Tiny Wins with Tara-IEP/504 Support

09/09/2025

Token Boards: A Simple Tool That Makes a Big Difference

One of my favorite tools for kids, both at home and in the classroom, is a token board. A token board is a visual system that helps kids stay motivated and see their progress toward earning a reward.

Here is how it works. A child earns a token, like a picture of their favorite character, each time they complete a task, follow a direction, or show a positive behavior. Once the board is full, they get to trade it in for a reward they have chosen ahead of time. That reward might be tablet time, a favorite snack, or even a trip to Target.

Why is this so effective?
For all kids, token boards make progress fun and easy to see. For kids with special needs, the visual aspect is especially powerful. It breaks tasks down into small steps they can actually see and keeps them engaged without constant reminders. It builds confidence, independence, and consistency by turning goals into small wins they can celebrate along the way.

I make these boards custom to each child’s favorite characters so it feels exciting and personal. They work wonderfully for school, home routines, therapy sessions, or anywhere your child could use some encouragement.

I am offering the digital design completely free. If you would like a physical copy that is printed, cut, laminated, and set up with Velcro, I charge five dollars to cover materials.

If you think your child would benefit from one of these, message me. I would love to design a board that works for your family.

09/08/2025

Inside the IEP Meeting: What to Expect and How to Prepare

When Ronnie had his very first IEP meeting, I thought I knew what I was walking into. I had my notes from Early Intervention, I had support beside me, and I had gone over and over in my head what I wanted to say. But the moment I stepped into that room and saw how many people were at the table, it hit me. No amount of preparation could take away the feeling of being overwhelmed when your child’s entire future support plan is being laid out in front of you.

For anyone about to experience their first IEP meeting, I want to take some of the mystery out of the process. An IEP is a legal document that lays out the services, goals, and accommodations your child will receive at school. It is not just paperwork, it is the plan that guides how your child will be supported every single day.

So who will you see around the table? Typically, there is a special education teacher, a general education teacher, a speech therapist or occupational therapist if those services are recommended, a school psychologist, and an administrator. And of course, you as the parent. Sometimes, if the child is older, they may be part of the meeting too. Each of these people has a role to play in building the plan, but as the parent you are a key voice at that table.

The meetings can last anywhere from one to two hours, sometimes longer if there are a lot of services being discussed. The time can feel heavy, especially when professionals are talking about the areas where your child needs help. But remember, they have to identify the areas of concern in order to build meaningful goals.

When it came to Ronnie’s first IEP, the goals were very simple. Things like using single words consistently, sitting at a desk for five minutes, or following a two-step direction. At the time, those goals felt so small compared to what I wanted for him. But over time I learned that those small goals build into bigger ones. They create the foundation for progress.

Parents can also request their own personal goals. For me, one of the most important ones was for Ronnie to call me mommy again. It may have seemed small to the team, but to me it was huge. That goal reminded me that the IEP is not just about academics. It is about real children and real families, and the everyday moments that matter most.

If you are preparing for your first meeting, here are a few things you might want to bring with you: your notes, any past evaluations, a list of questions, and your own ideas for personal goals. I also recommend bringing my free IEP meeting binder downloads (you can upload them here) https://www.simplymommade.com/iep/504-advocacy/why-i-made-the-iep-binder-and-why-im-sharing-it-with-you. Having something concrete in your hands can make the meeting feel less intimidating and give you a place to jot down notes as you go.

And what happens after the meeting? The goals that are written become your child’s daily roadmap at school. Teachers and therapists work toward those goals, and you will receive progress updates throughout the year. If something is not working, you do not have to wait until the next annual meeting. As a parent, you can request a new IEP meeting at any time.

The first meeting will probably feel overwhelming, and that is okay. It is a lot to take in. But I want you to remember this: You are not just sitting at that table, you are part of the team. Your voice matters, your perspective matters, and you are the one who knows your child best. The IEP is not the end of the journey, it is the beginning of a partnership that is meant to help your child grow.

Why I Made the IEP Binder (And Why I’m Sharing It With You). Complete with a free download to an IEP/504 advocacy binder.

09/03/2025

The Transition from Early Intervention to Preschool Support

When Ronnie was nearing his third birthday, I thought I was prepared for what came next. We had been through Birth to 3 services, I had stacks of notes, and I knew the transition into the school system was coming. Still, nothing prepared me for the emotions of that very first IEP meeting.

At the time, Ronnie’s Early Intervention therapist was Chantille Schram. She has since become a dear friend, but in that season she was the one working directly with Ronnie every week. When it came time for that first IEP meeting, I asked her to come with me because I was so nervous. No amount of explanation can fully describe the feeling of sitting in a room with strangers talking about your child. The weight of it was overwhelming. I wanted Ronnie to have the best support possible, but hearing professionals point out the areas where he was struggling was incredibly hard.

What I came to understand was that this process was not about labeling him or focusing on negatives. It was about identifying the skills he needed help with so the team could build goals that would help him grow. That shift in perspective changed everything for me.

The first goals on Ronnie’s IEP were very simple. Things like using single words consistently, sitting at a desk for five minutes, or following a two-step direction. At first, these goals felt so small compared to what I wanted for him, but those small goals created the stepping stones he needed. Over time, those little steps built into bigger progress.

I also learned that parents can bring their own goals to the table. For me, the one that mattered most was for Ronnie to call me mommy again. It may have sounded simple compared to everything else, but to me it was everything. That small personal goal reminded me that this process is not just about data and paperwork. It is about real families and the everyday moments that matter most to us.

It is important to know that when the school team points out areas where your child is behind, it is not meant to bring you down as a parent. It is how they figure out what support your child needs to move forward. Without understanding where a child struggles, it is almost impossible to know how to set goals that make a real difference.

Looking back, I am so glad I did not walk into that meeting alone. Bringing Chantille with me meant there was someone at the table who already knew Ronnie and could speak up for him in ways I could not. If you are approaching your first IEP meeting, I encourage you to bring someone you trust (whether that be a friend, a family member, or even a therapist who has worked with your child). And if you feel like you need that kind of support but are not sure who to ask, my inbox is always open. Sometimes just having someone beside you who understands this process can make all the difference.

The transition from Early Intervention to preschool support can feel like walking into a storm. The language is new, the process feels heavy, and the emotions are so real. But here is what I want you to know: you are not alone. It is okay to take notes, to ask questions, and to give yourself time to process what you hear.

That first IEP meeting is not the end. It is the beginning of a new chapter in your child’s journey. The goals may start small, and the meetings may feel overwhelming, but every step forward is progress. And just like those first services in Birth to 3, the preschool years are laying the foundation for everything that comes next.

09/02/2025

When Ronnie first started with Birth to 3 services, I felt a wave of relief knowing he would have a team of people around him. But it did not take long for me to realize that the process is not always as smooth as we hope it will be. There were times when therapists would cancel too often, or the sessions felt like they were not making much progress. Other times, the fit just did not seem right, no matter how kind and well-meaning the therapist was. As a parent, those moments left me feeling discouraged and even guilty for wondering if Ronnie needed something different.

I had to remind myself that it was okay to speak up. I was not being ungrateful or too demanding. I was advocating for my child. The truth is that you are never stuck. If you feel like sessions are not enough, or that your child is not connecting with a therapist, you are allowed to voice those concerns. Sometimes a simple, honest conversation with the therapist helps reset expectations and get things back on track. Other times, it may take reaching out to your service coordinator, whose job is to support families through this process.

One of the hardest lessons for me was accepting that therapy is not one size fits all. Some therapists are wonderful at certain areas but may not be the right match for your child’s personality or learning style. Asking for a different therapist does not mean the one you have is not good at their job. It just means your child deserves the best possible fit. And when it comes to your child, the right fit matters more than anything.

Along the way, I found it helpful to write things down. If appointments were missed, or if I noticed patterns where Ronnie was not improving, I kept notes. That simple step made it easier to explain what I was seeing and to ask for changes without feeling like I was just complaining.

The most important part of all of this is trusting your gut. No one knows your child the way you do. If something feels off, it probably is. Birth to 3 services are meant to support families, not leave you feeling powerless. Speaking up does not make you difficult. It means you are giving your child what they need to thrive.

It is never easy to question the people who are there to help, but advocating does not mean you are unappreciative. It means you are willing to do what it takes for your child. That is what Birth to 3 should be, a partnership where families and therapists work together to put your child first.

If you are in Illinois and need support, you can start here: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=30321.
And if you live in another state and are looking for your own resources, reach out to me. I would be glad to help point you in the right direction so you can get the support your family deserves.

09/01/2025

Birth to 3 Services: The First Step Before School Support

When Ronnie was a baby, he met every milestone right on time. He called me mama, he played with toys, and he seemed to be right on track. Then, around 15 months, things changed. He stopped saying mama. He started lining up his toys and walking on his toes. He wasn’t speaking, he avoided eye contact, and while he was very advanced with things like letters, numbers, and colors, he was far behind in other milestones.

I remember bringing it up to our pediatrician, but at the time they didn’t seem too concerned. As a mom, though, I felt in my gut that something was going on. It wasn’t until Ronnie’s preschool screening that it all became crystal clear. I watched as the other kids followed directions and interacted, while Ronnie struggled. That day, the school recommended that Ronnie be tested for autism and also gave me information about Birth to 3 resources. That was the turning point for us.

What Are Birth to 3 Services?

Birth to 3 services, often called Early Intervention, are part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) under Part C. They provide help for children from birth until their third birthday. Support may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or developmental support in the home or daycare setting. These services are designed to meet your child where they are and give families the tools they need early on.

Who Qualifies?

Children may qualify if they show developmental delays in speech, motor skills, or social-emotional growth. Children with a diagnosed condition, such as autism, Down syndrome, or hearing and vision impairments, can also qualify. In some cases, infants who are considered at risk due to prematurity or medical complications may be eligible. Parents don’t have to wait for someone else to bring it up. You can request an evaluation on your own, just like I wish I had known to do sooner.

How to Start in Illinois

In Illinois, the Early Intervention Program provides these services. You can begin by calling your local Child and Family Connections (CFC) office to request an evaluation. Services are free or very low cost depending on income. If your child qualifies, you will receive an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) that explains what support your child will get and how often.

👉 Illinois Department of Human Services Early Intervention:
https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=30321&utm_source=chatgpt.com

Find your local CFC office here:
https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=31172&utm_source=chatgpt.com

From Birth to 3 into School Support

When your child turns 3, services transition into the school system. At that point, the school district will hold a meeting to determine if your child qualifies for an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The notes, evaluations, and progress from Birth to 3 services carry forward and help the school understand your child’s needs. I recommend keeping every piece of paperwork, because it paints a fuller picture when you move into the school years.

Why Early Support Matters

Looking back, I realize how important those first supports were for Ronnie. Early Intervention gave us a foundation and helped me find my voice as his advocate. If you’re worried about your child, you’re not overreacting. Asking for help early is one of the best gifts you can give both your child and yourself.

Final Thoughts

If you are in Illinois, the links above can get you started right away. If you live in another state and want to know where to begin, let me know and I will connect you with the resources in your area. You do not have to wait until school starts to get help, and you do not have to walk this road alone.

08/31/2025

Welcome to Tiny Wins with Tara

Hi friends! Whether you are brand new here or followed me before, I am so glad you have found your way back. This space was created with one purpose in mind: to support parents and guardians as they navigate the world of IEPs and 504 plans.

Why does this matter so much to me? Because I know firsthand how confusing, overwhelming, and at times isolating the special education journey can feel. I also know how powerful it is to have support, encouragement, and a reminder that even the tiny wins along the way are worth celebrating.

Here you will find
• Helpful guidance and tips on IEPs and 504s
• Free printables and resources to make the process easier
• Real talk about advocacy and what it is like in the day-to-day
• A supportive community where you are not alone

If you would like to dive deeper, I have created a space on my website where you can access my free printables, sign up for weekly updates, and explore new topics each week:

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