IEP meetings may be difficult to plan and much more difficult to carry out. You may prepare for what to say at your IEP meeting by reading about how to be confident in an IEP meeting. At IEP meetings, feelings may get intense. However, it’s critical to keep your eyes on the prize: supporting your child. These ten calm expressions can be used to divert attention and diffuse uncomfortable circumstances.
Here’s What You Should Say At Your Next IEP Meeting
Source: autismclassroomresources.com
Whether you are a novice teacher or an experienced one, IEP meetings can be stressful, here are a few things you should consider saying:
1. Use Simple Language
Some parents don’t speak the same language as their children. Some might not even know what IEP is. To make sure parents understand the information in your documentation, be aware of the acronyms and jargon you use.
Having your documents ready before the meeting gives me more assurance. Provide a draft of the IEP to the parents in advance so they have time to review it before the meeting in case they have any questions.
2. Take Care Of The Introductions
Introducing yourself and other staff members is a wonderful way to extend a warm welcome to the student’s family. A meeting might get off to a good start if you make yourself and your job known to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Always greet the parents when you see them, and introduce yourself if they haven’t seen you before. It’s a good idea to have everyone on your team explain themselves and the position they play as soon as they arrive. Additionally, confirm that everyone is aware of the meeting’s goal.
3. Focus On The Strengths
You may gather strengths and arrange student information by using the strengths page in this IEP binder. IEP sessions frequently center on a child’s deficiencies. How difficult would it be for a family to hear something discussed repeatedly at a meeting?
Although it’s important to be truthful with parents regarding their child’s development, there are methods to present the facts in a way that highlights their strengths and is more positive.
4. Take Parents Input
Before the meeting, acquire the parents’ and instructors’ opinions about the student’s present performance. You can be more informed at the meeting if you have this knowledge ready in advance.
Since they are an essential part of the team and the kid’s progress, make sure to emphasize the feedback that parents and instructors have to provide about the student. Parents frequently hear so much criticism about what their child is incapable of doing from everyone they meet. Highlight their abilities and the wonderful qualities of their kids.
5. Include Current Data
An essential component of the IEP process is the inclusion of up-to-date data. These data sheets make it simple for me to gather information for meetings and help me keep organized throughout the year!
Data from district assessments, state assessments, and any prior targets should all be included. Sometimes, parents may not hear anything further you have to say to them and may already have a bad attitude on this if they don’t think you are supportive and loving of their child. Express your gratitude to them for entrusting you with their child.
6. Inform Students Needs
Information on the student’s current requirements should be provided if a new IEP is being created. For any new goals, baseline data may be gathered in advance of the meeting to give the team proof that there is a need.
It’s wise to develop the habit of taking your time reading through the IEP and allowing ample time for discussion, decision-making, and teamwork.
7. Offer Service Snapshot
Give parents an overview of the day-to-day activities of their child. Explain the interventions you offer, the activities the student engages in in class, and the extra help you provide them with all day long.
Telling a family that ESY (Extended School Year) services are decided based on student data collecting that is still ongoing is a perfectly appropriate response if they inquire about it.
8. Talk About Accommodations
Reviewing the adjustments that the team feels would be beneficial for the kid is a crucial component of any IEP. Spend some time talking about the accommodations that should be made to support the student in being as successful and independent as they can. It’s crucial to listen to family members who request that a service or other assistance be introduced or taken into consideration for their child.
You must remember that the IEP program is all about being individualized. Furthermore, it is not always impossible to give a service or assistance to a kid who requires it but that none of the other pupils in the school receive.
9. Leave Room For Questions
Enough space should always be left on the IEP for inquiries! I offer parents a chance to ask questions or make comments after every segment. Their comprehension of the subject matter is essential, and they play a significant role in the IEP process.
Although it shouldn’t be, time is sometimes a hurdle. It’s wise to develop the habit of taking your time reading through the IEP and allowing ample time for discussion, decision-making, and teamwork.
10. Inform Parental Rights
Parental rights are outlined in special education handbooks differently in each state. Parents should get one at every IEP meeting. I also remind parents that they have the option to call a meeting at any moment.
Their input is respected and they play a significant role in the team. Parents of children receiving special education should always be encouraged to ask questions and be aware of their rights.
Conduct A Fruitful IEP Meeting
IEP meetings can be anxiety-inducing, but they can also be less stressful and overwhelming once you know just how to facilitate productive and easy discussions. As educators who have completed Special Education Courses in Thailand,you should know exactly what NOT to do on IEP meeting days may truly help reduce some of the anxiety.
