Effective Advocacy

Characteristics of a Successful Advocate

Attitude: Positive, persistent, prepared – think out strategies before the meeting.

Flexible: Know WHAT you really need – be flexible on HOW it is done.

Fair: You are in this for the long haul – listen as well as talk! Look for “win-win” solutions.

Organized: Do your homework, know what you after, “build a case”, keep good files and logs. We track our investments – your child is your most important one.

Informed: Know what you are talking about, your rights and the legislation – learn the systems protocols and jargon.

Published: Send letters, “thank you” notes, meeting notes, reflective letters.

Problem – solver: We are all responsible for solving the problem – not just the school.

Advocating for Success

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
Know what your are asking for…. What is essential, what is negotiable and what is doable
Be evidential, not emotional
Be the adult, the professional
Know when to say “call it a day….”
Rehearse away your emotions…. Know your limits
Learn to use your “team” ….develop a strategy, have cues and roles

Things to remember:

If a knowledgeable educator has a different approach or opinion from yours or the teams, this does not make them the bad guy, listen to what they have to offer and suggest because they may well be invaluable, untapped resources.

Even if the IEP team members have priorities that you cannot share, they can turn out to be of great help to your child.

If your child’s school or pre-school program does not have teachers make and keep portfolio’s for children, suggest that they do. Portfolios are copies of work or art work compiled daily or weekly to show what a child is doing and how they are improving. A portfolio can be a valuable tool for parents, IEP teams and teachers.

During the IEP meeting, you will develop the IEP document, which is a written statement that lists the support and services your special needs child will receive to reach his goals. As a parent, you are an equal member of the IEP team, and you have the right and the responsibility of organizing information, monitoring progress, and making plans to avoid problems.