4 Ways to Be Your Child’s Advocate

(photo: phxpma)

It seems to happen far too frequently – child with ASD acts inappropriately at school, teacher or staff member reacts without knowing the underlying cause of the behavior, child becomes more frustrated by consequence and has a meltdown, a phone call goes home.

I can tell you from having been a teacher that you can’t automatically assume everyone’s been filled in on the situation.  IEPs “disappear” in more ways than you could imagine and teachers are often left in the dark.  Schools like to do the absolute minimum possible to not get sued, which means it is up to you to advocate for your child.  Chances are, your child’s teacher would love to help your child learn while reducing classroom disruptions.

Steps you can take to be proactive rather than reactive:

1. At the start of the school year, make an effort to get to know the teacher.  This will take you a long way, and with an established relationship you’re more likely to get constructive phone calls/notes.
2. Talk to him/her about situations that are likely to come up and appropriate interventions.
3. If your child is big on routines, ask if a copy of the daily or weekly schedule is posted anywhere or if you can have a copy to share with your child.
4. Establish a system of daily communication, whether it is a daily report, folder, or notebook.  You’ll be able to tell how your child’s day went as well as whether assignments and notes are being brought home.