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Water Prairie

Water Prairie Weekly Newsletter - 2/27/26

Published 6 days ago • 1 min read

Are they just "invited to the party"? 💃

Hi friend,

I talk to so many parents who feel relieved when they see their child placed in a "regular" classroom. It feels like a win, right? It feels like we’ve finally achieved inclusion.

But lately, I’ve been asking myself—and the parents I coach—a harder question: Is your child actually included, or are they just sitting in the room?

There is a massive difference between proximity and belonging. Too often, I see children sitting in the back of the room with an aide, isolated from their peers. That isn't inclusion. That is just being present.

In my coaching, I like to use this analogy: I don't just want your child invited to the party; I want them to be asked to dance.

This week on the Water Prairie Chronicles, I’m breaking down what True Inclusion really looks like in the classroom. It’s a short episode—just over 5 minutes—so I’ve packed it with the absolute essentials you need to start advocating for a sense of belonging for your child.

​Listen to Episode #146: True Inclusion (5 mins)​

True inclusion is about more than just a seat at the desk; it’s about IEP advocacy that leads to actual classroom belonging. If you’re ready to look at your child's IEP and ensure they aren't just "present," but truly involved, let's chat.

​Sign up for a Free Strategy Session with Me​

Have a great week!

With gratitude,

Tonya

PO Box 545, Cary, NC 27512

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