Show Notes:

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron welcomes guests Aimée and her daughter, Lila, to discuss their advocacy journey within the school system. Lila, who has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, shares her fight to attend a more accessible high school alongside her established support system. They dive into the barriers of special education policies, the power of self-advocacy, and the importance of inclusion beyond compliance. Aimée and Lila emphasize the role of community in fostering true accessibility and highlight how youth-led support networks can drive meaningful change.

Key Takeaways:

Advocacy Matters – Lila’s courage in self-advocacy proves that students should have a voice in decisions affecting their education.

Beyond Compliance – ADA compliance doesn’t always mean true accessibility; spaces built with inclusion in mind are crucial.

Peer Support – Lila’s friendships play a key role in her independence, showing the value of social inclusion in education.

Parental Involvement – Aimée highlights the importance of persistent advocacy and strategic IEP accommodations.

Inclusion Starts Early – Schools and communities must involve disabled individuals in planning from the beginning, not as an afterthought.

Aimée and Lila’s definitions of inclusion:

Lila:

Inclusion is seeing someone who is not participating in an activity and asking them “Do you want to join us?”

Aimée:

When you are trying to create inclusive spaces and programs you must include the people in the planning process and not just bring them in at the end.

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest: 

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 25

No - 24

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