Be Your Child's Advocate
By Ilana Danneman, Catalog Director - Abilitations

Let's face it. No one LIKES to be a pushy parent. I always prided myself in not being one of those parents who were always complaining and causing problems. But I reached a crossbridge when my own son was having difficulty in school, and I soon learned the difference between being a complainer and being my child's advocate. In the past, I assumed that the teachers, the professionals, were the best at determining my child's needs in the classroom. I have now come to realize that they need my help and, more importantly, so does my son. I'd like to encourage everyone to step forward to advocate for our children. Perhaps your child needs special seating, extra time with a therapist, more breaks between lessons, etc.

Whatever the need may be, don't think it's impossible to achieve in your school or specialized program until you sit down and discuss it with your child's teacher. First, go and watch your child in the classroom for a few days and see what is working and what is not. Schedule a time with the teacher before school and regularly during school year. Come with materials that will educate the teacher on your child's specific condition. Provide the teacher with suggestions that you know might work well and with some alternatives. Ask the teacher to keep you informed on what works well and what does not. Finally, be flexible and willing to come up with suggestions if something is not working well. Most importantly…be involved…we owe it to our children.

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