Opportunity Gap: For Families Navigating Special Education

Navigating the education system can be overwhelming for families whose children have ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning and thinking differences. Opportunity Gap is a podcast that sheds light on the real challenges families face when trying to get the right support for their kids. On this show, we explore how identity, race, disability, and access to resources can make the education journey more challenging — and what parents can do about it. Join host Julian Saavedra, an assistant principal and father of two, as he shares real stories, expert insights, and practical strategies to help you advocate for your child.

Opportunity Gap: For Families Navigating Special Education is a kids podcast hosted by Understood.org, Julian Saavedra, with 104 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Understood.org, Julian Saavedra hosts Opportunity Gap: For Families Navigating Special Education, a kids show with 104 episodes published.

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  Episode #101

  Should you hold your child back a year? What parents need to know

  May 26, 202624 minS0

  <p>If your child doesn’t seem ready for kindergarten or the next grade, what should you do? What if the school is suggesting that your child stay back? </p> <p>In this episode, we break down the real factors behind redshirting and grade retention. Guest Dr. Imani Irving-Perez, a lecturer on early childhood and special education, shares what to consider. She talks about social-emotional development, academic readiness, behavior, and more. You’ll learn what questions to ask schools, what the research says, and how to make a decision that supports your child now and later.</p> <p>For more on thi...

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  Episode #100

  The reasons kids shut down before summer break

  May 12, 202612 minS0

  <p>As the school year winds down, many kids start to burn out. They might lose motivation, feel big emotions, or struggle to follow their usual routines. In this episode, you’ll learn why behaviors like shutdowns and meltdowns are signals, not problems, and what to do about them. Plus, get tips to lower stress levels, reset after tough moments, and help your child finish the year strong.</p> <p>For more on this topic </p> Listen: What is a “good summer” for kids with learning disabilities? Listen: How to make summer learning fun Read: School burnout in kids who learn a...

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  Episode #99

  3 hidden IEP benefits every parent should know

  Apr 28, 202626 minS0

  <p>Most families know that IEPs can provide accommodations and services. But other powerful supports are sometimes hidden. In this episode, we break down three often-overlooked IEP benefits: extended school year services, built-in training for parents and teachers, and outside placements. Learn what to ask for, how to ask for it, and how decisions get made. </p> <p>For more on this topic</p> Watch: Does your child need an IEP? Read: What is an IEP? Listen: Advocating for your child at school <p>For a transcript and more resources, visit the episode page on Understood.org. We love hearing f...

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  Episode #98

  The case for more play in school

  Apr 14, 202612 minS0

  <p>Play isn’t just a break from learning. It can also be how learning happens. But many kids have less time for recess and unstructured play than ever before. </p> <p>In this episode, we explore why play matters for focus, social skills, and emotional regulation. We also look at what’s getting in the way of play. Plus, we share practical ways families and schools can bring more play into kids’ daily lives.</p> <p>For more on this topic</p> Listen: From fidget to focus: Why movement matters for kids with ADHD Read: 19 brain breaks to help kids wi...

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  Episode #97

  ADHD and how eating affects focus for kids

  Mar 31, 202626 minS0

  <p>If your child has ADHD, you may wonder how eating affects their focus at school. The answer isn’t about perfect meals or strict rules.</p> <p>In this episode, host Julian Saavedra talks with registered dietitians Elizabeth Davenport and Anna Lutz about how to help kids fuel for school. They share what to do when kids aren’t hungry, why breakfast can be tricky, and how to handle lunches, snacks, and afterschool hunger.</p> <p>You’ll also hear how to help kids build healthy eating habits without turning food into a battle.</p> <p>For more on this t...

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