For many families, the new school year brings a real mixed bag of emotions. There’s the excitement of a fresh start combined with jitters about all of the unknowns. For families of kids who learn and think differently, there may be IEPs or 504 plans, and new teachers to connect with about all these things. It’s a lot to think about — and to navigate.

In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with returning guest DeJunne’ Clark Jackson, an education consultant and parent advocate. She’s also a mom of two kids, one with an IEP. Tune in for back-to-school strategies that have worked well for DeJunne’ and her family. Find out how she sets goals with both of her kids, keeping in mind their strengths and challenges.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood. 

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.

Related resources 

• Download: Back-to-school update for families to give to teachers
• Download: Goals calendar for kids who struggle with planning
• My kids have different strengths and challenges. Here’s how I set goals with them.
• Hear more from DeJunne’ in this episode about parent-teacher conferences from last season 
• Get back-to-school tips from executive function coach Brendan Mahan in this episode about building executive function skills 

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give