School is back in session in many parts of the world, which is the time when struggles often begin to surface. On episode 241, Emily Kircher-Morris talks with Amanda Morin about the complexities of advocating for neurodivergent children, including utilizing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and the services they require. They explore the qualification process for IEPs, the importance of understanding behavior as communication, and the distinction between medical and educational diagnoses. The conversation emphasizes the need for advocacy, and the importance of tailored support for each child's unique needs. Takeaways IEPs provide specialized services and instruction for struggling students. Qualification for an IEP involves a comprehensive evaluation process. Twice exceptional children may have giftedness that masks their disabilities. Behavior can be a form of communication for children. Medical diagnoses do not equate to educational diagnoses. Labels do not define a child's abilities or potential. Accommodations can be provided in advanced placement classes. Advocacy is crucial for ensuring children receive appropriate services. Understanding the difference between IEPs and 504 plans is essential. Support services can vary widely and should be tailored to individual needs. Register here for our free annual fall event we’ve created specifically for educators who are passionate about creating neurodiversity-affirming learning environments for students. The event will be held on Monday, September 23, and you can sign up to join Emily and a live panel of experts, who will be discussing ways to best support students of all neurotypes. Amanda Morin has most recently served as the Vice President of Learning & Knowledge for The Jed Foundation (JED). She headed teams of committed researchers, subject matter experts, and learning and development professionals in efforts to build knowledge about mental health, neurodiversity, and disability, to ensure all the work she’s engaged in is evidence-based, and includes the most up-to-date thinking in the field. She’s a certified teacher who provides unique expertise, and innovative perspectives to mission-driven education and family-facing organizations and coalitions. She works in print and digital media as a writer, editor, and content creator, empowering parents and educators to affirm the pivotal roles they play in education. She played an integral role in launching Understood.org in 2014. Amanda has also worked with other organizations and publications, including: Bright & Quirky, Matan, Hidden Sparks Without Walls, Edutopia, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), Education.com, Parenting Special Needs Magazine, DotDash (formerly known as About.com), and Popsugar Moms. Amanda received special education advocacy training from the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates. She holds a certificate in Universal Design for Learning from the UDL Implementation and Research Network, sits on the Center for Inclusive Learning (CISL) advisory council, the advisory board of Digital Promise’s Learner Variability Project, the professional advisory board of Matan, and the Technical Expert Panel, of the American Academy of Pediatrics Center of Excellence on Social Media & Youth Mental Health. Amanda Morin is also the author of five books: The Everything Parent’s Guide to Special Education, The Everything Kids’ Learning Activities Book, On-the-Go Fun for Kids: More Than 250 Activities to Keep Little Ones Busy and Happy — Anytime, Anywhere!, What Is Empathy? A Bullying Storybook for Kids, and Adulting Made Easy: Things Someone Should Have Told You About Getting Your Grown-Up Act Together. BACKGROUND READING Amanda’s books on Amazon Amanda’s website LinkedIn Instagram