Advocate!

For many parents of children with disabilities advocating for their children’s right to a quality education and to be educated alongside their peers at the neighbourhood school is an ongoing process.

These days parents have to become experts on many aspects of school life – from the legislation and policies, developing IEPs, knowing one’s rights at IPRCs to working with the classroom teacher and school principal.

Parents need information to help support them to make informed decisions for their children. All too often parents lack information about the benefits of inclusion, and/ or they may believe that their child will receive more services in a segregated setting. They also often lack information to challenge school district decisions or are reluctant to challenge educators. Consequently, we have found that when parents are not armed with necessary information and resources, they may not be likely to press for inclusive education for their children. Or, if they do, it is a long, upward battle.

There are, however, many organizations and parent groups that provide information, support and resources to help parents advocate for inclusion for their sons and daughters.