It’s common for parents to struggle with understanding evaluation results, but you can seek clarity
It’s a common experience for parents to feel lost when trying to understand their child’s special education evaluation results. Whether the evaluation was conducted by the school district or a private clinic, the reports can be filled with technical language and complex data that may seem like a foreign language. Michelle, a parent from the Bronx, New York, shared her frustration: “The way they present the results is like trying to read hieroglyphics.” However, as a parent, you have the right to ask questions and request more information until you feel confident in your understanding of the results.
Understanding Your Child’s Special Education Evaluation: A Parent’s Guide
Navigating the special education evaluation process for your child can feel overwhelming, especially when the results are presented in a way that’s hard to understand. As a parent, you’re not alone in this journey. Many families face similar challenges when trying to decipher the jargon-filled reports and charts that come with these evaluations. It’s important to remember that while schools may not always provide the clarity you need, you have the power to seek out the resources and tools available to help your child succeed.
Evaluation reports should be understandable and reflect your child’s unique needs
Dr. Ellen Broughton, a psychologist and co-author of “Straight Talk About Psychological Testing for Kids,” emphasizes that a good evaluation report should be understandable and should capture your child’s unique needs. She advises parents to look for reports that resonate with their child’s behaviors and challenges. If the report doesn’t seem to fit your child, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Remember, you’re your child’s first and best advocate, and it’s okay to take your time to understand the findings fully.
Author Quote
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When you’re a parent and you say, ‘This didn’t fit for me,’ well, let’s get the teacher in to talk about this and let’s see where you know where the middle ground is for this, always with the focus being on where do we go from here and how do we help this child. – Dr. Ellen Broughton
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You can play an active role in the evaluation process by asking the right questions
As a parent, you have the power to influence the evaluation process by asking specific questions about the tests being used and the reasons behind the evaluation. Dr. Broughton suggests that a clear referral question, such as “Billy is having trouble paying attention, especially during reading,” can guide the evaluation process effectively. Additionally, you can request to have your input included in the evaluation and seek multiple opinions if needed. Engaging with teachers and other professionals can provide a more comprehensive view of your child’s needs.
Key Takeaways:
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Understanding Evaluation Results: Parents should expect that evaluation reports can be complex and confusing. It's important to take a deep breath and not feel overwhelmed by the jargon and numbers. Focus on understanding how the results relate to your child and what steps can be taken to support them. If the report is unclear, don't hesitate to ask for clarification and more testing if necessary.
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Advocating for Your Child: As a parent, you have the right to be actively involved in the evaluation process. Request to see the evaluation report before the meeting to better prepare and manage your emotions. If you disagree with the results, you are entitled to seek a second opinion. Remember, you are your child's best advocate and should ensure that the evaluation captures your child's unique needs and experiences.
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Communicating with Your Child: When discussing evaluation results with your child, frame the conversation positively. Explain that the evaluation helps identify areas where they might need support, and reassure them that it does not define who they are. For younger children, keep the discussion simple and focus on the activities they participated in. For older children, be open to discussing terminology and diagnoses if they are interested, but emphasize that these are tools to get the right support.
You have the right to see the evaluation report before the meeting and to seek a second opinion if needed
One crucial right that parents often overlook is the ability to review the evaluation report before the meeting with the school. This advance review can help you process the information and prepare meaningful questions, especially if your child has been diagnosed with Dyslexia . If you disagree with the evaluation results, you’re entitled to seek a second opinion. However, unless your child is in crisis, it’s advisable to wait a while before re-evaluating, as immediate retesting can be less effective. Remember, in the school system, these evaluations are free, but private evaluations may come with additional costs.
Author Quote
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A diagnosis in many situations is a way to get something else. A diagnosis is a piece of paper that can help us get you to see a counselor and get some support, and it’s not a definition of you. It is just a definition of those things you experience are called something. – Andy Khan
”Overcoming the challenge of Dyslexia through Learning Difficulties Analysis can lead to a better life for your child
One specific challenge highlighted in the transcript is the difficulty in identifying and addressing conditions like Dyslexia . This condition can significantly impact a child’s reading and learning abilities. As a parent, your role is pivotal in overcoming this challenge. By engaging in a thorough Learning Difficulties Analysis , you can gain a deeper understanding of your child’s specific needs and advocate for the appropriate educational supports. This proactive approach can lead to tailored interventions that help your child thrive academically and build confidence for a better life.
Discover how the Brain Bloom System can help your child overcome learning challenges and thrive. Learn more at https://learningsuccess.ai/brain-bloom/.
