As a therapist and former supervisee of Amanda Ly, I’m excited to share my thoughts on Navigating Special Education Relationships. This book is a real treasure, showcasing the extensive experience and dedication Amanda and Lori have toward effective teamwork. Their enthusiasm for improving collaboration among teachers, therapists, and parents is evident throughout the book, making it an essential read for anyone involved in special education.
Summary:
In Navigating Special Education Relationships, Ly and Boll tackle a key issue in special education: the often poor teamwork between teachers, therapists, and parents. With decades of combined experience, they explore the problems these groups face and provide practical solutions to improve teamwork. The book introduces the idea of Collective Efficacy, which means believing in the abilities of ourselves, others, and our students. This belief helps create a strong team that can achieve more together than alone. Research shows that a positive school culture and strong belief systems are more important for overcoming challenges than any obstacles students face. The book offers tips on improving communication, understanding different viewpoints, and taking care of oneself. It covers a range of topics, from getting a diagnosis for your child to dealing with imposter syndrome.
Ly and Boll bring valuable insights from their roles as a special educator, a parent of a child with severe disabilities, and a child psychologist. Their real-life stories and lessons make the book relatable and offer practical advice for building effective teams.
Key Insights:
Collective Efficacy: The book is the first to link Collective Efficacy to special education, highlighting how working together can better support students with disabilities.
Practical Strategies: Ly and Boll provide useful tools and tips for improving teamwork, communication, and cooperation among team members.
Real-Life Experiences: The authors share their personal and professional experiences, giving readers a realistic view of the challenges and rewards in special education.
Conclusion:
Navigating Special Education Relationships is a must-read for teachers, therapists, and parents involved in special education. Ly and Boll’s international experience and deep understanding of special education make this book a valuable resource. By focusing on Collective Efficacy and offering practical strategies, the authors provide a guide for building stronger, more effective teams that can better support students with special needs. This book is not just informative but also an inspiring call to improve collaboration and make a real difference in students' lives.
You can find and purchase the book on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/5JH3p2G