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Back To School

Getting Back-to-School Ready: A Parent's Guide for Special Education Students 🎒

The back-to-school season can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming, especially when you have a child receiving special education services. But with some proactive steps, you can help ensure a smooth and successful start to the new school year. Here's a quick guide to help you prepare:

1. Study and Organize:

  • Review Your Child’s IEP/504 Plan: Familiarize yourself with their current goals, accommodations, and special education services. This is your child’s educational roadmap, so understanding it is key.
  • Organize Your Paperwork: Keep a well-organized binder or electronic folder containing all IEP documents, meeting notices, and relevant communications.

2. Connect with Your Child's Team:

  • Meet the Team: Schedule a time to meet with your child’s teachers, special education teacher, case manager, and other relevant school staff before the school year begins.
  • Establish Open Communication: Set up a clear communication plan with teachers. Ask them their preferred method of contact and what types of updates they can provide.
  • Share Insights: Provide your child’s teachers with a clear picture of their strengths, challenges, interests, and effective strategies for communication and support.

3. Prepare Your Child:

  • Visit the School: If possible, visit the school with your child before the first day. This can help reduce anxiety by allowing them to familiarize themselves with the environment and meet their teachers.
  • Talk About the Transition: Discuss the upcoming school year with your child, addressing any anxieties or questions they may have.
  • Establish Routines: Re-establish consistent morning and evening routines before school starts to help with the transition.

4. Organize and Equip:

  • Gather Supplies: Ensure your child has all the necessary school supplies, and consider visual tools or aids that can support their learning.
  • Consider Sensory Needs: If your child has sensory sensitivities, discuss potential accommodations or tools with the school staff.

5. Advocate and Engage:

  • Be Prepared to Advocate: Don’t hesitate to speak up about your child’s needs and advocate for necessary adjustments or supports.
  • Attend School Events: Participate in back-to-school nights and parent-teacher conferences to stay informed and engaged.
  • Encourage Self-Advocacy: As your child grows, support them in developing self-advocacy skills, empower them to communicate their needs and preferences.

Remember:

You are an essential part of your child’s educational team. By being prepared and actively involved, you can help make this school year a success for your special education student.

If you have questions or concerns as your child starts their school year, please give me a call. I offer a free initial consultation. 

919-510-3180
Request A Free Initial Consultation

Not sure what a Special Education Advocate does, or how I might support you? Here is a short video that explains how I help parents.

What Is A Special Education Advocate?

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