Tips from the Trenches: Advocating For Your Child with Special Needs at School

When it comes to navigating the complex system of IEPs, accommodations, and supports for a child with special needs, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. The reality is that many parents feel they are fighting a never-ending battle to get their child the services they need.

Often parents find themselves facing off against schools and districts in an attempt to help their child succeed. If you are new to the journey of special education, or find yourself hitting a wall with getting needed supports for your child, try these tips.

Put everything in writing. This is essential. Whenever you communicate with teachers, the principal, or anyone at the school, always put it in an email. If you talk on the phone, follow up with an email. If you didn’t put it in writing, it didn’t happen.

Be clear about your child’s needs. It’s easy to get caught up in the frustration of “the school’s not doing enough.” Instead, create a list of what your child needs to succeed. Be specific, whether it’s additional testing, checklists, preferential seating, or sensory breaks.

Stay in communication. Keep in touch with teachers and service providers. At the beginning of the year create an info sheet to share with new teachers and staff to introduce your child. If you notice problems, don’t wait to reach out. You can call an IEP meeting at any time.

Don’t be afraid to say no. If you aren’t happy with the IEP that the team proposes, don’t sign it. It can be easy to feel pressured as the meeting time is drawing to a close. But, if you disagree with services or goals in the plan, ask to schedule another meeting to finish it. 

Track services and progress. Pay attention to progress reports and create a chart to see if your child is making the expected progress. If they are supposed to receive pull-out services like speech or OT, ask for records to make sure they are getting all their sessions. 

Be a team player. Don’t fall into the trap of the school vs. the caregivers. You are an important part of the team—in fact you are one of the member’s of your child’s IEP team. Go to meetings prepared to work together and find win-win solutions for the school and your child.

Keep your goal in mind. The school’s job is to be objective and to balance the needs of all students, teachers, and staff. Your goal is to advocate for your specific child. Sharing your child’s story in meetings can be a great tool for keeping that goal in the forefront. 

If you need extra support, don’t be afraid to look into a special ed advocate to help you manage the process. Navigating the special ed system can be daunting, but by following these tips you will help your child grow, learn, and thrive at school.