Spring into Action: Making the Most of Your Child's IEP Before Summer

The school year is winding down, "testing season" is almost over (thank goodness!), and you might be starting to think about summer plans. But before you pack away the backpacks and celebrate the break, there's one important piece of business that deserves your attention: your kid's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

For parents of neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities, the IEP is more than just a document; it's a roadmap for their success through all of their learning years! And just like any good map, it needs to be reviewed and potentially updated to ensure it continues to give them the best supports across all areas of school.

Now is the perfect time to proactively engage with your child's IEP team to set them up for success, both during the extended school year (ESY) if applicable, and for the upcoming academic year.

Let's Talk ESY: Is it the Right Fit?

As the school year concludes, the IEP team (don't forget: that includes YOU!) will be determining eligibility for Extended School Year services. ESY isn't just summer school; it's designed to provide support to prevent significant regression of skills learned during the regular school year. Here are some questions to help you reflect on the past year:

• Have you noticed significant skill regression during past breaks?

• Are there specific IEP goals your child hasn't yet met that could benefit from continued support?

• Would consistent routines and academic engagement over the summer be beneficial for your child's overall well-being and progress?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, actively advocate for ESY during your upcoming IEP review/amendment. Think beyond just academics. Could ESY provide opportunities for social skills development or continued support for self-regulation strategies in a more relaxed (and possible smaller) setting?

Planting Seeds for Next Year: Accommodations/Modifications and Supports

The end of the school year also offers a great opportunity to look ahead. Consider what worked well this year, what challenges arose, and what new supports might benefit your child in the upcoming academic year. Ask yourself:

• Were the current accommodations and modifications truly effective? Did your child consistently utilize them? Were there any that felt cumbersome or unnecessary?

• Are there emerging needs or areas where your child could benefit from additional support? Perhaps they are transitioning to a new grade level with different academic demands or social dynamics. Or a new school altogether!

• Have there been any assessments or evaluations that suggest new areas of focus or strategies?

• Are there considerations for transition planning? Regardless of what the transitions are (i.e. changing schools, moving to a classroom upstairs, rotating through teachers), there must be a plan for transition! Planning for this leads to success, and there are countless transitional situations that can be supported!

Based on your observations and any new information, brainstorm potential amendments to the IEP. This could include:

• New or refined accommodations: Perhaps a visual schedule needs to be more detailed, or sensory breaks need to be more frequent and structured.

• Different assistive technology: Explore options that might further enhance your child's learning and communication. And independence!

• Specific strategies for executive functioning: If organization, planning, or task initiation are challenges, discuss incorporating explicit instruction and supports in these areas.

• Social-emotional learning goals: Consider adding specific objectives related to social skills, emotional regulation, or self-advocacy.

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Inclusiveology offers Consultations, IEP Reviews, and Parent IEP Coaching to maximize your knowledge of what's best for your kid's learning, growth, and independence. Reach out and let us know how we can help. Schedule your consultation HERE!

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Inclusion: Let's Talk about It!

Inclusion isn't just about physical presence in a general education classroom; it's about meaningful participation and belonging. As you review the IEP, think about opportunities to increase your kid's engagement with their neurotypical peers:

• Are there more opportunities for collaborative projects or group activities with appropriate supports?

• Can social skills instruction be embedded within general education settings with the support of special education staff?

• Are there extracurricular activities or clubs where your kid's interests align with those of their peers, and how can the IEP facilitate their participation?

• Have peer mentoring programs or social skills groups been explored as a way to build connections?

Don't be afraid to think creatively and advocate for inclusive practices that go beyond simply being in the same room. Meaningful inclusion requires thoughtful planning and the right supports.

Your Voice Matters: Schedule Your IEP Review

Eventhough the end of the school year is busy, prioritize your kid's IEP and start thinking ahead. Reach out to your child's case manager or special education teacher to schedule a meeting to discuss ESY eligibility and potential amendments for the upcoming year. Come prepared with your observations, questions, and ideas. Remember, you are a vital member of the IEP team, and your insights are invaluable. You know your kid BEST!

Need Extra Support Navigating the IEP Process?

Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start? DJ at Inclusiveology is here to help! With a solution-centered approach, she offers guidance and support to parents of neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities. Schedule a free initial consultation and let's work together to ensure your child's IEP truly empowers their growth and success.

Inclusiveology offers Consultations, IEP Reviews, and Parent IEP Coaching to maximize your knowledge of what's best for your kid's learning, growth, and independence.