Monicatrost - Podcast Details

Shows

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents Q is for Questions to Ask at IEP Meetings: Your Go-To Cheat SheetEver 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 @p...

2026-02-2705 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: Can the School Hold an IEP Meeting Without Me?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...

2026-02-2004 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents P for Parent Participation: Your Legal Rights & Practical RoleYou’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...

2026-02-1304 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: Should I Get a Private Evaluation If I Don’t Agree With the School?Feeling unsure after a school evaluation? In this mini episode, Monica walks through when a private assessment might help, what to watch out for, and how to choose the right evaluator. You’ll also hear what happens when you share an outside evaluation with your IEP team—and how to keep the conversation collaborative, not confrontational. 👉 Find more IEP tips and download free handouts 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 Mo...

2026-02-0604 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents O is for Outside Evaluations: When & Why to Consider Private AssessmentsWondering if you should get a private evaluation for your child? In this episode, Monica breaks down when outside assessments (including IEEs) make sense, what schools are legally required to do with them, and how to share results without creating conflict. You’ll also learn what to look for in a quality evaluator—and what red flags to avoid. 👉 Grab the free companion handout 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 Mo...

2026-01-3006 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: “Can I Ask the Team to Include My Child’s Strengths?”Yes—you can ask the IEP team to include your child’s strengths. In fact, the law already requires it. In this mini episode, Monica explains why strengths belong in the IEP, how to bring them into the conversation, and what to say if that section of the plan has been left blank. Whether your child loves structure, stories, or science, their interests matter—and should be part of the plan. 👉 Grab the free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/

2026-01-2303 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents N is for Neurodivergent Strengths: Shifting the Focus Beyond DeficitsEver feel like your child’s IEP focuses only on what’s “wrong”? In this episode, we talk about how to bring neurodivergent strengths into the room—on purpose. You’ll learn how schools can center student interests, how parents can advocate for strength-based language in the IEP, and why it matters for both motivation and self-worth. Monica also shares a personal story about pushing back on labels and advocating for placements that build on connection and joy. 👉 Includes a free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparenta...

2026-01-1604 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: "Will Accommodations or Modifications Affect Graduation?"Worried about how IEP supports might impact your child’s ability to graduate? In this mini episode, we break down how accommodations and modifications are treated differently—especially when it comes to high school diploma requirements. Learn which supports won’t affect graduation at all, which ones might, and the exact questions to ask your IEP team to make sure you’re in the loop early—not surprised later. 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.

2026-01-0903 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents M is for Modifications vs. Accommodations: Know the DifferenceNot all supports are created equal—and knowing the difference between accommodations and modifications can help you better understand your child’s IEP or 504 Plan. In this episode, we’ll break down what each one means, how they affect learning expectations, and why it matters long-term. You’ll also hear a real-life story that shows just how blurry the line can get—and a simple question to help you clarify what’s really happening in the classroom. 👉 Includes a free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1...

2026-01-0204 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: Does an IEP Mean Special Day Class? Understanding Placement OptionsWhen your child qualifies for special education, do they have to start in a special day class? In this IEP Inbox mini episode, we break down what the law actually says, why inclusion sometimes gets skipped, and how to advocate for the least restrictive environment—especially if your district doesn’t offer inclusive preschool options. 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.

2025-12-2603 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents L is for Least Restrictive Environment: What It Means for PlacementLeast Restrictive Environment (LRE) is one of the most important—and misunderstood—concepts in special education. In this episode, we break down what LRE really means, what it doesn’t, and how placement decisions should be made. You’ll hear how Monica navigated pushback on her own child’s IEP and walked the team toward collaboration—with a reminder that services are portable, and inclusion is a legal right. Don't forget to grab your free handout at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advocacy support for your chi...

2025-12-1905 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: “What If My Child Isn’t Ready for Kindergarten?”Worried your child isn’t “ready” for kindergarten? You’re not alone. In this episode, we unpack what readiness really means, explore the pros and cons of delaying entry, and share the one question that shifts the conversation from doubt to planning. Whether your child has an IEP or you're just unsure what comes next, this is your quick guide to making a confident, supported decision. 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.

2025-12-1203 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents K is for Kindergarten Transitions: Starting School with an IEPKindergarten is a big leap—especially when your child has an IEP. In this episode, we break down what transition planning should include, how to ease first-day nerves (for both you and your child), and what schools should be doing to support the shift from preschool to kinder. With personal stories and actionable tips, this one’s all about starting strong. Don't forget to grab the free handout that goes with this episode at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP...

2025-12-0505 min

The Multicultural Psychologist Assessing Pre-Schoolers and Negotiating Public School EntryConversation with Monica Trost about assessing pre-schoolers. 🔗 Connect with Our Guest Want to learn more about today’s guest and the incredible work they’re doing? Check out the links below for upcoming events, trainings, resources, and where to find them online: Website: www.preparedparentadvocate.com Email: monicatrost@preparedparentadvocate.com

2025-12-0141 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: Can the School Finalize an IEP If I Don’t Understand the Terms?If you’re handed an IEP full of jargon and asked to sign on the spot, pause. In this quick episode, we break down what informed consent really means under IDEA, what to say when you’re confused, and why “not yet” is a perfectly valid answer. Your understanding matters—and no one should rush you into signing what you don’t fully grasp. 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.

2025-11-2804 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents J is for Jargon Buster: Decoding Special Ed Acronyms & TermsEver felt lost in a sea of acronyms during an IEP meeting? You’re not alone. In this episode, we break down the most common special education terms, why jargon gets so confusing, and how to ask for plain language without hesitation. Plus, a quick story about how even grad students struggle with the alphabet soup. Download a free handout with reflective tools and next steps at www.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 co...

2025-11-2105 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: Can the School Make Decisions Without Me?If you’ve ever felt sidelined in the IEP process, this episode is for you. We’re unpacking what IDEA actually says about parent participation, when schools can legally move forward without you, and how to respond if it happens. You’ll walk away with language to use, steps to take, and one quick way to confirm your seat at the table—plus a handout to help you advocate with clarity. Don't forget the free handout at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advocacy support for your...

2025-11-1403 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents I is for IEP Meeting Prep: Walk In Calm, Clear, and Ready to CollaborateIEP meetings don’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode, you’ll learn how to prepare with clarity—without printing binders or memorizing the law. We’ll cover what to review, what to bring, and how to stay steady, even when emotions run high. Plus, a personal story that shows the power of teamwork, prep, and emotional backup. Includes a free handout to guide your next meeting. Get the free handout at www.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 pr...

2025-11-0705 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: Do I Have to Do Therapy Activities at Home?You’re juggling speech, OT, counseling—and wondering if you’re supposed to keep it all going at home. This short episode breaks down what’s required (and what’s not), why guilt doesn’t belong in your routine, and how to support your child without burning out. One quick mindset shift + one small carryover strategy = more peace, less pressure. 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.

2025-10-3104 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents H is for Help at Home: Supporting Your Child Without Burning OutSchool is only part of the picture. In this episode, we explore how to support your child’s IEP goals at home—without trying to become their teacher or therapist. You’ll learn why consistency across settings matters, simple strategies that actually work, and how to ask the school team for tools you can use at home. Plus, a personal story to remind you: progress doesn’t have to be perfect. Get your free handout at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advocacy support for your chil...

2025-10-2405 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: “Can I Suggest My Own IEP Goals?” How to Share Your Ideas Without OversteppingYou know your child best—so can you bring your own IEP goals to the table? In this episode, we walk through how parents can meaningfully shape goal development, what to avoid when suggesting pre-written goals, and how to frame your input so the team is more likely to listen. ✨ Download the free handout with sample phrases and ideas for contributing to your child’s goals in a collaborative, effective way. www.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 prepar...

2025-10-1703 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents Bonus Episode - Thanks and Upcoming Classes!Thanks for listening to the podcast. I hope the resources have been helpful to everyone, whether this is the start of your IEP journey or if you’ve been in it for a while. I just wanted to let everyone know that I do offer courses, in-person and online, to help families learn advocacy skills and get support in real time. You can learn more here: https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/workshops-and-talks Don’t forget to follow on Instagram: @preparedparentadvocate Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free...

2025-10-1201 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents G is for Goals: How to Tell If Your Child’s IEP Goals Are Actually HelpingIEP goals are more than just paperwork—they’re the roadmap for your child’s progress. In this episode, we break down what makes a goal strong, how to tell if it’s truly measurable, and why so many goals still feel vague or generic. You’ll hear a personal story that highlights how confusing this can be for families—and learn what questions to ask so you feel confident, not lost, when it comes to your child’s plan. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout with reflection questions and phrases you can use at your next IEP meeting...

2025-10-1007 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: “If My Child Isn’t Meeting Their IEP Goals, Is That a FAPE Violation?” What Lack of Progress Really Means—and What You Can DoNot meeting IEP goals doesn’t automatically mean the school is violating FAPE—but it is a red flag. In this episode, we unpack what schools are legally required to do, when lack of progress becomes a concern, and how to respond with clarity and calm. Learn what questions to ask, how to push for changes, and when it’s time to request more data or support. ✨ Grab the free handout with questions to bring to your next IEP meeting and next steps if progress stalls. www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagra...

2025-10-0303 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: “What If the School Says No to Evaluating My Child?” How to Respond—and What the Law SaysIf you’ve been told “no” when asking for your child to be evaluated, you’re not out of options. In this mini episode, we walk through your legal rights, why schools sometimes say no, and exactly how to respond in writing. You’ll learn how to document your concerns, request Prior Written Notice, and keep the process moving forward. ✨ Download the free handout with language you can use and next steps to take if your request is denied. www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 adv...

2025-09-2604 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: D is for Disability Eligibility “Can the School Ignore My Child’s Autism Diagnosis?”If you’ve handed over a private autism report only to hear, “We’ll do our own testing,” you’re not alone—and you’re not being dismissed. In this mini episode, we break down why schools are legally required to do their own evaluations, how medical and school criteria differ, and how to use your outside diagnosis as a strategic part of the process. ✨ Grab the free handout with key takeaways and parent-friendly language you can use in your next meeting. www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1:1 advoc...

2025-09-1903 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents F is for FAPE - What Your Child Is Legally Entitled To And What They’re NotFAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) is one of the most important—and misunderstood—concepts in special education. In this episode, we break down what FAPE really means, what schools must provide, and what they’re notrequired to do. I also share a personal story from my child’s IEP and how a well-worded letter turned things around. ✨ Download the free handout for quick reminders and reflection prompts. www.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...

2025-09-1207 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents A is for Accommodations: What They Are — and What They Aren’tWhat counts as an accommodation? In this first episode, I break down the role of accommodations, how they support students without lowering expectations, and how to tell if they’re actually helping. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.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.

2025-09-0805 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents E is for Evaluation - What to Expect, How to Request One, and Why It MattersIf you're wondering how to get your child evaluated for special education—or what happens after you do—this episode walks you through the entire process. From timelines and assessment types to your legal rights and how to make your voice count, you'll get a clear roadmap so you can feel more confident and prepared. ✨ Don’t forget to download the free handout with key takeaways and next steps. www.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 prepared...

2025-09-0505 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents D is for Disability Eligibility - Why a Diagnosis Isn’t Always Enough for an IEPYou finally get a diagnosis—and then the school says your child doesn’t qualify? Let’s talk about it. In this episode, we unpack the difference between medical diagnoses and school-based eligibility, walk through the 13 IDEA categories, and explain why educational impact is the key to qualifying for special education. If you’ve ever felt confused or frustrated by the IEP eligibility process, this one’s for you. ✨ Grab the free handout to reflect on key takeaways and next steps. https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/ Need 1...

2025-08-2906 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: C is for Communication “I Feel Left Out of the Loop — What Can I Do?”If you’ve ever felt like school communication is inconsistent or unclear, you’re not alone. In this mini episode, we look at why communication breakdowns happen—and what you can do to gently open the lines. From asking for a point person to suggesting simple check-ins, you’ll walk away with practical, collaborative ways to stay connected. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.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...

2025-08-2203 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents B is for Behavior: What It Really Means — and When a Plan Actually HelpsWhat do schools mean when they say “behavior”? In this episode, we unpack what qualifies as a concern, when a formal plan might help, and what a strong Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) actually includes. Plus, a parent story and key questions to ask at your next IEP meeting. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.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 w...

2025-08-1505 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: “The School Says My Child Doesn’t Need Accommodations” — Now What?If you’ve ever been told your child doesn’t need accommodations—but your gut says otherwise—this one’s for you. In this quick Q&A episode, I’m breaking down why schools sometimes say no, what to ask in response, and how to share what you’re seeing at home. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.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 wit...

2025-08-1504 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents IEP Inbox: “I’m Worried My Child Is Just Seen as the ‘Behavior Kid’” — What Can I Do?If you’re worried your child is being seen only for their challenges—not their strengths—you’re not alone. In this short episode, I’m sharing what to ask, how to shift the conversation, and ways to advocate without conflict. This one blends personal reflection with practical, calm guidance. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.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 M...

2025-08-1503 min

ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents C is for Communication: The Glue That Holds the IEP Process TogetherWhen communication breaks down, the IEP process can too. In this episode, we look at what strong communication really means between parents and school teams, where things tend to fall apart, and how to stay connected without constant conflict. ✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.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.

2025-08-1505 min

2025-08-0505 min