Special Education Accommodations Pt 1.
As your special education advocate, my mission is to guide you through the intricacies and complexities of securing the best possible educational experience for your child. Today, let's delve into the crucial topic of special education accommodations – a pathway to unlocking your child's full potential.
1) Understanding Accommodations
Special education accommodations are tailored supports and services designed to address the unique needs of students with disabilities. These adjustments aim to level the playing field. Thats as basic as it gets. The goal is to place your child on the same field as Gen Ed children.
Open Communication with Educators
One of the key pillars of creating and building successful special education accommodations is open and transparent communication with your child's educators and the school as a whole. Establishing a collaborative relationship sets the stage for effective advocacy. If this becomes an issue, an experienced advocate (and one who has been on BOTH SIDES OF THE TABLE, like me!) will be a valuable asset.
Individualized Education Program (IEP) Advocacy
The cornerstone of special education accommodations is often the creation of the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Its imperative that you actively engage in the IEP process, voicing your concerns and aspirations for your child. Educate yourself so you can be specific about the accommodations you believe will enhance their learning experience. A future blog post will highlight some accommodations that are used and how to add them to your child’s IEP.
Promoting Self-Advocacy in Your Child
Beyond accommodations, fostering self-advocacy skills in your child is a powerful tool for their future success. As if you don’t have enough parenting on your plate, you really should teach your child how to articulate their needs, understand their learning styles, and advocate for the accommodations that facilitate their learning. This is obviously age appropriate advice, but this life skill empowers them to take an active role in shaping their future educational journey. Yes, I can teach you how to do this!
Your Partner in Advocacy
As your dedicated special education advocate, my role is to stand by your side, providing guidance, support, and expertise. Together, we can pick apart and analyze the intricacies of special education accommodations, ensuring that your child's educational experience is not only inclusive but tailored to their unique strengths and challenges. Thats the goal of the IEP and Special Education! Its also my goal to create a well educated, self advocating client in YOU!
