Cultivating Inclusive Connections by Empowering Siblings: Insights from Dr. DeShanna Reed 🌱

You MUST meet Dr. Reed! 

In our last episode of the FAST 15 Podcast, I had the privilege of continuing our conversation with the truly inspiring Dr. DeShanna Reed.  So many things that she said resonated with me, and I hope they will with you as well.  If you haven’t already, be sure to check out our TWO episodes.  Here are some of my key takeaways:

Embracing Silence: A Lesson in Observation 🤫

In the fast-paced world of special education, sometimes the greatest tools aren’t the loudest or most apparent. Dr. DeShanna Reed’s insightful advice reminds us to pause, to listen, and to observe. As educators, we can learn a whole lot more by saying nothing than by attempting to fill an empty space. 

Unveiling the Root Cause: A Path to Effective Solutions 🌿

When faced with challenges in the classroom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Dr. Reed’s guidance encourages us to peel back the layers and ask the right questions:

• What is the actual problem to be solved?
• Who is impacted when those problems are solved?
• How can we best address these challenges?
• What indicators will signal success?
• What’s the plan for continuous improvement?

By identifying the root cause and making targeted adjustments, we can initiate positive change that ripples throughout our programs and classrooms.

Nurturing Commitment: The Key to Positive Change 🔑

At the core of every successful endeavor lies commitment. Dr. Reed emphasizes the importance of fostering commitment among special education teachers, students, families, and community members. When everyone is aligned in purpose and dedicated to supporting one another, remarkable transformations occur. You can invest your time and continued commitment through some of our amazing programs and opportunities for professional development.

Empowering Siblings: A Call to Action for Informed Advocacy 🌟

Dr. Reed’s insights extend beyond the classroom to encompass the broader support network of families, particularly siblings of differently-abled individuals. Her message is clear: empower siblings through information and inclusion.

Two essential takeaways emerge for siblings:

• Get informed and remain informed: knowledge is power. Siblings can and should be informed advocates for their family members with special needs. Organizations like Siblings with a Mission offer valuable resources and support.
  
• Don’t keep secrets: inclusion starts at home. Neurotypical siblings should be included in conversations about their differently-abled family members from the outset. Transparency fosters understanding and strengthens familial bonds.

Taking Action: Building Bridges Together 🌉

As educators and advocates, it’s our collective responsibility to cultivate inclusive environments where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. By embracing Dr. DeShanna Reed’s insights and reaching out to resources like Dr. Reed Consulting & Coaching Associates and Siblings with a Mission, we can empower ourselves and our communities to create positive change.

Let’s commit to fostering connections, nurturing commitment, and empowering all members of our educational ecosystem. Together, we can cultivate a more inclusive and supportive environment where every student can thrive.  

Keep doing it. Keep up the great work that you’re doing for your students to reach toward higher expectations and build on their strengths. Just do it. Go for it. Be collaborative. Be hopeful and hope-giving.

I’ll keep cultivating right along with you!

With hope and expectation,

Barb Beck

Creative Content Director, SDES

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