Navigating an IEP: A Parent's Guide

The first time someone mentions an IEP, it can feel like you've been handed a stack of acronyms with no manual. Here's a plain-language walkthrough of what an IEP actually is and how to advocate for your child inside the process.

What an IEP is

An Individualised Education Program (IEP) is a legal document that outlines the specific support services and accommodations a child receives at school, based on an identified disability that affects their learning, which can include speech and language needs.

The IEP meeting

You'll sit down with a team, likely a teacher, school wellbeing team and any allied health team members involved, to review results of any testing completed and decide on goals and actions. As a parent, you are a full, equal member of this team, not just an attendee. Your observations about your child matter as much as any test score.

Questions worth asking

What specific goals are being set, and how will progress be measured? How often and in what setting will services happen (pulled out of class, in class, small group)? What happens if my child isn't making expected progress? Can I request a copy of all evaluation results in advance of the meeting?

A few things to know

You can bring an advocate or support person to any meeting. You don't have to sign anything on the spot if you want time to review it. And an IEP isn't permanent, it's often reviewed termly and can be adjusted as your child's needs change.

The process can feel intimidating the first time through, but you don't need to be an expert going in, you just need to ask questions until you understand the answers.