Overview of Parental Rights
​under IDEA
The rights granted to parents under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) play a vital role in ensuring that children with disabilities receive the appropriate support and services. Parents have the right to actively participate in meetings related to their child's education, such as IEP meetings. This involvement allows them to contribute valuable insights into their child's unique needs, preferences, and strengths, which are essential in crafting an effective education plan tailored to the child's requirements. Additionally, parents hold the right to give or refuse consent for specific actions regarding their child's education, empowering them to make informed decisions that align with their child's best interests.
Furthermore, parents are entitled to be fully informed about their child's education and to advocate for their child's needs within the special education process. For instance, they have the right to request and review their child's educational records, ensuring transparency and enabling them to actively monitor their child's progress. This access to information empowers parents to effectively collaborate with educators and specialists to address their child's unique learning challenges. It is crucial to recognize the substantial impact of parental involvement in special education, as research has consistently shown that when schools and families work together, student learning and outcomes notably improve. This underscores the essential role parents play in the holistic development and academic success of their children with disabilities, highlighting the significance of upholding and protecting their rights under IDEA.

### Goal 1: Enhance Focus and Attention
- **Objective 1.1:** Within the next 3 months, the student will successfully maintain attention on assigned tasks for a span of 20 minutes, measured through teacher observations and feedback during classroom activities.
- **Objective 1.2:** Over the next 6 months, the student will independently utilize self-monitoring strategies, such as checklists or visual cues, to remain focused during individual work time in 4 out of 5 opportunities.

### Goal 2: Improve Organizational Skills
- **Objective 2.1:** In the coming 3 months, the student will consistently use an organizational tool, such as a planner or an app, to track assignments and due dates, with accuracy assessed through regular checks of the tool.
- **Objective 2.2:** Over the next 6 months, the student will maintain a neat personal workspace and keep track of belongings, with successful demonstration of this skill in 8 out of 10 observed instances.

### Goal 3: Enhance Social Interactions
- **Objective 3.1:** Within 3 months, the student will engage in appropriate turn-taking behaviors in group activities, successfully demonstrating this skill in 4 out of 5 opportunities as noted by the teacher.
- **Objective 3.2:** Over 6 months, the student will use appropriate strategies to join ongoing group activities or conversations successfully in 8 out of 10 attempts, monitored through teacher observations and feedback.

### Goal 4: Develop Emotional Regulation Skills
- **Objective 4.1:** In the next 6 months, the student will identify and use two self-calming techniques when experiencing frustration, demonstrating the ability to use these techniques independently in 90% of opportunities.
- **Objective 4.2:** Over the next 6 months, the student will express feelings and emotions appropriately, avoiding negative behaviors in 9 out of 10 instances, as observed by the teacher or counselor.

### Goal 5: Improve Handwriting and Fine Motor Skills
- **Objective 5.1:** Over the next 3 months, the student will improve handwriting legibility through consistent use of strategies such as proper grip and slow and controlled writing in 4 out of 5 written assignments.
- **Objective 5.2:** Within 6 months, the student will complete fine motor tasks (such as cutting, drawing, and writing) with increased accuracy and control in 8 out of 10 observed opportunities.

Here are some helpful resources that can offer more in-depth information on various learning disabilities:
Books:

1. "Overcoming Dyslexia: A New and Complete Science-Based Program for Reading Problems at Any Level" by Sally Shaywitz, M.D.
2. "The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain" by Brock L. Eide M.D. and Fernette F. Eide M.D.
3. "Smart Kids With Learning Difficulties: Overcoming Obstacles and Realizing Potential" by Rich Weinfeld, Sue Jeweler, Linda Barnes-Robinson, and Betty Roffman Shevitz
4. "The Misunderstood Child, Fourth Edition: Understanding and Coping with Your Child's Learning Disabilities" by Larry B. Silver M.D.
5. "Thinking Differently: An Inspiring Guide for Parents of Children with Learning Disabilities" by David Flink

Websites:

1. Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA): www.ldaamerica.org - An extensive resource offering information on various learning disabilities.
2. Understood: www.understood.org - A comprehensive site dedicated to different learning and attention issues.
3. International Dyslexia Association (IDA): www.dyslexiaida.org - A valuable resource for those dealing with dyslexia.
4. National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD): www.ncld.org - Provides detailed information about different learning disabilities, policies, and more.
5. Child Mind Institute: www.childmind.org - Offers information about all types of learning disabilities and mental health issues affecting children and adolescents.
6. Wrightslaw: www.wrightslaw.com - Provides accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities.

Remember, each child is unique, so it's essential to understand their specific strengths and challenges to best support their learning journey.