Special Education Advocacy: Learn The 3 Rs of Advocacy

Описание: We know our kids will be more successful when others believe in them and provide the supports they need. So, building relationships with teachers and others is very important.

We want them to learn about our child’s strengths and be committed to providing the services they deserve.

When school starts, find a way to show your appreciation to the staff for what they’ve done and the positive impact they’ve had on your child’s life.

There are some people working at school that often get overlooked.
We know our school’s custodian do more than clean the building and sprinkle that powdered stuff on carpets when kids are sick. Custodians can be one of our kids champions! Thank them at the beginning of the year.

Does your child feel comfortable going to the office and asking for help?

Share your gratitude with the school secretary. The secretary can be one of your greatest allies at the school – they’re often the go-to person that knows the scoop on what is happening. Make sure you develop a positive relationship with them.

Have you noticed over the summer that your child’s reading improved? Tell his teacher you’re thrilled about this. Teachers, like all of us need to know what they are doing is making a difference for kids.

Have you receive support from the principal ? Stop in her office and share how much that meant to you. Principals often hear from parents when things aren’t going well. Start the school year off by making sure she knows how thankful you are.

Is there a trusted adult always willing to help your child in the classroom or on the playground? Take a minute and thank that person. There are many staff that help our kids on a daily basis and we want to make sure we let them know how much we value them.

Throughout the school year, think of all the positive aspects of your child’s school day, identify who makes that possible, and let them know you appreciate them!

Now, I’m not naïve and I know many parents have had struggles getting the education that their child deserves.

I know because I sit next to parents every week at IEP tables and help them advocate for their child.

And I also know how important it is to build and nurture relationships. Remember the 3 Rs of advocacy are Relationships, Relationships, Relationships!

So, begin this new school year by honoring and valuing the people in your child’s life.

Chapter 5 in my book: The Art of Advocacy: A Parent’s Guide to a Collaborative IEP Process is all about building authentic relationships. Go here to get your copy. http://amzn.to/2amYqYu

As a parent and as an advocate my purpose is to partner with parents like you so your child will be happy, safe and learning at school!

Feel free to reach out for a free 30 minute phone consultation, email me, [email protected] or
connect on Facebook   / visionsandvoicestogether  

or Pinterest   / charmainet  . Let’s work and learn from each other so this will be an awesome year for your child!

Read the blog post, listen to the audio version, and see the memes for this video at http://www.cspeda.com/2016/07/31/ther...

http://www.cspeda.com/2016/07/31/ther...

Take care,
Charmaine Thaner
[email protected]
www.cspeda.com