147 episodes

I attend IEP meetings for a living and you just can't compete with that level of crazy.Warning: I've been told I have a Philly accent. I don't hear it. Also, I curse. It's something I'm working on as far as personal development. So please don't be put off. I'm trying.Inspired by her own son with disabilities, Lisa Lightner is an award-winning blogger and advocate. She has previously worked for her county's Arc and has served on the Boards of Directors for several disability organizations. Currently, she is her county's chairperson for the Right to Education Task Force, a federally decreed group set up in 1971 to ensure that all children in Pennsylvania had the opportunity to an education. When not attending IEP meetings with families or lobbying in Harrisburg and DC for disability rights, she can be found on the web at her IEP advice blog, A Day in our Shoes. She is known for her practical, realistic and implementable advice for parents.

Don't IEP Alone‪.‬ Lisa Lightner

    • Education
    • 4.4 • 68 Ratings

I attend IEP meetings for a living and you just can't compete with that level of crazy.Warning: I've been told I have a Philly accent. I don't hear it. Also, I curse. It's something I'm working on as far as personal development. So please don't be put off. I'm trying.Inspired by her own son with disabilities, Lisa Lightner is an award-winning blogger and advocate. She has previously worked for her county's Arc and has served on the Boards of Directors for several disability organizations. Currently, she is her county's chairperson for the Right to Education Task Force, a federally decreed group set up in 1971 to ensure that all children in Pennsylvania had the opportunity to an education. When not attending IEP meetings with families or lobbying in Harrisburg and DC for disability rights, she can be found on the web at her IEP advice blog, A Day in our Shoes. She is known for her practical, realistic and implementable advice for parents.

    Red Flags in IEP and 504 Plans

    Red Flags in IEP and 504 Plans

    In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," special education advocate Lisa Lightner dives into the intricacies of IEPs and 504 plans, highlighting key red flags to watch out for in the process. From the misuse of 504 plans as an "IEP light" to language manipulation in accommodations and the crucial importance of a robust present level section, Lisa provides valuable insights for parents navigating the special education system. Tune in as she uncovers common pitfalls and offers practical advice for advocating for your child's educational needs.

    Visit https://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!
    Support the show
    More IEP Help for You
    IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit
    Online Training Options
    Search 650+ Articles
    Get a free IEP Organizer
    Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

    • 17 min
    Autism Awareness: A Parent's Journey and Advocacy Efforts for Their Child's Needs

    Autism Awareness: A Parent's Journey and Advocacy Efforts for Their Child's Needs

    In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," Lisa Lightner delves into the complexities and personal challenges of navigating autism awareness and advocacy. As a dedicated advocate and parent to a child with autism, Lisa shares her journey of supporting her son, Kevin, from early diagnosis to adulthood. She passionately explores the impact of self-advocacy on the options available for individuals with autism, candidly discussing how certain advocacy efforts have influenced government policies and support systems. 

    Tune in as Lisa shines a light on the nuances of autism awareness and the profound impact it has on families, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective.

    https://adayinourshoes.org/
    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!
    Support the show
    More IEP Help for You
    IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit
    Online Training Options
    Search 650+ Articles
    Get a free IEP Organizer
    Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

    • 29 min
    Managing Challenging Behaviors in Kids: Tips for Parents and Educators

    Managing Challenging Behaviors in Kids: Tips for Parents and Educators

    In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," Lisa Lightner addresses the challenges of navigating behavior issues and suspensions in the school setting, particularly as the end of the school year approaches. She highlights the need to address the core issues behind a child's behavior and emphasizes the importance of engaging the child in finding solutions. 

    Lisa acknowledges the complexities faced by parents and teachers, especially in the current climate, and offers practical advice on advocating for your child within the IEP process. She encourages listeners to educate themselves on their rights and discusses the significance of documentation in effectively addressing behavior concerns. 

    Join us as we delve into strategies for helping children with behavioral challenges thrive within the school environment.

    https://adayinourshoes.org/
    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!
    Support the show
    More IEP Help for You
    IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit
    Online Training Options
    Search 650+ Articles
    Get a free IEP Organizer
    Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

    • 17 min
    Behavior

    Behavior

    In this episode of Don't IEP Alone, Lisa Lightner dives into the complex and often misunderstood topic of behavior in the school setting. She discusses the evolution of functional behavior assessments and behavior improvement plans over the years, shedding light on the flaws and misconceptions surrounding these processes. 

    Lisa shares real-life examples of children struggling with behaviors in school and provides valuable insights into the root causes of such behaviors. She emphasizes the importance of thoroughly examining the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and addressing unmet needs before resorting to an FBA. Listeners are in for a thought-provoking and eye-opening discussion on understanding and effectively addressing challenging behaviors in the school environment.
    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!
    Support the show
    More IEP Help for You
    IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit
    Online Training Options
    Search 650+ Articles
    Get a free IEP Organizer
    Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

    • 20 min
    Things to Know About FAPE

    Things to Know About FAPE

    Welcome to "Don't IEP Alone," the podcast that provides support and guidance for parents navigating the world of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and special education. In today's episode titled, we dive into the essential concept of Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and its significance in the IEP process. Host Lisa Lightner, a seasoned advocate and parent, sheds light on the intricacies of FAPE, its legal implications, and the critical role it plays in shaping the educational journey of children with disabilities. 

    Join us as we explore what FAPE truly means, how parents can advocate for their child's needs and the importance of understanding your rights in the IEP process. If you've ever wondered about FAPE and how it relates to your child's education, this episode has all the answers you need. 

    Tune in and get ready to embark on a journey of knowledge and empowerment in the world of special education.

    www.adayinourshoes.com
    www.adayinourshoes.org
    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!
    Support the show
    More IEP Help for You
    IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit
    Online Training Options
    Search 650+ Articles
    Get a free IEP Organizer
    Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

    • 13 min
    What is an IEP?

    What is an IEP?

    Welcome to "Don't IEP Alone," the podcast that provides empowering and informative content for parents navigating the complex world of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). 

    In this episode, Lisa dives into the fundamental question, "What is an IEP?" Expert advocate Lisa breaks down the intricacies of IEPs, shedding light on their significance, the legal framework, and the crucial role they play in the educational journey of children with disabilities. From understanding the federal definition to unraveling the acronyms and guiding parents through the evaluation process, this episode is a comprehensive guide for those seeking clarity and support in the IEP process. 

    Join us as we unravel the mysteries of IEPs and equip parents with the knowledge and confidence to advocate effectively for their children's education.

    https://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!
    Support the show
    More IEP Help for You
    IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit
    Online Training Options
    Search 650+ Articles
    Get a free IEP Organizer
    Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate

    • 11 min

Customer Reviews

4.4 out of 5
68 Ratings

68 Ratings

Skylar.Andie ,

Excellent, great information

I love this podcast, Lisa is very knowledgeable and honest. She admits when she’s wrong and does her makes an effort to listen to the prospective of disabled adults.

Three things:
1. I applied to the Facebook group and never got accepted.
2. ABA is ableist and leads to extreme trauma and often PTSD. It is also cure/fix based in approach.
3. Autistic and “person with autism” are not equivalent. Person with autism is seen as dehumanizing by many autistic people.

Tina-Louise Wallace ,

Lisa is amazing - a blessing!! Thank you!

I really want to leave a detailed review but I will come back and edit this. 5 stars isn’t enough!! Join the Facebook group, like and follow the page and start reading the blog!! Everything is so helpful!! You are your child’s best advocate and Lisa teaches you exactly how to be the best one possible!! She answers questions, she is constantly updating info. I honestly don’t know how she finds enough time in a day.

I’m a mom of 3, one is in first grade with ADHD and other diagnosis and an IEP. I am constantly spending any free time I have educating myself and it’s still not enough. Now I get to listen in the car too!!!

Thank you so much!

Oravet ,

So good!!!

As a parent of children with special needs, this podcast is a breath of fresh air and helps remind me that we are not doing this alone! The IEP/504 process is so hard and this podcast equips you with the information you need to put your best foot forward for advocating for your child with the school systems. If you aren't listening to this podcast and you are going through the IEP/504 process....do yourself a favor and subscribe today!

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