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
Meet the Experts: Enhancing Executive Function with Suzanne Pickell, LEP
In this enlightening episode of ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents, Monica Trost sits down with licensed educational psychologist and executive functioning coach, Suzanne Pickell. Together, they unravel the complexities of executive functioning, a term often used but not fully understood. Suzanne explains what executive functioning entails, including skills like planning, organization, and task initiation. She shares insights on how parents can assess their child's executive functioning skills through rating scales and direct measures, while also providing practical strategies for supporting their development.
Listeners will learn about the importance of scaffolding in helping children gain independence in their executive functioning skills, and how to manage expectations around progress. Monica and Suzanne discuss the significance of metacognition and self-awareness, emphasizing the need for children to understand their own learning processes. Tune in to discover effective tools and strategies that can empower both parents and children to navigate the challenges of executive functioning in a supportive and understanding environment.
🎁 Sign up to the newsletter: https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/abc-podcast-subscribe
📸 Follow Monica on Instagram: @preparedparentadvocate
🛠 Need an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for a free consult with Monica Trost, Licensed Educational Psychologist #4660.
Reach out to Suzanne: https://www.primedpotential.com/
Disclaimer: podcast is for educational purposes only.
16 Sept 2026
Meet the Experts: Recreational Activities with Melissa McDonough (OT) and Brittney Payne (SLP)
In this episode of ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents, Monica sits down with Brittany Payne, a speech language pathologist, and Melissa McDonough, an occupational therapist, to explore the powerful partnership between speech and occupational therapy in supporting children’s development. They discuss their collaborative approach, sharing insights on how co-treating enhances therapy outcomes and addresses the unique needs of students. Brittany and Melissa highlight the importance of sensory regulation in communication and how working together allows them to create tailored strategies for each child. The conversation also delves into the differences between public and non-public school settings, the role of support staff like SLPAs, and the innovative outdoor therapy program they co-founded, Nature Speaks, aimed at fostering social skills in a natural setting. Tune in to learn how these dynamic professionals are making a difference in the lives of children and families.
🎁 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/abc-podcast-subscribe
📸 Follow Brittany and Melissa on Instagram: @naturespeakzbayarea
🛠 Need an independent educational evaluation? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com for Monica Trost, Licensed Educational Psychologist #4660.
Disclaimer: Podcast is for educational purposes only.
2 Sept 2026
Meet the Experts: Parent Coaching for Children Ages 1-8 with Priscilla Nyo, LMFT
In this episode of ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents, Monica Trost sits down with Priscilla Ngo, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in early childhood. They explore the vital role parents play in supporting their young children, especially during the challenging early years. Priscilla shares her insights on the importance of parent involvement in therapy, the unique dynamics of family systems, and how empowering parents can lead to meaningful changes for children. They discuss the shift parents experience from feeling overwhelmed to becoming confident advocates, and the significance of understanding developmental stages. Tune in for practical advice on navigating the transition from early intervention to school settings and learn how effective communication with school teams can enhance your child's educational experience. This episode is packed with valuable strategies for parents looking to support their child's growth and development.
🎁 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/abc-podcast-subscribe
📸 Follow Priscilla on Instagram: @nyotherapy
🛠 Need an independent educational evaluation (IEE)? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com to learn more with Monica Trost, Licensed Educational Psychologist #4660.
Podcast is for educational purposes only.
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