I wish someone had told me the advice Ryan gives parents worried about the IEP process.
When she said it in the interview, I almost cried.
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Ryan Rose Weaver is an educator and parent to a twice-exceptional child. In this episode, we talked about the challenges of balancing intensive caregiving seasons, and the importance of parental self-compassion. In particular, we focused on the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process.
Ryan shared her personal story of navigating her child's struggles in a Montessori school setting. offering insights into how she balanced her own self-care through creative practices like movement and writing.
We also explored the importance of creating relational rituals, advocating for better communication between parents and teachers, and practical practices to maintain mental and emotional well-being.
The most impactful part of the conversation for me was Ryan’s perspective as a teacher conducting IEP meetings, and her advice and strategies for stressed out parents.
The episode wraps up with a guided mindfulness practice for parents, encouraging tranquility and resilience.
00:00 Introduction to Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Podcast
00:43 Introduction to Ryan Rose Weaver
01:47 Challenges in Early Education
03:02 Discovering Sensory Integration Issues
04:30 Navigating the IEP Process
08:18 Creative Practices as Survival Instinct
08:59 Balancing Parental Identity and Self-Care
09:28 The Importance of Self-Tending
10:15 Challenges in the Education System
16:01 Teacher-Parent Relationships
17:02 Preparing for IEP Meetings
18:11 Advocating for Children in IEP Meetings
25:05 Creating Rituals for Self and Relational Care
27:54 Including Children in IEP Meetings
34:22 Mindfulness and Support Practices
41:45 Conclusion and Guest Information
Find Ryan on Substack and Instagram at Ryan Rose Weaver.
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