8 Ways to Know if Your Child’s IEP is Working for Them

If you have a child with special needs, you might have heard about an Individualized Education Program (IEP) 

An IEP is a plan created by the school that outlines your child’s learning needs and the support they will receive to help them succeed. It includes specific goals and services tailored just for your child. 

Here are ways to know if your child’s IEP is effective and helping them thrive in school.

1. Progress toward Goals

Check if your child is making progress on the goals set in their IEP. You should receive regular updates from teachers or the school about your child’s achievements.

If they are meeting or getting closer to their goals, this is a good sign. If they aren’t progressing, it may mean the IEP needs to be adjusted.

2. The Present Levels Section Describes Your Child

One important part of the IEP is the “Present Levels” section. This section should clearly explain your child’s current skills, strengths, and challenges in different areas, like academics, social skills, and behavior. (ref)

If this section does not accurately describe your child, it’s a big red flag.

The Present Levels section is like a snapshot of your child’s abilities right now. It helps the school team understand where your child is starting from, which is required for setting realistic goals and deciding what support they need. 

3. Your Child Feels Supported

Ask your child how they feel about school and their support system. An effective IEP should make your child feel supported and understood. 

If they express that they feel confident and that their needs are being met, it shows the IEP is working. On the other hand, if your child feels confused or unsupported, it’s a sign that the IEP may not be doing its job.

4. Engagement in Class

Observe how engaged your child is in class. An effective IEP should help your child participate and feel included in classroom activities. 

If your child seems interested and is taking part in lessons and discussions, it’s a good indicator that the IEP is working. If they appear withdrawn or frustrated, it might mean the IEP isn’t meeting their needs.

5. You Get Feedback from Teachers

Listen to feedback from your child’s teachers. They can provide insights into your child’s behavior, progress, and challenges in school. 

If teachers share positive updates and feel confident in your child’s development, it suggests the IEP is effective. If they raise concerns, it might be time to revisit the IEP and consider changes.

6. You are Involved in the Process

It’s important that you feel involved in your child’s IEP process. If the IEP meeting is the only time you’ve participated, and you didn’t submit a Parent Concerns Letter, (ref) you might be missing out on sharing your insights. 

Being active in the IEP process allows you to voice your concerns and suggestions. If you’re not involved, the school may not fully understand your child’s unique needs.

7. Your Child Adapts in the Classroom

Check if your child’s classroom has adaptations or changes that help them learn better. This could mean having a quiet space for them to focus, using special tools or technology, or adjusting how lessons are taught. 

If these adaptations are in place and your child benefits from them, it’s a sign that the IEP is effective. If there aren’t any changes, it might mean the IEP needs to be reevaluated.

8. There is Collaboration with Specialists

Look at whether your child is working with specialists, like speech therapists or counselors, as mentioned in the IEP. If they are regularly seeing these specialists and showing improvement, it’s a good sign that the IEP is being implemented well. 

If your child isn’t receiving the needed services or isn’t seeing specialists at all, that may indicate a problem with the effectiveness of the IEP.

By looking for these aforementioned signs, you can better understand if the IEP is helping your child thrive. Remember, you are your child’s best advocate, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and share your concerns.