The Undivided Blog

Communication plays a role in every part of our kids’ lives — how they share needs, connect with others, express themselves, and access learning. When communication doesn’t look like spoken words, families are often left navigating big questions about literacy, school support, and long-term independence. Maybe you’ve been told that augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) ...

Eye gaze AAC is powerful technology — but understanding how it works is key to using it effectively. In this episode, experts break down how high-tech eye gaze systems use infrared lights, cameras, and specialized software to track eye movement and translate it into communication. We also discuss why eye gaze isn’t plug-and-play, why professional support ...

Transitions and milestones have a way of sneaking up on us, even when we know they’re coming. One day you’re finally feeling like you’re getting into the groove of your child’s school routine, and the next you’re being asked to consider what’s next – a new grade level, a new school, new classmates, teachers, and ...

In this episode of Undivided Voices, Dr. Sarah Pelangka, special education advocate and owner of KnowIEPs, breaks down one of the most important—and often overwhelming—parts of the special education process: assessments. Dr. Pelangka explains how assessments work, how they’re administered, how to read and understand results, and what families can do if they disagree with the ...

Most parents don’t walk into IEP meetings looking for red flags. 🚩 We’re just trying to get through the day and make sure our kids are supported by an IEP that does what it’s supposed to. But sometimes the biggest problems show up quietly: a goal that’s too vague, progress that isn’t really progress, or ...

Ever wonder what really happens behind closed doors in special education? 👀 IEP meetings are just the tip of the iceberg—and there’s a lot families don’t always hear. In this episode, we’re joined by Daphne Zacky Bold, a licensed educational psychologist, educational consultant, and longtime special education advocate with nearly 20 years of experience supporting ...

Ever walked out of an IEP meeting with pages of paperwork and documents to review wondering, Does this have everything my child actually needs? How do I know what's missing? or Why does this feel SO hard??? We’ve been here. Even when you know an IEP is necessary, the process of preparing documents, sitting in ...

Once you’ve done all your IEP prep work, how do you make sure the IEP meeting itself goes smoothly and covers all your concerns? Kick off season 2 of our podcast with Undivided Non-Attorney Education Advocate Lisa Carey, who shares all her tips and advice for parents. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or ...

Learning to read, write, and do math doesn’t just magically happen for every kid — especially kids with disabilities. It takes the right supports, thoughtful teaching, and someone believing in what our kids can do. Still, a lot of families hear things like "They’ll catch up" or "Math just isn’t their thing." When learning doesn’t ...

New year, same overwhelming to-do list? Somehow, the things that help you function always end up last. If you’re feeling stretched thin (or honestly, just tired), you’re not alone. This week, we’re diving into self-care with guidance from experts and real-life tips from parents of kids with disabilities who know firsthand how hard this can ...