As we wrap up 2024, we’re taking a look back at the year’s highlights, challenges, and incredible milestones here at IPUL. From empowering parents and caregivers to advocating for better support systems, 2024 has been a year of growth, resilience, and impact. Join us as we revisit key moments, share success stories, and discuss what’s next on our journey to support families and children in the coming year. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate, there’s something here for everyone as we reflect on 2024 and look forward to 2025.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Welcome to a special episode of Unlimited Parenting. I’m thrilled to have not one, but two, incredible guests from Delta Dental with us to dive into the world of dental health. Together, Cami and Heather will help answer some of the common questions families have. Attached below are the links to the Delta Dental community programs mentioned in this episode!Family Health Services in JeromeRethink Your DrinkGrins on the Go and Land of SmilesDo you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

This episode is chock-full of resources you can start using today; most at little to no cost! Melissa recently attended a two day workshop on all things assistive technology and is ready to share that knowledge. From low-tech to high-tech, there are options for every family. Below you will find links to the many resources Melissa mentions in the episode. Wherever you're listening, we hope you enjoy!https://idahoat.org/https://www.parentcenterhub.org/considering-at/https://sites.ed.gov/idea/files/Myths-and-Facts-Surrounding-Assistive-Technology-Devices-01-22-2024.pdfTherese Willkomm, PhD, ATP, Director of New Hampshire Statewide Assistive Technology ProgramAssistive Technology Solutions in Minutes Book III - Make Stuff and Love PeopleASSISTIVE TECH Solutions in MINUTES II-W/DVDAssistive Technology Solutions in Minutes: Book 1https://www.atera.com/blog/how-accessibility-tech-could-change-the-future/Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

A new episode pf IPUL Found it on Facebook is ready for your ears! In this series, my colleague Melissa and I deep dive into questions we've found in Idaho Facebook groups. We research the answers to a few questions so that you don't have to! In this episode we answer the questions:1.)What do you need to obtain an IEP?2.)How have your kids humbled you recently?3.)What is the difference between an Independent intervention specialist and an independent intervention professional?https://publicdocuments.dhw.idaho.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=23599&dbid=0&repo=PUBLIC-DOCUMENTS4.)My son has Medicaid through the YES program, but recently got diagnosed with Autism. Is there any benefit to applying for Katie Beckett? Or should we just stay on YES? If we get Katie Beckett, do we have to do the yearly qualification evaluations like YES?And a surprise bonus question; listen in to find out!Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

We recently welcomed Jessica Fein to Unlimited Parenting to discuss her first published work Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken Genes. Our conversation is a journey through the duality of the known and unknown. Jessica Fein leads us through her heartbreak and shares life lessons learned along the way.At the age of five Jessica Fein’s daughter Dalia was diagnosed with a rare degenerative disease that would claim her life at 17. Before that moment came, and inspired by Dalia’s own irrepressible spirit, Fein and her family would discover how to live in the present when the future can’t be fixed. In this heartfelt yet clear-eyed memoir, Fein maps both her journey to becoming an adoptive mom and the roller coaster ride of loving and caring for a terminally ill child, persevering when the simple act of taking a breath can become an act of courage. Through it all, she discovers the need to be both relentless advocate and calm presence, to show vulnerability as well as strength, and to allow joy to be louder than sorrow.More information on Jessica Fein can be found on her website at, https://www.jessicafeinstories.com/copy-of-book Her book is available for purchase at Amazon.Follow this link to Dalia's Wish websiteDo you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Welcome to another installment of Bring Your Own Topic! A show where IPUL discusses everyday topics that affect our families. In this episode Melissa talks DIY adaptive clothing. Sarah weighs the pros and cons of a ring camera, and Allison asks "If you could watch a movie for the first time again, what would it be?" Wherever you're listening, we hope you enjoy!Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

With the beginning of a new school year upon us, we thought this would be the perfect opportunity to discuss the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). In this episode you will hear the dictionary definition of LRE as well as what it looks like in action. Knowledge is power, and we hope that knowing more about LRE can help you be the best champion for your child. Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Have you ever wondered how to plan for your child's transition to adulthood? Have you wondered how to start the conversation? What about finding out what your child wants for their future? In this episode Melissa, Sarah, and Allison will delve into tools you can use to help your child chart their future. Stay tuned to the end to find out how to sign up for the upcoming 3-part series we're providing in conjunction with the Idaho Council on Developmental Disabilities on planning for your child's future.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

We recently welcomed Susanna Peace Lovell to Unlimited Parenting to discuss her first published work Your True Self is Enough. We share insights, laughs and we hope you have just as much fun when you listen in.When acclaimed Life Coach Susanna Peace Lovell’s daughter was born, she brought some unexpected challenges, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and myriad food allergies. Looking for resources and support, Susanna struggled to find a map for the road ahead. After more than 17 years of struggle, hard work, and triumph, this book is that map: the blueprint for special needs caregivers that she’d wished for back then. Filled with hard-won insights and practical advice, Your True Self Is Enough follows Susanna’s story from pregnancy through neonatal care through finding the right learning environments and therapeutic plans for her child. Throughout it all, Susanna came to learn that she and her daughter were both on their own journeys in life, and that they were both whole and complete individuals who did not need to be “fixed.” More information on Susanna can be found on her website at, https://www.susannapeacelovell.com/. Her book is available for purchase at Amazon.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

A story of inclusivity that started with a magazine and a dream. Listen in as IPUL's Executive Director, Angela Lindig, shares the story behind Idaho's first accessible playground and the community members who helped the dream become reality. Bring your family to celebrate 20 years of Adventure Island with us on August 24th at 9am MST.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

There's a new Managed Care Organization for Children's mental health in Idaho and we want to talk about it! We're thrilled to have Brittany Shipley with us, a passionate advocate for children's mental health, to guide us through the changes and answer your pressing questions. Below you will find links to the resources Brittany mentions in our discussion. If you would like to be involved in the conversation please reach out to IPUL at (208) 342-5884, or by sending an intake to our website.Magellan's contact line: 1-855-202-0973Magellan's FAQ pageWhen a family or youth is unhappy with any part of the YES system of care, they may submit a concern or complaint by phone (208-364-1910 or toll free 1-800-352-6044), by email to [email protected], or online by using the concern and complaint form.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

A new episode pf IPUL Found it on Facebook is ready for your ears! In this series, my colleague Melissa and I deep dive into questions we've found in Idaho Facebook groups. We research the answers to a few questions so that you don't have to! Join us as we discuss what we found this month.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Welcome to another installment of Bring Your Own Topic! A show where IPUL discusses everyday topics that affect our families. In this episode Sarah speaks on mandarin oranges. Melissa helps us all find the unexpected joys in our life. Allison talks about summer options for children with disabilities. Wherever you're listening, we hope you enjoy!Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Recently Allison from IPUL had the exciting opportunity to interview parent and author, Jessica Patay, on her new book Becoming Brave Together. Jessica's book is an anthology of stories that include, "a child with a rare degenerative disease. A sibling with autism. A teen wading through anxiety and depression. An adult child with a debilitating illness. A child with extreme ADHD. The single common light in the darkness of their life’s journey is often their mother, she is the one person who holds the fragile balance all together." Listen in as Jessica details her journey through parenthood, writing this book, and her non-profit We Are Brave Together. If you were interested in learning more about brining a Connection Circle to Idaho, reach out to Jessica at [email protected]!Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Welcome to a new series called IPUL Found it on Facebook! In this series, my colleague Melissa and I deep dive into questions we've found in Idaho Facebook groups. We research the answers to a few questions so that you don't have to. Join us as we discuss what we found this month. In this episode we cover; student's with good grades and IEPs; support in school without a diagnosis; the least restrictive environment, and IEP meetings. We hope you enjoy!Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Welcome to the next installment of "From a Parent's Perspective"! Today we are joined by Jake, who is a member of IPUL's board of directors as well as the father of a child with a disability. Listen in as Jake shares his experiences in parenting and navigating systems and services.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Welcome to the second installment of Bring Your Own Topic! In this episode, Katie, Sarah, and Allison each bring a topic to explore. Listen in as Katie gives examples of easy conversation starters for your family. Sarah asks “If you had a super power, what would it be?”Allison finishes the episode with her laments about Spring Break.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062IPUL is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. Any information contained in this message/training is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitution for legal advice.

Welcome to the newest installment of "A Parent's Perspective". This time Allison gets the opportunity to interview Jennifer Johnson. Jen is the president of the board for IPUL, as well as owner of the Sensory Playce. At the time of this recording Jen was the vice chair of IPUL's board of directors. At the time of publishing, Jen is currently the chair of our board, and we are so happy to have her. Linked below is the email Jen mentions to learn more about how to access the Sensory Playce using your child's family direct [email protected]://www.thesensoryplayce.com/Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

We're piloting a new sub-series of Unlimited Parenting that we're calling "Bring Your Own Topic". In this episode, Melissa, Katie, and Allison sit down and discuss three separate topics that have been taking up their brain space. Listen in as we discuss: dentistry, sibling relationships, and how to explain disabilities to typically developing children.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

Rare Disease Day was established in 2008 and is celebrate on February 28th, unless February has 29 days, in which case it is celebrated on February 29th, making it ultra rare. According to the rarediseaseday.org website, "Is the globally-coordinated movement on rare diseases, working towards equity in social opportunity, healthcare, and access to diagnosis and therapies for people living with a rare disease." Listen in as Angela, Melissa, and Sarah share their thoughts and personal experiences on rare diseases to honor Rare Disease Day. Some Rare Facts:A disease is considered rare when it affects fewer than 1 in 2,00072% of rare diseases are geneticDo you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

Recently Allison had a thrilling opportunity to interview parent and author, Kelley Coleman, on her upcoming book Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child. Kelley captivated as she described her journey and the reasons why she wrote her book. Whether you are a seasoned parent, or your child just received their diagnosis, there is something for everyone in Kelley's book! Listen in to find out how you can get a copy of her book!

IPUL was given the opportunity to host interns! Listen in as Kaitlynn, one of IPUL's amazing interns, shares her experiences as a youth in transition to adulthood. From transitioning from school to services in the community, she shares each step of the process.In this episode Kaitlynn mentions "Guiding Eyes", here is a link to their website -->https://www.guidingeyes.org/?utm_attribute=DMPaidSearchGoogle&utm_term=guiding%20eyes%20for%20the%20blind&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA2eKtBhDcARIsAEGTG42qdlyGE3q73SGShOfHUFc4Nx9LfKpKmuAJFGHb8RAR9LIhD8xn_FMaAk-HEALw_wcBDo you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

We have so much information to share with you about all the things and places we'd like to do and be, respectively, in 2024! Listen in as Allison and, well just Allison this time, talks about somethings IPUL will be repeating in 2024 and all the new things we've set out to accomplish. As always, thanks for listening!As mentioned in the podcast, here is a link to determine which region of Idaho you live in ----- > https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/health-wellness/community-health/public-health-districtsDo you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

Listen in as Allison, Melissa and Sarah give highlights on the major events from IPULS's 2023 calendar. We wish your family a happy holiday season, and can't wait for you to ring in the new year with our next episode!In the episode we mention the Idaho Assistive Technology Project, below is a link to their website.https://idahoat.org/We have also included a link to IPUL's website to check out our productions and publications.Ipulidaho.orgDo you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

Welcome to the second episode of "From a Parent's Perspective", today we are joined by Valerie, IPUL board member and parent of a child with a disability. Listen in as Valerie shares her experience with her child's Autism diagnosis and setting up services. Valerie is a huge fan of sharing links with parents; below are the ones that she mentions in today's episode!Follow the link below to learn more about the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP).https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families/idaho-child-care-programCopy and paste the link below in a new tab to learn more about the TRICARE Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) program.https://tricare.mil/-/media/Files/TRICARE/Publications/FactSheets/ECHO_FS.ashxDo you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here ---->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

Have you ever wondered what happens when a parent doesn't agree with the IEP team? Do parents have any options? Well, the answer is yes, yes they do! Listen in as we lead you through all the possible ways to navigate a conflict. You know us, we leave no stone unturned. This episode will include contrived scenarios, and very obvious fake names.Allison mentions in the episode that you can find stats on dispute resolution in Idaho. If you would like more information, click the link below and select "Dispute Resolution".https://www.sde.idaho.gov/sped/public-reporting/We also discuss where you can find neighboring state's data, it is best to visit their State Department of Education's Website. Below is a link to California's.https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/qa/index.aspFinally, this is a link to our padlet with more information on all topics we discussed in today's podcast (including CADRE's "A tale of Two Stories")!https://padlet.com/IdahoParentsUnlimited/dispute-resolution-87ccff65jqed2tnzDo you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Please let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

Welcome back to the continuation of Cait's story! In this episode we'll delve deeper into: Cait's experiences going working in a school, going to IPUL's Parent Leadership, and joining the board. Were glad you're back for more laughs and messages of hope.Do you have feedback for "Unlimited Parenting"? Let us know here --->https://form.jotform.com/232284488626062

We are happy to introduce the first episode of a new series we're calling "From a Parent's Perspective". Cait is the parent of two children with disabilities and the Chairman of the Board for Idaho Parents Unlimited. In this episode she shares her family's experiences navigating life form diagnosis to services. Including struggles and success. Come back soon for part 2 of her story!

Join Allison and Melissa on a tour through the intricate world of Idaho Medicaid! Have you ever wondered about Medicaid eligibility, enrollment processes, or services for children with disabilities in Idaho? Get into the weeds with us as we provide tips and tricks; as well as bust some myths. If you have questions, feel free to reach out to a Parent Education Coordinator at (208) 342-5884.As always, here is a link to resources on all the topics we discuss!https://padlet.com/IdahoParentsUnlimited/health-financing-and-eligibility-q8xm9jcbacf69pv7

Join Allison and Melissa as they discuss 504 plans from eligibility to classroom implementation. Have you ever wondered what makes a 504 plan different from an IEP? This episode is for you! This episode includes contrived scenarios from 504 trainings for educators, these are not real stories.Link to resources from this episode: https://padlet.com/IdahoParentsUnlimited/podcast-ep-6-504-s-h8r9a19yzrpucbx9

Melissa and Allison discuss the benefits of starting with strengths when creating IEP goals. Listen in as they give examples of strength-based goals, and how to craft them. For more resources, and a hands-on activity, check out the link below!https://padlet.com/IdahoParentsUnlimited/podcast-ep-5-creating-strength-based-iep-goals-ok5k8ifbpf5zdkhi

Listen in as Allison and Melissa discuss the components of the IEP. Including an overview of the differences between the three IEP forms. You can find the resources we discuss in this episode here, https://padlet.com/IdahoParentsUnlimited/episode-4-4smkymla5q7a53gr

Join Allison, Melissa, and Sarah as they share their experiences with IPUL's Parent Leadership training. Curious to learn more about IEP's, Idaho Medicaid, and the power of your personal story? Want to set goals with mentors and network with other parents of children with disabilities? Tune in, and maybe we'll see you there next year!

*Special Episode* Ever wondered who is on the other side of the phone when you call Idaho Parents Unlimited? Join Allison, Melissa, and Sarah as they discuss their "why's", education, and what lead them to be parent education coordinators. Thanks for listening!

Listen in as Allison and Melissa discuss the steps to special education, from identifying a need to 3 year re-evaluation. With different scenarios, tips and tricks, and personal experience. Even we learned something during this podcast! Feel free to review the resources we discuss in this episode here, https://padlet.com/IdahoParentsUnlimited/episode-2-nudyr0flqaastzki