Opportunity Gap: For Families Navigating Special Education podcast artwork
Kids & Family

Opportunity Gap: For Families Navigating Special Education

by Understood.org, Julian Saavedra
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Ranking history · Canada

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Position on the Kids & Family, Canada combined chart over the last 7 days. Toggle platforms to compare their positions. Lower rank numbers are better.

#141#146#151#156#161Chart rankOct 20Oct 21Oct 22
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DateCombined RankApple Podcasts
Oct 22——
Oct 20#151#151

Latest episodes

  • Five seasons of “Opportunity Gap,” and what we learned along the way

    September 30, 2026 · 21 min

    After five seasons, “Opportunity Gap” is ending. In this final episode, host Julian talks with Understood’s Gretchen Vierstra. Together, they look back at the guests and lessons that shaped the show, from a conversation about the…

  • Should you hold your child back a year? What parents need to know

    May 27, 2026 · 24 min

    If your child doesn’t seem ready for kindergarten or the next grade, what should you do? What if the school is suggesting that your child stay back?  In this episode, we break down the real factors behind redshirting and grade retention…

  • The reasons kids shut down before summer break

    May 13, 2026 · 12 min

    As the school year winds down, many kids start to burn out. They might lose motivation, feel big emotions, or struggle to follow their usual routines. In this episode, you’ll learn why behaviors like shutdowns and meltdowns are signals…

  • 3 hidden IEP benefits every parent should know

    April 29, 2026 · 26 min

    Most families know that IEPs can provide accommodations and services. But other powerful supports are sometimes hidden. In this episode, we break down three often-overlooked IEP benefits: extended school year services, built-in training…

  • The case for more play in school

    April 15, 2026 · 12 min

    Play isn’t just a break from learning. It can also be how learning happens. But many kids have less time for recess and unstructured play than ever before.  In this episode, we explore why play matters for focus, social skills, and…

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  • ADHD and how eating affects focus for kids

    April 1, 2026 · 26 min

    If your child has ADHD, you may wonder how eating affects their focus at school. The answer isn’t about perfect meals or strict rules. In this episode, host Julian Saavedra talks with registered dietitians Elizabeth Davenport and Anna…

  • The school programs giving kids a real advantage

    March 18, 2026 · 12 min

    Schools don’t always get everything right. But many are doing amazing work every day!  In this episode, we explore how educators are helping kids thrive and succeed in the classroom. Discover how technology, assistive tools…

  • Help kids face failure without stepping in to fix it

    March 4, 2026 · 25 min

    Kids can learn to carry the “boulders” of their feelings, build resilience, and make independent choices without parents taking over. As hard as it is to watch them struggle, sometimes the best support is simply listening and being…

  • Do kids really need homework?

    February 18, 2026 · 11 min

    Homework can be a source of stress for kids and families, especially for those with learning and thinking differences. In this episode, assistant principal Julian Saavedra breaks down what homework is good for, when it can become…

  • Introducing Everyone Gets a Juice Box

    February 11, 2026 · 35 min

    Discover a new show on the Understood Podcast Network: Everyone Gets a Juice Box, hosted by Jessica Shaw!  This series explores the real challenges parents face raising neurodivergent kids — with honest conversations that balance…

  • Top 5 IEP meeting tips from a parent advocate

    February 4, 2026 · 26 min

    As a parent advocate and mom, Danielle Ward has been in countless IEP meetings. She’s a wealth of knowledge on how to make the most of your time with the special education team.  From bringing supportive guests (including your child when…

  • The mid-year reset: How parents can help kids finish the school year strong

    January 21, 2026 · 12 min

    We’re officially halfway through the school year. That makes this the perfect moment to pause and reset. In this solo episode, Julian shares why mid-year check-ins matter — and how families can use this “halftime” moment to reflect, adjust…

Full episode archive on Apple Podcasts →

About the show

Navigating the education system can be overwhelming for families whose children have ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning and thinking differences. Opportunity Gap is a podcast that sheds light on the real challenges families face when trying to get the right support for their kids. On this show, we explore how identity, race, disability, and access to resources can make the education journey more challenging — and what parents can do about it. Join host Julian Saavedra, an assistant principal and father of two, as he shares real stories, expert insights, and practical strategies to help you advocate for your child.