Request a copy of the Frequently Used Accommodations and Modifications list from the school.

Consider a variety of different ways and times for integrating services into your child’s program.

Consider the potential benefits and risks of services that take your child away from the regular education classroom. More is not always better.

Who will provide the services and what are his or her qualifications?

What will the services entail?

How will the therapists and teachers communicate with each other and how often?

How will you receive information concerning your child’s services and his or her progress: daily reports, phone calls, e-mails, weekly journal, monthly meetings?

Will the service be delivered individually or in a group?

Will the service be provided in the general classroom?

If you do not understand something, ask that it be restated.

Familiarize yourself with the IEP form. Make sure everything in the IEP document is clear, specific and accurate.

Make sure your input is included in the Parent and Student Input and Concerns section on page 4 of the IEP document: Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance.

If you make requests that are refused, make sure they are included under the Actions Refused section on page 3 of the IEP document: Prior Written Notice.

Use an IEP Matrix to present objectives, supports, staff and activities in a visual, easy-to-access format.

If you feel pressured or overwhelmed, it is okay to take a break. Leave the room, take a walk and reconvene. If you don’t feel you can continue without time out to think about what you have heard, you may ask that the meeting be continued at a later date. In addition, if you believe that the meeting and/or IEP goals are incomplete, you may adjourn the meeting and reconvene at a later date.

No signatures are required on the IEP document itself.

If differences of opinion arise, talk them out.

The IEP will be implemented five days after you receive it, unless you formally disagree with its provisions. So, if in doubt, speak up at the PPT meeting.