I consider myself an IEP beginner. I'm not totally naive but I'm certainly not an old hand at this yet. When Sadie first started kindergarten we switched to a new school that was worlds closer then her autism preschool program. This meant a completely new team. I decided to make a list for each team member with a picture of my daughter on it. I also made extras to have in her binder for any substitute aids or teachers that would need to know her quirks. The list was titled 10 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SADIE. This was a way to give everyone a small snap shot of the special little girl they would be teaching and helping through out the year. When you make your list, it has to pass the "stranger test". What are the 10 most important things a stranger (who is going to be working with your child at school) needs to know about your kiddo? Sadie's ABA therapists helped me come up with this list and number 10 is sort of strategically worded for a particular goal the school was trying to delete from her IEP. I plan on doing this every new year as not only will teachers and aids change but Sadie will too.
I like this idea. It would really be helpful for almost anyone - our church buddies who shadow Lily, our babysitter, grandparents even.... I think I'm going to steal your idea! :)
ReplyDeleteSo glad you thought of that! I could totally use this for church helpers too! Your so clever:)
DeleteI absolutely love this. As a teacher of students with special needs, I have total respect for the students with special needs, their families, and those involved in their care. Your daughter will benefit from this in indescribable ways. Every teacher, aide, staff mekber, or service provider will have an amazing resource to best serve your daughter. I wish every parent was this involved and jnvested in their child's well being and education. I truely applaude you for that.
ReplyDeleteThank you! It's always nice to get a teachers perspective.
DeleteI LOVE LOVE LOVE this!! I need to do it next year. Stealing now...
ReplyDelete