Effective Advocacy – How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Education

Parents are their children’s strongest advocates, ensuring their children receive the right educational support, accommodations, and resources to succeed. At JAM Teaching and Consulting, we work with families to navigate IEPs, 504 plans, executive functioning challenges, and school placement decisions. However, many parents feel overwhelmed when advocating for their child, especially when navigating the complex world of special education and learning accommodations. Parents can ensure their child receives the individualized support they need by learning how to effectively communicate with educators, document concerns, and understand legal rights.

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1. Understand Your Child’s Learning Needs

Before advocating, parents should gain a comprehensive understanding of their child’s strengths and challenges.

• Request formal evaluations from the school or an educational psychologist to assess academic skills, executive functioning, or sensory processing needs.
• Keep track of report cards, teacher notes, and progress reports to identify patterns in learning difficulties.
• Observe how your child learns best (visual, auditory, hands-on) and what strategies help them succeed.

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2. Know Your Child’s Rights

Many parents aren’t fully aware of the legal protections available to students with learning differences.

• IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) ensures that students with disabilities can access special education services and an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provides accommodations (e.g., extra time on tests and quiet testing environments) for students who do not qualify for an IEP.
• FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) gives parents the right to review and request changes to their child’s educational records.

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3. Communicate Effectively with Educators

Building a positive, collaborative relationship with teachers and school staff is essential for successful advocacy.

• Schedule regular meetings with teachers, special education staff, or counselors to track progress.
• Ask specific, open-ended questions: “What strategies have worked for other students in similar situations?”
• After each meeting, document all discussions, agreements, and action plans in writing.

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4. Build a Strong Support Team

Advocacy doesn’t stop at school. Parents should build a support network to ensure their child gets the necessary resources.

• Work with school psychologists, special educators, and therapists to create a well-rounded support plan.
• Connect with local parent advocacy groups or online communities to share experiences and gain insights.
• Seek expert guidance from educational consultants who can help with school placements, accommodations, and individualized plans.

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Effective advocacy ensures that your child receives the right accommodations, a supportive learning environment, and the best opportunities for success. By staying informed, proactive, and persistent, parents can impact their child’s educational journey. Need advocacy support for your child’s education? Contact JAM Teaching and Consulting to ensure they get the services they deserve.

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