1582: ADHD, Dyslexia, Autism, and School Support Strategies with Tracey Lyons-Tozier

In this inspiring episode, Tracey Lyons-Tozier joins host Robert Plank to discuss her mission of helping families navigate the world of special education, neurodiversity, and self-advocacy through her powerful children’s book series, Mama Bulldog Books. Drawing from her experience as a master’s-level clinical social worker, professional education advocate, and parent of children with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities, Tracey shares how personal struggles, including a devastating legal battle with a school district, inspired her to empower other families facing similar challenges.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, advocate, or simply someone passionate about inclusion and education, this episode delivers practical insights, emotional encouragement, and hope for families navigating special education and neurodiversity.

Throughout the conversation, Tracey explains how books like Benny Speaks Up, Fiona Finds What’s Fair, and Mikey Can’t Help It help children better understand autism, ADHD, dyslexia, IEPs, 504 plans, bullying, fairness, and emotional regulation. She reveals why teaching children to advocate for themselves is one of the most important life skills parents can nurture and why compassion and understanding are critical for both neurodivergent and neurotypical kids alike.

Tracey also opens up about the emotional realities of parenting children with special needs, the challenges families face in the education system, and the importance of having advocates during IEP meetings. She shares details about her upcoming ADHD-focused book, Abby and Jack Aren’t Bad Dogs: Mama Bulldog Tackles ADHD, which explores hyperactive, inattentive, and combined ADHD presentations through relatable family storytelling.

Quotes:

“Fair isn’t everybody getting exactly the same thing. It’s everybody getting what they need to learn.”

“Not being timid and silent, not being angry or aggressive, but being calm and assertive—even when you’re scared—that’s how children learn to advocate for themselves.”

“I promised myself at that moment that if I could keep anybody from hearing ‘Google it,’ I would.”

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Filed in: Podcast • Interview