EPISODE · Feb 20, 2026 · 8 MIN
Episode 20 | Effective Communication Strategies for IEP Teams
from The Whole Child Advocate · host Dominique McLellan
IEP meetings can be some of the most emotional and high-stakes conversations a parent will ever sit through. When communication breaks down, it’s easy for frustration, defensiveness, and even self-doubt to take over.In this episode of The Whole Child Advocate, Dominique McLellan shares both practical communication strategies and personal reflection from recent challenging IEP meetings — including moments that made her question herself.You’ll learn:How tone and body language shape the outcome of a meetingWays to express concerns clearly without escalating conflictHow to separate procedural frustrations from student-centered decisionsWhy documentation and follow-up matterHow to bring conversations back to what truly matters — the childDominique reminds listeners that legal missteps and disagreements can be addressed — but they should never overshadow the primary objective of any IEP meeting: doing what is best for the student.💡 Key Takeaway: Collaboration starts with communication — and advocacy thrives when the child remains at the center.📘 Reach out to us for personalized advice and read the companion blog at:www.wholechildadvocacy.com
What this episode covers
IEP meetings can be some of the most emotional and high-stakes conversations a parent will ever sit through. When communication breaks down, it’s easy for frustration, defensiveness, and even self-doubt to take over.In this episode of The Whole Child Advocate, Dominique McLellan shares both practical communication strategies and personal reflection from recent challenging IEP meetings — including moments that made her question herself.You’ll learn:How tone and body language shape the outcome of a meetingWays to express concerns clearly without escalating conflictHow to separate procedural frustrations from student-centered decisionsWhy documentation and follow-up matterHow to bring conversations back to what truly matters — the childDominique reminds listeners that legal missteps and disagreements can be addressed — but they should never overshadow the primary objective of any IEP meeting: doing what is best for the student.💡 Key Takeaway: Collaboration starts with communication — and advocacy thrives when the child remains at the center.📘 Reach out to us for personalized advice and read the companion blog at:www.wholechildadvocacy.com
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Episode 20 | Effective Communication Strategies for IEP Teams
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