Discussing Autism

Do you know the all the services your child qualifies for?

Bet not.

I am sure I don’t either. That is part of the reason I freelance…to learn more about my son, his disabilities, and the services for which he qualifies.

But I am also determined to help you know more about the appropriate services available. All this week, since school is just around the corner, I will be bringing you information on how to get the most out of your school district personnel and your teachers.

Today I have an article from Lisa B. Wershaw, an attorney who practices special education law. In her article she offers back to school tips to help parents get the school year off to a good start.

1. Establish your own goals for your child’s school year, including where you want him or her to be by the end of the school year - academically, socially, emotionally - and how will you help achieve these goals in cooperation with the school and with extracurricular involvement.

2. Review the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) prepared by the school to be sure it’s in sync with the goals you established.

3. Look for greater detail and reporting requirements that are part of the new IEP format which went into effect May 2004. Your child’s IEP should include location, frequency, projected beginning date and anticipated duration of each specially designed instruction, modification and service to which he or she is entitled. This will help you to ensure that services are provided as promised.

4. Make sure your child’s IEP contains annual goals and short-term objectives, which are specifically defined and have measurable time- limited goals and objectives so that you have something concrete by which to regularly monitor his or her progress.

5. If your child exhibits behaviors that impede his or her learning, or that of others, make sure that your child’s IEP includes a behavior plan that articulates strategies and supports, including positive behavior interventions, to address those behaviors.

6. If your child is age 14 or older, make sure his or her IEP contains transition planning. This should include a coordinated set of activities designed to promote movement from school to post-school activities, including, but not limited to post-secondary education, vocational training, integrated employment, adult services, and independent living or community participation.

7. Make sure that your child’s IEP team considers him or her for summer, or extended school year services. Eligibility must be considered for all students with disabilities even if you don’t request it.

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