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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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.
Stephanie BERMED -
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School

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.
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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.
Stephanie BERMED -
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School

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.
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School

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
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School

What Is an IEP in Education? Goals, Rights & How to Use It (2026)

Discover what an IEP in education really is, who qualifies, all 10 required components, and how to use it strategically. The complete 2026 guide for teachers and families.
Stephanie BERMED -
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School

De-Escalation Scripts for Teachers: 10 Powerful Phrases That Work (2026)

De-escalation scripts for teachers — calm classroom language strategies for neurodivergent students
Stephanie BERMED -
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