From Hot Mess to Head of the Table & Beyond
Our products are designed to help you walk into any IEP or 504 meeting with confidence.
Browse this page to find books, workbooks, and tools that turn your questions into clear requests and your notes into an organized system.
Your purchase also helps provide low cost and scholarship advocacy for other families.
Your purchase supports Bridges 2 Advocacy
The Parent Edition costs $19.99-$24.99
Proceeds go directly to Bridges 2 Advocacy, a nonprofit that:
• Provides advocacy support to families who cannot afford private services.
• Offers community trainings on IEPs, 504 plans, behavior, and parent rights.
• Uses scholarship funds to help families bring an advocate to the table when it matters most.
When you buy this book, you invest in your own child AND help another family who is walking the same IEP journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this book provide legal advice or replace the services of an advocate or attorney?
No. This book is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for the services of an advocate or attorney. It provides you with information, tools, and language to help you understand the process, organize your thoughts, and take the next step with confidence.
Is this a digital book or a printed book?
Hot Mess to Head of the Table Parent Edition is offered in two separate formats: a digital download and a printed book. On this page, you can choose which version to purchase, or buy both. The digital edition is delivered as an e-pub file you can read on your phone, tablet, or computer. The print edition is a physical book that will be shipped to you. Each format is a separate purchase.
I am brand new to IEPs and 504 plans. Will this be too advanced?
This Parent Edition begins at the start of the IEP journey and explains key terms in clear language. It is written with new families in mind and also includes tools that seasoned parents and advocates can use for documentation and planning.
Why this Parent Edition is different
What makes this book different from other advocacy guides:
• Written by a former teacher and experienced special education advocate who sits in IEP meetings every week with families.
• Speaks to you as a parent, not as a lawyer or a school administrator.
• Gives you real language and real examples, not just theory.
• Designed so you can grab a script or checklist on your phone in the parking lot before the meeting.
What's inside the Parent Edition?
Inside, you will find:
• Plain language breakdown of IEP and 504 basics so you know what the school is supposed to do.
• Step-by-step checklists for preparing before, during, and after meetings.
• Question banks you can use word-for-word when you do not know what to say.
• Email templates for requesting evaluations, data, IEP changes, and follow-up.
• Real talk sidebars that tell you what is really happening behind the scenes and how to respond.
• Space to reflect, plan, and track your own child’s story.
Example topics include:
• How to request a full and comprehensive evaluation
• Understanding present levels, goals, and services
• Accommodations versus modifications
• What to do when your child is not making progress
• Behavior, discipline, and manifestation meetings
• How to keep things collaborative while still holding the school accountable
Downloadable FREE Resources for Parents & Advocates | Bridges 2 Advocacy
Printables
Empowering families starts with access to the right tools. Our free printables are designed to help you stay organized, ask the right questions, and confidently advocate for your child’s education. Download, print, and share—these resources are for you.
Printables to Support You with Your IEP/504 Needs
Created by our Founder
Please feel free to download and share!
IEP Checklist
Back to school checklist
College Transition
Guide for post-secondary readiness
MORE TO COME
MORE TO COME
