Q. Why do you use the word “exceptionality” instead of “disability?”

A. The word “disability” carries a lot of negativity with it. Yes, children with disabilities do have some limits that their typically developing peers do not. But “disability” doesn’t honor the unique and amazing strengths that special children have!

We prefer the term “exceptionality” because we see children with special needs as exceptional, not disabled. They have exceptional abilities – for better and for worse. They deserve to be fully known for everything that makes them who they are, not just for one aspect of their development.

Q. My child’s teachers are really great, but I don’t think they quite understand my child. How can I help them understand?

A. You are not alone. Despite teachers’ best efforts, parents often wonder if their child is truly known and understood at school. Our parent support tool helps address this problem by bridging communication gaps between you and your child’s school. We make it easier to know what to say and how to say it – all for the benefit of your child.

Q. My child has a lot of supports outside of school – therapists, tutors, even babysitters. Can you help me communicate with these professionals, too?

A. Yes! Your ExceptionALLY Action Plan helps you communicate with anyone who supports your child. Why leave anything to chance? Your unique child depends on you to share their needs with the world, and we’ll help you do that.

Q. I often feel alone, powerless and vulnerable in meetings with my child’s teachers. What can you do to help me?

A. Our mission is to help parents like you feel powerful and knowledgeable in the special education process. Everything we design is created to serve this mission. Right now, our parent tool helps you know what to say and how to say it. We’ll help you “speak the school’s language” and raise your voice to become the champion your child needs.

Q. My local district and state are really tough when it comes to special ed. Do you take this into account?

A. The many differences between states, districts and even schools are a big part of what makes special education so complicated. As we grow, we will continue to add more and more content specific to local situations. Currently, our parent support tool relies on information that applies to all children under IDEA and Section 504.

Q. My children attend an independent school, but I’m still concerned about whether they are getting the right supports. Can you help me, or this only for children in public school?

A. Our parent support tool can help any parent trying to communicate their child’s goals and needs to an educator or caretaker. While many, many parents struggle within the IEP and 504 process at traditional public schools, parents in charter and private schools also struggle to help their children succeed.

We’re here to support all parents raising children with learning differences.

Q. I’m not sure if I should try to get a 504 plan or an IEP for my child. help!

A. This is a common situation – you’re not alone! ExceptionALLY can help you think through your options. 504 plans and IEPs offer different types of support and different benefits, and we’ll help you understand your options and your rights.

Q. I like the look of your tool, but my child’s exceptionality is not supported by it. Are you adding new exceptionalities?

A. Yes we are! Our goal is to support every parent no matter what their child’s exceptionality. Email us at [email protected] to let us know which exceptionality you’d like to see next.

Q. I’ve got a really terrible situation at my child’s school. What should I do next?

A. If your child is ever in physical or emotional danger, we encourage you to reach out to a special education advocate or attorney in your area. As we grow, we will aim to support every family – no matter how severe their situation is. Right now, we aren’t yet able to give personal advice on extreme situations (such as those that would lead to impartial hearings/due process scenarios).

Q. Have a question not answered here?

We’d love to hear from you! Email us at [email protected]ionally.com.