ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents
ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents is your go-to guide for understanding the IEP process—without the overwhelm.
Hosted by Monica Trost, a Licensed Educational Psychologist (#4660) and parent, this podcast breaks down special education terms, systems, and strategies in clear, bite-sized episodes. Each week, we walk through one IEP concept from A to Z—like accommodations, behavior plans, and extended school year—along with real-life stories and practical tips you can actually use.
Whether you’re new to special education or deep in the IEP world, these episodes are designed to help you build confidence, feel more informed, and advocate with clarity.
📎 Free companion handouts available for every episode at www.preparedparentadvocate.com
Episodes
Aug 15, 2025
Aug 15, 2025
3 min
If you’re worried your child is being seen only for their challenges—not their strengths—you’re not alone. In this short episode, I’m sharing what to ask, how to shift the conversation, and ways to advocate without conflict. This one blends personal reflection with practical, calm guidance.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/
Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.
Aug 15, 2025
Aug 15, 2025
4 min
If you’ve ever been told your child doesn’t need accommodations—but your gut says otherwise—this one’s for you. In this quick Q&A episode, I’m breaking down why schools sometimes say no, what to ask in response, and how to share what you’re seeing at home.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/
Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.
podcast
Aug 15, 2025
Aug 15, 2025
5 min
What do schools mean when they say “behavior”? In this episode, we unpack what qualifies as a concern, when a formal plan might help, and what a strong Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) actually includes. Plus, a parent story and key questions to ask at your next IEP meeting.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/
Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.
Aug 5, 2025
Aug 5, 2025
5 min
What counts as an accommodation? In this first episode, I break down the role of accommodations, how they support students without lowering expectations, and how to tell if they’re actually helping.
✨ Don’t forget to grab the free handout for a summary and reflection prompts at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast
Follow @preparedparentadvocate on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/
Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.