In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently Understood.org

Many people who learn and think differently are also on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. This can be a lot for kids—and their families—to navigate.

In this episode of “In It,” Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk to Kade Friedman. Kade is the Director of Education for PINE, the Program for Inclusion and Neurodiversity Education.  

Kade identifies as non-binary and neurodivergent. They work with teachers to guide them in teaching neurodivergent, disabled, and gender-expansive students. They also work with families of neurodivergent and gender-questioning kids.   

Listen to get all of the following:
- Tips for families of kids who are discovering their queer identity
- Suggestions for teachers to help them create an inclusive environment 
- Important dos and don’ts to keep in mind

Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Breaks from school are prime time for screen time. But how much screen time is too much? And what can we do about it? Is screen time ever a good thing? 

In this episode of “In It,” Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk to Dr. Devorah Heitner. Devorah is the author of two books: Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World and Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World. She also speaks about screens at K-12 schools.

Listen to learn tips for managing screen time, and why this can be harder with kids who learn and think differently. Find out some benefits of screen time too.

Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Many parents usually try to avoid sharing too much information about their kids on social media.

But many parents also want to share cute pictures, funny stories, or their kids’ accomplishments. And online communities can be great places to share stories or trade parenting tips. 

It can be tricky to tell where to draw the line — how much is too much? This is especially true as kids get older and start using social media and the internet for themselves.  
 
For this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk about their own experiences with using social media — or not using it — to talk about their kids, and to find support from other parents.

Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

When families are in a dispute about their child’s special education, it can be tricky to know how to handle things. There are big emotions involved, and the law around IEPs, or Individualized Education Programs, can be confusing. 

But in some cases, it might help to work with a special education attorney. 

In this episode of “In It,” Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome special education attorney Robert Tudisco. Rob was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. He is an expert in special education law and disability advocacy. 

Listen to learn why families may hire a special education attorney — and what steps to think about before engaging a lawyer.

Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Do you ever wonder if having an IEP means your child will be labeled forever? Are you worried that an IEP will mean your child is separated from their peers?

Well, those are actually both myths. And this week, we’re sharing a podcast episode that’s all about busting common myths relating to IEPs, or Individualized Education Programs.

The episode comes from the latest season of “Understood Explains,” which is all about IEPs. It’s hosted by Juliana Urtubey, a special education expert and former National Teacher of the Year.

Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

If you think your child is struggling at school, what’s the best way to make sure they’re getting the support they need? Who should you talk to first? Should you call a meeting, send an email, or do something else?

In this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Julian Saavedra. Julian is an assistant principal in Philadelphia and the host of another Understood podcast, “The Opportunity Gap.”

Julian shares tips and strategies about what to do if your child needs more — or different — support in the classroom. He also provides a road map of where to start advocating for your child, plus how to work as a team with your child’s teachers and school.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.

Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.