Mastokids.Org

[BensMom05]

Benjamin is 4 now and school seems to be looming jsut around the corner. I am so nervous about it. When should i get started on the 504 and IEP stuff? I am clueless about any of it nor do I havea anyone here I can talk to really. Help!

[Cris R]

From my experience in education (teacher for 10 years), it is easier to start with a 504 plan than to try to get one going later. An IEP would more likely come once definitive learning needs are established, but a 504 would allow you as the parent to set the modifications you know or suspect your child will need to succeed in school. It is a protective tool for you. A good teacher will make the modifications automatically, w/o having the legal prodding, but you don't always get that kind of teacher. Having a 504 in place that can grow and change with your child is a wise decision.

Try building an early relationship with the school's guidance counselor, special ed coordinator, or whoever is in charge of academic, personalized success plans. Many schools have someone now for whom that is their only job! Go in with a cooperative attitude, and hopefully everyone will know you are there to work together for the good of your little guy!

Good luck!

Cris
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UP with Jake!
3 year old cutie pie! (Urticaria Pigmentosa)

[Traci]

Cris gives great advise. I've found when going into a situation where I need the cooperation of the other party, whether they are required by law to accomodate my child or not, it is helpful if I come across as informed and logical, but also I listen to their side as well. A positive working relationship always works better than where there is animosity and mistrust.

Highly emotional moms can quickly get nasty labels, and the relationship with the school will be a long one. Don't compromise on what you need, but honey works better than vinegar as the saying goes.

Definitely start early, especially if the school might need to get an airconditioning unit or something like that lined up for your child. Get to know the school nurse, maybe ask for a tour of the school and a visit with the nurse the year before your little one will start school, especially if you don't have a child already enrolled.

My mom was always involved in the schools because it gave her children an identity, not just a number. Schools love thier volunteers.

I've had good luck with the schools, my daughter started with and Individual Health Plan in Kindergarten, now that she is entering 6th grade in fall we are upgrading to 504. Haven't started the process yet, so I can't comment, but I can give an update in the Fall when we start work on it.

It's always good to plan ahead.
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Traci