Collaborative Minds Consulting

02/25/2026

Meaningful Speech Sale - 30% OFF!!

If you’ve been exploring supports for gestalt language processors, I wanted to share a quick update because this year’s Meaningful Speech Anniversary Sale includes more than just a discount — there are some really thoughtful new additions.

What’s new:

The GLP Handbook is now available in both English and Spanish, and in Parent and Professional versions.
The Professional version now includes intake forms (school-based and clinic-based), collaboration forms, a new client checklist, and a “Values & Approach” handout for NLA-trained clinicians.
There’s also an option to purchase both language versions together, which can be especially helpful for bilingual families, multilingual clinicians, and teams wanting consistency across settings.

The AAC for GLPs course has also added updated bonus modules focused on TD Snap programming and LAMP Words for Life programming.

Use code CHRISTINA for 30% off everything through February 28 (ends Midnight CT). Groups of three or more can contact Meaningful Speech directly for a larger discount.

You can explore the updates here:
http://www.meaningfulspeech.com/a/2147498926/BWQNpkZH

Affiliate disclosure: I may receive a small commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I only share resources that align with my neurodiversity-affirming approach and that I genuinely recommend.

Advance your skillset quickly and deliver therapy that will open up the world of spontaneous and natural communication for children who communicate with delayed echolalia. What you'll get: A Year of unlimited access Self-guided learning Access to our exclusive Member's Area

02/24/2026

“We're locking up 7 and 8-year-olds who we can physically drag to seclusion rooms."
Mackey described a violent process where children are "yanked by the arm, sometimes picked up... and literally tossed in this padded room," calling the treatment "inhumane."

The findings were published after a two-year investigation over the course of the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years.

02/23/2026

02/22/2026

What is Alternate Assessment?

If “alternate assessment” has ever come up in a CSE meeting and left you with questions, you’re not alone.

I put together a simple, parent-friendly explanation of the difference between general and alternate assessment pathways in NYS, and what that can mean for long-term academic planning.

My hope is that it brings a little more clarity to what can feel like a big decision.

You can read it here:

Confused about NYS alternate assessment placement? Learn eligibility rules, myths, and what families should know for CSE meetings.

02/19/2026

02/07/2026

Behavior isn’t the Problem it’s a Symptom!

Time for Education Systems to start doing better and making changes to meet students where they are and stop forcing them through systems that do not work for them

As a treating clincian in the schools, this is so frustrating.

I was in a school where the pre-school was very proud of their new math curriculum.

I played with trucks in pre-school.

I was in a Kindergarten class where kids were writing their opinion on a story they listened to. They couldn't spell and were still learning letter formations, but please, opine on why the pigeon shouldn't drive the bus.

I learned to write my name in Kindergarten.

Students are struggling. Teachers are stuck. And schools wonder why they have increased behavior referrals. This is one of a few reasons!

Thoughts?

02/04/2026

OPWDD Commissioner Willow Baer testified before the Joint Legislative Budget Hearing today on Governor Hochul's Fiscal Year 2027 Proposed Executive Budget, outlining how it will benefit people with developmental disabilities, their families, not-for-profit providers, and our vital direct care workforce. Read the Commissioner's full testimony.
https://opwdd.ny.gov/news/joint-legislative-budget-hearing-testimony-new-york-state-office-people-developmental-0

02/03/2026

NSASA is offering free virtual training seats for First Responder Training. For more information please email vgarcia@nsasa.org

01/20/2026