Understanding a Supportive Academic Journey
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As children return to school, parents and caregivers have a lot to think about. You may wonder, will my child fit in well in their new environment? Will they be prepared for new challenges? And perhaps, most importantly, will they be provided with the help that they need to succeed?
As we discussed last time, there are many things that you can do to help your child prepare for the school year. Talking through behavioral expectations, practicing routines, and using educational aids such as social stories can all help to ensure that your child feels prepared for the school year. However, there is another factor facing parents of children with autism: ensuring that your child is receiving the educational supports that they are entitled to. Today, we will discuss the rights of your child, and how you can best ensure that they are getting the help that they need.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Children with disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder are covered under the law entitled Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (or IDEA). This law ensures individuals receive a free and appropriate education from any public school system across the nation. It helps to ensure children receive special education and any supportive services they need.
This means that your child has a legal right to appropriate education, necessary educational supports, and more, at no cost to your family. But how does a school determine what supports would benefit your child, and how they can administer them? Generally, this is decided through the use of an IEP, or Individualized Education Plan.
What is an IEP?
The Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a written contract between the family and the educational entity that outlines the child’s educational goals. Children with autism or other developmental disabilities over the age of 3 receive an IEP in a public educational setting. Each IEP must be tailored to meet the needs of that individual child, so it is important to review the contract to ensure these needs are being met.
In order to develop an IEP, it is required by law that specific people attend the IEP meeting including the parents, the child’s teacher, other collaborating professionals, and the child (if appropriate). Other persons are welcome if they are a part of the team such as an advocate or a representative or a non public agency, etc. The parent is a big part of the IEP team, so it is important that they are a part of the process in developing the IEP for their child. As a parent, it is important to also share information regarding your child’s needs, expectations, and current skill set. Consider the vision that you have for your child for the school year, your child’s strengths and weaknesses, any educational or maladaptive behavior concerns, and any other information that will give them a greater understanding of your child. The parent can certainly have a recourse in the IEP if they do not agree with the one that was developed.
For more information on IEPs, and how you can advocate for your child, check out our article, IEPs 101.
Back to school time is complicated for a lot of families. However, it is important to remember that you are not alone! There is an entire team of people dedicated to ensuring that your child has the best educational experience possible, and this includes your ABA treatment team. If you are unsure on how to proceed, be sure to reach out to your child’s case manager or clinical director. They can help you to determine what supports your child needs, and sometimes even assist in IEP meetings.
With a team in place, dedicated solely to helping your child succeed, you can be assured that your child will have the best possible back to school experience!
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Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (or IDEA)
