For over 25 years, this classic guide has taken parents, guardians, educational advocates, and special educators step-by-step through the special education process. Now revised and updated, reflecting the latest changes to the special education laws, the book continues to provide thorough, time-tested advice based on the authors' years of experience helping parents advocate for their child. The book covers all the crucial components parents and advocates need to consider from anticipating a child is not succeeding in a program or school to seeking an evaluation; from planning an Individualised Education Program (IEP) or Individualised Family Service Plan (IFSP), to understanding classroom placement options and monitoring progress. Key topics include: Eligibility for services; Understanding the IEP process; How to write effective goals; Tips on participating in IEP meetings; Making sure IEPs are carried out and effective. The new fourth edition provides expanded information on: Transitioning from high school to adult life; Employment; Independent living; Self-advocacy; Continuing education; Required statewide assessments for all students; Problem solving disagreements between families and schools; Due process and other legal recourses. Invaluable forms and charts help parents plan their IEP strategy, keep records and key contacts, log conversations and correspondence with important players, and track progress. This guide is one of the best tools available for understanding how to navigate the special education maze!

Table of Contents

Introduction; Beginning the Journey; People and Procedure; You and Your Child; Referral and Evaluation; The Evaluation Process; The Eligibility Decision; The Individualised Education Program; Placement: Crossroads and Intersections; The Individualised Education Program Meeting; Checking Up; Early Intervention for Babies and Toddlers; Transitions; Transition Plans; Resolving Disagreements Detours; Protection Against Discrimination; Looking Back at the Special Education Maze; Glossary; Index.