IEP 101: How to Advocate for Your Child in the School System
Navigating the IEP process can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to. Whether you're preparing for your first meeting or updating an existing plan, this guide will help you step in with clarity, confidence, and the tools to advocate for your child’s success in school.
📘 What Is an IEP?
An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legal document created under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). It outlines the special education services a child with a disability needs to access and succeed in school.
An IEP includes:
Present levels (your child’s current skills and needs)
Annual goals
Special education services (e.g., therapy, aide support)
Accommodations (extra time on tests, sensory breaks)
Placement (general ed, special ed, or a mix)
The IEP is both a blueprint and a contract — schools are legally required to follow it. Most importantly, it’s created by a team: parents, teachers, therapists, administrators, and sometimes the student. In Arizona and nationwide, parents are equal members of this team.
📝 Preparing Before the IEP Meeting
Don’t walk in cold. Prep makes all the difference.
Review the current IEP: What goals were met? What still needs work?
Write down concerns & strengths: Academic, social, sensory, behavioral — include what’s working too!
Request evaluations in advance: Suspect a speech delay or sensory issue? Ask in writing for new evaluations before the meeting.
Talk to teachers & therapists: Get their input on what's needed next.
Organize your documents: Bring a folder or binder with previous IEPs, evaluations, outside reports, and notes.
Consider writing a Parent Report: A one-page narrative about your child — your voice in writing.
Bring a support person: A friend, relative, or advocate can attend (just let the school know ahead).
💬 How to Be an Active Voice in the Meeting
You’re an equal part of the team. Speak up and advocate with clarity.
Ask for jargon-free explanations: Don’t hesitate to ask, “What does that mean?”
Start positive: Thank the team for what’s working. It sets a collaborative tone.
Demand SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.
Not: “Improve behavior”
Better: “Use coping strategy during frustration in 4 out of 5 opportunities”
Request specific services/accommodations:
“Can we trial 1:1 speech instead of group?”
“He needs written instructions, not just verbal.”
Take notes: Don’t rely on memory.
Slow down if needed: You can pause, ask for clarification, or request a follow-up meeting.
Stay solution-focused: When concerns are raised, shift to problem-solving: “What can we adjust to help them succeed?”
🛡 Know Your Rights
Understanding your rights puts you in a stronger position.
You can invite others to the meeting.
You don’t have to sign an IEP you disagree with.
You can request to reconvene, bring in specialists, or ask for mediation if needed.
You can record the meeting in Arizona (one-party consent, but inform the team out of courtesy).
You have a right to:
All evaluations and data
An interpreter
A Prior Written Notice (PWN) after the meeting
You can call an IEP meeting anytime — you don’t have to wait a year.
You can request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) if you disagree with school evaluations.
🔄 After the Meeting: Stay Involved
An IEP isn’t “set and forget.” Keep monitoring and supporting.
Understand and explain the IEP to your child (in age-appropriate language)
Check in monthly with the teacher or therapists: “Is the fidget still helping? Any challenges with the reading goal?”
Track services: If the IEP says 2x/week OT, make sure it’s happening.
Celebrate wins and thank the team for what’s working
Update as needed: If goals are too easy, unmet, or new concerns arise, request an updated meeting
Document everything: Use email for clarification and follow-ups. It builds a paper trail if services slip or supports aren’t followed.
🔗 Helpful Resources
You're not alone — here’s where to turn for support:
Raising Special Kids – Free IEP help, advocacy, and parent coaching (Arizona-based)
Arizona Center for Disability Law – IEP rights and legal support
Wrightslaw – National resource for special education law and advocacy
Facebook groups – Try “Arizona Special Education” or autism parent groups for peer support
💛 Final Word: You’ve Got This
You are your child’s first and best advocate. The IEP process might feel intimidating, but with preparation, clarity, and collaboration, you can ensure your child gets what they need to thrive — not just survive — in school.
And remember: you’re not doing this alone. At Pure Hearts Therapy, we’re here to help — with progress data, accommodation suggestions, or simply a listening ear. Together, we can make school a place where your child feels supported, successful, and seen.
💪Want More Support?
📞 Book your free 15-minute consultation to get personalized guidance.
📚 Read more on our blog for helpful articles, sensory-friendly ideas, and real-world strategies.
🎧 Listen to our podcast for expert insights and conversations with other families.
