Starting the IEP process can be confusing for parents when they realize their child is struggling and they consider an IEP to help their child. The process has special education terms and laws that most parents may not be familiar with so getting help from someone who is knowledgeable about the process can be very helpful. That’s why many parents seek help from a special needs advocate to guide them through the process and help them get what their child needs out of special education resources.
Where To Find A Special Education Advocate
Finding an advocate who you trust and who has experience helping other children in similar situations is vital for your child’s success. If you know someone who has been through a similar situation and who has had success using a special education advocate, that would be a great first place to start looking for help.
Parents also have other options available to them when trying to find an advocate for their child:
- Look for a non-profit organization that will help you find an advocate free of charge
- Reach out to the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)
- Contact your state’s Parent Training and Information (PTI) Center for special education resources
- Ask if your school district has a special education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) and plan to attend
- Reach out to the Office of Special Programs in the State Department of Education
While some of these organizations, like the district’s special education department, may not be able to provide specific recommendations, they may be able to provide other advice or organizations that can help.
What To Look For In A Special Education Advocate
The Special Education Advocate that you choose will be a guide and mentor for you throughout the process. They will help you understand the IEP process, advocate for your child’s education, and help resolve any issues that arise during the IEP process.
When interviewing possible advocates, be sure to ask questions that will help you get to know them and learn how they can help. Examples of questions to ask include:
- How long have you been working with families with special education and the IEP process needs?
- What is your education, training, and certifications?
- Have you worked with our school district before?
- Do you specialize in helping any particular types of learning disabilities?
- What services will be provided?
- What are your fees for the entire process?
- What will my role as the parent look like throughout this process?
- How often will you be available to assist and how do we reach you with questions and concerns?
- How will you keep track of my child’s progress and goals?
Can you refer us to other families who have used your services to learn about their experiences?
Hardy Brain Training Can Help Your Child Succeed In School
Hardy Brain Training offers personalized learning programs designed to help school-age children who struggle with learning and may be falling behind in school. We often help children who already have an IEP but find that the IEP plan is not enough to help.
We work with you, your child’s school, and your child’s special education advocate to create a learning program that complements and enhances your child’s IEP goals while simultaneously working to improve cognitive and processing skills, which create a permanent foundation for learning.
Contact us today to learn more about if Hardy Brain Training is a good fit for you and your child. As an additional resource to help, we also have a free online diagnostic quiz to help identify the key areas where your child may be struggling.