If you're reading this, you've probably just learned your child has autism. The most important thing to remember is you're not alone, 1 child in 110 is autistic. There are many people parenting a child with autism, and there's more information available than ever about the disorder and how to live with it. You're probably concerned about your child's schooling, how your child will manage in the public school system, and what it'll mean for you career wise.
The public school system must provide for and educate all children, including children with disabilities like autism. Know the key components to the public school special education system. The first and most important component is what's called an IEP, the Individualized Education Plan. This is a documented plan carved out by education specialist , educators and parents, to ensure the goals and needs of your child. This plan also creates a plan to measure your child's progress.
The IEP will determine your child's placement within the school. Some children are placed in regular classrooms, where there is a special education teacher in the room to work with your child (and any other child with special needs). This is called mainstreaming. Your child may need a teacher to work with him/her individually throughout the day. Some districts have classrooms just for autistic children. Again, your child's placement depends on his/her individual needs and what the IEP decides is the best fit. Remember: You have a major say in that process.
IEP's are renewed and reevaluated annually. It is also modified if you the parent and the education specialists see little progress and deem it necessary. If this process becomes one of contention and conflict it may be necessary for the intervention of child advocates and or lawyers.
The next consideration is your career. What do you do? Since your child's needs with take the drivers seat it may be wise to work during school hours. Enlisting family friends or relatives whom your child may feel comfortable with can help in times of emergencies.
Parenting your child will be challenging, but remember, you're not alone. Look for support groups online or in your community.
The public school system must provide for and educate all children, including children with disabilities like autism. Know the key components to the public school special education system. The first and most important component is what's called an IEP, the Individualized Education Plan. This is a documented plan carved out by education specialist , educators and parents, to ensure the goals and needs of your child. This plan also creates a plan to measure your child's progress.
The IEP will determine your child's placement within the school. Some children are placed in regular classrooms, where there is a special education teacher in the room to work with your child (and any other child with special needs). This is called mainstreaming. Your child may need a teacher to work with him/her individually throughout the day. Some districts have classrooms just for autistic children. Again, your child's placement depends on his/her individual needs and what the IEP decides is the best fit. Remember: You have a major say in that process.
IEP's are renewed and reevaluated annually. It is also modified if you the parent and the education specialists see little progress and deem it necessary. If this process becomes one of contention and conflict it may be necessary for the intervention of child advocates and or lawyers.
The next consideration is your career. What do you do? Since your child's needs with take the drivers seat it may be wise to work during school hours. Enlisting family friends or relatives whom your child may feel comfortable with can help in times of emergencies.
Parenting your child will be challenging, but remember, you're not alone. Look for support groups online or in your community.
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Want to find out more about your child's specific needs, then visit Charlotte Miller's site on nutrition for autistic children.
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