New Year New Norms Reset and Refocus with Edufaith Essentials Podcast 2026
- Nakia Cotton
- Jan 5
- 3 min read
The start of a new year invites us to pause, reset, and refocus on what truly matters. For families, educators, and advocates in the special needs community, January 2026 brings fresh opportunities to embrace new norms and behaviors that support growth and inclusion. The Edufaith Essentials Podcast kicks off the year with inspiring stories, essential updates, and practical guidance designed to empower parents, teachers, and school leaders alike.
One highlight from the recent holiday season was the Special Needs Christmas Formal, a heartwarming event organized by the Eastern Idaho Down Syndrome Family Connect. This celebration transformed a local venue into a magical winter wonderland, where children and teens with special needs dressed in their finest attire, walked the red carpet, and danced joyfully. This event exemplifies the power of community and inclusion, setting a hopeful tone for the year ahead.
Important Dates to Remember in January 2026
January holds several key observances that align with Edufaith Essentials’ mission to support and inspire:
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
A day to reflect on equality, justice, and the power of community support.
National Mentoring Month
Encourages adults to guide and support young people, including those with special needs.
Thank You Month
A time to express gratitude to educators, caregivers, and mentors who make a difference.
Shape Up U.S. Month
Focuses on health and wellness, reminding us to promote physical and mental well-being for all.
These observances offer opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations and actions that support inclusion and positive development.
Inclusive Updates: Celebrating 50 Years of IDEA and Special Education Progress
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a landmark law that transformed special education in the United States. Here are four key points to understand about IDEA:
Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
IDEA guarantees that children with disabilities receive education tailored to their individual needs at no cost.
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
Each student’s learning plan is customized and reviewed regularly to ensure progress.
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
Students should be educated alongside their non-disabled peers as much as possible.
Parental Involvement
Parents have a right to participate in decisions about their child’s education.
In addition, some states are launching bold plans to retain special education teachers by offering better support, training, and incentives. These efforts aim to address shortages and improve educational outcomes for students with disabilities.
Resetting Behaviors in 2026: New Year and New Behaviors
Starting the year with a focus on behavior support can create a positive foundation for learning and growth. The Edufaith Essentials Podcast explores how resetting behaviors benefits children, families, and schools.
Understanding Positive Behavior Support (PBS)
Positive Behavior Support is a proactive approach that teaches and reinforces good behavior rather than just punishing negative actions. It involves:
Identifying the reasons behind behaviors
Teaching alternative skills
Creating supportive environments
PBS aligns closely with IDEA and Section 504, which protect students’ rights and ensure accommodations.
The History of Behavior Supports
Behavior supports have evolved over decades, with frameworks like Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) becoming widely adopted in schools. PBIS focuses on:
Setting clear expectations
Consistent reinforcement
Data-driven decision making
This approach helps reduce challenging behaviors and improves school climate.
Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA)
An FBA is a tool used to understand why a behavior occurs. It involves:
Observing the student
Collecting data on behavior patterns
Identifying triggers and consequences
The information guides the development of effective behavior plans tailored to each student.
Tips for Parents, Educators, and School Leaders
Parents can collaborate with schools to share insights about their child’s behavior and support strategies at home.
Educators should use positive reinforcement and clear communication to encourage desired behaviors.
School leaders can promote training on behavior supports and foster a culture of inclusion and respect.
Join the Edufaith Essentials Podcast in 2026
The new year is a perfect time to engage with Edufaith Essentials. Tune in on all streaming platforms or visit the Edufaith Essentials YouTube page. By subscribing and liking the content, you stay connected to stories, updates, and practical advice that help build stronger, more inclusive communities.
Use the hashtag #getessential to join the conversation and share your experiences.
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