Overview

A concise, step-by-step blueprint for parents and caregivers to understand and maximize special education services, and the accommodations children need for full inclusion in the classroom. Using simple, straightforward language, author Kat McGrady walks readers through every stage of the special education process. From the types of disorders that qualify for specialized services, including options for testing and evaluation, to the roles and responsibilities of everyone involved in a child's educational treatment plan, this guide outlines how to ensure every child enjoys a rewarding and successful schoolyear. Each chapter addresses key elements of the special education process, including the most common types of interventions, such as 504 and individualized education plans. Insights into how to collect relevant data, share information, and collaborate with school staff so appropriate accommodations can be made are highlighted, along with strategies to enhance the treatment planning process. The author also explores cultural factors that can influence treatment planning and offers guidance on what parents can do if a treatment plan is not being followed or their child is not receiving the supports, modifications, and access they are entitled to by law. Special emphasis is given to helping parents acknowledge and accept their child's diagnosis, understand their responsibilities on the treatment planning team, and advocate forcefully but fairly on their child's behalf. The book's appendix features a helpful glossary of commonly used terms, as well as at-a-glance summaries of key legal cases, agencies, departments, and organizations responsible for special education programs and services. In a tone that is encouraging and reassuring, parents are given the information, tools, and confidence they need to actively participate in their child's learning while also helping them reach their full potential. Author Kat McGrady, EdD, LCPC, NCC has experience as an educator, school counselor, and mental health therapist. She currently works in private practice as a therapist and parent coach. Kat also serves as an adjunct professor for the Johns Hopkins University Master's in Education program, as well as a doctoral advisor for the Johns Hopkins University School of Education. She is the author of Mental Health from Diagnosis to Delivery and Building Resiliency in Youth: A trauma-informed guide for working with youth in schools, as well as the guide's corresponding teen workbook and children's activity guide.

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Reviews

""As a parent of a child with special needs, I'm quite familiar with feeling 'misunderstood, uncertain, overwhelmed, or alone, ' as Dr. McGrady describes in this unique and beneficial guide for forming school and parental partnerships. Putting the parents at the helm, this book serves as a map for navigating partnerships with a child's school system to ensure the best possible educational outcomes. Between therapists, administrators, assessments, and other appointments, parents are inundated with acronyms, such IEP, IFSP, and IDEA. However, Dr. McGrady offers easily understood, comprehensive definitions while walking you through the entire educational process; therefore, empowering parents with a sense of control in an otherwise uncontrollable diagnosis. Whether your child has a physical, mental, or learning disability (or a combination of these), the book begins with the data gathering step via your child's teacher, school psychologist, pediatrician, and extended family caregivers, then moves on to the evaluation process. The discussion then moves to accepting and embracing a diagnosis and building a blueprint for treatment. Dr. McGrady includes important questions for parents to ask during school meetings and how to create a long-lasting, positive relationship with the entire school staff. Once again, this guide is for supporting you: the most important person in your child's life."" Jacqueline Renfrow, education commissioner and mother of three ""As a therapist working with families for more than 30 years and, myself, a former Clinical Director in a special education school, I happily recommend Dr. McGrady's book as a treasure chest for parents. This book takes you by the hand, explains, encourages, and educates every step of the way as parents navigate the space between their child's emerging needs and the services of the educational system. The detailed and specific information about what school systems offer is carefully and respectfully woven into a context of empathy and consideration for children and families. Dr. McGrady's knowledge is exceptional, and the way she presents information makes for a very engaging read that imparts tremendous wisdom. I have many books on my professional shelves, but only a select few get dog-eared from frequent referencing. This will be one of those books."" Kathleen Landers, LCSW-C, Founding Director of Sequence Services ""The author's tone is empathetic as she highlights practical strategies for parents and guardians of students with a mental or physical disability. The book features a detailed table of contents and succinct summaries of each chapter in the front, so readers can quickly and easily find the necessary information. Navigating the numerous processes that often accompany the identification of a disability can be overwhelming and confusing for families. I highly recommend this text as it was written in a way that aims to validate and empower adults as they seek resources for their student inside and outside of school."" Dr. Jennifer Snow, assistant professor and former high school teacher ""This parent's guide to navigating the unique mental and physical needs of children takes the mystery out of supporting children who need extra support, so they can thrive within their educational environments. I recommend this book to any parent who needs guidance on how to best advocate for their child's unique educational needs."" Dr. Camille Bryant, professor and mother of two

Author Information

Kat McGrady (Ed.D, LCPC, NCC) has experience as an educator, school counselor, and mental health therapist. Her dedication to child & adolescent wellbeing and to education is evident in her work to provide parents, professionals, and youth with individualized strategies and evidence-based practices in order to promote growth and success. Currently, Kat works in private practice as therapist and parent coach. She also serves as an adjunct professor for the Johns Hopkins University Master's in Education program, as well as a doctoral advisor for the Johns Hopkins University School of Education.

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