For Other Professionals
Parent as Advocate
Rick Lavoie has worked with kids with reading problems for more than 30 years. His advice to parents is to toughen up and recognize that your child needs you.
"Parents sometimes worry that they're overreacting when their child isn't reading in first or second grade," says Lavoie. "It's really not possible to overreact to that. The reality is you need to stand up for your child. He's not old enough or capable at this point to advocate for himself. It's uncomfortable sometimes, but you've got a right to ask questions. You've got a right to receive answers."
If you have concerns about your child's progress or school experience, speak up! You know your child better than anyone else. Here are some simple things you can do to be involved.
- Develop a close working relationship with your child's teachers and principal.
Stay in touch between report card periods.
- Save important test results.
Keep class work samples, homework examples, and other school communications that show how your child usually performs.
- Ask for help!
If you suspect a problem, talk with your child's teacher. If you still have concerns, talk with the principal, reading specialist, or special education teacher. You have the right to ask questions and to receive answers to the questions you ask. Also, do not hesitate to seek advice outside of the school system.
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See also
- PBS Shows: Empowering Parents
- Topics A-Z: Advocacy
- Topics A-Z: Special Education
- Finding Help
- Resources: Advocacy
- Rick Lavoie's Tips for Parents on our sister site LDOnLine
- IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) on NICHCY.org
- Special Ed Advocacy on Wrightslaw.com
