Better IEP Meetings: A guide for Special Needs Parents - Dr. Inyang Takon interviews Dr Diane Fannon

In this episode of Early Intervention Matters, Dr. Takon and Dr. Diana Fannon explore the challenges families face following a neurodiversity diagnosis and what it truly means to advocate effectively for your child.Drawing on her extensive experience in special education advocacy, Dr. Fannon shares practical strategies to help parents navigate complex school systems, communicate with confidence, and understand their educational rights. The conversation also highlights how these challenges are shared globally, with many families struggling to access the support their children need.Alongside practical guidance, Dr. Fannon offers an important reminder: advocacy matters—but so does connection. She encourages parents to find moments of joy in their journey, even in the midst of challenges.Key  topics- IEP preparation and questions- Parent advocacy and rights- Effective communication with schoolsBioDr. Diana Fannon is a former Director of Special Education, bilingual school psychologist, and founder of DisabilityEdPros. She is also the very proud parent of an autistic child. With over 20 years of experience in public schools, she works at the intersection of inclusion, systems change, and family advocacy. Through her courses, content, and consulting, she helps families understand their rights and navigate special education with clarity and confidence.Resources:Dr Diana Fannon’s work focuses on helping parents navigate special education more effectively, including:* New Course, (launches on April 8): AI in Action: Transform your IEP Advocacy* Platform: DisabilityEdPros, which provides tools, resources, and guidance for families* Articles on Substack, where she explores inclusion, IEPs, and how decisions impact what children with disabilities can access in schoolWebsite & Social Media LinksWebsite: https://www.disabilityedpros.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/disabilityedprosYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@disabilityedprosSubstack: https://dianafannon.substack.comResourcesGeneral Information for Parentswww.school-doctor.comQuestions? Email Us [email protected]