IEP Season Survival Guide: Tips for Parents and Caregivers

Spring brings longer days, warmer weather, and—for many families—IEP season. Whether this is your first time attending an Individualized Education Program meeting or your tenth, this time of year can feel overwhelming. Between progress reports, goal revisions, and planning for the next school year, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters most: your child.

This guide is here to help. With insights drawn from ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), caregiver support experience, and school collaboration strategies, I’ve gathered the tools you need to walk into your next IEP or 504 Plan meeting feeling prepared, confident, and empowered.

What is an IEP or 504 Plan?

If you’re new to this process, here’s a quick overview:

• IEP (Individualized Education Program): A legal document developed for students who qualify for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It includes specific educational goals, accommodations, modifications, related services (like speech or OT), and a roadmap for how your child will access and succeed in the general education curriculum.
• 504 Plan: A formal plan that falls under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. It provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities who don’t require specialized instruction but still need help accessing their education. This may include extended time on tests, preferential seating, or sensory supports.

Both plans involve team meetings, school collaboration, and caregiver input—and both can feel daunting if you’re unsure what to expect. That’s why preparing for these meetings matters so much.

1. Know the Timeline

Most schools hold annual IEP reviews in the spring to set up supports for the next school year. You should receive written notice at least 10 days in advance (timing may vary by state or district). This is your opportunity to review progress, adjust goals, and advocate for necessary changes.

Pro Tip: Ask for a draft copy of the IEP or 504 Plan before the meeting so you can review it at home, make notes, and prepare any questions.

2. Gather Your Data

As a caregiver, you have valuable insight. Your observations matter—especially when paired with data. Bring:

• Notes on behavior changes, emotional regulation, or sleep patterns
• Updates from outside providers (ABA, OT, speech, counseling)
• Strategies that are working well at home
• Areas where your child is struggling

Even small observations can help the team better understand your child’s needs and strengths.

3. Be Clear on Your Goals

Before the meeting, ask yourself:

• What growth have I seen this year?
• What’s still challenging for my child?
• What support do I want to see in place next year?

Write down your top 2–3 priorities. This helps center the conversation and ensures your voice is heard even if time is limited.

4. Use ABA Strategies to Advocate

Think behaviorally:

• Be specific. Instead of saying “They’re having a hard time,” try “We’ve noticed increased resistance during transitions from playing outside to chores, with verbal refusal occurring about 5 times a week.”
• Request measurable goals. For example: “Increase independent use of coping strategies from 1x per week to 3x per week during challenging tasks.”
• Ask for support, not blame. Frame your feedback as a team effort: “We’ve seen this at home, and we’d love to work together on strategies that can carry over into school.”

5. Ask These Questions in Your IEP or 504 Meeting

• How is progress monitored, and how often will I get updates?
• Can we include sensory breaks or movement opportunities during the day?
• Are staff receiving training on my child’s support plan?
• What will the transition to next year’s classroom or grade level look like?
• How will we support generalization of skills from the classroom to the home?

Be sure to check out the free IEP/504 prep resources available on my storefront. These tools are designed to support you through every step of the process. Click the images below to download. If you find them helpful, consider leaving a review on my storefront to let other caregivers know—they might benefit from them too.

Final Thoughts: Empowerment Over Perfection

You don’t need to be an expert in educational law to advocate for your child. What you do need is what you already have: love, insight, and the willingness to collaborate.

Take a deep breath. Ask questions. Request breaks during meetings if needed. You are the expert on your child, and your perspective is vital.

Thank you for being part of the ABACannWin community. Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Together, we can make a difference! Together, WE can WIN

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Yours in Support,