New Year, New Strategies: Fresh IEP Tips for Parents in 2025
The start of a new year is the perfect time for reflection and setting goals, especially when it comes to supporting your child’s education. As parents, you’ve likely faced a range of challenges in advocating for your child’s needs, but with a new year comes new opportunities to refresh your approach. Whether your child is just starting their IEP journey or you’re looking for ways to make this year even more successful, we at IEP Partner are here to provide practical tips to help you and your child thrive in 2025.
1. Review Your Child’s IEP with Fresh Eyes
Now that the new year has begun, take the time to revisit your child’s IEP. Look at the goals, services, supports, and accommodations to see if they are still relevant. Have there been changes in your child’s needs since the IEP was developed? Are the current supports making a positive impact, or do adjustments need to be made?
Tip: Create a checklist of your child’s current IEP goals and note any progress or challenges. This can be an important tool to bring to your next IEP meeting to discuss any necessary updates or changes with the team.
2. Collaborate with Teachers Early in the Semester
Building strong relationships with your child’s teachers at the start of the year can make all the difference in ensuring the success of their IEP. Make sure you have open lines of communication with your child’s general and special education teachers so that you’re all on the same page about goals and supports.
Tip: Schedule an IEP check-in meeting with your child’s teachers early in the semester to review how things are going and to ensure that goals, services, supports, and accommodations are being implemented correctly. Regular communication will help catch potential problems early.
3. Empower Your Child with Self-Advocacy Skills
The new year is a great time to help your child build self-advocacy skills. Empowering your child to communicate their needs and ask for help when necessary is a skill that will benefit them for a lifetime. Depending on your child’s age and abilities, work with them on how to express their needs to teachers or support staff.
Tip: Role-play different classroom scenarios at home where your child practices asking for a break, requesting help, or using their accommodations. Reinforce the idea that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
4. Organize Your Child’s Special Education Paperwork
If your child has been in the special education system for a while, you probably have a lot of paperwork—evaluation reports, IEP documents, meeting notes, and communication with teachers. Organizing these documents can make a big difference when it comes to tracking progress or preparing for meetings.
Tip: Set up a digital or physical filing system for all your child’s special education documents. Consider categorizing by year, by IEP meeting, or by specific areas like evaluations and communication. Keeping these organized will make it easier to review progress and prepare for meetings.
5. Explore Assistive Technology
The new year is an excellent time to explore new tools that might help your child in the classroom. Assistive technology can make a huge difference for children with learning disabilities or physical challenges. Whether it's a speech-to-text tool, apps that help with organization, or sensory supports, integrating technology can enhance your child’s learning experience.
Tip: Talk to your child’s IEP team about what assistive technology tools might be available or recommended for your child. Schools often have resources available, and technology could be a game-changer for your child’s progress.
6. Practice Emotional Regulation at Home
Many children in special education struggle with emotional regulation. The new year is a great time to introduce strategies to help your child manage their emotions, which can, in turn, help them focus better at school.
Tip: Work with your child on simple self-regulation techniques, such as deep breathing, counting, or using a stress ball. Create a “calm down” area at home where your child can go when they feel overwhelmed. The more they practice at home, the easier it will be to apply these strategies in school.
7. Track Your Child’s Progress Regularly
A new year provides an opportunity to take a proactive approach in tracking your child’s academic and behavioral progress. Don’t wait until the next IEP meeting to check in. Instead, create a simple system to monitor progress on a weekly or monthly basis.
Tip: Use a progress tracking tool or journal where you can record any major developments, challenges, or successes related to your child’s IEP goals. This will help you stay informed and prepared for meetings, and it will also help you advocate more effectively if adjustments are needed.
8. Focus on Strengths, Not Just Struggles
While the IEP process often centers around challenges and areas where your child needs support, it’s important to recognize and celebrate their strengths. Focusing on what your child does well can help build their confidence and keep them motivated throughout the school year.
Tip: Ask your child’s teachers to highlight areas of strength during IEP meetings or regular check-ins. This can help create a balanced picture of your child’s abilities and ensure that their strengths are used to support areas of need.
9. Take Care of Yourself
As a parent, advocating for your child can sometimes feel overwhelming. This year, prioritize your own well-being too. The better you feel, the more effective you’ll be in supporting your child.
Tip: Set aside time for self-care, whether it’s taking a short break each day, connecting with other parents of special needs children for support, or seeking guidance from professionals like advocates or therapists. You are a key part of your child’s success, and your well-being matters.
10. Get Support from a Trusted Advocate
If you’re feeling unsure about any part of the special education process, don’t hesitate to seek help. A trusted advocate can provide invaluable support, whether it’s navigating the IEP process, reviewing documents, and attending meetings with you. At IEP Partner, we specialize in making sure that your child’s needs are met and that you feel confident throughout the process.
Tip: Reach out to us at IEP Partner if you need assistance this year. We’re here to help you and your child succeed, and we’re ready to work with you every step of the way.
As the new year begins, take this time to reflect, set new goals, and try new strategies to support your child’s success. By staying proactive, organized, and collaborative with your child’s school, you can make 2025 a year of growth and progress.
