Articles by

Stephanie BERMED

Stephanie BERMED is a special education teacher and neurodiversity specialist, founder of IEPFOCUS.COM and the IEPPLANNERS community (515,000+ members). She creates evidence-based IEP resources, strategies, and guides for ADHD, autism, AuDHD, and PDA — used by educators and families across the United States. All content reflects a neuroaffirmative, strengths-based approach grounded in current research.
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What Is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)? A Complete Guide for Parents & Educators

What is pathological demand avoidance? An anxiety-driven autism profile. Learn the signs, the PDA vs ODD difference, and what actually helps in 2026.
Stephanie BERMED -
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Types of Learning Disabilities: A Complete Guide (2026)

Types of learning disabilities explained: dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia and more, plus signs by age, how testing works, and IEP accommodations by type.
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Best Ideas

Best Gifts for Special Needs Adults in 2026: Real Picks That Support Independence

Real picks for special needs adults: weighted blankets, adaptive tools, AAC, smart home & more. Reviewed by a SPED teacher. Updated May 2026.
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What Is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)? Complete Guide 2026

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is an autism profile marked by extreme demand avoidance. Learn the signs, causes, diagnosis, and how to support your child.
Stephanie BERMED -
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Conditions

What Is Neurodiversity? Complete Guide for Educators and Parents (2026)

Neurodiversity explained: definition, conditions, classroom strategies and workplace inclusion. Evidence-based 2026 guide for teachers, parents and advocates.
Stephanie BERMED -
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School

Behavior De-Escalation in the Classroom: A Complete Guide (2026)

Learn proven behavior de-escalation strategies for the classroom. A step-by-step guide for special education teachers and support staff. Updated 2026.
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Resource Teacher in First Grade: Complete Guide 2026

Resource teacher in first grade: role, IEP goals, co-teaching models & differentiation strategies. Evidence-based 2026 guide for special education teachers.
Stephanie BERMED -
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Free Behavior De-Escalation Log for Special Education Teachers 2026

Free behavior de-escalation log for special education teachers — printable PDF tracking triggers, interventions, and recovery
Stephanie BERMED -
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