Resources

Advocacy Toolkit and Resource Library

Discover practical guides and step-by-step tips to support your child’s education, from IEP planning to effective communication with schools.

10 steps to get you started https://www.informingfamilies.org/post/learning-advocacy-in-special-education

Learn more about IDEA https://exceptionallives.org/guides/rights-special-education-idea/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=8331384849&gbraid=0AAAAADgbgsIsD8YsIIKWkbNIvD3DxxTcZ&gclid=Cj0KCQjwm6POBhCrARIsAIG58CLhSOwss_TI5IcOMMGobkz4PzBMx7TWMa3-aubhaOy9MYk4GiXfe3saAqPdEALw_wcB

IDEA regulations https://sites.ed.gov/idea/statuteregulations/

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act: FAPE Free Appropriate Public Education https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/civil-rights-laws/disability-discrimination/frequently-asked-questions-section-504-free-appropriate-public-education-fape

What you need to bring to an IEP meeting https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-to-bring-to-an-iep-meeting

Information about other types of neurodivergence and IEPs https://www.understood.org/

A clean, minimalist home workspace designed for parent advocacy features a slim, matte-black laptop displaying a professional “School Meeting Preparation Checklist” alongside a neatly opened planner with tabbed sections titled “Goals,” “Accommodations,” and “Follow-Up.” A neutral-toned ceramic mug and a simple, brushed-metal desk lamp with soft warm light sit nearby on a white desk surface with crisp edges. Through a partially seen window, diffused daylight blends with the lamp’s glow, creating balanced, gentle lighting and subtle shadows. Shot from a three-quarter angle with shallow depth of field, the photograph emphasizes the tools on the desk while softly blurring a tidy bookcase in the background. The overall feel is focused, composed, and empowering for parents preparing to advocate for their child’s education.

Casey. (2021). IEP vs 504 Plan- What’s the Difference. YouTube. https://youtu.be/YDgozO6QvO0?si=fb94avW4g0sHDME9

Cunningham, K. (2021). Do you really know your IEP rights? YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5tw8mzfTFs

Cunningham, K. (2020). When you disagree about the IEP. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhSLswESTzE

Easy to Follow Resource Videos

Definitions

IDEA Act: Individuals with Disabilities Act. This protects the rights of children to make sure they get a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their specific needs. This includes learning in the least restrictive environment (LRE), which means being with their peers as much as possible. This will result in an individualized education program (IEP), which is an educational plan tailored to the student.

Resource Requests

Allow parents to request specific resources or report gaps so the library can continually improve and stay relevant.

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An empty, well-organized resource room in a school features open shelving with neatly labeled bins in muted blues and grays, each tagged with terms like “Sensory Tools,” “Visual Schedules,” and “Communication Supports.” In the center, a rectangular white table holds a laminated visual schedule strip, a set of noise-cancelling headphones, and a simple, neutral-colored timer. Overhead fluorescent lights provide consistent, soft illumination, minimizing harsh shadows and emphasizing clarity. The photograph is taken at eye level with a slightly wide angle to capture the full layout, maintaining sharp focus and a structured, corporate aesthetic. The mood is calm, orderly, and supportive, highlighting practical resources used to advocate for effective accommodations for students with autism.