Illumination + Inspiration

A Parent Education Course

Understanding Child Evaluations & Support Pathways

Navigate the evaluation process with clarity and confidence. Make informed decisions for your child.

View Curriculum
4 hours of content9 interactive modules9 downloadable worksheets
Parent and child looking at papers together at kitchen table

Created by a Child Psychologist Who Understands

As a licensed child psychologist with years of experience conducting evaluations and supporting families, I've seen how confusing and overwhelming the evaluation process can be for parents. This course was created to fill a critical gap—giving parents the foundational knowledge they need before, during, and after the evaluation process.

Whether you're noticing something different about your child's development, or a school has recommended an evaluation, this course will help you understand what evaluations actually are, who provides them, what the results mean, and how to navigate the support systems available to your child.

Dr. Ely, PhD, HSPP, LP

Dr. Ely

PhD, HSPP, LP — Licensed Child Psychologist

Learn more about Dr. Ely →

This Course Will Help You

  • Understand what different types of evaluations actually assess
  • Know who provides evaluations and what credentials to look for
  • Interpret evaluation results and understand their limitations
  • Navigate school-based vs. private evaluation options
  • Advocate effectively for your child's needs
  • Support your child through and beyond the evaluation process

What Parents Are Saying

Hear from parents who have taken this course and felt more prepared for their journey.

"I finally understood what all those acronyms meant and felt prepared for our first IEP meeting. This course gave me the confidence I didn't know I needed."

Parent of a 7-year-old

After private evaluation

"As a first-time parent navigating this, I was overwhelmed. Dr. Ely breaks everything down in a way that's clear without being condescending."

Parent of a 5-year-old

School recommended evaluation

"The worksheets alone are worth the price. I use the 'Questions to Ask' checklist at every meeting now."

Parent of twins

Multiple evaluations

Two Common Starting Points

Parents come to this topic from different places. This course meets you where you are.

"I'm noticing something..."

You've observed differences in your child's development, behavior, or learning. You're wondering if an evaluation might provide helpful information, but you're not sure where to start or what to expect.

"Someone recommended an evaluation..."

A teacher, pediatrician, or other professional has suggested your child be evaluated. You want to understand what this means, what your options are, and how to make the best decisions for your family.

Course Curriculum

9 comprehensive modules designed to build your understanding step by step.

0

Orientation

Welcome to the Course

Build trust and understand the two common pathways that bring parents to this course.

10 min3 lessons
1

Why You're Here

Two Common Starting Points, One Shared Goal

Acknowledge both parent pathways, reduce anxiety, and converge into a shared purpose.

20 min4 lessons
2

What People Mean by "Evaluation"

And Why the Term Is Misleading

Build shared language and reduce confusion around evaluation terminology.

30 min5 lessons
3

Who Offers Evaluations

And What Standards They Operate Under

Build consumer literacy about different providers and their credentials.

35 min5 lessons
4

What You Get Back

Reports, Scores, and Recommendations

Help parents interpret evaluation results thoughtfully and understand scientific soundness.

40 min5 lessons
5

How Evaluation Information Is Used

And Where It Stops

Reset expectations and reduce frustration about how evaluation results translate to services.

25 min4 lessons
6

Building Supports Across Education Settings

Understanding Your Options

Explain structural differences between education settings without advising specific choices.

35 min4 lessons
7

Advocacy, External Support, and Navigation

Building Your Team

Help parents advocate strategically, not reactively, with the right support.

25 min3 lessons
8

Supporting the Child Beyond the Evaluation

The Journey Continues

Re-center the child and development, with guidance on ongoing support.

25 min4 lessons
Included with Your Enrollment

9 Professional Worksheets

Practical, printable resources you'll use throughout your journey—from your first provider call to your child's IEP meeting and beyond.

Questions to Ask Your Evaluator
Provider Comparison Worksheet
IEP vs. 504 Plan Comparison
Advocacy Meeting Prep Guide
Understanding Your Child's Report
Red Flags Checklist
+ 3 more worksheets

What's Included

Interactive Learning

Engaging activities, knowledge checks, and reflection prompts.

9 PDF Worksheets

Professional, printable resources for every stage of the process.

Evidence-Informed

Content grounded in research and clinical expertise.

180-Day Access

Full access to all course materials for six months from purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Educational Disclaimer: This course is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or legal advice. Read full disclaimer

Ready to Get Started?

Gain the knowledge and confidence to navigate child evaluations and support systems.

180-day access • 9 downloadable worksheets • All sales final

Illumination + Inspiration

Illumination + Inspiration is dedicated to empowering parents with expert guidance and practical strategies for raising happy, confident children.

[email protected]

© 2026 Mighty Jo LLC. All rights reserved.

DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This course does not establish a provider-patient relationship. All sales are final. Access is limited to 180 days from purchase.

We Value Your Privacy

We use cookies to provide essential functionality, remember your preferences, and analyze how you use our site. You can customize your preferences or accept all cookies. Privacy Policy