Last updated on May 28th, 2024 at 12:11 pm
I’ve never know a parent who enjoyed their IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meeting for their child. Maybe with these tips, your IEP meeting will be a breeze, you’ll get the exact services you need for your child and you’ll go home happy. It’s possible! No parent wants their child to NEED special assistance, and the process of getting the proper services for your special/different needs child can often make you feel like ripping your hair out. Each state has different rules and regulations regarding how your child will qualify and how to proceed after you find out they DO qualify. Here are some tips from our Twiniversity parents that may help you at your next IEP meeting:
1. Bring an 8 X 10 Photo of the Child Who Needs the Services
Often the persons conducting the IEP hold dozens of these meetings each day. Help separate your child in their minds by putting a face to the name and number. Describe your child and let the IEP team see for themselves that this isn’t a “business meeting”, but a meeting that will determine services for your child which will help them grow and thrive.
2. Make Sure Both Parents Attend
There is A LOT of information presented. Two minds think better than one. If possible, you may want to record the meeting. If only one parent can attend, bring a friend or someone else to listen with you. Emotional and mental support is a big plus.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Teachers know it is intimidating! Ask questions and make sure you completely understand everything that is said. If you don’t know what something means, ask! If it’s your first IEP meeting, ask them to go slow so you can take it all in.
4. Share With the IEP Meeting Committee Everything You Can About Your Kid(s)
If you have tips on how to motivate and/or work with your child, share them with the teachers. Teachers want to help and the more information you give them, the easier their job is.
5. Make Sure the IEP Fits the Needs of Your Child
If you think something needs to be changed, say so. It is a living document and can always be changed. HOWEVER, it’s usually challenging to make changes mid-year, so try to get as much accomplished during that meeting as possible. Try to get MORE services then you need. It’s much easier to take away than to add.
6. Be an Advocate for Your Child, but Always Be Respectful to School Staff
At the same time, do not let them bully you into a treatment plan you do not agree with for your child.
7. Find Out What Types of Services Are Offered at Your Child’s School
If the teacher is the one recommending the meeting, find out what certain services or placement that teacher thinks is appropriate for your child.
8. Don’t Let Anyone Who Isn’t Licensed Recommend a Diagnosis or Medication
9. Do Not Sign the IEP if You Are Not Comfortable
Once you sign it you are agreeing that what’s on those papers is best for your child. DO NOT SIGN if you do not agree. We can’t stress this enough. Ask for an explanation or a change in what is being written if you don’t agree. It is so much easier to change an IEP before it is signed.
10. Recognize That Some Things Could Require Outside Help Because It Is Beyond What a School Can Provide
In most states you are almost always eligible for an RSA (Related Services Agreement) which will allow you to seek out services outside of your school. Example, your child might greatly benefit from a sensory gym, but the school just uses an empty classroom, you might want to ask for an RSA and see if there is a local sensory gym that has hours to fit your families needs.
11. Remember That Qualifying for an IEP is Not a Medical Diagnosis
A diagnosis means nothing without a plan.
12. If You Do Not Agree With the Evaluations From the School, You Are Always Welcome to Pay For Another Evaluation by An Outside Therapist
13. Know Your Rights and Know What the District Can Offer
Understand only Medical doctors can make a diagnoses.
14. Remember You Have the Right to Ask for a Review at Any Time, Discontinue or Modify Services at Any Time
15. You Have the Ability to Be Your Child’s Best Advocate, but Should Also Be Willing to Put the Time in Outside of School to Help With Progress
Emphasize to the IEP team that you are a vital part of your child’s success and want to be involved.
We wish you the best of luck and want you to always remember that your Twiniversity Family is always here for you. We often see topics on special education, IEP’s, and specific services for children. Feel free to visit our forums at any time and post a topic that is on your mind.
Note From Nat: New York Families might want to seek out the folks from Peak Services for Children; they were amazing when it came to my son’s needs. We’ve been receiving services since my little dude was 8 months old and we still receive them today at 8 years old. The work of the ladies of Peak made a huge impact on our life for the better. Good luck and if you have any particular questions and live in NYC, email me at Natalie@Twiniversity.com. I’ll be more than happy to help when I can.
