Advocating for your child takes patience and self-care. Learn how parent self-compassion can reduce burnout, improve IEP participation, and turn challenging meetings into productive moments.

Discover how PATH and MAPS planning guide educators in setting clear goals for the year. Learn strategies to align vision with action, foster collaboration, and create a structured, positive start to the school year.

Every child learns differently, and recognizing how your child understands best can change frustration into progress. This guide helps parents identify learning strengths, translate them into IEP or 504 language, and advocate for practical supports that work both at home and in school.

Explore strategies for strengthening partnerships with teachers after a challenging fall semester. Learn how to rebuild trust, foster collaboration, and support educators to create a more positive and connected school environment.

Winter testing season can be stressful for students. Learn practical strategies and supports to help them stay calm, focused, and ready for success during this busy time.

School transitions can feel overwhelming for students and families. This post offers thoughtful guidance on creating safer, more supportive returns, grounded in advocacy, planning, and care.

After the winter break, many students struggle with anxiety and tough transitions back to school. Understanding school avoidance and planning early can help make January smoother for families.

As the year ends, educators, parents, and advocates are invited to pause, reflect, and refocus. Discover how to prepare for meaningful systemic change in schools in 2026.

Guide to talking about disabilities positively at family gatherings. Tips for focusing on strengths, modeling inclusive language, and creating belonging for everyone.

Hi, I’m Barbara Sanchez - a certified educator, special needs parent, and advocate with over 15 years of experience helping families navigate special education services. As a parent of a son with level 3 autism, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to find the right support. But I also know that with the right information and encouragement, you can bring hope and stability back to your family’s life. Today, I want to talk about something that often comes up in special

Filing a formal concern or complaint before winter break ensures your child’s needs are addressed promptly. Learn the steps to communicate effectively with schools, document issues clearly, and maintain smooth routines during the holiday season.

Winter break offers rest and celebration, but sudden schedule changes can overwhelm students who thrive on routine. Discover practical tips to maintain predictability at home, support emotional balance, and help children return to school ready to learn.

Deciding between a general education or self-contained classroom is one of the most important choices parents of children with special needs will make. This guide explains how to evaluate your child’s academic, social, and emotional needs and how to ensure the right supports are in place for meaningful progress.

When a child with an IEP or 504 plan faces disciplinary action, it can be confusing and emotional. This guide helps parents understand their child’s legal protections, how to navigate Manifestation Determination Reviews, and ways to ensure discipline leads to support, not exclusion.

Vague language in IEPs can make it impossible to track real progress. Learn how to spot unclear goals, request measurable wording, and ensure your child’s plan truly supports growth because clarity turns good intentions into real results.

Navigating special education can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in plain language explaining IEPs, parental rights, evaluations, and dispute options so you can confidently advocate for your child’s education and support.

When your child is struggling in school, knowing your rights keeps you in the driver’s seat. These “procedural safeguards” are the rules schools must follow under IDEA (special education law) and Section 504. Here’s what they mean in everyday language, with Maryland resources you can use right now. Your core rights at a glance Be informed and involved: You are a full IEP team member. You must be invited to meetings, offered times that work for you, and provided with interpre

If your child has a disability that affects how they participate in school, understanding 504 plans is key. This post answers the most common questions parents have from eligibility and accommodations to how to collaborate with the school team. Learn how a 504 plan can ensure your child gets the access and support they deserve.

Your child was just diagnosed with a disability — now what? This Maryland advocate’s guide walks parents through every step, from requesting evaluations to preparing for IEP and 504 meetings. Learn how to write your request, organize your data, understand timelines, and use Maryland’s family support resources to get your child the help they need.

Learn how to evaluate a high-quality Individualized Education Program (IEP). This parent-friendly guide breaks down goals, services, accommodations, progress monitoring, and legal requirements to ensure your child gets the support they need