Navigating transitions is one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the special needs journey. Being a mom of a special needs child can be challenging. This is especially true when it comes to the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process.
I have been actively engaged in the IEP process for over 10 years, and I have three tips for moms to make transitions less overwhelming.
Three Tips for IEPs and Transitions
First, have all of the reports in order. This can be achieved by creating a digital binder with reports from previous IEP sessions and transition reports.
Second, organize information by looking at where your child started, where they are at, and what supports they need next.
Finally, simplify the transition process. You can do this by involving the support coordinator or other interested party. Keep the meeting as simple as possible. Also, make sure to e-mail team members with any questions you have before the meeting.
After the Transition Meeting
After the meeting, I suggest sitting on everything for 24–48 hours to ensure everything is in alignment with the child’s goals. In the video below, I invite you to get to know upcoming teachers by e-mailing them and setting up Zoom meetings.
Tips For Caring For Yourself, Too
These tips are life-sized and useful for you, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the IEP transition process. It can be challenging to keep track of all the reports and goals for your child, but creating a digital binder can make it easier to access these documents. By organizing the information, moms can get a clear view of what their child needs and what supports are necessary for the next transition. You can go to Wrightslaw to learn how to create and organize your binder.
It is important to acknowledge the emotions and struggles that you’re going through while caring for your special needs child. These emotions can include anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. However, make sure to take care of yourself by taking breaks and engaging in self-care activities.
In addition, remember that you are not alone in your journey. There are support groups and organizations that can provide resources, advice, and a sense of community. These groups can be found online or in-person and can help you connect and navigate this process with more ease.
These tips for moms of special needs children are practical and useful for those who are feeling overwhelmed by the IEP process. By creating a digital binder, organizing information, simplifying the process, and taking a step back, moms can reduce stress and anxiety and get a clearer perspective on what needs to be done.
