores and observations. It’s the foundation for setting actionable goals and interventions that directly impact your child’s education. But how do you know if the PLAAFP is truly actionable? Let’s break down
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The Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) is a crucial part of your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). This section gives the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee a comprehensive understanding of your child’s current academic and functional performance. Let’s break down what goes into the PLAAFP and how you can play
How much data is enough? PLAAFP Data Read More »
Testing gives us important information about where your child stands compared to grade-level expectations. Teachers may not always have the background knowledge to fully evaluate a child’s progress across all areas, including academics, functional skills, and social skills. They might not see the full scope of what a child needs without the help of valid
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