Author of this blog
Flor de Amelia
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Hearing the words “Your child needs an IEP” can bring a wave of emotions – relief that there may be support ahead, but also confusion, worry, and even fear. If you’re feeling overwhelmed right now, you’re not alone. Many parents find themselves wondering what to do first and how to make sure their child gets the help they need. The good news? Asking the right questions early can set your child up for success and give you peace of mind.
In this post, we’ll walk through 5 must-ask questions every parent should bring to their first IEP meeting. These questions will help you understand the process, feel empowered, and confidently advocate for your child.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. What Does the IEP Evaluation Process Look Like?
The IEP evaluation process is how schools gather information about your child’s strengths and needs before creating an Individualized Education Program.
This process typically includes several steps:
Referral or Request: The process usually starts with a parent, teacher, or doctor expressing concern and requesting an evaluation.
Consent: Schools cannot evaluate your child without your written permission.
Comprehensive Testing: Specialists (psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, etc.) administer assessments tailored to your child’s needs.
Observation: Teachers may document classroom behavior and performance as part of the evaluation.
Evaluation Report: The results are compiled into a report that outlines strengths, challenges, and eligibility for special education.
Eligibility Meeting: You’ll meet with the school team to review results and decide if your child qualifies for an IEP.
Key Questions to Ask:
What evaluations will be conducted, and who will administer them?
How will observations be included in the process?
What is the timeline from consent to results?
How will results be shared, and can I receive them in advance of the eligibility meeting?
Understanding the timeline and steps involved helps you stay informed and prepared. You have the right to be involved in this process from start to finish, and you can request additional evaluations if you believe more information is needed.
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2. What Areas Will My Child Be Evaluated In?
Your child can be evaluated in areas like academics, behavior, speech, and motor skills to ensure a full picture of their needs.
A thorough evaluation should cover every area where your child may need support. Common evaluation areas include:
Academic Skills: Reading, writing, math, and comprehension.
Cognitive Ability: Problem-solving, memory, processing speed.
Speech and Language: Expressive and receptive language, articulation, social communication.
Motor Skills: Fine motor (handwriting, cutting) and gross motor (balance, coordination).
Behavioral and Social-Emotional Skills: Attention, regulation, coping skills, peer interactions.
Functional Skills: Daily living skills, independence, and adaptive behavior.
Key Questions to Ask:
Are all areas of suspected need being evaluated?
Can we include strengths and interests to guide goal setting?
How are teachers’ and parents’ input included in the evaluation?
A comprehensive evaluation ensures nothing important is overlooked and lays the groundwork for an IEP that truly supports your child’s growth and success.
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3. What Are My Rights as a Parent in the IEP Process?
Parents have legal rights under IDEA, including participation in meetings, access to records, and the ability to request evaluations.
Your rights are protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Knowing them empowers you to be an equal partner in the process. Key rights include:
Right to Participate: You have the right to attend every IEP meeting and share input on goals, services, and placement.
Right to Consent: No evaluation or services can begin without your written consent.
Right to Access Records: You can review your child’s school records and evaluation data at any time.
Right to Disagree: You can request changes, mediation, or a due process hearing if you disagree with decisions.
Right to Be Informed: Schools must provide you with prior written notice before making any changes to your child’s services.
Key Questions to Ask:
Can you provide me with a copy of my procedural safeguards?
How do I request copies of all evaluations and records?
If I disagree with the evaluation, what are my options for an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?
Understanding your rights helps you advocate for your child with confidence and ensures that your voice is heard in every decision made about your child’s education.
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4. Who Will Be Part of My Child’s IEP Team?
The IEP team includes educators, specialists, and parents who work together to create a plan tailored to your child’s needs.
The IEP team is made up of several key members, each with a unique role:
General Education Teacher: Shares insight on how your child performs in the classroom and suggests accommodations.
Special Education Teacher: Designs and implements specialized instruction and supports.
School Psychologist or Evaluator: Interprets test results and helps determine eligibility.
Related Service Providers: May include speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, or counselors.
District Representative: Ensures the school follows legal requirements and that resources are available.
Parent or Guardian: You are a vital member of the team, providing information about your child’s history, strengths, and challenges.
Student (when appropriate): Older students are often invited to share their goals and perspectives.
Key Questions to Ask:
Who will be at the meeting, and what are their roles?
Can I invite an advocate, friend, or outside professional to support me?
How can we communicate between meetings to stay aligned?
Building positive relationships with your child’s IEP team fosters collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to helping your child succeed.
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5. What Supports and Services Might Be Available?
Support may include therapies, accommodations, and modifications that help your child access learning.
Every child’s IEP is unique, and the supports included should address their specific needs. Some common supports and services are:
Speech Therapy: Helps with speech sounds, language development, and social communication.
Occupational Therapy (OT): Supports fine motor skills, handwriting, sensory regulation, and daily living skills.
Physical Therapy (PT): Improves gross motor skills, strength, and coordination.
Behavioral Supports: May include a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).
Accommodations: Changes to how a student learns, such as extra time on tests, preferential seating, visual schedules, or use of assistive technology.
Modifications: Changes to what a student is expected to learn, such as simplified assignments or alternative grading.
Counseling or Social Skills Groups: Helps students build emotional regulation and peer interaction skills.
Key Questions to Ask:
Based on the evaluation, what supports or services do you recommend?
Can we try accommodations first and adjust as needed?
How will progress be measured and shared with me?
Are there any community resources or programs that could complement school services?
Requesting clarity on available support ensures your child gets exactly what they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.
Closing Thoughts:
Starting the IEP journey can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory, but you don’t have to do it alone. Asking these five questions gives you a strong foundation for advocacy and ensures your child receives the individualized support they deserve.
Quick Checklist for Parents:
✅ Request a full evaluation and know the timeline.
✅ Ensure all areas of need (and strengths) are evaluated.
✅ Review your rights and ask for procedural safeguards.
✅ Learn who is on the IEP team and their roles.
✅ Ask about all available supports, accommodations, and services.
Remember, you are your child’s best advocate. The more informed you are, the more empowered you’ll feel during every IEP meeting.
➡️ Your Turn: What questions do you have about starting the IEP process? Drop them in the comments below or share your experience so other parents can learn from you.
If you want more tips and tools to help you navigate the IEP process with confidence, visit my website and find check out my FREE Guides.
About MegAnne Ford
After two decades working with hundreds of children as a nanny, educator, and coach, MegAnne Ford knows one thing for sure:
You can’t logic your way out of a nervous system explosion.
She founded Be Kind Coaching to give intentional parents a way to lead that bridges the gap between kind and firm parenting. MegAnne’s work focuses on the ‘why’ behind the behavior, helping you trade the ‘winging it’ cycle for The C.L.E.A.R. Method™. So you can finally enjoy the child you actually have.
