#46 Individual Learning Plans that really work with Emma-Rose Parsons

Описание: Psychologist Emma-Rose Parsons joins host, Leisa Reichelt to discuss how Individual Learning Plans (ILPs/IEPs) can become practical, neurodiversity-affirming tools rather than “tick-the-box” paperwork.

Emma-Rose explains ILPs should document reasonable adjustments, support equal access to curriculum and school life, and help schools meet obligations under relevant disability and equal opportunity legislation—ideally through true collaboration with parents and, where possible, students.

They identify common red flags and Emma-Rose shares examples of better goals focused on access and regulation. The episode also covers school objections around “fairness” and staff capacity, noting the need for better whole-community understanding of equity and more teacher upskilling.

They discuss how allied health can help by providing brief, prioritised recommendations with clear rationale, and how implementation often breaks down in high school without clear responsibility for sharing plans across multiple teachers.

00:00 Welcome to the School Can’t Experience Podcast + Today’s Topic (ILPs/IEPs)
01:33 Meet Psychologist Emma-Rose Parsons: Why Neurodiversity-Affirming Support Matters
03:42 What ILPs/IEPs Are Supposed to Do (and Why They Often Fail)
06:43 Going Into the ILP Meeting: Collaboration, Student Voice & Intent
12:50 Spotting Red Flags: Cookie-Cutter Plans, Unrealistic Goals & Student-Blame
17:43 Reframing Goals: From “Fix the Child” to Access & Strengths (Handwriting Example)
19:53 Great Goal Examples: Movement, Regulation, Alternatives to Writing & Assembly Access
26:01 Handling School Pushback: Fairness Myths vs Real Capacity Constraints
35:03 Allied Health Support: Making Recommendations Usable (Prioritize the ‘Why’)
38:14 Making the Plan Happen: Implementation, High School Handover & Accountability
41:46 Where Parents Can Learn More: Resources, Training & Using AI as a Starting Point
43:35 Wrap-Up, Links, Subscribe + Support Resources


People & resources mentioned in this episode:

Emma Rose’s website: https://emmarosepsychologist.com.au/
Nuturing Sparkles Video Library” https://learn.nurturingsparkles.com.au/
Neurowild octopus iceskates cartoon re: equal vs equality - https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Neurowild on Instagram:   / neurowild_  
Lived Experience Educator: https://www.livedexperienceeducator.com/
 - Onwards and Upwards Psychology: https://www.onwardsandupwardspsycholo...
Yellow Ladybugs: https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au/

School Can’t Australia Website - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/
School Can’t Australia Facebook Community -   / schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia  

If you are a parent or carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/i...

Get in touch?
Email us at [email protected] with your feedback, suggestions or to volunteer to share your School Can’t experience.

Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.