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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