Understood Explains

IEPs: Getting emotional at IEP meetings Jun 13, 2024

IEP meetings can get very emotional. It can be hard to sit in a room full of teachers and talk about your child’s needs. Sometimes, these meetings can feel overwhelming, like everyone just wants to discuss what’s wrong with your child.

However, if your child has an IEP, or Individualized Education Program, you’ll need to attend an IEP meeting at least once a year. And one important way to prepare is to get yourself ready emotionally.

On this episode of Understood Explains, guest host Claudia Rinaldi shares some tips for making this process less stressful, and what to do if big feelings come up during the meeting.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(00:55) Getting ready emotionally

(02:32) Before the IEP meeting

(07:51) During the IEP meeting

(11:03) After the IEP meeting

(12:23) Key takeaways

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: For younger kids and older kids Jun 06, 2024

If you’re the parent of a young child, you may be wondering how special education can support kids during recess. If you have a teenager, you may be focused on getting ready for college or a career. And if your child is in middle school, I have one word for you: puberty.

Special education can provide services and supports from birth through high school. And on this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will share how these resources can help kids thrive at different ages.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(01:14) Babies and toddlers

(02:52) Preschool and grade school

(06:03) Middle school

(08:44) High school

(12:24) Key takeaways

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: English language learners and IEPs May 30, 2024

Many kids in the U.S. are learning English as an additional language. For some, it may be their second, third, or fourth language.

Their English skills can vary widely, too. Some kids may speak conversational English and need to learn academic words, like “add” and “subtract.” And others may be learning a lot of words in English and in their home language at the same time. So there can be a lot of different starting points for what some schools call English language learners or multilingual learners.

As a parent, it can be hard to tell if you’re seeing common challenges that come with learning a new language. Or if you're seeing signs of a learning difference, like dyslexia or ADHD.

Fortunately, schools can help in both of these areas. And part of that help could include an IEP, or Individualized Education Program. On this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will share how.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(01:52) School supports for multilingual learners

(04:32) Myths and facts

(07:47) Evaluations and IEPs

(10:24) Your rights as a parent or guardian

(12:00) Key takeaways

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: Resolving IEP disputes May 23, 2024

You and the school may not always agree on every detail in your child’s IEP. If you’re having trouble working things out, it’s good to know your options for resolving a dispute.

On this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will go through your dispute resolution options and how to handle common disagreements. She’ll also share information on advocates and attorneys who can help you in a disagreement.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(01:39) Dispute resolution options
(05:41) Disagreeing about evaluation results
(08:07) Changing a child’s placement
(09:32) Reducing a child’s services
(10:40) Special education advocates and attorneys
(12:09) Key takeaways

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: How IEPs can help with behavior challenges May 16, 2024

Does your child have trouble following the teacher’s rules? Are you getting a lot of calls from the principal?

An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, can do a lot of things to help with behavioral challenges in school.

But as you explore getting an IEP and putting it into action, things can get confusing. Along the way, you might run into wonky terms like FBA, BIP, and manifestation determination.

Those terms might all sound confusing now. But in this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will help you understand what they mean and how they can help your child make progress in school.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps

(00:46) Does my child need behavioral support at school?
(04:20) Can my child get an IEP for ADHD?
(05:50) What is a functional behavioral assessment?
(06:58) What is a behavior intervention plan?
(08:50) Can schools discipline kids with IEPs?
(10:33) Key takeaways

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: Setting IEP goals May 09, 2024

Setting IEP goals can feel tricky. They should be attainable, but not too hard or too easy — it’s a bit like Goldilocks and the Three Bears.

However, setting these goals is a big part of developing your child’s IEP, or Individualized Education Program.

In this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey breaks down how IEP teams set annual goals, how parents can help, and how the IEP will measure a child’s progress.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps:

(0:44) How do IEP teams set annual goals?

(4:22) How can parents help set annual goals?

(7:01) Are my child’s IEP goals aiming high enough?

(8:24) How will the IEP measure my child’s progress?

(11:30) What do multilingual families need to know?

(12:31) Key takeaways

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: How to prepare for IEP meetings May 02, 2024

So you have an IEP meeting coming up, or you’d like to prepare for future ones. This is an important time to ask questions and advocate for what you think is best for your child.

These meetings can be stressful and high-pressure for families. But knowing what to expect in the meeting and how to get ready can put you at ease.

On this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will go over the nuts and bolts of preparing to talk about your child’s IEP, or Individualized Education Program.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps

(01:13) What’s the purpose of an IEP meeting?

(03:04) What happens in IEP meetings?

(05:48) What role do parents play in IEP meetings?

(07:20) Who can parents bring to the meeting?

(10:18) What else can parents do to get ready?

(12:39) Key takeaways

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: Special education terms and your legal rights Apr 25, 2024

If your child qualifies for an IEP, it will come with many legal rights and protections. But with names like “FAPE” and “prior written notice,” things can get confusing quickly.

Still, it’s really important for parents to understand these terms — and that's where this podcast comes in to help.

In this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey breaks down some key terms and explains the legal rights that come with an IEP, or Individualized Education Program.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps:

(00:46) FAPE: Free Appropriate Public Education

(03:07) Least restrictive environment

(07:32) Informed consent

(08:23) Prior written notice and “stay put” rights

(10:48) Other key rights

(11:56) Key takeaways

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: The 13 disability categories Apr 18, 2024

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There are 13 disability categories listed in a federal law called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA.

And to get an IEP, or Individualized Education Program, your child will need to fit into at least one disability category.

These categories can have some hard-to-understand names, like “specific learning disabilities” or “other health impairments.”

But on this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will share what these categories mean and why they relate to IEPs. She’ll also share what to do if your child doesn’t qualify for any disability category, or if they qualify for more than one.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps:

(00:43) Why do IEPs have disability categories?

(02:42) What are the 13 disability categories in IDEA?

(07:21) Are disability categories the same in every state?

(09:28) Can my child’s IEP include more than one disability?

(10:32) What if my child doesn’t qualify for any disability category?

(11:43) Key takeaways

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: How do kids qualify for IEPs? Apr 11, 2024

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Kids don’t just get an IEP all of a sudden.

Schools have an evaluation process to decide if a child qualifies for special education services. This includes getting an IEP.

On this episode of Understood Explains, join host Juliana Urtubey as she discusses the evaluation process and requirements for getting an IEP. She’ll also share what to do if the school says your child doesn’t qualify for an IEP, and more.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps:

(00:37) How do kids qualify for IEPs?

(03:14) Does my child need a diagnosis to get an IEP?

(04:45) How do I request an evaluation?

(06:12) What if the school wants to wait to evaluate my child?

(08:10) What if the school says my child doesn’t qualify for an IEP?

(08:49) Key takeaways

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

IEPs: Common IEP myths Apr 04, 2024

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If someone says something that makes special education sound bad or negative, chances are it’s just not true.

There are a lot of myths about IEPs, or Individualized Education Programs. And these incorrect or outdated ideas can keep some kids from getting school supports that can help them thrive.

On this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will bust common myths and explain the facts.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps:

(00:38) Myth #1: My child will be labeled forever

(02:10) Myth #2: My child will be in a separate classroom

(03:15) Myth #3: IEPs are only for kids with severe physical or intellectual disabilities

(04:17) Myth #4: Many kids with IEPs misbehave on purpose

(05:34) Myth #5: My child needs to wait to get evaluated for special education services

(07:13) Key takeaways

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

The difference between IEPs and 504 plans Mar 28, 2024

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The terms IEP and 504 plan may come up a lot when you’re looking into special education for your child. These school supports do some of the same things, but one can provide more services and the other is easier to get.

And it’s important to know the differences in order to get your child the support they need.

On this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will break down the differences between IEPs and 504 plans, and which one might be right for your child.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps:

(00:53) What is a 504 plan?

(02:16) What’s the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?

(08:15) Can my child have an IEP and a 504 plan at the same time?

(09:36) Should my child switch from an IEP to a 504 plan?

(10:45) What do multilingual learners need to know about IEPs and 504 plans?

(11:58) Key takeaways

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Does my child need an IEP? Mar 21, 2024

If you like this show, consider making a donation this holiday season. 100% of your donation will go towards helping us create more podcasts (like this one!). Click here to make a gift today.

If your child has been struggling in school, you might be wondering if they need special education. And once you start exploring special education, you’re going to run into the term IEP, which stands for individualized education program.

But what exactly is an IEP, anyway?

On this episode of Understood Explains, host Juliana Urtubey will cover IEP basics and how to figure out if your child needs this kind of support.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

Timestamps:

(00:57) What is the purpose of an IEP?

(03:27) What’s in an IEP

(05:42) Does my child need an IEP?

(07:42) Should I wait to get my child an IEP?

(10:05) What if my child is learning English?

(11:36) Key takeaways

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Introducing: Understood Explains IEPs Feb 08, 2024

Does your child need special education? How can you make the most of this school support? Listen to the trailer for Understood Explains IEPs, which covers the ins and outs of individualized education programs.

Host Juliana Urtubey is a special education teacher and the 2021 National Teacher of the Year. So you can learn from a pro in this 13-episode series, which includes IEP tips for kids of different ages and for kids who are learning English as an additional language.

Episodes drop weekly in English and Spanish, starting March 21.

Visit the episode page on Understood.

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

What I wish I’d known sooner about ADHD diagnosis Mar 29, 2023

This bonus episode of Understood Explains shares personal stories about getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. For example, hear from a woman who waited years to see a specialist after her main doctor brushed off her concerns that she might have ADHD.

You’ll also hear host Dr. Roberto Olivardia describe what led him to get diagnosed with ADHD at 35.

Listen to these personal stories and what each person wishes they’d known sooner about ADHD.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:41) Michelle on feeling big emotions

(02:35) Kenny on struggling at work

(04:23) Ange on seeing the “ADHD iceberg”

(08:18) Jeannie on nearly failing out of college

(09:59) Advice they’d give their younger selves

(11:37) Roberto on getting diagnosed at 35

(14:12) Credits

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

What if I don’t really have ADHD? Mar 29, 2023

Doubting your ADHD diagnosis? Do you still think you have ADHD even after your doctor said you don’t? Or maybe you got formally diagnosed but aren’t sure you really have ADHD?

Concerns about ADHD misdiagnosis are common. Host Dr. Roberto Olivardia gives tips on how to think about whether you got a thorough evaluation — and if it may be time to get a second opinion.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:04) What do I do if my doctor told me I don’t have ADHD?

(03:54) What if I don’t think my ADHD diagnosis is accurate?

(07:18) Anything else I need to know about getting properly diagnosed?

(07:57) Key takeaways, next episode, and credits

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

How do I emotionally prepare for ADHD diagnosis? Mar 29, 2023

Relief. Anger. Grief. Getting diagnosed with ADHD can bring up a range of emotions. Host Dr. Roberto Olivardia explains what to look for and how to process big feelings so you can keep moving forward. Get answers to common questions, like how imposter syndrome is connected to ADHD.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:47) How can I prepare emotionally for ADHD diagnosis?

(02:04) Why is ADHD diagnosis such a relief for some people?

(04:44) Why does ADHD diagnosis often lead to anger and grief?

(06:01) What’s imposter syndrome? And how is it connected to ADHD?

(07:52) Key takeaways, next episode, and credits

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

ADHD treatment without medication: What are my options? Mar 29, 2023

There are many ways to treat ADHD without medication — or in addition to medication. Learn about a wide range of ADHD treatments, from therapy to free apps and tools. Host Dr. Roberto Olivardia also talks about social and workplace supports. Listen as he answers common questions, like whether diet or supplements can help with ADHD.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:51) Can ADHD be treated without medication?

(01:54) What is cognitive behavior therapy?

(04:19) What are some common coping mechanisms for treating ADHD?

(05:53) How can social supports help with ADHD?

(07:53) How can assistive technology help with ADHD?

(08:43) Should I change my diet or take supplements to help with ADHD?

(09:41) What about workplace accommodations for ADHD?

(10:31) Key takeaways, next episode, and credits

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

ADHD medication: What do I need to know? Mar 29, 2023

If you like this show, consider making a donation this holiday season. 100% of your donation will go towards helping us create more podcasts (like this one!). Click here to make a gift today.

How does ADHD medication work? Is it addictive? If you think you might have ADHD or were recently diagnosed, find out what you need to know about ADHD medication, like how to tell if you’re taking too much or too little.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps

(00:00) Introduction

(00:51) How does ADHD medication work?

(03:39) Does everyone with ADHD need medication?

(04:21) How can medication help manage ADHD symptoms?

(06:05) What are the limitations of ADHD medication?

(06:50) Is ADHD medication addictive?

(08:26) Will ADHD medication turn me into a zombie?

(09:41) How can I tell if I’m not taking enough ADHD medication?

(10:31) What do I need to know about possible side effects of ADHD medication?

(12:25) Key takeaway, next episode, and credits

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Is online ADHD diagnosis legit? Mar 29, 2023

If you like this show, consider making a donation this holiday season. 100% of your donation will go towards helping us create more podcasts (like this one!). Click here to make a gift today.

The wait time may be shorter, but is online ADHD diagnosis accurate? And can it help you get ADHD treatment? In this episode of Understood Explains, learn the pros and cons of ADHD online diagnosis and get answers to common questions.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps

(00:00) Introduction

(00:49) What are online ADHD diagnoses?

(02:53) Is online ADHD diagnosis legit?

(06:16) Does online ADHD testing cost a lot less than conventional testing?

(07:18) Any other concerns about online ADHD diagnosis?

(09:05) Key takeaway, next episode, and credits

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

What happens in an ADHD test for adults? Mar 29, 2023

If you like this show, consider making a donation this holiday season. 100% of your donation will go towards helping us create more podcasts (like this one!). Click here to make a gift today.

How do doctors test adults for ADHD? What kind of questions do they ask? How long does it take? Understood Explains host Dr. Roberto Olivardia breaks down the process so you’ll know what to look for in a thorough evaluation. Get an overview and answers to common questions.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps

(00:00) Introduction

(00:51) What does an ADHD evaluation look like?

(03:48) So, what are ADHD rating scales?

(04:59) How long does this whole testing process take?

(06:02) What is the diagnostic criteria for ADHD in adults?

(07:42) Why is it so important to be open and honest during an ADHD evaluation?

(08:31) Key takeaway, next episode, and credits

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Who can diagnose ADHD in adults? Mar 29, 2023

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What type of doctor should you see for ADHD diagnosis — primary care provider? Psychologist? Psychiatrist? Is it worth waiting longer to see a specialist? How much does it cost? Get answers to common questions from Understood Explains host Dr. Roberto Olivardia.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps

(00:00) Introduction

(00:50) Can my primary care doctor diagnose ADHD?

(03:19) Do I need a psychiatrist or psychologist to diagnose my ADHD?

(05:13) What other kinds of specialists can diagnose ADHD?

(07:01) How much does it cost to get an ADHD diagnosis?

(08:15) Is it worth waiting longer for a specialist?

(09:05) Key takeaway, next episode, and credits

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Should I get tested for ADHD? Mar 29, 2023

If you like this show, consider making a donation this holiday season. 100% of your donation will go towards helping us create more podcasts (like this one!). Click here to make a gift today.

Are you wondering if your ADHD symptoms are too mild to get tested? Or if there’s enough of a benefit to getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult? Host Dr. Roberto Olivardia shares his own diagnosis story as he answers common questions about whether to get formally tested for ADHD as an adult.

For more resources, including a transcript formatted for easy skimming, visit the episode page on Understood.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:48) Should I get tested for ADHD?

(03:44) Can I diagnose myself with ADHD?

(05:17) What else do I need to know if I think I might have ADHD?

(08:41) Key takeaway, next episode, and credits

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Introducing: Understood Explains, Season 2: ADHD diagnosis in adults Mar 22, 2023

Listen to the trailer for Season 2 of Understood Explains, which explores the ins and outs of adult ADHD diagnosis.

Host Dr. Roberto Olivardia is a psychologist who was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. Join him as he answers the most common questions about ADHD diagnosis, including what to look for in a thorough evaluation and how to treat ADHD with or without medication.

Visit the episode page on Understood.

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Bonus episode: What I wish I’d known sooner about evaluations for special education Aug 02, 2022

Parents, teachers, and psychologists all have something they wish they’d known sooner about the evaluation process. This bonus episode offers tips from parents who have been through the evaluation process at least once — and experts who have been through it hundreds of times.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

How to talk to kids about getting evaluated for special education Aug 02, 2022

“Mom, why are you making me do this?” Learn what to say to your child about getting evaluated. Hear perspectives from a psychologist (host Dr. Andy Kahn), an educator (Julian Saavedra), and a parenting expert (Amanda Morin). Get big-picture advice as well as specifics, like how to address your child’s worries about getting pulled out of class and other kids noticing. This episode also tackles one of the trickiest topics: how much of the evaluation report to share with your child.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Getting reevaluated for special education Aug 02, 2022

How often do kids need to be reevaluated for special education? What are schools looking for when they reevaluate students? Learn the basics from host Dr. Andy Kahn and special education teacher Kate Garcia. And find out key details, like why this process is extra important for high-schoolers who are thinking about going to college. Worried that the school might cut your child’s services? Get advice from parenting expert Amanda Morin on how to avoid passing those feelings on to your child.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Private vs. school-based evaluations for special education Aug 02, 2022

What is a neuropsychologist? What can this specialist do that a school psychologist can’t? (The answer involves making diagnoses.) Listen as host Dr. Andy Kahn and fellow psychologist Dr. Ellen Braaten explain why some families pay for private testing when school evaluations are free. Learn ways to help cover the cost, like asking the school to pay for an independent educational evaluation. And hear from parenting expert Amanda Morin about a tricky topic: what to say if your child is getting private testing after being evaluated by the school.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

How-to resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

What happens after an evaluation for special education Aug 02, 2022

Adverse impact. Eligibility determination. IEPs. 504 plans. What are these things? And what do they have to do with how school evaluation teams decide which kids need which supports? Listen as host Dr. Andy Kahn and special education teacher Lauren Jewett explain what happens after the evaluation report is done. And get tips from parenting expert Amanda Morin on how to talk with your child about next steps.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Understanding the results of a special education evaluation Aug 02, 2022

The first time you look at your child’s evaluation report, you might be overwhelmed. What do all of those numbers mean? And are some numbers more important than others? Host Dr. Andy Kahn unpacks this topic with Harvard psychologist Dr. Ellen Braaten, who co-wrote Straight Talk About Psychological Testing for Kids. Get tips on how to make sense of the results. And hear from parenting expert Amanda Morin on how to share the evaluation findings with your child.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

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Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

What to expect during a special education evaluation Aug 02, 2022

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What happens during a school evaluation? And what role do families play? Host Dr. Andy Kahn and school psychologist Brittney Newcomer explain who’s on the school evaluation team, what they do, and how you can help shape the evaluation plan for your child. Parenting expert Amanda Morin also offers tips on how you can help your child get ready for the evaluation. (Hint: The answer does NOT involve any studying!)

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

How to request an evaluation for special education Aug 02, 2022

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School evaluations are free — and you can ask for one at any time and for any reason. But the details you include when you ask can make a big difference. Host Dr. Andy Kahn and education advocate Christina Gutierrez explain how to request an evaluation and how soon the school needs to respond. Parenting expert Amanda Morin also shares tips on what to say to your child about requesting an evaluation — and what not to say.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Your rights during the special education evaluation process Aug 02, 2022

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What rights do families have in a school evaluation? This episode highlights five key ways that special education law protects your rights during the evaluation process. Host Dr. Andy Kahn talks with lawyer Andrew M.I. Lee about what to do if you think the school isn’t following the rules. And parenting expert Amanda Morin gives tips on what to avoid saying to your child about any disputes with the school.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

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Downloadable letter templates and talking points

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

How to decide if your child needs a special education evaluation Aug 02, 2022

If you like this show, consider making a donation this holiday season. 100% of your donation will go towards helping us create more podcasts (like this one!). Click here to make a gift today.

How do schools decide if a child needs an evaluation? And what role do families play? Host Dr. Andy Kahn explains common reasons to evaluate now — or to wait. Educator Julian Saavedra addresses special education myths that can affect what families decide to do. And parenting expert Amanda Morin offers tips on how to talk to kids about next steps.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

What is a special education evaluation? Aug 02, 2022

If you like this show, consider making a donation this holiday season. 100% of your donation will go towards helping us create more podcasts (like this one!). Click here to make a gift today.

Is your child struggling in school? Are you wondering what supports might help? This episode explains the basics of how schools evaluate kids for special education. Host Andy Kahn is a psychologist. He talks with educator Julian Saavedra about looking for kids’ strengths as well as their weaknesses. Andy also trades tips with parenting expert Amanda Morin on what to say to your child along the way.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Related resources

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Introducing Understood Explains, Season 1: Evaluations for Special Education Jul 12, 2022

Listen to the trailer for Season 1 of Understood Explains, which covers the ins and outs of the process school districts use to evaluate kids for special education. Host Dr. Andy Kahn is a psychologist who spent nearly 20 years evaluating kids for schools. He explains each step of the process and gives tips on how to talk with your child along the way.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at podcast@understood.org.

Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about Understood Explains and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

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