Ep. 56: How to Prepare for an IEP Meeting: Timeline, Tips, and Parent Collaboration

Planning an IEP can feel like a whirlwind—deadlines, data, collaboration, and student needs all rolled into one big meeting. In this episode, Caitlin and Audra walk through a practical timeline for IEP prep, from parent check-ins to drafting goals and reviewing behavior plans.Whether you’re a teacher, BCBA, or case manager, this one’s packed with real-talk and ready-to-use tips to make your IEPs more effective and less stressful.🔑 Key Takeaways📅 Start early—draft a prep timeline 4–6 weeks in advance if possible📬 Reach out to families before the meeting to check in on their priorities and updates✏️ Don't blindly carry over goals—use progress data, probe skills, and adjust accordingly🔄 Always review behavior plans—don’t let them autopilot year to year🧑‍🎓 Involve students when appropriate—yes, even younger learners!🗣️ Drafts are okay—just be clear it’s a starting point, not a final plan💬 No surprises! Build trust with families by keeping communication open and collaborative📚 Resources and Ideas📌 Download the free IEP Prep Timeline Visual📌 Related Episode: Ep. 29 – Functions of Behavior Join Us...🎙 Next Episode: Prepping for IEPs! 🌟 Subscribe: Don’t miss upcoming episodes on practical strategies and must-have resources for behavior support! 📢 Share this episode with a teacher, BCBA, or administrator looking for fresh approaches to special education and behavior analysis!💬 Get Involved: Share your ideas in our Facebook group or tag us on social media. @TheMisfitBehaviorists📚 Connect: Follow us for more tips, tools, and discussions about all things behavior and education.  Join the Facebook group for collaboration and freebies: The Misfit Behaviorists😍 More, you say? We’re here for you! Apple podcast | The Misfit BehavioristsYouTube | @‌themisfitbehaviorists👋 Find us!Audra | ABA in School  Caitlin | Beltran’s Behavior Basics🖱️ Rate, Review, Like & Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Showing this love helps us get out to more educators out there!