Many children with autism are eligible for special education services at school and an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Navigating the special education process can feel overwhelming at times. Parents are an important and valuable member of the IEP team. The right knowledge and tools can help you be an advocate for your child and partner with your child’s school team!
Children with autism may be eligible for services and/or support through the school district in two ways. They may qualify for an IEP, which are special education services and supports mandated by federal law for children with disabilities. For children who do not qualify for an IEP, they may be eligible for support through a 504 Plan, which is not special education, but provides students access to the learning environment. For students with autism, that can look like frequent sensory breaks, access to visual supports, and/or quiet spaces.
Let’s focus on IEPs. A student can qualify for special education services in 13 different ways and autism is one of those categories. Students do not need a doctor’s diagnosis or prescription to qualify for services. However, schools can absolutely use any medical or clinical information you have available and are willing to share with them. Once a student is eligible for special education services, the process of writing and developing the IEP begins! IEPs should ensure students have access to a free (no cost to you!) and appropriate education in the most inclusive way possible. Additionally, students have a right to be provided with related services (speech therapy, occupational therapy, etc.) based on their individual needs, again at no cost to you!
The IEP team is often large, including a regular education teacher, special education teacher, school district representative, and any other team members that are needed. An important reminder is that YOU are an equal member of that team! So, how do you best contribute to the team and advocate for your child?
First, having a good understanding of your child’s diagnosis and how it is impacting your child at school and at home is important. This allows you to identify supports that may be beneficial and areas of improvement to inform goals. You have seen first-hand different strategies that work and those that don’t. Your ideas are important and the school team wants to hear them.
Second, it is helpful to know your rights as a parent. These rights are outlined in the federal legislation and shared with families as they start the evaluation process. Knowing your rights helps you know what you can ask for and how to navigate situations that are not going as you hoped. Knowing the people on the IEP team and their roles can also help you be an effective advocate.
Third, being well-organized can help you make the most out of the IEP meetings and discussions with teachers and school personnel. Many families find it helpful to keep an “IEP binder” or one place where all school documents are stored. It also helps to put any requests you have in writing, whether that be through email or a written letter, to keep a record of communication.
Finally, using effective communication strategies will help everyone feel successful! Know when to ask questions, share information, and when to listen. Use effective problem solving strategies to help resolve disagreements. And, if those effective communication strategies don’t seem to be working, know that there are due process procedures available to help resolve disagreements in a formalized way.
To learn more about KGH Autism Services, visit kghautismservices.com/our-services.
