How to Take a Child-Centered Approach
“Advocacy is empathy, compassion and community at work.”
Yes, of course, the IEP meeting is about your child and you are the expert on your child. Yet, I find it helpful to also have the perspective of your student represented. If your child would like to attend, then be sure to include him. If your child would feel overwhelmed by attending the meeting in its entirety, then ask her to attend the first 10 minutes of the meeting or whatever timeframe you both deem appropriate.
Regardless of whether the child is in person at the meeting or you represent your child’s input, here are some suggested questions to ask before the meeting:
• What do you wish your teacher(s) knew about you?
• What would make it easier for you to succeed at school?
• What or who helps you the most at school?
• What would you change about your school day?
• Is there anything else that you’d like to share with your teachers?
Your student’s answers could be presented in person, in written format to be read aloud, through a video clip, or even through drawings. This student input is essential in securing services that could best support your child. Even if your child is in elementary school, still ask these questions - you may be surprised with their thoughtful answers! Also, if all team members have not met your child, perhaps the district administrator is not in the building, then consider showing a photo of your child as this reminds the team to honor a child-centered approach.
If your student is older and is readily willing to attend the entire meeting, be sure to review the meeting structure beforehand and also ask how he or she could provide input throughout the meeting. I have been in a meeting where a high school student drove the discussion around what accommodations and modifications he would find most beneficial. The team used the student’s recommendations to guide the conversation. Many of the accommodations and modifications that student requested were then included in the student’s 504 plan.
Participating in an IEP meeting, provides an ideal opportunity for your child to learn how to self-advocate. As our students age, we certainly want them to increase their advocacy skills.
Read more of my Top Tips for Productive IEP Meetings including Preparing for an IEP Meeting, Building Your Village, Documenting, and Using Data to Drive Decisions.