How to Advocate for Your Child with a Disability

If you have a child with a disability, you are already know the many challenges your child is faced with. However, with adequate support and access to the appropriate services, your child can be successful throughout his education. Educate yourself, understand your child's right's and get involved in his schooling. Learn to be your child's advocate to give the child a voice.

Instructions

1. Learn everything there is to know about your child's disability. You cannot understand your child's needs without understanding her disability. Read current research, join a support group and surround yourself with other parents that have children with your child's disability. There are many national organizations that will help you find support. Some of these organizations include The National Autism Association, The National Down Syndrome Society, United Cerebral Palsy and The National Association of the Deaf. Join a local chapter of the association that represents your child's disability.

2. Know the law. If you want to be your child's advocate, know his rights. Every child with a disability is entitled to a "free and appropriate public eduction," under IDEA, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Understand IDEA and what it means for your child. Use online resources such as Wrightslaw and Ed.gov to help you understand your child's rights.

3. Involve yourself in her education. Be your child's advocate by staying involved in her classroom. Get to know your child's teacher and administrators at the school. Attend all parent/teacher conferences and school functions. Ask questions to make sure that the IEP, or Individualized Education Plan, is being followed.

4. Prepare for and attend all IEP or Individualized Education Plan Meetings. This is the most important meeting of the entire school year when it comes to your child's education. Your child's goals will be drafted and his schedule of support services will be determined. Advocate for your child by showing up at the meeting with a draft of goals that you want for your child. Outline the services you would like your child to receive and stand up for your child when you feel like he is not getting the services that he needs.

5. Monitor your child's progress. If your child is not making progress at school, start asking questions. Meet with teachers to determine what adjustments can be made. Set time lines to notice improvement. Ask for another IEP meeting if your child is still not successful. It is your child's right.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep complete records of all of your child's educational testing along with records of each IEP meeting. This information will be important to bring with you to each IEP meeting.

• Be your child's advocate without being the school's adversary. It is important for parents, teachers and administrators to work together to help your child be successful.

Resources

• Know your child's rights
• Learn policy on special education