IEP Children
Both of my girls have IEP’s. Tinley struggles with sensory issues and that put a delay on her speech and developmental. They put in an IEP in place to give her the help she needs when she gets overstimulated. She is heading to Kindergarten. Addalynn has stage 2 autism. She will be starting her Pre-K year in August. She is non-verbal but ask for her things in her own way. Her IEP is more generalized to meet her needs with speech, occupational therapy, developmental therapy and whatever else she may need along the way. Just because they have an IEP doesn’t mean that they cannot learn. It doesn’t mean that they do not have potential and it doesn’t mean that “dumb”. They are just going to learn at a slower pace than others. IEPs doesn’t make the different ! #iep #learningdisability #autisticspectrum #sensory #sensoryfriendly
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) serve as vital tools designed to support children with various developmental and learning needs by providing personalized educational plans tailored to each child's unique challenges and strengths. For children dealing with sensory processing issues or autism spectrum disorders, IEPs can offer specialized interventions such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and developmental support to nurture their growth and learning potential. Every child with an IEP embodies hopes, challenges, and vast potential. Rather than a label, an IEP should be viewed as a partnership—a commitment to recognizing and believing in the child’s abilities while walking alongside them in their educational journey. Children with IEPs may learn differently or at a slower pace compared to their peers, but this does not diminish their capacity to learn, grow, or succeed. Sensory difficulties can cause overstimulation, leading to challenges in communication and behavior. Tailored strategies within an IEP can help manage these sensory challenges, creating sensory-friendly environments that reduce stress and promote engagement. For children on the autism spectrum, like those with stage 2 autism, non-verbal communication methods often become essential, supported by therapies that foster alternative ways to express needs and interact socially. Parents and educators are essential advocates in the IEP process. Their collaboration ensures that therapy goals, classroom accommodations, and supportive resources align with the child’s evolving needs. The success of an IEP hinges on continuous assessment, flexibility, and a positive, empowering approach toward the child’s learning experience. Understanding the importance of IEPs is key to promoting an inclusive educational system where every child’s individuality is honored and their potential is fully realized. Embracing an IEP as a hand reaching out—saying, “I see you. I believe in you”—can transform the educational experience into one of encouragement, resilience, and achievement.
I want to encourage you. Please know that having a family that looked out for me and always encouraged me to do my best is why I am where I am. I did theatre and still do joined the swim team and succeeded. Think about what brings your girls joy is it bubbles? Is it playing pretend? Is it dancing? Theatre played a big role in teaching me to be confident in myself. I had an IEP all through school. The reason I became a teacher was so I could be the teacher I always needed. In my schooling years I encountered many teachers some of who went above and beyond to get me what I needed. It’s important to have conversations with the parent and of course include the kids in any way possible. It’s important to balance challenge with need. Think about what helps them learn and understand and pair it with what they enjoy. Here I am 28yrs old graduated college summa cum laude I took every education course including birth through kinder and did well. I’ve survived cancer, been a lead prek and kindergarten teacher, wrote and illustrated a children’s book, and I am part of a local theatre group. In addition I am a teacher of three siblings I’ve known since the eldest was 2yrs old. I know I’ve written a lot here my bottom line is this your girls will do wonderful things in their life.