Back to School for Kids with Special Needs
Back to school is a big transition time for all parents and all kids. For kids with special needs, and their families, it can be a little more stressful and require more planning and work. There are some things to do before school starts that can make the new school year start as smoothly as possible.
1. Organize all of your child’s paperwork. Take advantage of those shiny new school supplies! If your child is involved in special education there are lots of meetings and paperwork. Having that together in one place ahead of time will be helpful. Making a binder with your child’s medical records, previous evaluations, developmental history, special education documents and (Individualized Education Program) IEPs will be helpful for school to start and in the long run.
2. Start a communication log. Keep track of phone calls, emails, notes sent home, notes taking during meetings and conferences. Write down dates, times and who you communicated with.
3. Review your child’s current IEP. Your child’s IEP is what helps professionals know what services your child is receiving. Make sure you understand the IEP. Know when your child’s IEP expires and know when your child is due to have a re-evaluation through the school district. You are the best advocate for your child, so if you see something that doesn’t seem to fit or doesn’t seem right, talk to your child’s case manager about it.
4. Prepare your child for the new school year. Talking to your child about the new school year can help reduce anxiety and help your child prepare. Talk about what classes they will be taking, activities, their teacher, friends and fun things that will be happening during the new school year. If your child is attending a new school try to visit before the first day of school. For some children it is helpful to walk through their schedule, including knowing where bathrooms are located. Older students should be aware of their IEPs and what to expect for services.
5. Keep everyone informed. Communicate often with your school. If there are any questions, concerns or IEP changes everyone should be on the same page. For some kids it is helpful to write down what your child did that weekend or the night before if he or she is not able to convey that. On the same note, a quick note about the school day is helpful for parents.
6. Establish before and after school routines. Discuss your child’s schedule with him or her so your child knows what to expect. For some children visual schedules are helpful. You can begin practicing the morning and evening routines before school starts.
7. Stay informed about special education news. Being knowledgeable about your child’s IEP and the laws governing it can help you be a better advocate for your child.
8. Attend school events. Take advantage of open houses, parent nights and conferences. If you and your child can meet teachers ahead of time it can be helpful for everyone involved. Let your child’s teacher know what he or she is good at! Set up a good line of communication before school even starts.
August 29, 2016