Your Child’s IEP Is Coming Home: Here’s What You Need to Know

It’s that time of year again,  Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are being sent home across Ontario schools. Whether this is your first IEP or one of many, it’s completely normal to have questions (and maybe even a few emotions) as you review it.

As parents, you play a critical role in the IEP process. This document isn’t just school paperwork. It is a living plan designed to support your child’s unique learning needs and ensure they can access the curriculum in a meaningful way.

1. What the IEP Is…. and Isn’t

An IEP (Individual Education Plan) outlines the supports, accommodations, and/or modifications your child needs to succeed.

Accommodations change the HOW of learning. They are intended to remove barriers and level the playing field. For example, providing extra time, movement breaks, or technology tools, while keeping the learning expectations the same.

Modifications change the WHAT of learning. They adjust the expectations of what is being taught and assessed. For example, working on expectations at a different grade level, or focusing only on specific learning goals. Not every child with an IEP has modified expectations.

2. Take Time to Review

When the IEP comes home, don’t rush through it. Find a quiet time to read it carefully and note:

• Do the listed strengths and needs reflect your child accurately?

• Do the accommodations and strategies make sense based on what you see at home?

• Do you understand your child’s goals?

You are encouraged to share your feedback. The IEP should be created with you, not just for you.

3. Communicate With the School

If something feels unclear or you have concerns, reach out to your child’s teacher or the special education teacher/IEP coordinator. You can ask questions like:

• How were these goals chosen?

• How will progress be tracked and shared with me?

• How do these supports look in the classroom?

It’s okay to ask for clarification or request a meeting to review the IEP together. Collaboration is key.

4. Keep a Copy and Follow Up

Keep a copy of each IEP for your records. They provide a valuable record of your child’s growth and supports over time. Revisit it mid-year to see if it still reflects your child’s needs.

5. Remember, You are Part of the Team

Your insights are invaluable. You know your child best, and your perspective helps ensure the plan truly supports them.

If you feel uncertain or overwhelmed by the process, The Special Education Consultant can help you review your child’s IEP, explain the terms, and guide you in communicating effectively with the school team. You don’t have to navigate it alone.

At The Special Education Consultant, we believe every child deserves to be understood, supported, and set up for success, and every parent deserves to feel confident in that process.