Being an Advocate for Your Special-Needs Child

Having a child with special needs can be very stressful whether your child has a mild disability or a severe disability. However, our kids can't speak up for themselves so we must be their voice to help them get the help they need and deserve. Being an advocate can be mentally exhausting when it seems you are doing nothing but fighting all day long. You may have to fight with family, the school, and even doctors to get your child the help he needs. But don't lose sight of why you are fighting: to help your child live up to his potential.

IDEA

IDEA is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and ensures services to all disabled children in the country. This covers students from birth to age twenty one and makes sure that any school that receives federal funding must provide services for your child. This article isn't meant to inform you of everything in IDEA, so please visit their website for specific questions and concerns.

IEPs and 504 Plans

Learn about IEPs (Individualized Education Plans and 504 plans. 504 refers to section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Americans with Disabilities Act in a federally funded program, including school. A 504 plan is a set of requirements a child might need to perform on the same level as their classmates.

Don't Ask, Tell

Don't be afraid to tell a doctor or the school what needs to happen. Be nice but be firm in telling what your child needs. Explain how long they have by law and if it's not done by that day you will assume you have to take further action. Most parents don't ever have a problem, but I have known some to have to hire attorneys to get their child the help they need.

Do Your Research

Your doctor is a medical professional and obviously has extensive knowledge about your child's condition. However, don't discount a mother's intuition. If you feel your child might benefit from another kind of therapy discuss it with your doctor. Don't be afraid to ask for a second opinion. Please don't take your child's health into your own hands, but do research and familiarize yourself with your child's condition. Knowledge is power and the more you know the more you and your doctor can work together to help your child.

Keep Records

Keep meticulous records of everything related to your child and their disability. I keep a three ring binder so everything is in one place. I have sections for the school, doctors and specialists, therapy, and a journal. I keep it in chronological order and add blank sheets with notes as needed. I print emails and summarize phone calls. Keep track of who you talked to, what day, what time and what you discussed. If anything ever happens you can come back to your journal for documentation.

Being an advocate for your child is tough and it's an uphill battle that seems never ending, but your child is counting on you to speak for him. After all, if you don't speak up for him, who will teach him to do it for himself?