In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron interviews Rebecca Engle, a special education teacher diagnosed with autism. Rebecca shares her experiences as both a special education student and teacher, discussing the importance of true inclusion. She highlights how inclusion is more than just being present in a classroom; it involves genuine participation and understanding. Rebecca also offers tips for parents on advocating for their child’s inclusion in general education settings, emphasizing the importance of data to support their case. The episode dives into practical strategies to foster meaningful inclusion in schools.

Key Takeaways:

Inclusion Potluck: Inclusion is like a potluck where everyone brings something different, and it's essential to ensure every student feels their contribution matters.

Misunderstood Inclusion: Just being in a classroom doesn’t equate to being included; inclusion requires intentional connection and participation.

Impact of Labels: Labels can limit expectations for students, but it's up to educators to challenge those perceptions.

Self-Advocacy: Teaching students to advocate for themselves is crucial, as they won’t always have someone to speak for them.

Inclusive Teaching: Teachers with disabilities or experience with disabilities can better relate and set higher expectations for students.

Rebecca’s definition of inclusion:

It’s like hosting a potluck where every student brings something different to the table and they share it with each other.

Rebecca’s Bio:

Rebecca Engle, at just 21, is a seven-time published author, educator, and entrepreneur. Despite being non-verbal until age 5, she has defied the odds and achieved extraordinary success. Rebecca owns Rebe Crafts, serves on the boards of three national non-profits, and is a distinguished seven-time winner of Presidential Awards for Community Service. Featured in numerous news and billboards and media outlets, she has also captivated audiences as a guest on over 400 podcasts, sharing her inspirational journey and relentless drive.

Connect with Rebecca:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebecca.Engle.02/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Re02.20/

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 4

No - 7

Hasn’t tried it - 1

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In this episode of the Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron interviews Erin Perkins, a deafblind accessibility strategist, who shares her personal journey navigating life with dual sensory impairments. The conversation explores challenges in accessing support, from inconsistent educational accommodations to barriers in public venues like concerts. Erin emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and offers practical steps for businesses to improve accessibility, from websites to social media. The discussion highlights empathy as a key tool for inclusivity and addresses common misconceptions about visible and invisible disabilities, aiming to empower people with disabilities.

Key Takeaways:

Inconsistent Support: Disability support varies greatly based on location and individual circumstances.

Self-Advocacy: Learning to advocate for yourself in corporate settings is vital but often learned through experience.

Concert Accessibility: Obtaining accessible concert tickets is complex and varies by venue.

Accessibility Tools: Accessibility tools like hearing aids and cochlear implants are aids, not solutions; communication access is key.

Empathy in Inclusion: Empathy, including listening without judgment, is crucial for making the world more inclusive.

Erin’s definition of inclusion:

Everyone can participate or be part of something no matter what they identify as. We all may crave some normalcy. However Normal is the opposite of diversity. But diversity is what makes the world amazing! It’s what makes creativity possible.

Erin’s Bio:

Erin Perkins is deafblind, but you might not notice at first glance. She relies on a hearing aid and cochlear implant for hearing, without which she's profoundly deaf. Her vision is limited to 50 degrees, so if she doesn't wave back when you do, it's likely she didn't see or hear you.

Working with independent business owners, coaches, and mentors opened her eyes to the widespread lack of accessibility awareness. This led her to focus on accessibility education.

Erin is passionate about teaching businesses to be more accessible, using her personal experiences to promote true inclusion at every level. Her mission is to make the world more accessible, one business at a time.

Connect with Erin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MabelyQ

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mabely_q

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erineperkins/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mabely_q

Website: https://www.mabelyq.com/

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

Hasn’t tried it

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 4

No - 6

Hasn’t tried it - 1

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In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron and guest Michelle Tetschner discuss their shared experiences advocating for inclusion in education for their children with disabilities. Michelle, the mother of a son with Down syndrome, highlights the importance of teamwork, confidence in IEP meetings, and a vision for the future. Together, they stress focusing on a child's strengths, building empathy with educators, and correcting misconceptions about disabilities to foster inclusion in schools and society.

Key Takeaways:

Inclusion journey: Inclusion requires teamwork and is a continuous journey.

Advocacy focus: Lead IEP meetings with confidence and a clear vision for your child’s future.

Strengths-based: IEP goals should focus on a child’s strengths, not their limitations.

Presume competence: Encourage independence by presuming competence in children with disabilities.

Educator empathy: Build relationships with educators and understand their challenges.

Michelle’s definition of inclusion:

To me, inclusion is a journey! It is an action verb. It takes a team to be successful!

I am a passionate” Inclusion-ista”!

I believe wholeheartedly that inclusion in school leads to changing a community!

When children in schools are exposed to persons with disabilities at a young age, they become more comfortable with the differences that we all created with. They then grow up to be more comfortable when working next to, hiring, being neighbors with, and welcoming people with exceptional abilities into their community.

Inclusion is a game changer!

Inclusion can change the world!

I am the author to the book: Fully Included~ Stories to Inspire Inclusion and am always seeking out new stories, new people, and trying to spread successful stories everywhere❤️

Michelle’s Bio:

Michelle Tetschner is a proud mom to three boys, the youngest is Raymond who happens to rock an extra chromosome. She is the author of the book: "Fully Included~Stories to Inspire Inclusion" with her husband Stacy. She is also a writer for The Mighty with over 25 stories published on disability and Down syndrome.

Michelle has been featured on several podcasts and webinars as a leading expert on inclusion in both public and private Catholic schools. She is the current president/founder of FIRE Foundation NE Florida.

She describes herself as a "passionate inclusionista" who has fought yearly for her son Raymond to be included in school. She has coached hundreds of parents with inspiration and guidance for school meetings and IEPs.

Her son Raymond, is used to being the first. He was one of the first students in Phoenix, AZ to be fully included in Catholic school. He went on to be the inaugural student of a brand new program in Maryland, as well as the first student with Down syndrome, in the diocese of St Petersburg- to graduate fully included. He is an amazing drummer, actor, and an amazing guy who loves God and his family.

Michelle believes we all live in one world, and longs for the day when everyone chooses to open their hearts and minds to seeing each person's gifts and talents first.

Connect with Michelle:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559089771384

Fully Included - Stories to Inspire Inclusion Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559015318714

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 4

No - 6

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In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron speaks with Kayla Coburn, an inclusion specialist and author, about the challenges of fostering inclusion in schools. Kayla shares her journey from paraprofessional to running her own business, “Inclusion Starts Now.” They discuss personal experiences with navigating educational systems, advocating for inclusion, and the importance of defining inclusion based on individual needs. Kayla offers tips for parents to move the needle towards inclusion by building relationships with educators and understanding their concerns, while highlighting the ongoing struggle with ableism in schools.

Key Takeaways:

Defining Inclusion: Inclusion means individuals having access to their chosen community, rather than being told where they belong.

Parent Advocacy: Parents can foster inclusion by understanding the school’s biases and addressing concerns.

Building Relationships: Establishing trust with teachers and administrators is crucial for successful inclusion efforts.

Patience in Progress: Inclusion is a journey, and sometimes taking a slower, more understanding approach works best.

Persistence Pays Off: While advocating for inclusion, frustration can build, but persistence and collaboration often lead to progress.

Kayla’s definition of inclusion:

When people feel like they can be a part of their chosen community and have access to where they want to be instead of people telling them where they should be.

Connect with Kayla:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusionstartsnow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusionstartsnow/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-coburn-78970685/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inclusionstartsnow

Website: https://www.inclusionstartsnow.com

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 4

No - 5

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On this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, AAron welcomes Joe Carr, who discusses his journey with cerebral palsy and the use of an AAC device. Joe shares his experiences of inclusion in school, adaptive sports, and his charitable efforts through his lemonade stand, raising over $70,000 for Gillette Children’s Hospital. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, self-acceptance, and building genuine connections. Joe’s insights offer a heartfelt reminder that love, understanding, and inclusion create powerful bonds that unite all of humanity, embracing the unique strengths and experiences of every individual, including those with disabilities.

Key Takeaways:

Technology and Independence: Joe’s AAC device enables him to communicate independently, giving him control over how he interacts with the world.

Inclusion Starts with Awareness: Joe’s story emphasizes that true inclusion begins with awareness and understanding of the unique needs and strengths of individuals with disabilities.

Passion for Advocacy: Joe is not just focused on his own journey; he uses his platform to advocate for others with disabilities, showing the importance of leadership in the disability community.

The Value of Adaptive Sports: Joe’s involvement in adaptive sports shows how recreation can be a powerful tool for inclusion, building self-esteem and social connections.

Celebrating Differences: Joe’s story emphasizes that celebrating differences, rather than merely tolerating them, is the key to creating an inclusive and compassionate society.

Joe’s definition of inclusion:

My definition of inclusion is making sure everyone gets along with each other and loves themselves and others for who they are.

Joe’s Bio:

A person with cerebral palsy (CP) who loves himself and others for who they are.

Connect with Joe:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joecarr9099

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 3

No - 5

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In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, AAron speaks with Dr. Cheryl Blankman, an experienced school psychologist and advocate for inclusivity in education. They discuss the nuances of inclusion, emphasizing the importance of shifting the conversation from "inclusion" to "inclusivity" as a holistic, community-wide responsibility. Dr. Blankman highlights the significance of understanding disability through the social model, which focuses on creating environments that reduce barriers. They also explore strategies for parents navigating the complexities of special education systems.

Key Takeaways:

Inclusivity = Equity: Inclusivity should be seen as a fundamental aspect of equity within educational environments.

Language Shift: Moving from "inclusion" to "inclusivity" reflects a shift from action to identity.

Social Model of Disability: Disability should be viewed as a societal construct, emphasizing the need for inclusive environments.

Parental Advocacy: Parents should be well-informed and persistent when advocating for their child's right to inclusivity.

Universal Design: Creating universally accessible environments from the start benefits everyone.

Dr. Blankman’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusivity is equity. All members of our community have an inalienable right to belong, to contribute, and to be afforded every opportunity to realize their best selves in their time here.

When we sort and separate people, we diminish our collective capacity and potential. By valuing ourselves and each other, by seeking to discover and appreciate what each of us has to offer, and by democratizing the responsibility of inclusivity, we can achieve the communities that our students, and all of us, deserve.

Dr. Blankman’s Bio:

Dr. Cheryl Blankman, NCSP is a former school psychologist and director of student services with more than 25 years experience in PK-12 public education. She is an active member of the adjunct faculty for Ramapo College of New Jersey where she teaches in the Master of Arts in Special Education program. Blankman maintains a leadership role for the NJ Council of Exceptional Children serving on both the children's advocacy committee and the annual state conference committee. Blankman previously served as a state representative for New Jersey for the Council for Exceptional Children's national Special Education Legislative Summit. In addition to teaching and advocacy work, Blankman is the founder of Mission Academic Justice Educational Consulting which provides professional development services to promote inclusive education. An author, speaker, coach, and presenter, Blankman is a passionate inclusionist dedicated to improved educational experiences for educators, students, and families.

Connect with Dr. Blankman:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drblankman/

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 3

No - 4

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In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, AAron addresses the issue of parents being denied access to visit their child in special education classrooms. He discusses the common reasons given—privacy and safety—and explains why these justifications may not always be valid, particularly with regard to FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). AAron emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in ensuring their child’s needs are met and offers advice on how to address access denial. He encourages parents to advocate for their rights and to work with schools for mutually beneficial solutions.

Key Takeaways:

Parental rights: Parents are critical IEP team members and need access to observe classrooms.

FERPA clarification: FERPA does not prohibit parental visits but protects specific educational records.

Safety concerns: School safety policies should not discriminate against special education parents.

Advocacy tools: Request policies, escalate concerns, and file complaints if access is unfairly denied.

Collaborative solutions: Work with schools to find times that accommodate everyone’s needs.

Links:

https://www.advocate-well.com/youre-not-allowed-to-visit-or-are-you-ferpa-and-special-ed-parents-visiting/

https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/sped/MDE032171

Connect with Aaron:

Website: https://www.theinclusivedad.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinclusivedad/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaron.devries/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aarondevries-theinclusivedad/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInclusiveDad

Email: aaron@theinclusivedad.com

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 3

No - 3

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In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, AAron interviews Stephanie Polcyn, a mother and advocate with a personal connection to disability. Stephanie shares her journey, highlighting her husband’s military-related disability, her own sudden hearing loss, and her experiences advocating for her children with ADHD and asthma. She discusses the challenges of navigating the education system, the importance of family involvement in defining success, and the power of inclusion as acceptance and support for all. The conversation underscores the importance of trusting parental intuition and advocating for necessary support.

Key Takeaways:

Parental Advocacy: Trust your intuition and advocate loudly for your child’s needs, even when professionals disagree.

Inclusive Education: Inclusion means supporting all students, regardless of differences, in their neighborhood schools.

Family-Centered Decisions: Families should decide what they want their child's life to look like and work towards those goals.

Resource Accessibility: Accessing support often requires persistent effort and external evaluations.

Inclusion as Acceptance: Inclusion is about embracing differences as gifts and working together for the greater good.

Stephanie’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is the ability to accept and support all people no matter what.

Stephanie’s Bio:

Stephanie is a mom of 4. She has been married since 2009 to her husband who is an army veteran. She was born and raised in Chicago but due to the military has spent time in a few other cities and countries.

Stephanie has been coaching women mostly for over 15 years. She started Sweet Disaster in September 2020 in the middle of the pandemic with the intention it would be her health and fitness business. She knew now, more than ever, women needed to have a voice they could hear daily to encourage them and remind them of how incredible and essential they are. In 2023, Stephanie wrote and published her first two books with her second book becoming a bestseller. She also started her first podcast. The AMPlify Your Business Podcast is now in 15 countries and growing.

Connect with Stephanie:

Website: https://www.stephaniepolcyn.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephpolcyn

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@stephpolcyn

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/amplify-your-business-with-stephanie-polcyn/id1668823598

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 3

No - 3

☕ Buy me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad

Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates