Your go-to
parent guide
for
understanding
special education
and advocating
with confidence.
WHAT THIS BOOK OFFERS
UNDERSTAND YOUR RIGHTS
Clear, accessible breakdowns of the IDEA and Section 504 laws.
BUILD ADVOCACY SKILLS
Get practical tips, real scripts, and powerful tools to speak up for your child.
NAVIGATE THE IEP PROCESS
Step-by-step help for evaluations, meetings, goal writing, and more.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
PREFACE
LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
KEY TERMS & ACRONYMS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION
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INTRODUCTION
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Chapter 1: Understanding Special Education
A. Key Terminology You Need To Know
B. What Is Special Education?
C. Myths & Misconceptions About Special Education
Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Power
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Chapter 2: Funding For Special Education
A. Overview Of Funding Sources
B. Applying For Financial Assistance
C. Understanding The Budgeting Process
Final Thoughts: Securing & Advocating For Special Education Funding
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Chapter 3: Identifying Your Child’s Needs
A. Signs Your Child May Need Support
B. Differences Between Disabilities
C. Effective Evaluations
Final Thoughts: The Power Of Effective Assessments
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Chapter 4: The IEP Process
A. Understanding The IEP
B. Steps to Develop An IEP
C. What To Do When It Breaks Down
Final Thoughts: Taking Charge Of The Process
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Chapter 5: Building A Support Team
A. The Role Of Parents As Advocates
B. Who Should Be On Your Team?
C. Communication Strategies With Educators
Final Thoughts: Navigating The Labyrinth Together
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Chapter 6: Navigating The School System
A. Understanding Your Rights As A Parent
B. What Districts Are Responsible For
C. How To Handle Conflicts With Schools
Final Thoughts: Holding The System Accountable
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Chapter 7: Accommodations, Modifications, & Related Services
A. Types Of Accommodations
B. Understanding Modifications
C. Related Services—The Backbone Of Support
Final Thoughts: The Right Supports At The Right Time
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Chapter 8: Transition Planning
A. Importance Of Early Planning
B. Steps For Successful Transitions
C. Tools For Transition Readiness
Final Thoughts: Preparing For A Future that Works
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Chapter 9: Behavioral Challenges
A. Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs): Decoding Behavior
B. Behavioral Intervention Plans (BIPs): The Roadmap To Solutions
C. Restraint And Seclusion: Protecting Your Child’s Rights
Final Thoughts: Behavior Is Not the Problem—Misunderstanding It Is
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Chapter 10: Discipline Protections Under The IDEA
A. Manifestation Determination Review (MDR)
B. Patterns Of Removal: One Day Here, Two Days There… Add Up
C. Alternative Placements: Navigating Detours
Final Thoughts: Your Child’s Rights Do Not Get Suspended
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Chapter 11: Bullying, Harassment, And Intimidation
A. Finding Your Way Through A Difficult Landscape
B. Your Rights When Your Child Is Bullied (or The Bully Themself)
C. Taking Action: Steps For Prevention and Resolution
Final Thoughts: Safety Is Not Optional
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Chapter 12: Navigating School Avoidance And Truancy
A. Understanding School Avoidance And Truancy
B. Root Causes And Legal Protections
C. Getting Support And Taking Action
Final Thoughts: From Absences To Answers
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Chapter 13: Advocating for Your Child
A. Understanding Your Role As An Advocate
B. Building Collaborative Relationships
C. Turning Advocacy Into Action
Final Thoughts: The Long-Term Impact Of Advocacy
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Chapter 14: Emotional Well-being For Parents
A. Coping With Stress And Anxiety
B. Self-Care Strategies
C. Finding Humor In The Chaos
Final Thoughts: Balancing Advocacy And Emotional Well-being
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Chapter 15: Navigating Field Trips And Extracurricular Activities
A. Finding Inclusive Programs
B. Encouraging Participation
C. Advocating For Lasting Change
Final Thoughts: Building A More Inclusive Future
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Chapter 16: Building Independence
A. Teaching Core Life Skills: Building Everyday Confidence
B. Encouraging Social Independence
C. Preparing For Employment & Post-Secondary Opportunities
Final Thoughts: Setting Up For A Successful Future
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Chapter 17: Celebrating Milestones
A. Recognizing Progress
B. Creative Ways To Celebrate
C. Documenting Your Child’s Journey
Final Thoughts: Embracing The Journey
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Chapter 18: Staying Informed
A. Your Advocacy Toolkit
B. Joining Support Networks
C. Engaging In Policy And Legislative Advocacy
Final Thoughts: Parents Are The Frontline Of Advocacy
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APPENDIX 1: Understanding What Evaluations Cover
APPENDIX II: Is It Time To Request An Evaluation Checklist
APPENDIX III: Sample Email To Request An Evaluation
APPENDIX IV: IEP/Eligibility Meeting Checklist
APPENDIX V: IEP Goals Checklist For Parents
APPENDIX VI: Age-Appropriate Ways For Kids To Join The IEP Process
APPENDIX VII: Your IEP Team Map
APPENDIX VIII: Parent Concerns And Prep Guide
APPENDIX IX: Sample Email Template To Report Bullying
APPENDIX X: Advocacy Quick Start Checklist
APPENDIX XI: Life Skills Readiness Checklist
APPENDIX XII: Advocacy & Special Education Resource Guide
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dana Jonson, MSEd, JD, is a Connecticut-based Civil Rights attorney who has dedicated her career to advocating for children with disabilities. As a seasoned special education attorney, Dana guides families through every phase of the special education process—from IEP meetings to courtroom litigation—with empathy, tenacity, and deep expertise.
Before entering law, Dana was a special education teacher and administrator, holding K–12 certification in Intensive Special Needs. Her dual background in education and law gives her a rare insider’s view of the system she now helps families navigate. She holds a JD from Northeastern University School of Law, an MSEd in Intensive Special Needs from Simmons College, and a BS in Developmental Psychology from Fairfield University.
Dana also hosts the popular podcast Special Ed on Special Ed, where she and fellow experts break down complex topics to empower parents and caregivers. She regularly leads workshops for families and educators, turning complicated legal rights into clear, actionable guidance.
A mother of five children with varying special education needs—and a foster parent to many more—Dana understands firsthand the challenges parents face. Her lived experience fuels her unwavering commitment to helping families find their voice, understand their rights, and advocate effectively.
Dana lives in Connecticut with her husband, children, three dogs, and two cats.
WHERE TO GET YOUR COPY
eBook
