Preparing for an IEP meeting requires the juggling of a lot of different components. From paperwork and writing the actual IEP to communicating and documenting interactions with families and teachers, there is a lot to get done.
One of the most important pieces to ensuring that the IEP meeting will run smoothly though is to make sure that you have asked the right questions of parents and given them the information they need.
But what types of questions should you ask parents prior to an IEP meeting? We have some ideas below.
Questions to Ask Parents Before an IEP Meeting
Whether you call the parent, send home a parent input form, or have an in-person conversation, these questions are vital in helping your write the Present Levels section of the IEP and getting that proposed IEP draft sent out prior to the IEP meeting.
What Are Your Child’s Strengths?
Parents know their children best and it is important to find out what they see as their child’s strengths. Asking this question allows them to give input and provide a perspective on the child that you may not see as the special ed teacher.
It is also a time for parents to brag about their child a bit – something that they may not get to do a lot.
This information helps you best write a strengths-based, student-centered IEP.
What Concerns Do You Have?
Remember that the parents are part of the IEP team and their concerns need to be addressed just as much as those of any other team member. By asking what their concerns are ahead of time, you will have a better understanding of where they are coming from and what you need to focus on in the meeting.
Always keep in mind that parental concerns come from a place of love and worry. They are trusting a system with their child and they are scared. Don’t dismiss their concerns, but, instead, validate their feelings and address them both with compassion and professionalism.
What Other Information Do You Think Would Be Helpful for the Team to Know?
Parents may have other information about their child that will help the IEP team when making placement decisions or setting goals. If family or life circumstances have changed (or will be changing) those things can disrupt a child’s life and cause issues in the classroom.
Divorces, deaths in the family, the loss of pets, moves, and more can all impact a child’s behavior and frame of mind – which may, in turn, impact their IEP goal progress.
What Can I Clarify for You Prior to the Meeting?
Sometimes parents have questions about acronyms or language in the draft IEP that they need clarification on prior to the meeting. If they are having trouble understanding what the draft is saying, it can be a challenge for them to give accurate and helpful feedback and suggestions. Educating parents about the IEP process and special ed jargon prior to the meeting can make a world of difference!
Still not sure what questions to ask parents before going into an IEP meeting? Get the IEP Toolkit! It has everything you need to hold an organized, professional IEP meeting – including a list of questions to ask parents prior to an IEP meeting! With everything set up and organized for you, you will shave hours off of your IEP meeting prep time! Learn more about the IEP Toolkit here!
Starting the conversation with families about the child and the IEP prior to the official IEP meeting can help alleviate fears and worries and create a sense of peace. When families know that you are invested in their child’s well-being and success too, they are much more willing to work together with the school. You are the first link in the chain of partnership.
When you’re ready to learn the 7 go to tips for running for first IEP meeting of the school year, we’re ready to help here.
Writing IEPs can feel like trying to put together a puzzle with missing pieces. You’ve got some of the picture, but not enough to feel confident or complete. That’s where The Intentional IEP comes in—offering the training, tools, and data-backed goals that fill in the gaps. With the right support, everything finally clicks into place—and you can advocate with clarity and purpose.