Though the process of getting help may seem overwhelming, finding
support for your child—and for yourself—is easier than
you might think. In most cases, talking with your child's teacher
should be the first step.
Share your concerns with your child's teacher and ask about her
observations of your child's performance, interactions with his
peers, etc. Together you may come up with strategies to try in the
classroom and at home to support your child's learning needs.
Most teachers want to help and will work with you to try and meet
your child's learning needs. If you feel it may be necessary, your
child's teacher can also help to arrange a full evaluation of how
well he is performing in school.
Also, be sure your child has had a thorough physical examination
by a medical doctor or nurse practitioner to assure that there are
no major health problems that might be interfering with learning.
Be especially certain to have eyes and ears checked for correctable
vision and hearing problems.
Useful tips when meeting with your child's teacher:
- Write down any questions you have before entering the meeting.
These questions should be geared toward gaining greater understanding
of your child's problems and how to address them in the school
setting.
- Review records of previous conferences and educational decisions
before attending conferences and be prepared to share them with
school personnel.
- Be ready to share your observations about your child's academic
progress. Listen well and participate in the meeting with an open
mind, knowing that you are all there to facilitate school success
for your child.
- Keep careful and detailed notes at the meeting. Don't be afraid
to ask for clarification if you do not understand something that
was said.
- Ask for information on the curriculum and how students' work
is evaluated, so that you know how to gauge your child's progress.
- Appreciate that teachers must juggle the unique needs of many
students. Work with school personnel to come up with strategies
that are practical, given the realities of the school and the
classroom.
- Acknowledge that the major motivation for success must come
from your child. Work with teachers to keep expectations high
and to nurture an enthusiasm for learning.
- Agree on how you and the teacher will make follow-up contacts
to review progress.
Now that you know the first step to take, there are several more
steps you can take to find support and make sure your child gets
the right kind of help!
Next > Taking Action |
