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ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents

By: monicatrost
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About this listen

 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 new to special education or deep in the IEP world, these episodes are designed to help you build confidence, feel more informed, and advocate with clarity.

📎 Free companion handouts available for every episode at www.preparedparentadvocate.comCopyright 2025 All rights reserved. Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • Q is for Questions to Ask at IEP Meetings: Your Go-To Cheat Sheet

    Q is for Questions to Ask at IEP Meetings: Your Go-To Cheat Sheet
    Feb 27 2026

    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 IEP support at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast

    Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/

    Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica.

    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • IEP Inbox: Can the School Hold an IEP Meeting Without Me?

    IEP Inbox: Can the School Hold an IEP Meeting Without Me?
    Feb 20 2026

    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: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/

    Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica.

    Show More Show Less
    4 mins
  • P for Parent Participation: Your Legal Rights & Practical Role

    P for Parent Participation: Your Legal Rights & Practical Role
    Feb 13 2026

    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 preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast

    Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/

    Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica.

    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
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