Hi there,

If you’ve ever read your child’s IEP and thought, “I think I understand this… they say my child is included, but I’m not totally sure what their day actually looks like,” this is for you.
 

That uncertainty and confusion matters. Because when inclusion isn’t shaping the IEP from page one, it becomes incredibly hard to justify or support, later.
 

That’s what last week’s The Art of Advocacy live was really about.
Not arguing for inclusion at the end of the meeting, but building it into the IEP from the very beginning where strengths, goals, services, and supports are actually defined.

I know conversations like this can bring up a lot, especially when it’s about your own child.

And the clearer it becomes what inclusion really looks like for your child day to day, the easier it is to notice where belonging is and isn’t being supported.

If you want to spend a little more time with this idea, I’ve shared a few ways to do that below.
 

Start wherever it feels easiest.

Choose what fits your day, there’s no right order and no need to do everything.

🎧 Listen: The Podcast Version
If listening fits your day, start here.
I love how engaging this podcast is!  This conversation was created from last week’s live video that walks through what real inclusion looks like, and where it often turns into something else.

(This 16 minute podcast was generated using AI, based directly on my Facebook Live, to make the ideas easier to access.)
 

❗  Spot the red flags 

If you want something concrete to look at, the infographic highlights common signs that inclusion may be more about physical presence than meaningful participation.
 

This can be especially helpful when you’re reviewing your child’s IEP or thinking about what questions to ask next.
View the infographic
 

If you want the full context, including examples and nuance, the complete 26-minute Facebook Live is now up on YouTube chanel, The Art of Advocacy.

This is the deepest dive.
 Watch the full video

As you look at your child’s IEP, what stands out to you about inclusion?

You don’t need to have all the answers right now.

Clarity often comes one question at a time, and noticing what’s actually happening is a powerful place to start.
 

I’m glad you’re here,

P.S. Asking how inclusion actually works day to day isn’t “rocking the boat.” It’s part of making sure your child is seen and supported as a valuable member of their class and school.