How to Make the Most of Your Child's IEP

Parents or caregivers of children with special needs carry the burden of making sure that their child receives the best possible educational services, regardless of their challenges. It is a responsibility shared by the school system, which much provide each student a Free and Appropriate Education (FAPE) under the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA).

The Individualized Education Plan, or IEP, is a document which serves as the foundation of carrying out the educational services of a child with special needs.

The IEP explains the educational needs of the child, including the level of functioning in each subject and the goals that should be worked on during the school year. It also contains every detail of service that a child requires, including various forms of therapy, special classroom adjustments or modifications that may be necessary, aides, or any other special arrangements that must be made on behalf of the child.

A meeting is scheduled for parents or caregivers, teachers, school administrators, therapists, and the student if he or she is able to participate. At this meeting the student's previous progress is discussed, and a plan is laid out to develop a new IEP. The information included depends on the needs of the child, and a parent does not have to sign the document, which is legally binding, until he or she is satisfied with it.

Some parents may be anxious or overwhelmed when it comes to developing an IEP, but playing a key role in planning your child's educational future is crucial. Here are several tips which may make the process a little easier, during the IEP meeting and the whole year through!

1. ATTEND the IEP meeting!!!

This is the most important tip of all!!! You know your child better than anyone else does, and a parent's input is vital in making decisions that are in the best interest of the child.

2. DON'T be afraid to have a voice!

Don't just sit there. Be a part of the meeting! Feel free to share your child's strengths and weaknesses. Set realistic goals for your child and bring them to the table. You have a right to have a say in what you feel is needed for your child. If it will make you feel more comfortable, you also have the right to bring someone with you who knows your child's condition and can help you make decisions that are vital to enhancing the child's education.

3. KNOW your child's teachers.

It is necessary to be an active part of your child's education, not just at this meeting, but throughout the school year. Meet with and talk to teachers when you can. Make sure IEP benchmarks are being met. Send notes or emails back and forth to communicate with them about how your child is doing on a regular basis. This makes you more comfortable with the people who are working with your child, and less awkward when surrounded by them at IEP meetings. It will also help prevent you from being shocked by anything you learn about your child's progress. If your child is moving to a new school, you will be able to better communicate with new teachers and staff about the child's previous progress.

4. EDUCATE yourself!

Know your child's rights under IDEA. Know the hierarchy of your school system, and who to talk to if you feel that your child's needs aren't being met. As a last resort, learn about Due Process and how to initiate it if necessary. Don't be afraid to be an advocate for your child!

5. HAVE support!

It helps to talk to other people who understand what you are going through. Find parents of children with similar special needs. Learn about things that have worked for them, and keep an open mind about what will and won't benefit your child. Every child is different, but a parent may have a suggestion that may work for your child that you may not have known about. Being as knowledgeable as possible will help when you have to make critical decisions for your child's future.

There are no hard and fast rules for being an IEP expert. Developing a good one for your child requires a team effort, and as a parent, being well prepared will help make the process flow more smoothly. The IEP is the "go-to guide" for your child throughout the school year. Do what you can to make sure it is one that will help produce the best learning experience for your child!