Do you need help preparing for a meeting with your child’s school? Do you feel daunted about having to meet with your child’s teachers to develop their Individual Education Plan? Our guest blogger, Nicki Powell from www.nickipowell.com.au has put together these top 10 tips for parents.
- Review your child’s current IEP: Take some time to review your child’s current Individualised Education Plan (IEP) before the meeting. Look for any areas that may need to be revised or updated.
- Communicate with your child’s teacher: Before your meeting email your child’s teacher and ask for their input on your child’s progress in class. This can help you identify areas of strength and areas where your child may need additional support.
- Write down your questions: Write down any questions or concerns you have prior to the meeting. This can help you stay organised and ensure that all of your concerns are addressed.
- Medical Reports: If you have any new or updated reports or medical changes then email them to the classroom teacher or relevant learning support teacher at least two weeks before your meeting. This gives them plenty of time to review the documents prior to your meeting and also helps the team better understand your child’s needs.
- Develop a clear picture of your child’s needs: Be prepared to discuss your child’s strengths and challenges, as well as any additional supports or services that may be needed to help your child succeed.
- Set goals for your child: Work with your team to set measurable goals for your child that are aligned with their strengths and needs. Talk to your child’s therapists/specialists before the meeting to assist with reasonable, necessary and achievable goals that will assist your child in both the classroom and playground.
- Discuss accommodations and modifications: Make sure that the team is aware of any accommodations or modifications that your child may need to succeed in school.
- Meeting Support: Decide whether you want any of your therapists/specialists or a support worker to attend the meeting with you. A whole team approach is very beneficial as well as ensuring the whole team, whether that be at school or outside of school are on the same page.
- Be an active participant in the meeting: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and share your thoughts. You are your child’s biggest advocate. You are an important member of the team.
- Follow up after the meeting: After the meeting, send an email to all who attended the meeting noting all of the items discussed in the meeting, clearly outlining any adjustments or strategies that have agreed upon that need to be put in place. This will help ensure that the goals and plans that were discussed are being implemented effectively.
If you need assistance with preparing for or attending your child’s IEP planning meeting, then you can contact Nicki at hello@nickipowell.com.au or visit her website at www.nickipowell.com.au.
Nicki can assist you with what questions to ask, how to approach the meeting and will work closely with you to ensure a successful and goal driven outcome.
