PEARLAN FEENEY-GRATER
Parent & CHILD Advocate
MS, SLP/CCC, CGA, CH, MNLP
As an Educational Advocate with extensive knowledge about learning styles differences requiring special educational programs, I assist parents/care givers to navigate the complexities of the educational system. This includes exploring the process of identifying your child's unique learning needs and working towards a plan of action with the school that secures the resources and accommodations your child deserves by law. This may include the development and implementation of a 504 or Individual Educational Plan. In supporting parents, we will initially conference by phone or in person, to understand the specifics of the situation. Once I conduct a comprehensive review of any documents (prefer copies not originals) that include testing, medical records, correspondences, emails, etc., we will discuss options for moving forward.
I am available for school meetings and development of correspondences and follow-up documentation, as well as ongoing support. Together, we secure what is needed for your child to succeed academically, socially and emotionally. Then, we monitor progress and make changes as needed.
In addition, over the last 40 years I have had the privileged of guiding children of all ages to secure their own self-empowerment in terms of understanding their unique learning style and personality. This mind-set starts in childhood as the child develops a strong self-image, confidence, and resiliency with positive, supporting cues from the primary caregivers and teachers. No matter what challenges your child may face, progress happens in a fear-free environment both at home and at school. As your child feels understood, appreciated, and accepted, shifts in self-esteem and confidence are possible which have a direct impact on learning. It is all about working with who the child “IS” versus who the child is “NOT”.
In helping children help themselves, I streamline the process by identifying the child’s personality and learning style. This style is translated to the child in a most positive, supporting way to feel equal to any peer, as differences in style is explained in a non judgmental way. The goal is to understand and enhance existing skills and/or develop new ones, so your child will feel validated and valued. In the process, I draw from my background as an Educational Consultant, a Nationally Certified Speech and Language Therapist, a Certified Handwriting Analyst and Holistic Practitioner to help children navigate their place in the world.
No matter how my role plays out, most importantly I am a mother and "Mémé" who values the importance of supporting parents/caregivers to assist our children to thrive as they deserve.