EPISODES

Magical Bridge playgrounds are beautiful places where ALL kiddos can play together. Think accessible ramps, wide paths, kindness corners, and the cutest little huts for when you just need some space. We are so lucky to have Barbara Butler on to tell us more about these playgrounds. She is a luxury play structure and treehouse designer who uses her architect background to create incredible inclusive playgrounds alongside the Magical Bridge Foundation. Join us for the incredible story about how her work started and what we can do to make all of our playgrounds inclusive.

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) gave his family hope when his sister was born, and now he’s giving it right back. Friends, meet Shivam Punjya, the founder of Behno and the brother of Nini, his younger sister with Down Syndrome. He made fashionable, quality handbags accessible to Nini, and anyone else who might benefit from a rounded zipper and bigger storage space! We love functional fashion, but we love Behno’s collaboration with NDSS even more! Check out this extraordinary partnership and join us for an interview with it’s creator, Shivam!  

Another week back to school and we feel all kinds of grateful for the amazing teachers in our lives who literally make learning happen for our kiddos every single day.  Teachers, we’re here to say that we see you, we love you, and we appreciate you! That’s why today we’re answering questions from you dear listeners about how teachers can modify their classrooms, advocate for all of their students, and become lifelong learners in the process!  So friends, join us for a chat about some of the most important adults in our kids' lives, all the ways you can partner with your child’s teacher, and what Heather wishes she knew when she was an educator. 

Anyone else feel overwhelmed and under-qualified when the back to school season begins?!  We know we do! But here’s the thing: when it comes to your child’s education, YOU DO YOU. If you doing you means homeschooling, great!  If it means a fully inclusive general education setting, great! If it means a special education class setting, great! This week we’re here to say that we are cheering for you and your child with Down Syndrome at school, at home, and in every space you occupy.  Because when it comes down to it, choosing the “perfect” (if there is such a thing) classroom for your child with Down Syndrome depends on so much more than meets the eye. Remember that we can shout the worth of our kiddos from any platform, in every classroom! 

It’s official friends, we are back to school.. and we are taking you all with us!  First things first, let’s talk IEPs with the founders of The Inclusive Education Project: Amanda Selogie and Vickie Brett.  These two bright and beautiful lawyers use their extensive knowledge of education law and their passion for people with different abilities to educate families on special education rights and connect them with pro bono legal aid.  And fortunately for us, they’re sharing their top IEP tips and strategies today! They encourage all of you parents to follow up (in writing) about post-IEP-meeting tasks, provide clear expectations, and create (reasonable) deadlines for everyone on your child’s team.  There is truly no better way to kick off our September Back to School series than with Amanda, Vickie, and their nonprofit - The Inclusive Education Project.