Opportunity Gap: How to Support Kids of Color Who Learn Differently

What can parents do when the school falls short in providing the right support for their child’s learning differences? How can parents avoid burning bridges while still advocating for change for their child?In this episode of Opportunity Gap, host Julian Saavedra talks with Jamilah Bashir. Jamilah is an education consultant and IEP coach. Listen as Jamilah explains why a school may not be providing adequate support. And why having a detailed record of a child’s struggles is key when meeting with the school. To get a transcript and check out more episodes, visit the Opportunity Gap episode page at Understood.We love to hear from our listeners. Email us at opportunitygap@understood.org.Related resourcesJamilah F. Bashir, MEd, The IEP Coach LLCMaster the IEP Course by Jamilah F. Bashir, MEdUnilateral placement: Moving from public to private schoolTimestamps(02:23) Ways to tell if the school is providing the right support(04:34) Ways to tell if your child needs more support(07:40) Reasons why a school may have trouble providing support(11:28) Why documenting your child’s struggles is important(15:46) How to communicate with the school effectively (18:14) What do you do when you’ve exhausted all efforts to get your child the right support?(28:30) What is unilateral placement? Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

For some parents, building independence in kids with learning and thinking differences might feel overwhelming. But it’s an important part of kids’ growth. Because when kids learn to do things on their own, they begin to feel more confident.Listen as Julian explains how learning and thinking differences can impact kids’ ability to build independence. Learn why teaching kids how to navigate the world with confidence is key. And get tips on how to teach independence at home.   To get a transcript and check out more episodes, visit the Opportunity Gap episode page at Understood.We love to hear from our listeners. Email us at opportunitygap@understood.org.Related resources5 ways to help tweens and teens be independent learnersLet GrowTimestamps(01:13) Why is independence important?(06:18) What is a growth mindset?(06:56) Why parents should praise kids’ efforts(11:01) Ways to teach kids independence at home(14:15) How Julian teaches his children independence(16:39) Tips for parents  Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Going back to school can be an exciting time for kids and parents. But for some kids, it can also be full of stress and uncertainty. Especially if the previous school year had its share of ups and downs. Maybe your child had a tough time in math class? Or maybe making friends was a challenge? Listen as host Julian Saavedra explains how parents can get kids ready for the new school year with confidence. Hear why it’s important for parents and kids to reflect on the previous year. And learn ways to help kids manage challenges in the classroom. We love to hear from our listeners. Email us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  To get a transcript and check out more episodes, visit The Opportunity Gap episode page at Understood.  Related resourcesBack-to-school making you and your child anxious? These strategies can helpWhat to say when your child doesn’t want to go to schoolJulian’s book recommendation: The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizziTimestamps(00:47) Why is it important for parents and kids to talk about school?(02:37) Questions to ask your child about school(09:00) How to handle challenges in the classroom with confidence  (12:16) “The Magical Yet” Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Summer break can be a great time to learn new skills. And to keep old ones from getting rusty. But how so?In this episode, Julian shares how to prevent the “summer slide.” And gives tips on how to create moments for learning.Related resourcesStopping “summer slide”Summer survival guide: Hacks to help your family thriveSummer learning programs for kids who learn and think differentlyTo get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit The Opportunity Gap podcast page at Understood.org.We love to hear from our listeners. Email us at opportunitygap@understood.org. Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Some parents think about behavior in a negative way, like a problem they don’t want to deal with. But the truth is, behavior is just a form of communication.On this bonus episode of The Opportunity Gap, we’re sharing an episode from another Understood podcast, Parenting Behavior with Dr. Andy Kahn. Listen as Dr. Andy explains the truth behind kids’ actions. And gives tips for how parents can respond to their kids’ challenging behaviors. Visit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.Related resourcesListen: Understanding your child’s behavior as communicationHow to manage behavior problems in young kidsThe difference between discipline and punishment Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Parents play a big role in continuing a child’s learning journey outside of the classroom. These opportunities for learning are often called teachable moments. And they can happen anywhere from the grocery store to even at the park.Listen as Julian explains what teachable moments are. And how they help kids build important life skills. Then get tips on how to create these moments at home.Visit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.Related resourcesSummer learning: How to help your child keep skills strong7 ways to encourage your child to read over the summer  Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Early intervention refers to services that help kids from birth to age three with developmental delays. But what services are available after kids turn 3? The answer: preschool services. In this episode, we welcome Elisa Lundy. Elisa is a special education teacher who works in preschool classrooms in the New York City area. Listen as she:Explains the similarities between preschool services and early interventionShares how preschool services can help a child’s social, emotional, and physical developmentAnd tells us how families can access these services in their schoolRelated resourcesWhat is early intervention?Support for kids who struggle in schoolHow to get your child help in school without an evaluationVisit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org. Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

When a child qualifies for an IEP, one of the first things schools give parents is a packet. In that packet is information that breaks down the legal rights parents and kids have during the special education process.  The packet can be really long and filled with lots of terms that can be confusing. Still, it’s important for parents to understand these terms.  Listen as host Juliana Urtubey breaks down some key terms in this episode of Understood Explains. She also explains the legal rights that come with an IEP.  Visit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesWhat are your rights in the IEP process?Download: Endrew R. advocacy toolkitHow to consent to some parts of an IEP and not othersGuidance letter from the U.S. Department of Education for schools to translate IEPs  Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

The IEP process can leave English language learners and their families with lots of questions. But the more families know about the purpose of IEPs, the more involved they can be in getting their child the best support.In this episode, we speak with Juliana Urtubey. Juliana is a special education teacher. She was named the 2021 National Teacher of the Year. Listen as Juliana explains:Challenges English language learners face during the IEP processWhy culturally-responsive IEPs are importantAnd ways parents can actively participate in supporting their childRelated resourcesAre IEPs different for English language learners?How to help if English language learners are struggling in schoolEnglish language learners in special education: 4 things to know about partnering with familiesVisit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org. Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Teachers play a huge role in shaping the future of their students. And they often wear many hats in the classroom to provide the best learning experience for kids. Especially kids with learning and thinking differences. In this episode, we speak with Kareem Neal, MA. Kareem is a special education teacher in Phoenix, Arizona. And he’s been teaching for more than 25 years. Listen as Kareem gives a glimpse into the classroom and explains:The importance of partnership between teachers and parentsThe impact this relationship has on kidsAnd what he wants parents to know about special educationRelated resources7 tips for building a good relationship with your child’s teacherWhy and how to partner with your child’s teacherPerspectives: How to make sure families of color are heard by the schoolVisit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Michelle Carter believes sports can be a big help for kids with learning differences. She's an athlete and a businessperson. And track and field was a game-changer for her ADHD and dyslexia.  In this episode, listen as Michelle talks about the challenges she faced in the classroom and on the field. How she discovered her talents in track and field. And then learn how she's helping kids build confidence.  Visit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesHow to get your child involved in sports Video: Michelle Carter wins Olympic gold with dyslexia and ADHDPodcast: Understood Explains on evaluations for special education Read: All about careers for kids who learn and think differently Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

ADHD has gotten a lot of attention on social media lately. From videos about personal experiences to experts sharing tips, some posts hold truth, but many are misleading.    In this episode of The Opportunity Gap, we take a closer look at the influence social media has on toxic myths about ADHD. Listen as Dr. Kristin Carothers, a clinical psychologist, explains:The dangers of myths and misinformationHow myths lead to increasing stigma and shameWays parents can do their part in debunking these mythsRelated resources:8 common myths about ADHD10 special education myths you may hearVisit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.   Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

René Brooks was diagnosed with ADHD twice during her childhood. But stigma and shame kept her family from learning more and getting her the right support. So when she was diagnosed with ADHD for a third time at age 25, she decided to take control of her own journey. In this episode, René unpacks her experiences growing up with ADHD. Listen as she explains:  The impact of delayed interventionWhat she wishes the adults in her life did differentlyAnd why it’s important to build support systems for kids with ADHDVisit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesRené Brooks’ podcast: Life With Lost KeysChildren and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity DisorderMasking ADHD symptoms to go above and beyond (René Brooks’ story) Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

It’s common for parents to wonder how the IEP process works and how to best advocate for their child’s needs. The truth is, the more parents know about IEPs and how they’re put into place, the more active a role they can take in the process.In this episode, Julian speaks with IEP expert Jamilah F. Bashir, MEd. Listen as Jamilah explains:  What the IEP process looks likeCommon challenges families of color often experience when advocating for their childAnd ways schools and families can build positive relationshipsVisit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesWhat is an IEP?Jamilah F. Bashir, MEd, The IEP Coach LLCMaster the IEP Course by Jamilah F. Bashir, MEdHow to get an IEP Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

If your child is struggling at school or at home, you may be wondering whether or not it’s related to a learning difference. Talking with your child’s pediatrician can be a good first step to getting support. But how do you start the talk?  Listen as behavioral pediatrician Dr. Nerissa Bauer visits our friends at In It and gives tips for talking with your child’s pediatrician about learning differences like ADHD and more.Visit the In It episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resources5 steps to work with your pediatrician when your child is strugglingHow to organize your child’s IEP binderLearning disabilities and ADHD: Resources for patient educationTake N.O.T.E.: Are you wondering why your child is struggling?Check out Dr. Nerissa’s website, Let’s Talk Kids Health   Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

In celebration of Black History Month, Julian highlights four members of the Understood team:  Berman Fenelus, Senior Content ProducerLivingston Steele, Social Media ManagerMisha Williams, Grants and Relationships ManagerDeb Wilson, Chief People & Culture OfficerEach of them is making an impact in the lives of people with learning and thinking differences, from silencing shame and stigma to promoting inclusion. Learn the reasons why they choose to do this work.  Visit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesBlack History Month: Celebrating Lois, Solange, and OctaviaWisdom for families from LeDerick Horne, poet with dyslexiaTo be Black in America with a learning disability Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

For kids with learning and thinking differences, preparing for life after high school is often met with many emotions and questions.  “What’s next for me?” “Will I have the same accommodations?” “Will I be successful in my studies?”  In this episode, Julian talks with Sudi Shayesteh. Sudi is the director of the Office of AccessABILITY at Hunter College. Learn about the challenges students face when transitioning out of high school. And get tips on how to team up with the school to better prepare students for this transition.Visit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesAfter high school: Different ways to thrive 7 things to know about college disability services Life after high school: Tips to get your child ready Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Some kids love talking about school. But some don’t— especially when something is upsetting them, like bullying or struggling with a specific subject. If your child is a bit quiet about how things are going in school, there are ways to encourage them to open up more.  In this episode, learn some key things to keep in mind. Listen as host Julian Saavedra explains:  Ways to ask kids open-ended questionsHow to be vulnerable with kidsAnd why knowing when to stop asking questions can make all the differenceVisit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesHow to get your child to talk about schoolGet tips on how to respond when your child is frustrated about school Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

The school-to-prison pipeline has been hidden in the shadows of our educational systems for way too long. It’s a series of policies that have targeted kids of color, pulling them out of schools and into the legal system. And now, more than ever, it requires our fight to end.Listen as Malhar Shah, an education attorney at the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund explains:  The school-to-prison pipelineHow it impacts school discipline and special education lawsAnd the role teachers and parents can play in dismantling itVisit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesDisability Rights Education and Defense FundFind the Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIs) in your state or territoryFind the Protection and Advocacy agency (P&A) in your state or territoryHelping Traumatized Children Learn Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Tantrums and meltdowns are challenges all parents face. But for families of kids who learn and think differently, they can be even more of a struggle.Listen as Dr. Andrew Kahn gives expert advice on how to deal with tantrums and meltdowns with our friends at the In It podcast. Learn how practicing strategies ahead of time can help you manage outbursts in the moment.  And find out what calming techniques can help.  Visit the In It episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.  We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.  Related resourcesWhat Now? A Parent’s Guide to Tantrums and Meltdowns5 tips for taking a mutual time-out with your childCheck out Understood’s guide to tantrums and meltdowns Introducing MissUnderstood, the first-ever podcast channel for women with ADHD. Listen now: lnk.to/missunderstoodUnderstood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give