Occupational therapy (OT) is a valuable resource for children on the autism spectrum, providing them with the tools they need to thrive in daily activities and social interactions. OT focuses on helping children develop the skills necessary for independence and participation in their everyday lives, addressing various challenges associated with autism. In this blog post,…
Playgrounds are vibrant spaces where children come together to play, explore, and connect. However, for many children with communication challenges, these spaces can sometimes feel isolating. One innovative solution that is gaining traction in various communities is the implementation of communication boards. During a recent visit to the Ferryway School in Malden, Massachusetts, I encountered…
When it comes to the education of children with special needs, Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings are critical moments for families and schools alike. However, as a parent who has attended numerous IEP meetings, I’ve noticed a troubling trend: the focus often seems to shift from the needs of the child to the need to…
I’ve been advised that moving forward, a school administrator will be present at all future meetings. This leaves me questioning the intent behind this decision. Is this truly an effort to drive meaningful change, to ensure that Nora gets the supports she needs, or is it another tactic to create additional layers of bureaucracy, more…
As Nora approaches her sixth birthday, we’re in the midst of navigating a critical process: her three-year special education evaluation meeting. Nora, now a kindergartener at Hiawatha, has had a tough transition, and so have we as parents. The purpose of this meeting is to ensure that the school district complies with rules and regulations…