Parent Involvement-Essential....
Throughout the years I have realized the importance of the parent involvement. In the early years, my son Jordan was placed in a regular classroom setting with the wide scope of all types of learners and learner’s needs. Every year brought challenges, not only for my family, but for the staff at Jordan's school.
One might ask, is change something to resist or embrace? The answer is we must embrace it, however difficult it may be. Change is not something to be feared, because it is an indication that progress is in operation. Progressive learning causes one to leave their levels of comfort and reach for higher grounds of understanding and self awareness even though it may bring temporary discomfort.
Another issue we must address for continuous progress is parent, teacher, communication. Collaborating on an on going basis is essential. Without the proper communication conditions this could be stressful and hinder what should be inevitable progress. Don’t be afraid to meet with the educational staff as needed, so the goals and objectives are clear. Keep in mind this idea that I have used through the years. “You get more bees with honey than you do with vinegar.” I believe that is the saying! From my own personal experience, I have found that being appreciative of their good intentions has reaped tremendous benefits in my life. I tried to bring ideas to the table without bringing negative conflict and corrections. It is important to save face on both sides. Stick to the goals and objectives for progress and do not attack personality. It is a team effort that should be cordial, kind and professional.
Agree
I am the father of two boys on the spectrum and my wife is a 3rd grade teacher. These two perspectives have shown us how many positive things may be gleened from a classroom if you, as a parent, stay engaged in the process.
I think that we all need to set resonable expectations from services provided by our schools. From this perspective we, as parents, can utilize them to enhance our own home programs, not rely on schools to save our children.
Great thoughts, Rhonda.
Zeebu
Great to hear your comments! Thank you
Yes!
You are so right, Rhonda! I had been teaching for 13 years when my son was diagnosed and man, oh man, I can't tell you how it opened my eyes to be sitting on the other side of the table at an IEP! My teaching philosophy has always been a team approach; that's the only way for our children to be successful, especially when conflict arises. However, it wasn't until I sat as a parent of a child with a disability did I realize how important that relationship really was. Parents should never underestimate the power of a good relationship with their child's teachers. In this case, the squeaky wheel does not get the grease! :)
Team approach
Parents should never underestimate the power of a good relationship with their child's teachers. In this case, the squeaky wheel does not get the grease! :)
So true.....Lifetime Friendships have been formed with all of Jordan's teachers in elementary school and middle school. High school is a little more difficult, however, I have managed to form friendships with the speech therapist, Jordan's case worker, his counselor and a quite a few of teachers.(: