It’s that time of year again—IEP season. This is the period when sleepless nights and days filled with anxiety culminate in a 30- to 45-minute meeting that will shape your child’s educational journey for the upcoming year. It’s when you find yourself sitting at a table surrounded by teachers, therapists, and psychologists, all of whom seem to think they know your child’s needs better than you do, while you strive to make your voice heard. It’s a time when you work hard to keep your composure while navigating the complexities of ensuring your child’s educational requirements are met.
I want to remind you that you are not alone in this. I am right there with you, feeling your frustration when it seems no one at that table truly hears you. I too grapple with the baffling disconnect between their listening and their understanding. Like you, I fight back tears as they list my child’s challenges but offer minimal support. I am your inner voice urging you to stay calm, reminding you that being strong and assertive doesn’t mean you have to raise your voice. My palms are sweaty, my heart races, and I often find myself questioning, “Am I doing enough?”
I’m here to tell you that you are doing more than enough. You are a warrior, a fierce advocate in a way that many parents may never fully grasp. Dismiss any belittling comments you encounter—when someone says, “It’s just a meeting,” they don’t understand its significance. You are the most important advocate for your child, balancing multiple roles each day to ensure their success. Whether or not the educators across from you recognize it, you have the strength of ten thousand!
In that meeting, you are the one fighting for your child to receive the educational support they deserve—support that is their legal right to help them thrive in the least restrictive environment possible. I celebrate your victories with you and silently grieve when things don’t go as planned. IEP Mom, you are a rock star, a true hero.
So, as you prepare for that meeting, walk in with confidence, have your documents ready, and practice your key points. This is just another battle in the ongoing journey of your child’s education. Know that I am in a similar setting, in a different town, state, or country, experiencing the same challenges.
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In summary, remember that you are not alone in this journey. Your strength and dedication are invaluable, and it’s essential to advocate for your child with confidence and resolve.