Title: How Parents Can Be Advocates for Their Children | Reading Rockets
Headings: How Parents Can Be Advocates for Their Children
How Parents Can Be Advocates for Their Children
Know the rules
Get to know the people who make decisions about your child's education
Keep records
Gather information
Communicate effectively
Know your child's strengths and interests and share them with educators
Emphasize solutions
Focus on the big picture
Involve your child in decision making as early as you can
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Content: To find out the laws in your state and your rights as a parent, contact your local school district office, or state Department of Education. Get to know the people who make decisions about your child's education
Connect with educators and administrators in both casual and formal settings. Talk with your child's teacher on a regular basis. If possible, volunteer in the classroom and help out with school functions. If you have concerns or problems that a teacher can not or will not address, be willing to follow the chain of command through the school, and if necessary, to the district office. Remember that you as a parent have the right to request that the school evaluate your child if you think he or she may have a learning disability. Be sure that your request is in writing. Keep records
Parents should maintain an organized file of educational records and assessment information. Take notes during telephone and face-to-face meetings, and ask for people's full names and contact information when communicating by phone or by email. In addition, keeping less formal examples of children's academic progress, such as homework papers, artwork, and writings, may be useful in establishing patterns and documenting both abilities and challenges.