As a parent, you know your child inside and out. You also know what they need. If something does not seem right or you think your child needs more, it is important to know how to advocate for them. Here are some tips on how to be the best advocate for your child.

Make good relationships with the school and faculty.

This will make it easier if you have to go to them and ask for something. Having a good relationship with the teacher will help you better understand what your child is getting out of school and make you feel more comfortable about asking for certain things.

Keep track of everything.

Keep track of all your child’s academic records. Any documents like report cards or evaluations can come in handy. Always hold on to them in case you need them. Using a binder to hold all important documents works well for transporting information to meetings.

Know your child’s rights.

Your child may be able to receive certain modifications or accommodations that could benefit him or her. Read any state education law website you can find.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Whether it is from a professional, a teacher, or a friend, do not be afraid to reach out to people. The laws and lingo for education can be confusing and there is nothing wrong with getting someone’s opinion. The same goes for asking questions. If you are not sure about something, ask. There is no harm in asking.

How a professional advocate can help:

If you need help or have a lot a questions, a professional advocate could really benefit you. When fighting for your child’s educational rights, it can be very complicated and stressful. This is where a professional can help. An educational advocate knows the laws, knows the lingo, and has experience as well.

There are things to consider when finding an advocate. Look for someone with experience with your child’s school and area of need. Find out what training the advocate has completed.  Lastly, it is important to find someone who you feel comfortable with and trust.