5 Ways to Prepare for Your Child’s Next IEP Meeting
Sep 10, 2024
As we dive into September, it's a great time to set the tone for a successful school year. With the first few weeks of school behind us, it's the perfect moment to start preparing for your child’s upcoming IEP meeting.
Whether this is your first IEP meeting or you’ve been through the process many times before, having a solid plan and being proactive can make all the difference.
Here are actionable steps you can take this month to ensure you’re prepared, confident, and ready to advocate for your child’s needs:
- Review Your Child’s Current IEP
Take some time to go through your child’s current IEP document. Pay close attention to the goals set last year, the services being provided, and any accommodations or modifications currently in place.
Courtney’s Tip: Highlight areas where your child is thriving and identify any goals that still need more support. This will give you a clear picture of what's working and where there may be gaps.
- Track Your Child’s Progress
It’s crucial to have your own data to bring to the table. Schools will often present their progress reports, but you can gather valuable insights from your observations at home or through additional support your child might be receiving outside of school.
Courtney’s Tip: Keep a journal or digital record of your child’s achievements and struggles, focusing on areas like homework completion, social interactions, or any feedback from extracurricular activities. This will help you present a well-rounded view of your child's progress.
- Communicate Regularly with Your Child’s Teachers
Build a strong partnership with your child’s educators early on. Regular communication helps keep everyone on the same page and shows that you’re an engaged and proactive advocate for your child.
Courtney’s Tip: Set up a meeting or send an email to your child’s teachers asking for an update on how your child is adjusting and if they’ve noticed any immediate concerns or strengths. This information can be a powerful addition to the IEP discussion.
- Gather and Review Evaluations
If it’s been a while since your child had a comprehensive evaluation, or if you’ve noticed new challenges, now might be the time to request updated assessments.
Courtney’s Tip: Reach out to your IEP team and request any recent assessments or suggest a new evaluation if you believe it’s necessary. These evaluations are critical in providing evidence for the support your child needs.
- Prepare Your Questions and Requests
Enter your IEP meeting with a clear set of questions and requests based on your observations and the data you’ve collected. Be specific about what you want to discuss, whether it’s increased speech therapy, more classroom accommodations, or a review of your child’s progress on their current goals.
Courtney’s Tip: Write down your questions and any changes or additions you want to propose. Practice discussing these points so you feel confident in the meeting.
BONUS MAMA BEAR TIP:
Remember, you are an equal member of your child’s IEP team. You have the right to ask questions, request clarifications, and make suggestions about what you believe is best for your child.
Courtney’s Tip: Familiarize yourself with your parental rights under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). This knowledge will empower you to advocate effectively and stand your ground if disagreements arise.
Let’s Work Together!
Preparing for an IEP meeting can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to support you every step of the way. If you need personalized guidance, or if you’re feeling unsure about how to present your data or requests, let's connect!
Ready to take the next step?
Book a complimentary consultation with me so we can discuss your child’s IEP, strategize the best next steps, and ensure that your voice is heard loud and clear in your next meeting. Book a consultation
If I don't have times that work for you, just reply to this email and we can set something up.
Until next time, keep advocating, and know that I’m cheering you on!
