Children with ADHD often do not qualify for an Individualized Educational Program (IEP) in school, but for some, especially those with co-existing, behavioral or learning disabilities, an IEP might be warranted. Often, parents are unprepared for IEP meetings at the school. Many times, this might be a first experience with such a formal meeting. Sitting face to face with school psychologists, counselors, teachers and administration can be intimidating and daunting.

Parents may show up for the meeting, believing the school will have all the tools and information needed at their fingertips, ready to implement any and all resources to help their child succeed.  And for the most part, schools are more than willing to accommodate the special needs of children. But as parents, you should be prepared for the meeting with information to help the school make a determination. Some of the information you may have readily available and some you may need to gather in the weeks before the initial meeting.

Samples of Work

Make copies of your child’s homework, showing both his or her weaknesses and strengths. An IEP meeting should not only be about what your child cannot do, but should include information on his or her strengths. The team can use this information to help build upon skills already learned and set up programs to develop skills your child may be lacking.

Copies of Evaluations

Has your child been evaluated outside of school? Some parents will have their child independently evaluated for learning disabilities or your child may have been evaluated by a psychologist or psychiatrist for behavioral problems. Make a copy of the complete evaluation to bring with you to the meeting.

Copies of Assessments

If a professional outside the school district completed any assessments, including educational testing, on your child, the results of the assessments should be brought to the IEP meeting.

Complete Diagnosis

Your family doctor may have diagnosed your child with ADHD, a psychologist may have diagnosed your child with learning disabilities and a psychiatrist may have diagnosed your child with behavioral problems. No matter how many different doctors have seen your child, make copies of all of the diagnosis so the IEP team can have a clear picture of all the issues your child may be facing.