An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is designed to provide the support your child needs to succeed in school. To help you understand what services and accommodations may be included, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common ones provided through an IEP:
1. Specialized Instruction
What it is: Tailored instruction to meet your child’s specific needs. This can include one-on one teaching, small group instruction, or modified lessons in the classroom.
Example: A child with a reading disability might receive extra reading support in a small group outside the regular classroom.
2. Speech and Language Therapy
What it is: Therapy to help students with speech production, language comprehension, or social communication challenges.
Example: A child with expressive language difficulties may attend speech therapy sessions to help them communicate more effectively.
3. Occupational Therapy
What it is: Therapy that helps students develop fine motor skills and sensory processing abilities needed for school tasks.
Example: A child struggling with fine motor skills may receive help improving their handwriting or managing sensory overload.
4. Physical Therapy
What it is: Services for students who need support with gross motor skills, mobility, or physical access to the school environment.
Example: A child with cerebral palsy may receive physical therapy to enhance mobility and ease movement around the school.
5. Assistive Technology
What it is: Devices, software, or equipment that assist a child with a disability in performing tasks that might otherwise be difficult.
Example: A child with a writing disability might use speech-to-text software, or a visually impaired student may use a screen reader.
6. Counseling and Behavioral Supports
What it is: Services that help students manage social, emotional, or behavioral challenges that affect their learning. A Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP) may be included for behavior support.
Example: A child with anxiety may receive counseling to learn coping strategies, while a child with ADHD may benefit from a BIP to help them stay focused.
7. Extended Time and Testing Accommodations
What it is: Accommodations that provide students with extra time on tests, modified test formats, or alternative settings to complete assessments.
Example: A student with processing delays might receive additional time to finish tests, or take them in a quiet setting.
8. Classroom Aides or Paraprofessionals
What it is: Additional support in the classroom to help students stay organized, focused, or complete tasks.
Example: A student with attention issues might work with a classroom aide to stay on task during lessons or receive help with assignments.
9. Adapted Physical Education (APE)
What it is: Physical education tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities, modifying activities to match their abilities.
Example: A child with motor coordination challenges may participate in an adapted physical education program where activities are customized for them.
10. Social Skills Training
What it is: Training that helps students learn how to interact with peers, understand social cues, and build relationships.
Example: A child with autism might receive social skills training to help them navigate conversations, make friends, and interpret body language.
Ensure Your Child Gets the Right Services and Accommodations
Advocating for your child is key to ensuring their IEP includes the right services and accommodations. Clearly communicate their specific needs to the IEP team, and remember to stay informed and involved throughout the process. The IEP is meant to provide customized support for your child, and your active participation will help ensure it meets their needs.
Feeling that you are not receiving the proper support from your child’s school? Book your free consultation with IEP Defenders so we can evaluate your case and give you the best advice.
Call us at 743-IEP-HELP (437-4357).
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