Parents of children without disabilities typically only deal with one, two or at most three teachers or staff throughout the school day. In contrast, parents of students with special needs may deal with a dozen different teachers, therapists, and support staff. This can be very overwhelming for parents; therefore, it is essential that the roles and responsibilities are clearly delineated for each of them regarding the services they will provide to your child. Navigating the special education maze is challenging enough but trying to develop and maintain positive relationships with all the various personalities involved in your child’s education can be equally as challenging.
The question is “how can you ensure that both you and your child will have a positive educational experience as opposed to a shipwreck that is slowly sinking?” You begin by setting the stage long before day one in the classroom. This will begin with the IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meeting which we will discuss in greater detail in future blog posts. This meeting is your first opportunity to meet with your child’s team. It is so important that you verbalize your expectations with clarity. Always come prepared and perceive yourself as a partner in this planning process not a bystander. Come with notes and when possible, with an advocate who can help you navigate the system. You will want to be familiar with the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act); a federal law in the United States that ensures children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs. This law is the core of providing appropriate services and supports to your child.
There are some simple principles that can facilitate better communication with your school staff. Try to get to know each of them and reach out to volunteer or assist with small projects when time allows. Go on at least one field trip which allows you to engage with them out of school and on a neutral playing field. Show appreciation by sending little handwritten notes or cards or flowers to brighten their day. Collaborate on ways to allow for simple communication especially if your child is non-verbal. This could be a daily communication log, a voice text at the end of the week or video of something special that your child isn’t able to share with you. These simple check-ins will help you stay in touch with what is going on in and out of the classroom. It is always best to delineate who is responsible for conveying this information and how often. This can be easily integrated into the IEP. Take advantage of parent networks and the Parent Resource Center which usually offers mini- courses on how to navigate the special education journey. This often allows you to meet other families dealing with similar challenges. Let’s jump into the IEP process next time to unravel the various aspects of the planning that is required for a smooth and successful transition. Until then, stay positive and always be prepared when dealing with delicate issues that with certainty will eventually pop up at school. Attitude, education and a professional demeanor will go a long way to build bridges; not burn them.
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