Spotting the Signs: When to Seek Additional Special Education Support for Your Child
Parenting a child with special needs involves making countless decisions to support their growth and development.
While your child may already be receiving services through an IEP, 504 Plan, or other programs, their needs can change over time. Recognizing when additional or updated support is necessary is key to helping them succeed both in and out of school.
Trusting Your Parental Instincts
No one knows your child better than you. If you feel something isn’t quite right—despite current supports—trust those instincts. Whether it’s difficulty keeping up in class, emotional challenges, or struggles with peer interactions, your concerns are valid and worth exploring further.
Key Indicators to Look For
While every child’s situation is unique, certain signs may indicate the need for enhanced or additional services:
Plateaued Progress: If your child’s progress toward their IEP or 504 Plan goals has stalled, it may be time to revisit their plan and explore new strategies or resources.
Emerging Challenges: New difficulties in academics, behavior, or social interactions can indicate that your child’s current supports are no longer sufficient.
Increased Frustration: If your child is expressing frustration with their schoolwork or social situations—or if you’re noticing emotional outbursts or withdrawal—they might need additional accommodations or interventions.
Feedback from Educators: Teachers and school staff are often the first to notice changes in a child’s performance or behavior. If they raise concerns, it’s important to take them seriously and investigate further.
Steps to Take When Seeking Additional Support
If you notice these or other signs, there are actionable steps you can take to address your child’s evolving needs:
Review Current Plans: Start by reviewing your child’s IEP or 504 Plan. Are the goals still relevant? Are the accommodations being implemented effectively?
Communicate with the Team: Schedule a meeting with your child’s IEP or 504 Plan team. Share your observations and concerns, and ask for their input on potential adjustments.
Request Reevaluations: If significant changes are needed, consider requesting a reevaluation to better understand your child’s current strengths and challenges. This can help identify new areas where support may be beneficial.
Explore Additional Services: Look into supplemental resources such as tutoring, therapy, or specialized programs that can address gaps in the current support system.
Advocacy Is an Ongoing Process
Advocating for your child doesn’t end once a support plan is in place.
Regularly monitoring their progress and maintaining open communication with educators and specialists can ensure that their needs are being met. Joining parent advocacy groups or connecting with families in similar situations can also provide valuable insights and a sense of community.
Embracing Growth and Change
Seeking additional support for your child isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a commitment to their success. Children’s needs evolve, and adjusting their support systems is a natural part of helping them achieve their goals.
Stay proactive, trust your instincts, and collaborate with educators and professionals.
About Education Empowerment Partners
Education Empowerment Partners was founded by Kate Lakowski, a nationally certified school psychologist who is uniquely qualified to help you with your child’s needs. Through a collaborative approach and data-based decision making, Kate will work with your child’s educational team to develop a plan that will help lead to successful outcomes for your child’s educational career and future goals.
For more information, visit educationempowermentpartners.com.
