BECOME YOUR CHILD'S IEP HERO
Ensure your child has the learning resources they need to reach their full potential
...even if the school system is overwhelmed, the teachers are underpaid, and you have zero idea on how + where to begin
You’ve listened to a laundry list of your child’s weaknesses (and none of their strengths)...just so they can qualify for much-needed learning resources.
But you felt more nervousness and overwhelm for your child AFTER the IEP meeting than before.
And you’ve suffered the indescribable sadness that overcomes you while thinking about your child’s future. High school? Job? Will they be picked on or bullied because of their unique needs? How will they cope? How will you?
Parents, your child is so.much.more. than what strangers say. Worth so.much.more than the sum of a stack of IEP documents.
OUR CHILDREN ARE NOT BROKEN
You love your child more than anything but discovering your child needs an IEP comes with all the feelings.
There’s relief as your concerns about your child’s development are “validated” (we know our kids better than a n y o n e).
The conflict at facing the news head on that your child really isn’t *performing* the same as their peers.
There’s the physical pain like the wind got knocked out of you.
The grief of losing and the longing for the child we thought we had, to parenting the child we’ve been given.
And the emotional guilt that the thought even crossed your mind. The guilt (a neverending emotion).
The constant wondering, “Could I do more? Could I try harder? Am I really doing all I can do?”
An IEP can offer a beacon of hope.
*Hope because now there are professionals committed to supporting your exceptional child.
*The promise that your child will learn new skills and progress in challenging areas.
*Resources becoming available that you didn’t know existed (and probably couldn't afford alone).
But the realization hits that an IEP also means...
Ongoing services, IEP meetings, the paperwork (oh! The p a p e r w o r k…) that need to be scheduled into your already busy lives.
(Which is already packed to overflowing because our special needs children often need so much more of our undivided time & attention.)
And maybe even:
- An IEP team who doesn’t listen to you (or you can’t understand them because, let’s face it, IEPs have a language all their own).
- A condescending IEP team member who talks down to you.
-Feeling like the school is holding back on resources (or doing only the bare minimum).
-Becoming disappointed in a system that seems determined to fail your special needs child.
-Disagreeing with the IEP (or their evaluation) but having no clue how to make it better.
-Working with a team that doesn’t seem personally invested in your child.
Until you end up feeling like maybe your child isn’t going to get as much out of this IEP as you thought.
Until you end up feeling like maybe your child isn’t going to get as much out of this IEP as you thought.
-You can't control the overwhelmed system threatened by union strikes and budget cuts.
-You can’t control school closures and who “gets in” on their ever-changing tier systems.
-AND you can’t control mask mandates, social distancing, or frankly whether you child can comply to these *also* ever-changing rules.
BUT THERE IS ONE THING YOU CAN CONTROL.
You can’t change your school, your school district, or the IEP Team - but you do have control over how much you understand about the options available to your child and the laws governing access.
“Not my child...”
Except, it was.
Hi, I’m Crystal and those are the exact words that crossed my mind back in 2014.
As an IEP team member & school district employee I’d gathered around countless tables & had the exact.same conversation. Conversations just.like.this.
Well, almost like this one.
For 15+ years I’d supported families, children and young adults with unique needs as a Speech-Language Pathologist providing services to individuals with a variety of needs, including ADHD, Autism, and Learning Differences.
But even with a M.A. in Communicative Disorders from California State University, Northridge and an M.A. in Education from San Diego State University, it was my time to “listen to the experts” on the other side of the table (actually, I’ll teach you why they shouldn’t be on the other side of the table and where you should be sitting but more on that another time).
Even before the news that my own daughter was diagnosed (Level 1, Autism Spectrum Disorder), my heart was always for the parents, supporting them in any way I could. But, there was only so much that I could do in that position.
For the next two years I read and learned as much as possible. Countless classes, research, and personal yes, personal experience that I now share to offer hope & support to families like mine.
Now as an IEP parent, advocating for my own child, there’s so much more knowledge and support I can provide to parents - just like you - on their journey so they don't feel so lost through the IEP process (especially for those like me parenting a child with Autism).
As a result Sanford Autism Consulting opened in November of 2016 in central San Diego, California with the commitment to provide parents with special-needs children with:
• High-quality consultations to parents of children with special needs
• Comprehensive + personalized IEP analysis and reporting
• Advocating throughout the special education process to bridge the gap between schools + families
• Parent training sessions empowering parents with knowledge & confidence in the IEP process
• Linking clients to local & national resources
You are not alone and know that things can - and together will - get better. “The best thing a human being can do is to help another human being know more.” - Charlie Munger. This is my mission.
With all the worries you have about parenting a special needs child, understanding the IEP shouldn’t be one of them.
As Seen On...
With all the worries you have about parenting a special needs child, understanding the IEP shouldn’t be one of them.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHILD’S OPTIONS
CRYSTAL CLEAR IEP
Helping parents better advocate for the special education their children deserve!
Perfect for moms + dads ready to take an active role in their child’s IEP
Understand the ins-n-outs of IEPs so you can speak calmly + confidently...and never let your voice get lost in an IEP meeting (no matter how overwhelmed you feel).
- Be empowered to make the right choices for your child’s learning even if your school district has failed them in the past.
- Understand all.the.options available to your child...even if your IEP Team has been too busy to explain the details.
- Gain peace of mind that you’re perfectly positioned to raise your beautiful special needs child (just in case you forgot).
- Know the alternatives available to your child even if your team doesn’t seem personally invested in the outcome.
- Feel confident working with your child’s school and recognize when/if you’re being manipulated.
- Clearly understand how to design the best IEP for your child’s needs and know the individual benefits it will bring.
- Learn to clearly describe your child’s challenges to your school so they can create a personalized plan that works for your child and family.
- Discover what “untraditional” (& little known) services may be a perfect fit for your child.
- "Speak" the IEP lingo fluently so you never feel like you’re being talked down to by the professionals.
- Make the best decisions for your child + family at any given moment.
Get support in becoming the best advocate you can be for your child...even if there’s a shortage of aides, schools are closed, or you’ve struggled with teachers in the past.
What's Included:
→ PART 1: IEP Basics! Starting Off Right!
(an 8-lesson video series)
Lesson 1: IEP Status & The Current Status Of Special Education
The special education system is broken (we know that) but that’s all the more reason why you need to be a present + active member of your child's IEP team. We’ll start with a basic + brief background on where special education comes from and the current status in the US (and what this means for your child).
- Two important points to help you always bring your child's IEP Team back to when you’re not feeling heard.
- How to have your child’s needs met when dealing with overworked IEP teams.
Lesson 2: IEP Versus The 504 Plan
What’s the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan (and more importantly, which does your child need)? This short lesson will easily sum up the differences so you’re empowered to ask for the resources your child needs most (because you know your child best).
- Get an at-a-glance table to help you quickly compare IEPS & 504s.
- Easily recognize which plan is best for your child.
Lesson 3: Avoiding Parenting Pitfalls In The IEP Process
At the beginning of your IEP journey you probably spent a lot of time in forums & groups asking questions. Having a community around you is important but the opinion of others can cause you to go into your meetings with a detrimental frame of mind. This lesson will help you to avoid the pitfalls many parents fall into before it’s too late.
- Download an easy-to-follow summary of mistakes to avoid.
- Practical tips to help you get back on the right track!
Lesson 4: Parents Rights 101
Yes, you have rights under federal and state laws but did you know that those rights should be explained to you at least annually? In this lesson you’ll find a full explanation of specific rights available to you under the law so you can better stand up for your child & yourself!
- Learn about the documents you should receive (and how often).
- Plus, a downloadable + printable list to refer to.
Lesson 5: Understanding The IEP Evaluation Process
The evaluation process is one of the most nerve-wracking moments for a parent, especially if you aren’t prepared. This lesson will ease your mind as you prepare for what to expect during the evaluation process.
- Plus, learn the difference between evaluations conducted by the school district versus those conducted privately.
- Learn the best way to write (& send) a Special Education Evaluation Request Letter.
Lesson 6: Understanding The Preschool IEP Transition
The IFSP and Early Start/Early Intervention services typically end when a child turns age three, but THEN what? We’ll also take a step back in this lesson to look at how services begin for a child.
- Plus, get the timeline of Special Education Services for Children (3-5 years).
- Easy-to-understand chart that shows the difference between the IEP and IFSP.
Lesson 7: IEP Meeting Tips And Considerations
Where you sit in your IEP meeting can make a difference to how you are seen and heard. The education and IEP systems are a business and so conducting yourself in a business-like manner is essential. Here’s the top ways to handle your meeting (& the paperwork) so you always come across professionally (even when you aren’t feeling all that *civil* in the moment).
- Downloadable checklist of IEP Meeting Tips & Considerations.
- Plus, discover the best place to sit during your IEP Meeting
Lesson 8: Distance Learning And IEPs
IEPs & federal law are still in effect (even through distance learning) so don’t let anyone tell you differently! You and your child's rights are still in effect (it’s worth repeating). There may be additional documents needed at this time (you’ll learn more about that in this lesson) but they don’t supersede your child’s IEP.
- Understand the difference between Synchronous and Asynchronous learning & what your school should offer our special learners.
- Learn about the additional plan that most states now legally require (since COVID)
→ PART 2: Diving Deeper into IEPs!
(a 10-lesson video series)
Lesson 1: Present Levels & Goals
Academic performance isn’t the only area of our child’s life; functional, life, and transitional skills are equally important. Especially for our children who have significant needs. This lesson will help you to understand how to set goals that are specific to your child (and how to track progress).
- Set goals for each academic area and functional area.
- Learn what to consider when tracking and measuring progress.
Lesson 2: Accommodations vs. Modifications
These two terms often get confused so let’s clear up the differences in this lesson! Both areas are available under an IEP, but Accommodations are also available with a 504 Plan so understanding your child’s needs is important.
- Easy-to-understand printable to show the difference between the terms.
- Plus, get a list of Accommodations that may be valuable for your child.
Lesson 3: Supporting Behavior Needs Through The IEP
If a child’s behavior affects their ability to learn (or the learning of others), then it must be addressed within the IEP through a behavior goal, at minimum. In this lesson you’ll learn what assessments and plans should be in place for your child - as well as why it’s important to analyze your child’s behavior (it might not be what you think).
- Understand why it’s so important to have a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA).
- Learn what you can do as a parent if you disagree with a school’s choice of discipline.
Lesson 4: Extended School Year (ESY) & Summer School
During summer school, block schedule, extended Christmas break your child can still receive special education services. However, services may only be available on a case-by-case basis so requesting services needs to be brought up early.
- The factors some school districts consider when granting ESY services.
- Discover a court case determination that may help your child receive services through a break.
Lesson 5: Progress Reports
How your child is progressing towards their educational goals is important but how & how often you receive a progress report is outlined in your child’s IEP. In this lesson you’ll see what to expect from the progress reports and what data the IEP team is not required to include.
- Learn how your child’s progress should be measured.
- Find out what you can do if you’re concerned about your child’s progress.
Lesson 6: High School Diploma vs. Certificate Of Completion
Diploma or Certificate?? This is confusing (and therefore stressful) for many families so this video will give you much-needed clarity. Regulations can vary from state to state though so always check into your local requirements. Plus, learn what your child needs to receive a diploma vs. requirements for a certificate.
- Learn what schools must provide to help your child meet their postsecondary goals.
- Find out how your decision may impact future decisions including military service, colleges/universities, financial aid, and job opportunities.
Lesson 7: Transition Considerations For Older Students
Special education is designed to help our children to meet their unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment, and independent living. To meet that requirement, your school district must offer a range of services to assist in the transition of students from high school to adulthood. Sample goals & transition services are included in this lesson.
- Learn about the Transition Timeline and when it begins (it may be earlier than you thought).
- Find out at what age your child should be invited to IEP meetings & when their rights should be explained.
Lesson 8: Resolving IEP Disagreements
Until you give consent to the IEP (i.e. you’ve signed it), it’s not valid. Hopefully this lesson will give you much needed peace of mind through the process - you have options! This lesson will show you that there are several avenues to pursue remedies when there is a disagreement with your team.
- Learn the 6 options available to help you resolve disagreements.
- Discover when legal consultation is necessary (and what to do long before that).
Lesson 9: Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs)
Do you know how to respond if your child’s IEP team refuses to evaluate an obvious area of need? There are times when parents disagree with a school/district’s evaluation of their child and as a parent, you have recourse through an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).
- Learn when the school district pays for an IEE (or what they may do instead).
- Find out what happens when a school district does not request a due process hearing to potentially deny you an IEE.
Lesson 10: Distance Learning, IEPs, And Compensatory Education
Distance Learning (in some form) will be the new reality for educating students, likely
for the next few years. But that doesn't change your child’s rights! However this could mean that your child isn’t being adequately assessed and the new methods aren’t working for you. In this lesson you’ll learn what and how to document progress during this unusual time.
- Available options if your child’s progress falls significantly.
- When is your child eligible for Compensatory Education services (& what to do if you’re paying out of pocket)?
Gain the information and confidence you need to advocate for the education your child deserves!
WHEN YOU BUY NOW...
PLUS...
13 Eligibility Categories For Special Education
Parent Input Statement
Asking The Right Questions
MY CRYSTAL CLEAR GUARANTEE
If you don’t feel more empowered to make the right choices for your child’s learning after completing the Crystal Clear IEP Course ...you deserve your money back.
If you don’t better understand the process & options of an IEP after completing the Crystal Clear IEP Course...you deserve your money back.
If you don’t have an increased peace of mind that you’re perfectly positioned to raise your beautiful special needs child after completing the Crystal Clear IEP Course...you deserve your money back.
If you don’t know the educational alternatives available to your child after completing the Crystal Clear IEP Course...you deserve your money back.
If you don’t feel more confident working with your child’s school through the IEP Process after completing the Crystal Clear IEP Course....you deserve your money back.
The evaluation & IEP process looks different for every family that I’ve been blessed to work with, and your journey will be unique, too. Parents, you have a long road to travel, and this is just the beginning.
My Crystal Clear promise to you is that if you commit to watching every video lesson, download the corresponding PDFs (print when possible), and refer to them often you will feel more confident advocating for your child’s needs.
**You may face challenges that are outside of the scope of this self-directed course, in which case you may benefit from the counsel of a special education advocate or attorney who can guide you in your specific needs + the specific laws of your state.**
Crystal Clear IEP
Helping parents better advocate for the special education their children deserve!
Part 1: 8-Lesson Video Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Value $247)
Part 2: 10-Lesson Video Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(Value $247)
13 Eligibility Categories For Special Education.. . . . . (Value $97)
Parent input Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . (Value $97)
Asking the Right Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Value $97)
TOTAL VALUE = $785
Regular Price = $147
Today's Price = $97
what others say...
I have already suggested to other parents to take this course
"I enjoyed both sessions of this webinar. They were helpful both for me personally as a parent of a child with different abilities AND as a child development professional. I have already suggested to other parents to take this course. It offers so much valuable information. Thank you!"
Wow, I learned SO MUCH!
Wow, I learned SO MUCH. All the information about my rights as a parent were very helpful in my confidence to advocate for my child. Likewise, the information about PWNs. I had never heard of these and they are clearly very important. Thank you again!
"I feel so much more educated and empowered!"
"Crystal, you and your team are a saving grace to so many special needs families. Thank you for what you do!"
Crystal Clear IEP
Helping parents better advocate for the special education their children deserve!
Part 1: 8-Lesson Video Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Value $247)
Part 2: 10-Lesson Video Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(Value $247)
13 Eligibility Categories For Special Education.. . . . . (Value $97)
Parent input Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . (Value $97)
Asking the Right Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Value $97)
TOTAL VALUE = $785
Regular Price = $147
Today's Price = $97
Answers...
to your most frequently asked questions.
What should I expect at my first IEP meeting?
Parents often hear such negative things about these meetings from online forums that they go into the initial meeting already angry and ready to “fight for their rights”. This doesn’t usually end well. A much better tactic is to first go through the entire Crystal Clear IEP Course before your IEP meeting which will help you feel more confident. You’ll also have a lot of tips on what to expect as well as how to articulate your child’s needs calmly and rationally. If you still feel nervous, an advocate can come with you.
My child is in pre-school, can the Crystal Clear IEP class help me at this stage?
.
The Crystal Clear IEP Course is specifically created to help guide families in the first six years of the IEP process - so this is likely right where you find yourself! It also makes for a comprehensive course for any foster family, adoptive, or families who are preparing to adopt a child who may have special needs.
My child is in high school, can the Crystal Clear IEP class help me at this stage?
.
There are a few lessons specific towards our children as they grow. If you and your older child are new to the world of IEPs, you’ll find the Crystal Clear IEP course perfect for any age. Specifically, the Part 2, Lessons 6 & 7 will help you better understand your child's needs as they get ready to transition out of high school (this is something that begins several years earlier so it’s never too early to prepare for their future).
I don’t think my IEP Team is doing what they’re supposed to - how can the Crystal Clear IEP course help?
.
Part 2 Lesson 8 of the Crystal Clear IEP Course gives you a list of options to take to resolve IEP disputes. There’s also a printable that you can keep handy in the case of disagreements. Should you continue to struggle, don’t hesitate to contact an advocate who can act in your best interest as well.
What about state-specific information?
.
The Crystal Clear IEP Course was written with the federal law IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) in mind. However, there may be different nuisances related to state-specific laws that add to how IEPs are governed in each state. I encourage families to start with The Crystal Clear IEP Course, then review any state-specific guidelines after as needed.
What if I have questions - do I have direct access to you, Crystal?
.
I offer a monthly IEP Q & A group for families who have completed the Crystal Clear IEP Course. This is a great time to connect with fellow special needs parents and caregivers and get access to the help you need.
Crystal, this sounds great but my family needs a more specialized approach. How else do you help families with special needs children?
.
As a special education advocate based in San Diego, CA, I also provide high-quality consultation and advocacy services to fellow special needs parents as well as comprehensive and personalized IEP analysis and reporting. With compassion and expertise, I strive to teach parents to cultivate calm while equipping them to become the CEO of their child’s special education team.
It's my honor to accompany families during IEP meetings and I can help make recommendations for your child. Having a professional advocating for your child alongside your family puts many parents at ease.
How long will I have access to the Crystal Clear IEP course?
.
The course is yours to keep & you’ll receive access to all lessons as soon as you sign up.
"Thank you for helping me feel more confident moving forward!"
I’m about to do my first IEP for my son and this class helped me figure out what to expect, what to look for, what my rights are, and the level of professionalism to look for/accept. Thank you for helping me feel more confident moving forward.- K.C.
Crystal Clear IEP
Helping parents better advocate for the special education their children deserve!
Part 1: 8-Lesson Video Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Value $247)
Part 2: 10-Lesson Video Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(Value $247)
13 Eligibility Categories For Special Education.. . . . . (Value $97)
Parent input Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . (Value $97)
Asking the Right Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Value $97)
TOTAL VALUE = $785
Regular Price = $147
Today's Price = $97
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**You may face challenges that are outside of the scope of this self-directed course, in which case you may benefit from the counsel of a special education advocate or attorney who can guide you in your specific needs + the specific laws of your state.**