Tips for parents to consider

  • Talk to your child: find out how he or she feels about school, as well as his or her likes and dislikes.

  • Speak with your child’s teachers: find out if your child is having difficulty with homework, is unable to complete work independently, begins but can’t complete assignments, or has difficulty recalling the related instruction during the school day.

  • Observe and listen to your child at home: does he or she complain about physical illnesses or invent excuses in order to stay home from school?

  • Does your child have friends and maintain friendships?

  • Does your child talk about or know the names of classmates?

  • Does your child only use negative comments when talking about school?

  • Develop a profile of your child to share with the school staff.

Interventions that assistance teams (PSTs) should consider

  • Parental Involvement

  • Curriculum modifications/alternative materials

  • Alternative intervention programs

  • Alternative assessment strategies

  • Extended time allowances for specific assignments

  • Variation in instruction to match learning styles

  • Study skills materials and curricula to support access to general education

  • Behavior management programs

  • Environmental/classroom accommodations

  • Cooperative learning

  • Team teaching

  • Peer interaction support

BRINGING KNOWLEDGE TO THE TABLE

How to Be an Effective Advocate for Your Child