With Kindergarten round-up just around the corner, this can be a very stressful time for families with children with special needs or autism who are near the age of 5. Parents and teachers need to determine the best placement and plan for each child. This typically starts with an IEP (Individualized Education Program) which is a written document outlining the services and accommodations each child will receive within the school system. Parents are encouraged to play an active role in this process including participation in goal development and the IEP meeting(s), as well as carry-over of goals during the school year.
How can we help? Many parents are not aware that they can include goals related to social and emotional development on their child’s IEP. That being said, P.L.A.Y. Project home consultants are often available to help with this process. Home consultants may contribute to your child’s IEP by creating goals that will compliment the school’s academic goals (e.g. goals related to sustained attention, initiation, communicating basic needs, etc.). Home Consultants may also be available to attend an IEP meeting and offer suggestions based on the child’s profile. The IEP process is a collaborative effort and goals are often developed by several members of your child’s team (i.e. teachers, therapists, home consultants, etc.). We encourage you to ask questions and make sure you are comfortable with everything included on your child’s IEP. Below is a list of IEP-related resources that may help you along your journey
Educational Resources:
- http://www.nhspecialed.org/IEP.shtml ~ Parent information Center on Special Education
- http://www.wrightslaw.com/ ~ Information and Resources on Special Education
- http://nichcy.org/laws/idea or http://nichcy.org/schoolage/iep ~ National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities: information on IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
- http://www2.ed.gov/parents/needs/speced/resources.html ~ Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)
- http://www.snrproject.com/ ~ Special Needs Resource Project
For Dr. Solomon’s guide to Kindergarten preparedness, refer to our previous post, 7 Habits of Highly Effective Kindergarteners.