You guys are amazing parents. I homeschool my functioning non verbal 7year old daughter. I thank God I have the opportunity to do it. No one will educate or give her the one and one attention she needs like me. God bless you and your beautiful family 🙏🏼💕
I’ve thought of doing homeschool but he had such a great 1.5 years at school and learned a lot that I’m still hopeful we can get a better flow going since he loves being around other kids, but I will do whatever is necessary if it’s not working out at school. Happy to hear you found what works for you 💙
The iep process for us has been good so far THANK GOD I think these kids need the social interaction I would hate to take my son out of group care to homeschool him you guys are great parents!
We've been cut on speech for lack of focus and participation. It makes no sense to me. I'm so glad yall fought for him, get ready and stay prepared for round two. Wishing you guys luck!!!
Oooh no! I’m sorry it happened to you! Now I’m more worried if it’s something that happens often to kiddos. I’m trying to figure out how to push back with evidence that he needs it... fingers crossed 🤞 💙
Makes no sense? How is a child benefiting from speech if they can’t/won’t sit still and participate? What are they learning? It is a waste of time for the therapist when they could be working with another child who WILL participate and benefit. The district doesn’t have unlimited amounts of staff!
Wow you are coming off very aggressive. Is this something you personally deal with? After changing up certain things and making new strategies I have received notes from his teacher stating how much better he is doing. It’s not about giving up it’s about trying new things.
@@ROCKNSTIMS I come off as aggressive because the teachers at that school are being needlessly humiliated by your videos. There's only so much they can do and provide for every child. And there are other parents looking for extra help as well, and they simply don't have enough staff to cover everything. They're doing their best, I've seen them.
It’s not needless humiliation. I have done my research I have spoken to his current teacher about how much we appreciate her and how we understand she is under staffed. She has vented saying how much she needs help, we have tried talking to the district to get help for her. I have spoken to his former teacher and she agreed we needed to speak up for him because things weren’t working for him. We did just that, spoke up for him. Since then things aren’t perfect but they are ALOT better. No one expects a miracle but we do expect them to follow the IEP to the best of their abilities and now we are all in a good place. Every situation is different. This channel is made for parents by parents to show our struggles and to stand united with each other. Different opinions are welcome, aggression and anger is not.
Thank you so much for this video! My daughter is currently being evaluated for ASD and she is nonverbal. We have been having issues with her speech therapist in the exact same way you all are. She is in a ECSE class with an IEP and I literally have no idea what I can and cannot ask for in those meetings! It’s so hard being pushed into a world that you have no idea about! I’ve since bought some books and been reading up and there are definitely some changes that are going to be made. Again, thank you for this video because it gave me some more insight on all of this!
I’m so happy this video helps. I understand the feeling of confusion and anger in these meetings. Often I go in thinking I GOT THIS! I know I need to ask for this,this and this but somehow they twist and repeat and go over these crazy terms that I end up confused and questioning myself. Just don’t let them see it. And if possible bring someone you trust (BCBA, social worker, etc) 💙💙
IEPs are no joke! You do need someone to represent you. I learned that a little later on in the game but that is another story. My son didn't get what he needed because of it. I am so glad you are staying on top of things. You need to because school is very important to teach him while he is young. Non verbal is very tough. My son isn't non verbal but very shy and was always aggressive at home so hard to teach him anything. We had to rely on what they were trying in school and try to build on that. It was a huge struggle and now he is 20 and learning job skills.
First, thank you for taking the time to do this video. I am a Prof of Spec Ed (and a parent of a child with special needs) as well as a mediator, advocate, trainer and consultant to both professionals and parents with children with special needs. I am going to use your video as a teaching tool to help the students in my teacher prep program gain a better understanding of the experience of parents at these meetings. Christian is a lucky boy to have you both as parents. You are knowledgeable and articulate and seem to be a strong team. Everything you recommended should have been fairly obvious to the special educators you were working with. I was taken aback with their lack of basic knowledge. I want to echo your recommendation to always bring someone with you. You need someone more objective like your BCBA. So great that she picked up on the reduction in speech services. I was appalled that the reasoning for cutting services was because he wasn' t focused. For that reason alone, he should get more-not less. And being a group of 7 makes no sense as the only modality. He definitely needs some individual sessions. I also want to echo your statements about the teacher. The teachers are usually all in. They have no other agenda except to support their students. Administrators, like Spec Ed Dir have a very different agenda, which is maintaining a budget. Still, she was disrespectful to you. I've been experiencing that more and more of late from Spec Ed administrators...real meanness and rudeness toward parents. I look forward to part two of your experience.
Homeschool. If you're a stay at home mom. Homeschool is the best solution for anyone's child. Remember no one knows your child like his/her parents/parent. Design a special curriculum for your child. One that works for him. Teachers today can't do one on one especially if they have more than 3 kids. Trust me my son is just like yours, I would never put him in a public school. Teachers think they know better to EVERYONE'S child when they didn't give birth to them. I know they throw out parents ideas and think they know better than the birth mom. SMH. They're only 8 hrs a day with them, but we as parents have them all 365 days. I hope you look into homeschooling. It'll reduce the teachers attitude and all other b.s. that comes with it. Plus in the end your child learns more.
Flipthelightswitch! Hi. My Son has autism as well. He’s got compliance issue. He is verbal but his conversational is still zero. I agree with you that home schooling is the best way. Personally, I did thought of that. But it didn’t go that direction. Not everyone can just make the decision to home school their kids. For us, we just didn’t have the knowledge & experience to handle special need kids and the academics that goes with it. It’ll take specialist to handle these kids & early intervention needs to be done correctly. I feel once We miss this window, that’s it, who know when our Son will start talking. We’re in Singapore. Presently we are spending about usd$2200 per month on his school fee. It’s a special school that combines therapy & academic under one roof. Anyway I’m loving this channel..! I’m Glad we’re not in this journey alone.
@@azlydin9983 hey I understand. Totally agree with you. If a one parent is able to stay at home, go for it. Is what I'm saying. As far as "experts" "professionals", we the parents are the pros, who had the child?? It's okay to get knowledge from others who has been down that path, but ones child is uniquely and wonderfully made to his/her mother/father. I personally do not trust "the experts" they are known to misdiagnosed children. It's all proven while the child is growing up. (It's called delayed development) they just want the money in most cases. I know a few parents who their children doesn't talk till they're older, way much older, and spend lots of money and time just to find out their child was a late talker and learns at a different pace. (Most cases, not speaking about those with a severe disability) but I hear ya. I know your child will talk in no time, when he is ready and able.
Flipthelightswitch! Hi. I respect your opinions. It is true that some “experts” are known to misdiagnose kids. However for this case, the parents know that their son needs help. So that’s why they’re sending him to this special school. And presently going through the same phrase myself, I’m not saying that my Son’s school is the absolute perfect. He did pick up some undesired behaviour like playing with his saliva etc etc from other kids. But at the same time, he’s getting all the help he needs to correct those undesired behaviours. In addition, being in school is also helping him work on his social skills. And this is just as important.
@@azlydin9983 thanks for being honest and respectful to continue on this subject, I really appreciate that. May I suggest somethin? There's a family on here on RUclips, their daughter is like my brother, except my mother has corrected my brother over the years to do away with his "stems" and other bad habits. My brother is in his 50s and is nonverbal but was raised not to do behaviors like the girl in the video. The parents of that girl are not consistent in correcting her. It's a Shane because that girl knows what she's doing, it's not involuntary. I study behaviors all my life, she is just like brother mentally, BUT the only difference is the parents and therapist, don't correct her. Only thru ABA therapy, but that's like you have to do consistently, which her parents don't do. So they're videos look like the daughter is some what smart, it's very sad and crazy. Unfortunately people who don't have a clue or have relatives that are like mentally retarded, don't have first hand that behaviors can be corrected. Very sad.
Flipthelightswitch! Hi. It’s good to know that your brother is doing well. I guess it’s easier for us to discuss and be on the same frequency since we both have ones close to us with this condition. :-) What channel are you referring to on which girl? Sorry can’t seem to private message you to know more.
: : my 7 yr old with moderate autism and partially verbal has an amazing school & IEP but my friend who has an 11 yr old special needs unspecified but who is clearly on the spectrum was taken from 3rd/4th grade level small special ed class in elementary to junior high this year & he's only 11! Plus it is a year long wait to get his autism assessment done by a professional that the school will approve! They said he'll be fine & will catch up to the other 6th graders but he's digressed completely, they don't follow his IEP, & now he's bullied by 8th grade teens! She is looking into hiring an IEP SE attorney! As parents we need to stay on top of it 24/7 & be amazing advocates for our children! You & Hugo are doing great with Christian's education needs so far! Keep it up! Don't ever settle for less that what he needs & deserves! ; ) : :
I'm so glad that his BCBA went with you. And I'm shocked that they didn't know what a BCBA is (or at least didn't know the terminology). Some of what you've experienced was really familiar to us (like the tension with the district person, we definitely experienced that even in what I thought was an otherwise okay meeting). We're making big changes next year though so I am super nervous about our next one that is coming up. I'm having our daughter's social worker come with us. Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Love hearing about how you are advocating for your son.
How odd! I wonder why the district people get so defensive? It just makes us as parents get our guards up even more 🤦🏻♀️ I’m glad to hear your bringing your daughters social worker to your upcoming important meeting. Any help is appreciated in those moments. Wishing you all the luck and success 💙
Our IEP meeting for our daughter was a fail. She has an ASD diagnosis (high functioning) and the psychologist that diagnosed her recommended speech therapy for pragmatic speech. The school tested her and said it wasn't necessary for her to receive services because it wasn't affecting her academically. I pushed and had them test her further, but she was able to pass just enough that she didn't qualify. Very frustrating. It's definitely a fight! Nervous about IEPs for my nonverbal son's. 😬 We've still got a couple of years to go. Wishing you much luck! I hope you can get those Speech hours for Christian!! Also, would he qualify for a one on one aide in the classroom since they claim he has so much trouble focusing?
I hate how these tests never help our kiddos. They slip through those dam cracks when they really could use the help 😫 Thank you so much for leaving me this comment! I hadn’t even thought about asking for 1:1 aid. I have texted my bcba since she worked in the school district in the past to see if that’s possible. She said it’s going to be very challenging and a lot of steps but we could look into it. We will be discussing more options tomorrow. Thanks for the advise ! 💙
@@ROCKNSTIMS I agree! So frustrating! And you're welcome! A 1:1 is definitely something I'm going to ask about when my boys start school! Being non-verbal, I feel like it's almost going to be necessary in order for them to be heard and to be able to participate with the rest of the class. I hope that will be a possibility for Christian! Keep us posted!
Agreed. IEP’s make us so anxious. Some of these district people are so ignorant and care more about quantity over quality 😠👎🏽you guys are amazing parents you know just how to stand up for your son! Remember, because our children cannot talk, we must speak up and stand for them!! They matter! ❤️love you guys.
Whew! You guys were put through the wringer. Sounds like the district woman was one of the proverbial bean counters🤬And for her to be in the position she was in and claim not to know what a BCBA is? Wth? Glad you and Hugo work out so well together at the gym, may need to start going to the boxing gyms, preparing for these damn IEP battles! 💪🏻💪🏻🥊🥊
If the speech teacher was not there. You could have rescheduled the meeting. Make sure all teachers will be in the meeting by sending an email stating your expecting there attendance.
Omg exactly the same story that happened to us, my son also got cut from speech’s group setting, he’s nonverbal so I assumed they would give him that time one on one but nooo I can totally understand you guys in our IEPs dad is usually the bad guy, I’m too emotional
It’s so hard to go in to these meeting expecting a friendly, team meeting and leaving feeling overwhelmed and nervous for your kiddo. I get pretty worked up too but this time I felt so much more secure and confident knowing my BCBA was there helping us. I’m hopeful we can keep fighting for his speech. Seems like the battle is just starting tho 🤞😓
Now that you’ve had time to vent and decompress, write down things that didn’t sit well with you the most in the meeting. Things that maybe you agreed to that you wish you didn’t or vice versa so that the next meeting you can bring them up. I always think of things after meetings like oh I should’ve said that. Or, oh wow that didn’t make sense. And I often don’t get a resolution because it’s so long until the next meeting. Also, maybe you could ask what the qualificatins for a 1:1 aide would be in the schools special needs program. Even if it’s temporary, Christian deserves to take the time he needs for big tasks like potty time.
Our journey has been horrible. I'm in NY it's so bad I want to go off you know won't disclose to much vulgarity but it's very frustrating. The CPSE administrator went ghost for months until June of this year emailed called since December 18 2018 last meeting was November 29 2018, The IEP wasnt updated as she promised and my son's entire file folder was completely empty so all the meetings and notes GONE. We had a take 5 evaluation done a new IEP was typed I had to stalk the school 3 times for it to be completed and it was rushed so it's a complete mess. The school who did the IEP didn't update it in the system. So placement was a mess we couldn't give them our school of choice because of that. After complaining to DOENY (3 complaints so far) our first placement offer was to far, the second placment the schools IQ is higher than my sons(psychologist typed the IQ portion wrong on the IEP) the children at the 2nd school have behavioural issues (my son doesn't) and last but not least surprise they never updated the system when they mailed the second offer. That means he has no seat and yes I called several times saying I will just take the second offer because I'm so desperate 🤦🏿♀️. A complete MESS! Now I'm speaking with an Advocacy, emailed a nice amount of people within DOE ( no response) called my local councilwoman( could careless), and surprise school starts in September we receive the two placement offers in June when schools and staff are away for the summer. It's a complete mess. 🤯😡
I think they can be expensive but we were going through a state support program for families with autism. It was going to be free. Maybe check if there are any advocacy groups that help families for free.
Im glad u do videos. Ur peraonality is so contagious. Haily has a funny mummy. N christian has a persistent dedicated muma. N hugo has a vivacious attractive fun wife
You were in the right. The problem is not Christian, the problem is that the teacher has not found a right way to reach Christian. Parents, don’t feel defensive. You are doing a great job supporting and speaking up for your son
Hi, I just watched your video. I'm in TX. My 5 yo is currently being evaluated by a developmental specialist outside of school for what we believe is high functioning asd. But the evaluation process is going to take a few months. I've been told by other parents to start iep communication asap with the school as he just started his first year of school in kindergarten. I found your video while doing research. What is a bcba? Where do you find an advocate for iep meetings? I'm definitely new to this process and could use all the advice I can get. I hope I will be able to advocate for my son as well as you have. Thank you.
Board certified behavior analyst is the person that creates behavior plans for your child if they are in ABA therapy. Yes start communication with school regarding IEP meetings I’m not sure how it works in each state but i believe you can go to the school and say you have concerns about your child’s progress and would like to request an iep they should be able to guide you to the right people to start the process. It may be different since your in the process of getting the diagnosis but that would be what i would start with. If you look up IEP advocate help in your state you may find help with getting an advocate to go with you to the iep
I went to a special school and had IEPs before but I never really understood what went on during the meetings My diganosed is on the autism spectrum This is intresting
I would be upset too mama. They shouldn’t be taking away from his speech that’s not right. James has a iep meeting coming up this Monday and I’m praying it goes well. I love James teacher and I’m really hoping next yr we ca start mainstreaming him, and I’m also gonna push for more occupational therapy for him cuz that’s where he is struggling the most.
Sorry to hear about his speech, we definitely need more funding for our special needs classrooms. Seems like the teachers/therapists are stuck optimizing their time and are unable to meet indi idual needs of students.
Haso Hrustic because there are so many students each with their own needs. They don’t have enough staff to provide a therapist for each kid. That’s not their fault
you guys are such awesome prents😘 keep up the great work 😉 how many hours of ABA does Cristian(I hope I spelled his name right) do in a day if you don't mind me asking
Christian is currently receiving 2 hours a day 3x a week. He usually has 5 days but we had to bring it down to 3 for insurance reasons but hopefully soon we go back to 5 days which I feel is a good amount for him 💙😊
@@ROCKNSTIMS my son will most likely be getting 5 days a week and 3-4 hours a day😬 which I was a lil intimidated at first to be honest but I know it's the best for him. Well good luck to all of you on your next IEP and continue with your videos girl😉 love you guys 😘
@@ROCKNSTIMS thanx for the reinsurance we're hoping to see better days for my son Damian and daughter Aaliyah, they are both on the spectrum so it's a lil challenging lol. I just started posting videos on my RUclips feel free to check them out 😉 I will be posting more of my kids later on btw
These meetings are a joke. At least for me . Yes some of the people that attend do think that they are above us the parents. But know at this point all I care about is that my boy's are happy.
Omg... I'm late to the party. They were breaking all kinds of laws. Your son is in district right? Is the class All day ABA with deceit trials? Are they taking ABA data daily for your child? If your child is going to district kindergarten. How are they going to integrated your son with mainstream kids? Do they offer lifestyle skills program? I'm really curious. School district are very disrespectful how they treat kids that are doing well and wont offer or give the kid what they need. I'm super new to your page. Sending good vibes to you and your little ones.
Gabriela Lopez Oh no they don’t! I’ve been in their classroom, I’ve worked with Christian, I’ve seen what goes on. They work their butts off for not just him, but seven other autistic children between ages 3-5. His teacher is wonderful. She is kind but firm, and she knows what she’s doing. As well as her aides. Parents ALWAYS blame teachers for their child not coming home perfectly functioning. It takes a lot of time, energy, and work. And the other kids in his class require just as much attention. Everyone at that school is equal, they can’t favor Christian over the other students.
They can't change iep without your consent. Absolutely request a new iep. Always take your own team because of their tricks. The school is always trying to cut budget. Keep in mine you will have 7 kids now in class but it will always keep growing. They need to provide staff for this. My son's class went to 12 students and they had to hire a new teacher and cut the class in half. Finally you are correct all on the same team.
Oh yeah, just “provide staff”. Whiny parents that demand more and more and more are part of the reason the school district is understaffed. And what “tricks” are the staff pulling? I’ve worked with these people. I’ve seen all the hard work and sacrifice that goes towards helping Christian succeed. They tell the truth.
@@queenofanon9972Here is a trick they use, they your student is getting a 1 to 1 but they really just moving the kiddos to one station at a time. Trust me i know what goes on. I have been dealing with for 8 years. Here is another trick, they will switch out kiddos shoes if they keep taking them off. They switched my son's New Balance shoes to working boots. Did you need more? I got a bunch of them. Bring it Queen Dragon, i can go on for days. Watch your step...I just dropped a microphone.
@@ViN1988-m6w So your kids have been attending this school for 8 years? And you know what goes on..? Do you spend every day at your child's school to watch exactly what they're doing? Do you work with these people? Do you hire spies to observe their every move? And yeah, I've seen them switch shoes if they can't FIND the shoes their kids took off. You think they would switch out shoes just because?
@@queenofanon9972 i have two GPS devices on my son! One is Also a recording device 🤫🤫. Also my son's home ABA therapist works at school. I do have a spy. There are 6 kiddos in my son's class and i expect him to be wearing his shoes. I have a friend that is also a substitute teacher there, but she is a specialist that works with kids with Autism. I know what is going on. Now you know about me. Are you A teacher or parent with a kiddo with special needs?
Marshall McClurg Congrats. And yes, I did work with autistic kids (Christian was one of them). Back to the original post. How easy do you think it is to hire new staff for preschool autism in the hood? And of course schools are trying to cut budget as they CANT PROVIDE EXTRA SERVICES FOR EVERY CHILD. Because once one parent gets what they asked for, it will be a chain reaction and more and more parents will want the same thing for their child. Btw, what do you think schools do with the money they save? Go on vacation to Disneyland?
I used to always watch your videos but I’ve been so busy lately with ABA, OT and speech I’m just now catching up on some of your videos. My Christian is now 2yrs and 8mths and non verbal and getting him ready for kindergarten. I was crying almost this whole video. It scares me really how much we have to fight for our children. Thank you for being so informative and for your channel. Always be watching ☺️ if u r interested my insta in Christiansjourney_ You both are amazing parents ! 💙💙
Heeeeeey i just followed you back like not even an hour ago lol... I saw your page and your little Christian is so cute! Don’t stress about school we got a great experience our first 1.5 years at school. It’s not all bad just be aware of what you want for him and push for it even if they don’t agree the first time around. 💙
One big challenge we struggle with is ability to transfer skills from home to other environments. The sensory over load is just too much for my little guy. I'm fortunate in the fact I can be home with him so his transition to school can be much slower. Hoping it gives him the time he needs to mature and develop. I may home school, what ever he needs and what ever I can do better I will.
Omg I would of been fuming too. Fight fight for his speech hours. In my son school we use a program called Proloquo2Go. He has the same iPad and case at home. Fight for Him.
Please know that your school charges for ABA, OT and speech. My son is the only nonverbal child in his class of 9 autism kids. They have 1 aid for 3 special needs children. Also on the IEP please ask them how much is direct and I detect time. That makes a lot of difference. One on one.
That's awful, they're suppose to give one on one. I also follow finding coopers voice. She just uploaded Proloquo2Go vlog. Her son is also nonverbal. Love you guys.
Also I almost died when you said the reason for cutting speech. I just can't even. What? That's the worst reason to cut his hours! I would have lost it.
Someday I'll Sleep Autism Vlogs hi. I was in a similar situation. But for my case, it’s the speech therapist who told us that our Son is not ready for speech therapy. He needs more occupational therapy. According to her, Once his non compliance behaviour is manageable, then only the speech therapy will be beneficial. We’re in Singapore. And by trade, a speech therapist can also be an occupational therapist. But the rate of a speech therapist is ALOT higher than an occupational therapist. So I guess our ‘then’ speech therapist was doing us a favour by highlighting what we need to prioritise. My Son also has ASD. He’s got compliance issue with limited verbal skill. To date, his conversational skill is still zero. I know it’ll take time, but for sure we’ll get there. He’s turning 5 by the way.
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You guys are amazing parents. I homeschool my functioning non verbal 7year old daughter. I thank God I have the opportunity to do it. No one will educate or give her the one and one attention she needs like me. God bless you and your beautiful family 🙏🏼💕
I’ve thought of doing homeschool but he had such a great 1.5 years at school and learned a lot that I’m still hopeful we can get a better flow going since he loves being around other kids, but I will do whatever is necessary if it’s not working out at school. Happy to hear you found what works for you 💙
The iep process for us has been good so far THANK GOD I think these kids need the social interaction I would hate to take my son out of group care to homeschool him you guys are great parents!
We've been cut on speech for lack of focus and participation. It makes no sense to me. I'm so glad yall fought for him, get ready and stay prepared for round two. Wishing you guys luck!!!
Oooh no! I’m sorry it happened to you! Now I’m more worried if it’s something that happens often to kiddos. I’m trying to figure out how to push back with evidence that he needs it... fingers crossed 🤞 💙
Makes no sense? How is a child benefiting from speech if they can’t/won’t sit still and participate? What are they learning? It is a waste of time for the therapist when they could be working with another child who WILL participate and benefit. The district doesn’t have unlimited amounts of staff!
Wow you are coming off very aggressive. Is this something you personally deal with? After changing up certain things and making new strategies I have received notes from his teacher stating how much better he is doing. It’s not about giving up it’s about trying new things.
@@ROCKNSTIMS I come off as aggressive because the teachers at that school are being needlessly humiliated by your videos. There's only so much they can do and provide for every child. And there are other parents looking for extra help as well, and they simply don't have enough staff to cover everything. They're doing their best, I've seen them.
It’s not needless humiliation. I have done my research I have spoken to his current teacher about how much we appreciate her and how we understand she is under staffed. She has vented saying how much she needs help, we have tried talking to the district to get help for her. I have spoken to his former teacher and she agreed we needed to speak up for him because things weren’t working for him. We did just that, spoke up for him. Since then things aren’t perfect but they are ALOT better. No one expects a miracle but we do expect them to follow the IEP to the best of their abilities and now we are all in a good place. Every situation is different. This channel is made for parents by parents to show our struggles and to stand united with each other. Different opinions are welcome, aggression and anger is not.
Thank you so much for this video! My daughter is currently being evaluated for ASD and she is nonverbal. We have been having issues with her speech therapist in the exact same way you all are. She is in a ECSE class with an IEP and I literally have no idea what I can and cannot ask for in those meetings! It’s so hard being pushed into a world that you have no idea about! I’ve since bought some books and been reading up and there are definitely some changes that are going to be made. Again, thank you for this video because it gave me some more insight on all of this!
I’m so happy this video helps. I understand the feeling of confusion and anger in these meetings. Often I go in thinking I GOT THIS! I know I need to ask for this,this and this but somehow they twist and repeat and go over these crazy terms that I end up confused and questioning myself. Just don’t let them see it. And if possible bring someone you trust (BCBA, social worker, etc) 💙💙
IEPs are no joke! You do need someone to represent you. I learned that a little later on in the game but that is another story. My son didn't get what he needed because of it. I am so glad you are staying on top of things. You need to because school is very important to teach him while he is young. Non verbal is very tough. My son isn't non verbal but very shy and was always aggressive at home so hard to teach him anything. We had to rely on what they were trying in school and try to build on that. It was a huge struggle and now he is 20 and learning job skills.
First, thank you for taking the time to do this video. I am a Prof of Spec Ed (and a parent of a child with special needs) as well as a mediator, advocate, trainer and consultant to both professionals and parents with children with special needs. I am going to use your video as a teaching tool to help the students in my teacher prep program gain a better understanding of the experience of parents at these meetings. Christian is a lucky boy to have you both as parents. You are knowledgeable and articulate and seem to be a strong team. Everything you recommended should have been fairly obvious to the special educators you were working with. I was taken aback with their lack of basic knowledge. I want to echo your recommendation to always bring someone with you. You need someone more objective like your BCBA. So great that she picked up on the reduction in speech services. I was appalled that the reasoning for cutting services was because he wasn' t focused. For that reason alone, he should get more-not less. And being a group of 7 makes no sense as the only modality. He definitely needs some individual sessions.
I also want to echo your statements about the teacher. The teachers are usually all in. They have no other agenda except to support their students. Administrators, like Spec Ed Dir have a very different agenda, which is maintaining a budget. Still, she was disrespectful to you. I've been experiencing that more and more of late from Spec Ed administrators...real meanness and rudeness toward parents.
I look forward to part two of your experience.
Homeschool. If you're a stay at home mom. Homeschool is the best solution for anyone's child. Remember no one knows your child like his/her parents/parent. Design a special curriculum for your child. One that works for him. Teachers today can't do one on one especially if they have more than 3 kids. Trust me my son is just like yours, I would never put him in a public school. Teachers think they know better to EVERYONE'S child when they didn't give birth to them. I know they throw out parents ideas and think they know better than the birth mom. SMH. They're only 8 hrs a day with them, but we as parents have them all 365 days. I hope you look into homeschooling. It'll reduce the teachers attitude and all other b.s. that comes with it. Plus in the end your child learns more.
Flipthelightswitch! Hi. My Son has autism as well. He’s got compliance issue. He is verbal but his conversational is still zero.
I agree with you that home schooling is the best way. Personally, I did thought of that. But it didn’t go that direction. Not everyone can just make the decision to home school their kids. For us, we just didn’t have the knowledge & experience to handle special need kids and the academics that goes with it.
It’ll take specialist to handle these kids & early intervention needs to be done correctly. I feel once We miss this window, that’s it, who know when our Son will start talking.
We’re in Singapore. Presently we are spending about usd$2200 per month on his school fee. It’s a special school that combines therapy & academic under one roof.
Anyway I’m loving this channel..! I’m Glad we’re not in this journey alone.
@@azlydin9983 hey I understand. Totally agree with you. If a one parent is able to stay at home, go for it. Is what I'm saying. As far as "experts" "professionals", we the parents are the pros, who had the child?? It's okay to get knowledge from others who has been down that path, but ones child is uniquely and wonderfully made to his/her mother/father. I personally do not trust "the experts" they are known to misdiagnosed children. It's all proven while the child is growing up. (It's called delayed development) they just want the money in most cases. I know a few parents who their children doesn't talk till they're older, way much older, and spend lots of money and time just to find out their child was a late talker and learns at a different pace. (Most cases, not speaking about those with a severe disability) but I hear ya. I know your child will talk in no time, when he is ready and able.
Flipthelightswitch! Hi. I respect your opinions. It is true that some “experts” are known to misdiagnose kids.
However for this case, the parents know that their son needs help. So that’s why they’re sending him to this special school.
And presently going through the same phrase myself, I’m not saying that my Son’s school is the absolute perfect. He did pick up some undesired behaviour like playing with his saliva etc etc from other kids.
But at the same time, he’s getting all the help he needs to correct those undesired behaviours. In addition, being in school is also helping him work on his social skills. And this is just as important.
@@azlydin9983 thanks for being honest and respectful to continue on this subject, I really appreciate that. May I suggest somethin? There's a family on here on RUclips, their daughter is like my brother, except my mother has corrected my brother over the years to do away with his "stems" and other bad habits. My brother is in his 50s and is nonverbal but was raised not to do behaviors like the girl in the video. The parents of that girl are not consistent in correcting her. It's a Shane because that girl knows what she's doing, it's not involuntary. I study behaviors all my life, she is just like brother mentally, BUT the only difference is the parents and therapist, don't correct her. Only thru ABA therapy, but that's like you have to do consistently, which her parents don't do. So they're videos look like the daughter is some what smart, it's very sad and crazy. Unfortunately people who don't have a clue or have relatives that are like mentally retarded, don't have first hand that behaviors can be corrected. Very sad.
Flipthelightswitch! Hi. It’s good to know that your brother is doing well. I guess it’s easier for us to discuss and be on the same frequency since we both have ones close to us with this condition. :-)
What channel are you referring to on which girl? Sorry can’t seem to private message you to know more.
: : my 7 yr old with moderate autism and partially verbal has an amazing school & IEP but my friend who has an 11 yr old special needs unspecified but who is clearly on the spectrum was taken from 3rd/4th grade level small special ed class in elementary to junior high this year & he's only 11! Plus it is a year long wait to get his autism assessment done by a professional that the school will approve! They said he'll be fine & will catch up to the other 6th graders but he's digressed completely, they don't follow his IEP, & now he's bullied by 8th grade teens! She is looking into hiring an IEP SE attorney! As parents we need to stay on top of it 24/7 & be amazing advocates for our children! You & Hugo are doing great with Christian's education needs so far! Keep it up! Don't ever settle for less that what he needs & deserves! ; ) : :
Thank you for sharing. I always look forward to your videos ... so relatable .
I'm so glad that his BCBA went with you. And I'm shocked that they didn't know what a BCBA is (or at least didn't know the terminology). Some of what you've experienced was really familiar to us (like the tension with the district person, we definitely experienced that even in what I thought was an otherwise okay meeting). We're making big changes next year though so I am super nervous about our next one that is coming up. I'm having our daughter's social worker come with us.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Love hearing about how you are advocating for your son.
How odd! I wonder why the district people get so defensive? It just makes us as parents get our guards up even more 🤦🏻♀️ I’m glad to hear your bringing your daughters social worker to your upcoming important meeting. Any help is appreciated in those moments. Wishing you all the luck and success 💙
Very informative! Thanks for sharing!
Our IEP meeting for our daughter was a fail. She has an ASD diagnosis (high functioning) and the psychologist that diagnosed her recommended speech therapy for pragmatic speech. The school tested her and said it wasn't necessary for her to receive services because it wasn't affecting her academically. I pushed and had them test her further, but she was able to pass just enough that she didn't qualify. Very frustrating. It's definitely a fight! Nervous about IEPs for my nonverbal son's. 😬 We've still got a couple of years to go. Wishing you much luck! I hope you can get those Speech hours for Christian!! Also, would he qualify for a one on one aide in the classroom since they claim he has so much trouble focusing?
I hate how these tests never help our kiddos. They slip through those dam cracks when they really could use the help 😫
Thank you so much for leaving me this comment! I hadn’t even thought about asking for 1:1 aid. I have texted my bcba since she worked in the school district in the past to see if that’s possible. She said it’s going to be very challenging and a lot of steps but we could look into it. We will be discussing more options tomorrow. Thanks for the advise ! 💙
@@ROCKNSTIMS I agree! So frustrating!
And you're welcome! A 1:1 is definitely something I'm going to ask about when my boys start school! Being non-verbal, I feel like it's almost going to be necessary in order for them to be heard and to be able to participate with the rest of the class. I hope that will be a possibility for Christian! Keep us posted!
Agreed. IEP’s make us so anxious. Some of these district people are so ignorant and care more about quantity over quality 😠👎🏽you guys are amazing parents you know just how to stand up for your son! Remember, because our children cannot talk, we must speak up and stand for them!! They matter! ❤️love you guys.
Whew! You guys were put through the wringer. Sounds like the district woman was one of the proverbial bean counters🤬And for her to be in the position she was in and claim not to know what a BCBA is? Wth? Glad you and Hugo work out so well together at the gym, may need to start going to the boxing gyms, preparing for these damn IEP battles! 💪🏻💪🏻🥊🥊
Hahah your so funny 😆 🥊 💯
And yes how does the director not know what a BCBA is? Take your son to another program
If the speech teacher was not there. You could have rescheduled the meeting. Make sure all teachers will be in the meeting by sending an email stating your expecting there attendance.
Omg exactly the same story that happened to us, my son also got cut from speech’s group setting, he’s nonverbal so I assumed they would give him that time one on one but nooo I can totally understand you guys in our IEPs dad is usually the bad guy, I’m too emotional
It’s so hard to go in to these meeting expecting a friendly, team meeting and leaving feeling overwhelmed and nervous for your kiddo. I get pretty worked up too but this time I felt so much more secure and confident knowing my BCBA was there helping us. I’m hopeful we can keep fighting for his speech. Seems like the battle is just starting tho 🤞😓
Now that you’ve had time to vent and decompress, write down things that didn’t sit well with you the most in the meeting. Things that maybe you agreed to that you wish you didn’t or vice versa so that the next meeting you can bring them up. I always think of things after meetings like oh I should’ve said that. Or, oh wow that didn’t make sense. And I often don’t get a resolution because it’s so long until the next meeting. Also, maybe you could ask what the qualificatins for a 1:1 aide would be in the schools special needs program. Even if it’s temporary, Christian deserves to take the time he needs for big tasks like potty time.
That’s great advise ! I will sit down today and write everything down. Thank you 💙
Our journey has been horrible. I'm in NY it's so bad I want to go off you know won't disclose to much vulgarity but it's very frustrating. The CPSE administrator went ghost for months until June of this year emailed called since December 18 2018 last meeting was November 29 2018, The IEP wasnt updated as she promised and my son's entire file folder was completely empty so all the meetings and notes GONE. We had a take 5 evaluation done a new IEP was typed I had to stalk the school 3 times for it to be completed and it was rushed so it's a complete mess. The school who did the IEP didn't update it in the system. So placement was a mess we couldn't give them our school of choice because of that. After complaining to DOENY (3 complaints so far) our first placement offer was to far, the second placment the schools IQ is higher than my sons(psychologist typed the IQ portion wrong on the IEP) the children at the 2nd school have behavioural issues (my son doesn't) and last but not least surprise they never updated the system when they mailed the second offer. That means he has no seat and yes I called several times saying I will just take the second offer because I'm so desperate 🤦🏿♀️. A complete MESS! Now I'm speaking with an Advocacy, emailed a nice amount of people within DOE ( no response) called my local councilwoman( could careless), and surprise school starts in September we receive the two placement offers in June when schools and staff are away for the summer. It's a complete mess. 🤯😡
Good luck on part 2!
I got an question is it expensive to get an advocate and if so is there any payment plans I could get out to lessen the burden?
I think they can be expensive but we were going through a state support program for families with autism. It was going to be free. Maybe check if there are any advocacy groups that help families for free.
Im glad u do videos. Ur peraonality is so contagious. Haily has a funny mummy. N christian has a persistent dedicated muma. N hugo has a vivacious attractive fun wife
You were in the right. The problem is not Christian, the problem is that the teacher has not found a right way to reach Christian. Parents, don’t feel defensive. You are doing a great job supporting and speaking up for your son
Hi, I just watched your video. I'm in TX. My 5 yo is currently being evaluated by a developmental specialist outside of school for what we believe is high functioning asd. But the evaluation process is going to take a few months. I've been told by other parents to start iep communication asap with the school as he just started his first year of school in kindergarten. I found your video while doing research. What is a bcba? Where do you find an advocate for iep meetings? I'm definitely new to this process and could use all the advice I can get. I hope I will be able to advocate for my son as well as you have. Thank you.
Board certified behavior analyst is the person that creates behavior plans for your child if they are in ABA therapy. Yes start communication with school regarding IEP meetings I’m not sure how it works in each state but i believe you can go to the school and say you have concerns about your child’s progress and would like to request an iep they should be able to guide you to the right people to start the process. It may be different since your in the process of getting the diagnosis but that would be what i would start with. If you look up IEP advocate help in your state you may find help with getting an advocate to go with you to the iep
Thanks
Girl I feel you weve had so many iep meetings and problems with them but hopefully you live in a better state then me
I went to a special school and had IEPs before but I never really understood what went on during the meetings
My diganosed is on the autism spectrum
This is intresting
Usually, the facilitator attends the IEP.
I would be upset too mama. They shouldn’t be taking away from his speech that’s not right. James has a iep meeting coming up this Monday and I’m praying it goes well. I love James teacher and I’m really hoping next yr we ca start mainstreaming him, and I’m also gonna push for more occupational therapy for him cuz that’s where he is struggling the most.
Good luck !! Hope your meeting is smooth and stress free 💙
Sorry to hear about his speech, we definitely need more funding for our special needs classrooms. Seems like the teachers/therapists are stuck optimizing their time and are unable to meet indi idual needs of students.
Haso Hrustic because there are so many students each with their own needs. They don’t have enough staff to provide a therapist for each kid. That’s not their fault
you guys are such awesome prents😘 keep up the great work 😉 how many hours of ABA does Cristian(I hope I spelled his name right) do in a day if you don't mind me asking
Christian is currently receiving 2 hours a day 3x a week. He usually has 5 days but we had to bring it down to 3 for insurance reasons but hopefully soon we go back to 5 days which I feel is a good amount for him 💙😊
@@ROCKNSTIMS my son will most likely be getting 5 days a week and 3-4 hours a day😬 which I was a lil intimidated at first to be honest but I know it's the best for him. Well good luck to all of you on your next IEP and continue with your videos girl😉 love you guys 😘
Christian did 4 hours a day when he just started. It definitely can seem overwhelming but it did help a lot. 💙
@@ROCKNSTIMS thanx for the reinsurance we're hoping to see better days for my son Damian and daughter Aaliyah, they are both on the spectrum so it's a lil challenging lol. I just started posting videos on my RUclips feel free to check them out 😉 I will be posting more of my kids later on btw
These meetings are a joke. At least for me . Yes some of the people that attend do think that they are above us the parents. But know at this point all I care about is that my boy's are happy.
7 is not a lot of kids. Do they have one teacher and two assists?
One teacher and a permanent substitute teacher for that classroom. They used to have one teacher 2 assistants but I’m not sure what happened.
Omg... I'm late to the party. They were breaking all kinds of laws.
Your son is in district right? Is the class All day ABA with deceit trials? Are they taking ABA data daily for your child? If your child is going to district kindergarten. How are they going to integrated your son with mainstream kids? Do they offer lifestyle skills program? I'm really curious. School district are very disrespectful how they treat kids that are doing well and wont offer or give the kid what they need. I'm super new to your page. Sending good vibes to you and your little ones.
Why are the parents teaching the teacher how to modify behavior? Sounds like the employees in that school lack experience and training.
Gabriela Lopez Oh no they don’t! I’ve been in their classroom, I’ve worked with Christian, I’ve seen what goes on. They work their butts off for not just him, but seven other autistic children between ages 3-5. His teacher is wonderful. She is kind but firm, and she knows what she’s doing. As well as her aides. Parents ALWAYS blame teachers for their child not coming home perfectly functioning. It takes a lot of time, energy, and work. And the other kids in his class require just as much attention. Everyone at that school is equal, they can’t favor Christian over the other students.
They can't change iep without your consent. Absolutely request a new iep. Always take your own team because of their tricks. The school is always trying to cut budget. Keep in mine you will have 7 kids now in class but it will always keep growing. They need to provide staff for this. My son's class went to 12 students and they had to hire a new teacher and cut the class in half. Finally you are correct all on the same team.
Oh yeah, just “provide staff”. Whiny parents that demand more and more and more are part of the reason the school district is understaffed. And what “tricks” are the staff pulling? I’ve worked with these people. I’ve seen all the hard work and sacrifice that goes towards helping Christian succeed. They tell the truth.
@@queenofanon9972Here is a trick they use, they your student is getting a 1 to 1 but they really just moving the kiddos to one station at a time. Trust me i know what goes on. I have been dealing with for 8 years. Here is another trick, they will switch out kiddos shoes if they keep taking them off. They switched my son's New Balance shoes to working boots. Did you need more? I got a bunch of them. Bring it Queen Dragon, i can go on for days. Watch your step...I just dropped a microphone.
@@ViN1988-m6w So your kids have been attending this school for 8 years? And you know what goes on..? Do you spend every day at your child's school to watch exactly what they're doing? Do you work with these people? Do you hire spies to observe their every move? And yeah, I've seen them switch shoes if they can't FIND the shoes their kids took off. You think they would switch out shoes just because?
@@queenofanon9972 i have two GPS devices on my son! One is Also a recording device 🤫🤫. Also my son's home ABA therapist works at school. I do have a spy. There are 6 kiddos in my son's class and i expect him to be wearing his shoes. I have a friend that is also a substitute teacher there, but she is a specialist that works with kids with Autism. I know what is going on. Now you know about me. Are you A teacher or parent with a kiddo with special needs?
Marshall McClurg Congrats. And yes, I did work with autistic kids (Christian was one of them). Back to the original post. How easy do you think it is to hire new staff for preschool autism in the hood? And of course schools are trying to cut budget as they CANT PROVIDE EXTRA SERVICES FOR EVERY CHILD. Because once one parent gets what they asked for, it will be a chain reaction and more and more parents will want the same thing for their child. Btw, what do you think schools do with the money they save? Go on vacation to Disneyland?
I used to always watch your videos but I’ve been so busy lately with ABA, OT and speech I’m just now catching up on some of your videos. My Christian is now 2yrs and 8mths and non verbal and getting him ready for kindergarten. I was crying almost this whole video. It scares me really how much we have to fight for our children. Thank you for being so informative and for your channel. Always be watching ☺️ if u r interested my insta in Christiansjourney_ You both are amazing parents ! 💙💙
Heeeeeey i just followed you back like not even an hour ago lol... I saw your page and your little Christian is so cute! Don’t stress about school we got a great experience our first 1.5 years at school. It’s not all bad just be aware of what you want for him and push for it even if they don’t agree the first time around. 💙
Rocking The Spectrum we will thanks again ! ❤️☺️
One big challenge we struggle with is ability to transfer skills from home to other environments. The sensory over load is just too much for my little guy. I'm fortunate in the fact I can be home with him so his transition to school can be much slower. Hoping it gives him the time he needs to mature and develop. I may home school, what ever he needs and what ever I can do better I will.
I would like to do a podcast with your husband loudvoicestogether Educational Advocacy Group
Sounds great,Email us with more details please at rockingthespectrum17@gmail.com
By law the school have to provide the iPad we have an app called gotalk now it cost $80.00 fight for one on one aid
Omg I would of been fuming too. Fight fight for his speech hours. In my son school we use a program called Proloquo2Go. He has the same iPad and case at home. Fight for Him.
Please know that your school charges for ABA, OT and speech. My son is the only nonverbal child in his class of 9 autism kids. They have 1 aid for 3 special needs children. Also on the IEP please ask them how much is direct and I detect time. That makes a lot of difference. One on one.
For speech right now they said he has it with I believe 4 other kids so no one on one at this time.
That's awful, they're suppose to give one on one. I also follow finding coopers voice. She just uploaded Proloquo2Go vlog. Her son is also nonverbal. Love you guys.
Also I almost died when you said the reason for cutting speech. I just can't even. What? That's the worst reason to cut his hours! I would have lost it.
I almost did loose it .... I couldn’t believe i heard right 🤦🏻♀️😫
Someday I'll Sleep Autism Vlogs hi. I was in a similar situation. But for my case, it’s the speech therapist who told us that our Son is not ready for speech therapy. He needs more occupational therapy. According to her, Once his non compliance behaviour is manageable, then only the speech therapy will be beneficial.
We’re in Singapore. And by trade, a speech therapist can also be an occupational therapist. But the rate of a speech therapist is ALOT higher than an occupational therapist. So I guess our ‘then’ speech therapist was doing us a favour by highlighting what we need to prioritise.
My Son also has ASD. He’s got compliance issue with limited verbal skill. To date, his conversational skill is still zero. I know it’ll take time, but for sure we’ll get there. He’s turning 5 by the way.