PlaybookLearningDifferences 8.5x11 DIGITAL - Flipbook - Page 7
INCLUDE PARENTS
Parents are expected to be “meaningfully involved” in the identification,
intervention, and implementation of the educational options for their children.
Here are some ways to include them.
Ask & Offer
Ask parents what they would like to see for their
child or what their child has needed in the past.
Engage in a conversation where you listen as much
as you talk about what has worked best in the past.
If necessary, provide examples of some things you
can offer or have offered other students.
Communicate
Partner
Reach out early and often with parents about issues you
see and ideas you may have for helping their child
Partner together with parents to begin to understand
what their student needs.
Communicate in the way that parents best respond to
and not in ways that are best for you (i.e., consider the
time of day, email versus a phone call, etc.)
Walk parents through the IEP process (if you
are familiar) and other key steps in testing or
instruction, so they can be informed and empowered.
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Connect
Listen Intentionally
Connect parents to resources like the Exceptional
Children’s Advocacy Center (or other resources at the
end of this playbook) so they are empowered to help
their student and can partner better with you.
It is OK if you don't have all of the answers. Let parents
know there are other resources in your building, the
district, or beyond.
Listen to learn, not just to go through the motions or to
dominate the conversation.
Be open to what you hear; it's essential to creating
two-way communication.
As you listen, be on the lookout for important clues and
additional knowledge parents or legal guardians can
provide.
Craft an Alliance
Look for intersections where both you and the parents
goals and ideas for the student match.
Be transparent and ethical so that you are able to build
trust and true collaboration.
Work through issues with an understanding that the
outcome will be better if you do it together.
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