5 Questions to Get EXACTLY What Your Child Needs in Special Education

Andranise Thomas
May 21, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Jan 2

Let's face it, IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) can be intimidating. They're filled with educational jargon and legalese that can leave you feeling lost, wondering if the plan truly addresses your child's unique needs.

Hi there! I'm Andranise Thomas, M.Ed., a certified special educator with years of experience working with children of all abilities. I understand the anxieties parents face when navigating special education, and feeling unsure about IEPs is a common concern. The good news is, you don't need to be an expert to advocate for your child. By asking a few key questions, you can ensure the IEP is clear, actionable, and provides the right support for your child's success.

Empowering You to Ask the Right Questions

This article equips you with five powerful questions that cut through the IEP jargon and empower you to have a productive IEP meeting. By asking these questions, you'll gain a clear understanding of the services and support your child will receive, and ensure the IEP aligns with your child's specific needs.

The 5 Key Questions:

1. What Specific Services and Supports Will Help My Child Reach Their Goals?

This is a crucial question. The IEP should outline the specific services your child will receive to help them achieve their learning goals. Here's what to ask for further clarity:

Frequency and Duration: How often will these services be provided (e.g., daily, weekly)? For how long will each session last?

Delivery Method: Where will these services take place (e.g., in the classroom, a separate resource room)? Will it be one-on-one or in a small group setting? Who are the service providers?

Types of Services: There are many special education services available, some of the most common include:
- Speech therapy: Helps children develop communication skills, such as articulation, language comprehension, and fluency
- Occupational therapy: Focuses on developing fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, and self-care skills
- Physical therapy: Helps children develop gross motor skills, balance, and coordination.

2. What Modifications or Accommodations Will Be Implemented in the Classroom?

Understanding the difference between modifications and accommodations is key. Modifications change the learning expectations (e.g., reducing the amount of homework), while accommodations change the way the learning is presented (e.g., providing extended time on tests).

Ask for specific examples of how your child's needs will be addressed in the classroom setting.

This could include things like:

Preferential seating arrangements (e.g., closer to the teacher, away from distractions)

Use of assistive technology (e.g., text-to-speech software, communication devices)

Modified assignments or assessments

3. How Will I Be Informed About My Child's Progress?

Open communication is essential. Ask the IEP team:

How often will I receive progress reports? (e.g., monthly, quarterly)
What format will these reports be in? (e.g., written reports)
Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns about my child's progress?

4. How Often Do We Meet as an ARD Committee, and Who Do I Contact for Questions Regarding My Child's IEP and Services?

In Texas, the IEP meeting is called an ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) committee meeting. It's important to know your rights and how often these meetings are held to review your child's IEP. Additionally, knowing who to contact with questions ensures clear communication throughout the year.

5. What Resources and Support Systems Are Available to Me as a Parent?

The school district and other organizations may offer resources and support groups for parents of children with special needs. Ask the IEP team to share information about available resources, such as:

Parent support groups
Workshops on specific learning challenges
Online resources and information portals

BONUS QUESTION

Looking Beyond This Academic Year

It's important to see the bigger picture, so looking beyond this academic year, ask:

How will this IEP contribute to my child's long-term educational goals?
This ensures the IEP is part of a comprehensive plan that supports your child's development throughout their educational journey

Remember, You Are Your Child's Advocate

By asking these questions, you'll gain a clear understanding of the IEP and feel empowered to advocate for your child's needs. The more informed you are, the better equipped you'll be to ensure your child receives the appropriate support to thrive in school.

For more information regarding your rights as a parent of a student with disabilities or for guidance on navigating the special education process at your local school, please contact us. Unboggle Learning offers a variety of resources and support systems to empower parents on their educational journey.

Until next time!