Love Is a Classroom: Stories of Inclusion

Love Is a Classroom: Stories of Inclusion is a podcast that aims to serve as a bridge for a more inclusive world. Through storytelling and conversation, each series illuminates the collective experience of individuals who strive to break down barriers and foster a more inclusive world for children with disabilities or who are neurodivergent. Together we explore and discover practical ways we can all contribute to building a society where everyone belongs.

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Episodes

More Than an Interpreter

Wednesday Jul 31, 2024

Wednesday Jul 31, 2024

More Than an Interpreter
In fourth episode of the second series of 'Love is a Classroom: Stories of Inclusion,' the focus is on Wendy Bowman, a sign language interpreter with over 30 years of experience. In the episode, she shares her perspective on Deaf culture, education, and the essential role of interpreters. Wendy discusses the challenges and successes of the inclusion of deaf children in general education settings, emphasizing the need for the right resources and support. She also highlights the impact of inclusion on both deaf and hearing students, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual understanding. The episode concludes with a reflection on the broader implications for the education system and a call to action for better support and advocacy for children with disabilities.
00:00 Introduction to Inclusive Education
00:33 Navee's Journey and the Power of Inclusion
01:25 Exploring Deaf Culture and Education with Wendy Bowman
02:49 Challenges and Triumphs in Deaf Education
04:10 The Importance of Early Language Development
08:20 Navigating Public and Deaf School Systems
19:11 Building Relationships and Inclusion in the Classroom
26:57 Concluding Thoughts and Future Considerations
 
Wendy Bowman: Wendybowman18@gmail.com
If you have a story you want to share, go to Loveisaclassroom.com/contact
 
Cover art by Josie Filippelli https://www.linkedin.com/in/josie-filippelli/
 

Navigating Deaf Culture

Wednesday Aug 07, 2024

Wednesday Aug 07, 2024


This episode of 'Love is a Classroom: Stories of Inclusion' delves into the life of Navee, a 7-year-old deaf child, and her experiences in an inclusive setting. The show features insightful discussions with Wendy and Brooke about the cultural challenges of being a hearing family with a deaf child. They emphasize the distinct differences between English and American Sign Language (ASL), the importance of appropriate communication, and the need for unconditional inclusion. The episode also touches on the significance of creating accessible social experiences and the impact of cultural exposure on Navee's language development. Listen to Navee and her siblings, Holland and Carson, as they share their unique perspectives and experiences. The episode concludes by discussing the broader implications of inclusive education and the necessity of tailored support for deaf children.
 
Watch the video recording of the episode at https://youtu.be/AtHGg3lvbyg
 
00:00 Introduction and Misconceptions About Sign Language
00:43 Welcome to Love is a Classroom
01:27 Challenges of Podcasting with a Deaf Child
01:46 Cultural Experiences of a Hearing Family with a Deaf Child
02:26 Interpreting and Communication Tips
03:22 Personal Stories and Experiences
07:49 Inclusion and Communication in Daily Life
10:30 Navee's Summer Camp and Family Friends
13:30 Welcoming Navee, Holland, and Carson
18:08 Navee's Interests and Activities
20:36 Conclusion and Reflections on Inclusion
 
Contact me on social media or through my website for more information on my work: loveisaclassroom.com
Thank you for listening!
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Wednesday Aug 14, 2024


In this focused episode of 'Love is a Classroom: Stories of Inclusion,' Vicky Brett and Amanda Selogie, special education attorneys and founders of the Inclusive Education Project, join me to discuss events in Series 2 and the importance of inclusive education for children with disabilities. We talk about Brooke's circumstances with Navee. My guests address the legal obligations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) of 2004, the challenges families face in securing appropriate support, and the powerful role teachers and parents play in advocating for inclusive environments. The episode highlights a real-world events, practical solutions, collaboration, and the societal impact of true inclusion in schools.
 
00:00 Introduction to Inclusion and Legal Rights
00:48 Meet the Experts: Vicky and Amanda
01:47 Challenges in Inclusive Education
02:28 Legal Framework and Parental Advocacy
03:00 Personal Journeys into Special Education Law
06:34 Navigating the IDEA and Legal Obligations
11:01 Funding and Resource Allocation Issues
14:19 Empowering Parents and Teachers
21:29 Rethinking Educational Models
31:19 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
 
Contact Inclusive Education Project: https://www.inclusiveeducationproject.org/
admin@IEPCalifornia.Org
Listen to the Inclusive Education Project podcast on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
 
Contact me on YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, or Instagram or email me at loveisaclassroom.com for more information on my work.
Thank you for listening!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode
If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show. It helps other listeners find this show.
 

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Why stories?

Finding the right way to communicate is important, and stories are a great tool for doing so. By sharing stories, we can touch people’s hearts and minds, igniting inspiration and motivating them to take action. While research is valuable and provides evidence, it is often the emotional connection that stories create that truly moves people. That is the approach I take to spread ideas about why and how we, as a society, can honor the right for all children to be included early in life, in every context, and always.

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