Most parents walk into IEP or 504 meetings hoping to advocate for their child, but unfortunately, many of them walk out feeling unheard, overwhelmed, and unsure of what just happened.
In this episode of The Soaring Child podcast, Dana sits down with attorney and licensed clinical mental health clinician Paula Yost to break down exactly why these meetings feel so difficult and what you can do to change that. Paula brings a rare and deeply valuable perspective, combining legal expertise with real-life experience as a mom navigating the system herself. She is the author of Tumbleweeds: How to Be an Advocate for Your Children and Yourself in a Failing System.
You’ll learn the critical differences between IEPs and 504 plans (and why many children with ADHD are often placed in the wrong one), how to recognize when your child isn’t truly being supported (even if their grades look “fine”), and what to say in the moment when you feel dismissed or unheard.
This conversation is packed with practical strategies, real scripts you can use immediately, and empowering insights to help you walk into your next school meeting with clarity and confidence. Most importantly, it will remind you that you have the right to advocate for your child every step of the way.
LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW
- Paula’s Website – https://paulayost.com
- Paula’s book, Tumbleweeds – https://amzn.to/3O2ej9y
CONNECT WITH PAULA YOST
- Website: https://paulayost.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulajyostauthor
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulayostauthor
