How to advocate for your child's IEP

When your child starts school, there are so many changes going on. They are adapting to classrooms and teachers. They are making new friends. And for some children, they are facing challenges that may need addressed. I have a son who faces some of these challenges. The good news is there are many tools available for your child to succeed. I hope that I can help you all sleep a little easier with some answers to some basic IEP questions. First if you have a child with some challenges, you may wonder what an IEP is and if it could benefit your child. Well an IEP, or individualized education plan gives each child individual goals and states what tools are needed for each child to meet these goals. First your child has an evaluation, this evaluation involves administrators, educators and of course, you. Everybody addresses their concerns and then they figure out if your child fits in a category where they can receive an IEP.

 These categories are:
 •Autism
 •Deaf-blindness
•Deafness
 •Developmental delay
 •Emotional disturbance
•Hearing impairment
 •Intellectual disability
 •Multiple disabilities
 •Orthopedic impairment
 •Other health impairment
 •Specific learning disability
•Speech or language impairment
 •Traumatic brain injury
•Visual impairment

 During your evaluation, with the help of the school you will all agree on what category, if any your child fits. Once you get the IEP, the hard part begins. Advocacy. Here are some ways to be the best possible advocate for your child.
 1. Know your child's rights. Read about the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)

 2. Stay informed. Ask any and every question that you have. If you think of more, write them down and don't delay.

 3.Be involved. Nobody understands your child better than you.

 4.Keep appointments and attend meetings. The doctors, therapists, and educators are working hard too. Give your child all the help possible.

 5.Express concenrs. If something isn't working, don't be afraid to speak up.

 6.Don't give up. It can be hard and overwhelming, but when you see your child meet their goals,the reward is worth it.