Former special-education teacher and Certified Lactation Counselor Meredith J. joins Nicole to simplify IEPs and 504s, compare public, charter, and private school options, and share down-to-earth breastfeeding guidance—without the pressure. This episode helps parents know what to ask, when to advocate, and how to trust their intuition.Timestamps00:00 – Intro & who Meredith is (teacher → UAE → FL, mom, CLC, realtor)02:51 – Why this episode: support for ages 0–5 and early school years03:56 – The main challenge in public schools: time & resources04:49 – IEP vs. 504 explained in plain language05:32 – Writing vs. implementing plans—why teachers feel stretched06:24 – Inclusion vs. self-contained classrooms07:18 – How peer models impact behavior10:18 – Presuming competence: CP/AAC example11:20 – IEP promises vs. daily reality11:37 – Charter schools: basics, lotteries, smaller ratios13:44 – Who funds charters & why “private” ≠ automatically better14:29 – Transportation tradeoffs for families15:07 – Florida’s Unique Abilities Scholarship & private-school cautions15:59 – Checking teacher credentials (“out-of-field” list)16:53 – Ask the right questions about curriculum & supports17:52 – Key question: “How will you implement my child’s IEP?”18:31 – Service Plans: speech/OT in private settings18:42 – Early Steps (0–3) and FDLRS/Child Find (3–K)20:23 – Natural environment services & transitioning after age 321:08 – New parent overwhelm & trusting your gut21:51 – Meredith’s journey to becoming a lactation counselor24:29 – Tongue/lip ties & different feeding experiences25:06 – CLC vs. IBCLC credentials26:55 – Advocacy mindset: taking charge of your child’s care27:43 – Polite persistence with doctors or therapists28:54 – Breastfeeding without guilt—bottles are okay30:13 – Why pediatricians and IBCLCs should work together31:06 – Build your team early; insurance often covers visits32:26 – Hospital lactation care: ask for fit and comfort32:58 – Support networks that actually help33:41 – Take what helps from well-meaning family advice34:16 – Three key tips: delete milestone apps, follow your baby, start early36:18 – Evaluations ≠ automatic therapy—get tailored advice37:11 – The truth about waitlists & being politely persistent38:54 – IEP advocates and county resources that make a difference41:20 – You’re not “mean”—you’re advocating for your child41:34 – How to reach Meredith & wrap-upKey TakeawaysAsk this: “How will you implement my child’s IEP, and what data will you show me?”Compare class size, credentials, and supports before choosing a school.Start early: Early Steps (0–3); FDLRS/Child Find (3–K).Bottles are fine—line up lactation support before birth.Call waitlists weekly and use an IEP advocate if needed.Resources MentionedEarly Steps • FDLRS / Child Find • Service Plans for private schools • IBCLC vs. CLC overview • School Tour ChecklistConnectGuest – Meredith J. | [email protected] – Nicole Yates / The Authentic SLP | @theauthenticslp | Skool CommunityDisclaimer:This episode shares personal experiences and general information, not medical, legal, or educational advice. Always confirm with your providers and local district policies.

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