Many parents of children with autism are preparing to send their kids back to in-person school in the coming weeks. With this change may come updated IEP’s (Individualized Education Program). A detailed and well-rounded IEP should specify the child’s needs, evidence-based interventions and benchmarks for success. Below are five recommendations for how to effectively advocate for the best services possible for your child as they enter back into the traditional school setting.
-
Educate Yourself
Learn about the rights and services that are available to your child. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides parent education funds to school districts and usually offer ongoing trainings for parents. Attending these are recommended for learning more about your school system, federal and state laws and autism treatments. More information can be found here. Other autism agencies and local parent support groups can also offer advice for parents going through the same process. -
Be Proactive
After educating yourself on services that are available to your child, make a list of objectives and the questions you’d like to address with your child’s school before the IEP meeting. Know some of the alternative actions you have available in advance of the meeting to help stay focused. -
Ask Questions
Schools can often communicate in educational jargon, using acronyms and terms not within a parent’s familiarity. If you don’t understand something being discussed, ask for clarification. Be sure you understand the process, procedures, planning and interventions being implemented. Getting questions answered can also reduce frustration. -
Stay Positive
IEP meetings can sometimes become heated debates. You’re more likely to see progress if collaboration is taken over contention. Remember the goal for everyone should be to help your child and you want to feel good about sending your child to school each day. The IEP committee should be a team that works together to help build a strong educational program for your child. Working collaboratively with the school will help to build an open, trusting relationship. You can be assertive without being aggressive. -
Advocate for Inclusion
There are many benefits to having children with disabilities grouped with typically developing peers. With inclusion, students with disabilities have been found to spend more time on task and exhibit greater academic achievement, social skills and communication skills. They also participate in more school and community activities and develop relationships with peers. Again, educate yourself on you and your child’s rights, especially when it comes to inclusion. You can always request a copy of your rights from your child’s school district. We encourage all families to become familiar with this information in an effort to be the most effective advocate for your loved one.