Hey there,

Can you believe we’re already counting down the final weeks of the school year?

There’s a lot happening right now, field trips, end-of-year performances, and maybe even that last-minute IEP meeting (lucky you/me, right?). I’ve been feeling the whirlwind too.
 

These next few weeks, I’m especially excited to see two of my younger grandsons in their elementary school music concert, cheer on grandkids at a couple more baseball games, and soak up another Track & Field event. Our middle school granddaughter has a drama performance coming up, and we’re celebrating our oldest grandson’s 16th birthday. Sixteen! It’s one of those seasons where your heart feels full, and your calendar is a little too full, too.
 

But even with all the busyness, I didn’t want you to miss a couple of things that change the conversations at IEP meetings.
 

First, I recently went live with a video that blends two surprising worlds: FBI hostage negotiation and famous marketing slogans.
 

Yep, the kind from TV commercials (think Mad Men) and how they can help you advocate more confidently for your child in IEP meetings.
 

Stick with me, it’s not as far-fetched as it sounds. In fact, it’s deeply human.
 

You’ll learn how negotiation expert Chris Voss (of Never Split the Difference fame) teaches us to slow down, listen with empathy, and use silence and questions to build connection, not conflict.
 

Next up was the Wheel of Slogans, short, powerful phrases like “Think Different” that help you anchor your message in emotion, not just data.
 

Click here to watch the video.

Use these time stamps to fast forward the video to the topic you are most interested in.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:49 FBI Negotiation Tactics Every Parent Should Know

03:02 How Marketing Slogans Can Shape Powerful Advocacy Messages

05:09 Interactive Segment: The Wheel of Slogans

06:08 You're in Good Hands (Trust & Credibility)

09:08 The Pause That Refreshes (Using Silence Effectively)

12:02 Have It Your Way (Centering Family Voice in the IEP)

15:56 It Keeps Going and Going (Consistency in Advocacy)

19:58 Think Different (Dismantling Outdated Beliefs)

24:30 Can You Hear Me Now? (Being Heard When It Matters Most)

28:28 You’re Worth It (Presuming Competence for Your Child)

32:30 The Ultimate Driving Experience (What It Looks Like When Inclusion Works)

Second, I’ve put together a brand-new handout for you. This guide is all about helping you phrase your questions and requests in new ways at IEP meetings so you get the end results you want.
Your child is:

💠 seen as capable.
💠  in general ed. with meaningful support.
💠 learning more every day.

Click here to download your free guide: Persuasive Conversations.

This guide will help you be more confident and persuasive in your child's IEP meetings.

🟪 What to Ponder: Could a pause, a breath, or one well-placed question change the tone of the meeting?
 

🟨 What to Ask: Would it be a ridiculous idea to __________?
Fill in the blank then pause. Let people respond. You might be surprised by what is said and how helpful it can be.

🟦 What to Do: Take a moment today to recognize yourself. You show up, speak up, and keep going even when it’s hard. That matters. 
 

Give yourself credit you’re doing more than enough.

Take a deep breath. You’ve got this, and I’m here cheering you on!