Getting Started
My Child Is “Different”: Where Do I Go For Help?
- Rely on your intuition
- Compare notes at the park
- Speak to your pediatrician & get a thorough exam
- Call your local university medical center & get a 2nd opinion
- Go to your local regional center for screening & an eligibility determination
- Get an opinion & referral from your day care provider or preschool director
- Contact your local school district & ask about their Infant/Toddler & Preschool Special Education programs & assessments
- Ask the teacher to screen for disabilities that might adversely affect your child’s ability to learn in a general education program
Getting Your Special Needs Child Prepared For School
- Determine if your child is eligible for regional center services
- Your 3- to 5-year-old may be eligible for school district services
- Consider getting your child a complete medical workup by a developmental pediatrician
- Request an IEP in writing, as soon as your are aware of a disability
- Request a complete set of assessments by the school psychologist, in writing, as soon as school starts
- Gather all school and medical records
- Gather all state standardized test results, e.g., Stanford 9
- Get organized
- Buy a 3-ring binder with tabs, for each service requested
- Always keep a log of all calls
- Get everything in writing
Call 888-433-2232 now for help!