The power of self-advocacy for kids at IEP and 504 meetings

<p>Self-advocacy is the ability to communicate your needs. It’s important for thriving in school, at work, and in life. But it’s not something that comes naturally for kids — and even most adults. So how do we help kids build their self-advocacy muscles?  </p><p>In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra talk about self-advocacy with Melody Maitland, a director of student services and former special education teacher. Melody believes that kids deserve a seat at the table in IEP and 504 meetings and that we should prepare them with self-advocacy skills.  </p><p>Hear how she helps kids learn to speak up for themselves, starting with self-awareness. Get tips for building your child’s self-advocacy skills at home. And learn why adults are often the biggest obstacles to kids learning to self-advocate. </p><p>To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, <a href="https://www.understood.org/podcasts/in-it/self-advocacy-iep-504-plan-meetings">visit the episode page at Understood</a>.  </p><p>We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at <a href="mailto:init@understood.org">init@understood.org</a>.  </p><p>Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about <i>In It </i>and all our podcasts at <a href="https://www.understood.org/podcast">u.org/podcasts</a>. Copyright © 2022 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. </p>