Meltdowns aren’t a discipline problem—they’re a nervous system response. If family members don’t understand your child’s autism diagnosis, don’t cut them off yet. Learn how to bridge the gap gracefully in our latest episode.
Read MoreEnsure your child’s IEP is ready for the move to middle or high school. IEP Coach Tonya Wollum shares a 5-step checklist to secure services and smooth transitions before the school year ends.
Read MoreAre you feeling the weight of the “Disability Squeeze”? Learn how to identify financial burnout and the first steps toward stability for special needs families.
Read MoreIn this episode, Tonya breaks down a case study of a twice-exceptional (2e) student—someone who is academically gifted but struggling with the biological hurdles of ADHD.
Read MoreTonya The Water Prairie Chronicles Podcast airs new episodes every Friday! Find the full directory at waterprairie.com/listen. Show Notes: “Summer
Read MoreDiscover how faith and disability intersect as John Fela shares his journey of raising a non-verbal autistic son and finding a church community that truly welcomes all.
Read MoreJoin Tonya Wollum and guest John Fela for a raw, honest look at special needs parenting for a child with non-verbal autism. We discuss the challenges of an autism diagnosis, navigating medical crises like Chiari malformation, and managing the strain of divorce in the special needs community.
Read MoreDoes your child spend their day in the general education classroom, but you suspect they aren’t truly included? In this episode of Water Prairie Chronicles, we are unpacking the dangerous myth that “proximity is a program.” Just because a student is physically in the room doesn’t mean they belong. Join me as we break down the difference between mainstreaming and true inclusion, explore the transformative power of a sensory audit, and learn how to write IEP goals that prioritize social connection over mere compliance. Let’s help your child find their place on the dance floor.
Read MoreLearn the “Draft IEP” secret to stop predetermination. Get Tonya Wollum’s expert scripts for requesting IEP drafts and auditing goals to lead your child’s next meeting with confidence.
Read MoreIn this episode of Water Prairie Chronicles, Tonya returns after a two-month hiatus due to illness and discusses season five with a new audio-only format. The episode includes personal updates, such as coping with the flu and helping a son move to a new college. Tonya also shares insights on upcoming changes related to digital accessibility laws and teases a new comprehensive digital training tool aimed at helping businesses and community groups be more inclusive. Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback and subscribe for updates.
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