Back to School IEP Guide: Tips to Help Your Child Start Strong

As a local speech-language pathologist serving families in Murrieta, Temecula, and surrounding communities, I know how overwhelming the start of a new school year can feel, especially if your child has an IEP (Individualized Education Program). Whether you’re new to special education or a seasoned advocate, taking a few simple steps before and during those first weeks of school can make a huge difference in setting your child up for success.

Here’s your Back-to-School IEP Guide, full of practical tips to help you feel confident, informed, and ready to collaborate with your child’s educational team.

✅ 1. Review and Refresh Your IEP Knowledge

Before the school year begins, take time to pull out your child’s IEP and read through it thoroughly. Pay close attention to:

• Present levels of performance

• Annual goals

• Accommodations and modifications

• Service minutes (speech therapy, occupational therapy, resource support, etc.)

Highlight anything that feels unclear or concerning so you’re ready to discuss it with the team early in the school year.

✉️ 2. Initiate Communication Early

Don’t wait until the first IEP meeting to connect! During the first week of school (or just before), send a friendly email to your child’s case manager—usually the special education teacher—and any related service providers like:

• Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

• Occupational Therapist (OT)

• Physical Therapist

• Behavioral Specialist

In your message, briefly introduce yourself and your child. Include a few helpful details such as:

• Your child’s interests

• What motivates them

• Learning strategies that work well

• Any important updates since the last IEP

This small gesture sets a positive, collaborative tone and shows you’re invested in the team effort.

📞 3. Establish Your Communication Preferences

Let the team know how you prefer to be contacted. Do you respond best to emails? Quick phone calls? Text updates (if allowed by the district)? Clarifying your preferred method makes it easier to stay informed and involved.

Building open lines of communication from the beginning helps prevent misunderstandings and supports consistent follow-through on services and supports.

🧠 4. Understand the Difference Between Accommodations and Modifications

This one can be confusing—even for professionals! Quick breakdown:

• Accommodations help your child access the same curriculum as peers (e.g., extended time, preferred seating, audiobooks).

• Modifications change the curriculum or expectations (e.g., simplified assignments, alternative assessments).

Understanding what’s in place for your child will help you support them more effectively at home and communicate clearly with the team.

💬 Final Thought

Navigating the IEP process is a journey. When families and educators work together from the start of the year, everyone wins—especially the student. By taking time to prepare, communicate, and advocate, you’re making a powerful impact. You know your child best. Be an engaged partner, ask questions, and share insights.

Wishing you and your child a successful, supported school year!