Feeling overwhelmed by the IEP process? You’re not alone. The IEP 101: Parent Guide was created to help parents feel confident, organized, and ready to advocate at every stage of the IEP journey—without needing to hire an expensive advocate. Paid advocates can cost hundreds of dollars per meeting, but this guide gives you the tools to build the same confidence and knowledge yourself.
This 30-page PDF is packed with easy-to-understand explanations, step-by-step timelines, and over 15 worksheets, templates, and reference sheets, including an IEP Parent Binder System, you can print and use right away. It’s part handbook, part notebook, and part cheerleader in your corner.
A plain-language breakdown of what an IEP is (and how it’s different from a 504 plan)
A guide to the IEP team and your role as an equal member
The IEP process explained step-by-step with a visual timeline
Key sections of the IEP document explained in parent-friendly terms
Advocacy basics, parent rights, and communication tips
A glossary of common IEP terms and acronyms
Strengths & Needs Worksheet – organize your input before meetings
Checklist: Steps in the IEP Process – track steps, dates, and deadlines
IEP Quality Quick Check – review draft IEPs with confidence
IEP Meeting Questions That Matter Most – must-ask questions to guide discussion
Growth at a Glance – keep tabs on your child’s growth
…and many more!
Parents new to the IEP process
Families who want to feel more prepared and confident in meetings
Parents who want to advocate effectively for their child without the high cost of hiring a professional advocate
Feeling overwhelmed by the IEP process? You’re not alone. The IEP 101: Parent Guide was created to help parents feel confident, organized, and ready to advocate at every stage of the IEP journey—without needing to hire an expensive advocate. Paid advocates can cost hundreds of dollars per meeting, but this guide gives you the tools to build the same confidence and knowledge yourself.
This 30-page PDF is packed with easy-to-understand explanations, step-by-step timelines, and over 15 worksheets, templates, and reference sheets, including an IEP Parent Binder System, you can print and use right away. It’s part handbook, part notebook, and part cheerleader in your corner.
A plain-language breakdown of what an IEP is (and how it’s different from a 504 plan)
A guide to the IEP team and your role as an equal member
The IEP process explained step-by-step with a visual timeline
Key sections of the IEP document explained in parent-friendly terms
Advocacy basics, parent rights, and communication tips
A glossary of common IEP terms and acronyms
Strengths & Needs Worksheet – organize your input before meetings
Checklist: Steps in the IEP Process – track steps, dates, and deadlines
IEP Quality Quick Check – review draft IEPs with confidence
IEP Meeting Questions That Matter Most – must-ask questions to guide discussion
Growth at a Glance – keep tabs on your child’s growth
…and many more!
Parents new to the IEP process
Families who want to feel more prepared and confident in meetings
Parents who want to advocate effectively for their child without the high cost of hiring a professional advocate
