As you walk out of an IEP meeting, there is usually a multitude of Emotions. Often these feelings are competing with each other. Which one will win as dominate player as you think about this meeting? This is another reason a seasoned advocate (professional or parent) is so vital.
It is time do a recap of what just happened in that meeting. Often, a seasoned advocate will be able to senthesize and point out things that went right over your head. If your advocate knows any of the team members, she may be able to give more insight into comments that were made.
I work in a small city and most of my clients are in one school district so I know many of personnel who are on IEP teams in that district. This gives me an advantage in helping families. I understand what personnel mean when they use certain phrases and terms. I know how they approach a student's program because I have a history working with them. For this reason, you benefit from having a seasoned advocate. This person serves as a translator of another language. It is the language of special education.
Take time for this recap of "what was really happening there." This is where the advocate's experience serves as a parent coach for the IEP process. Without this recap time, the process of becoming a great advocate for your child will be much slower. It is an extra step that takes time but it reaps huge dividends!
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