As parents, we all want our children to thrive in school, but sometimes they need extra support to reach their full potential. Whether your child struggles with learning difficulties or faces social challenges in the classroom, being their advocate can make all the difference in helping them find success.
Below are some tips to help you collaborate effectively with your child’s place of learning, to meet their needs and optimise their educational experience.
Start with clear communication
Forging strong, productive partnerships with educators begins with communication:
- Maintain team spirit. Think of yourself as part of a team with teachers and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinators (SENCOs), all working towards the same goal: helping your child to thrive.
- Be proactive. Introduce yourself to teachers early and keep up regular contact throughout the year.
- Provide specific examples. Share clear, detailed descriptions of your child's challenges, such as, “Joe struggles to complete timed multiplication tests” rather than general statements like "my child finds maths difficult."
- Swap strategies. Let teachers know about what works for you at home and ask about any classroom observations to gain a more holistic understanding of how your child requires support.
- Be willing to learn. Teachers spend a lot of time with your child and can offer valuable insights into their behaviour, which might differ to how they present at home.
Request specific support
Don’t be afraid to assert your child’s needs in as much detail as possible:
- If your child has been through the ProblemShared Education Navigation service and has received their report, be sure to point staff back to the tailored recommendations.
- Request accommodations in writing and ensure all agreed-upon support is documented to avoid misunderstandings.
- Start with 1-2 key changes and focus on the most vital adjustments first to avoid overwhelming the school with too many requests at once.
- Follow up regularly, keeping the lines of communication open and checking in to ensure progress is being made.
- Track what works and what doesn’t, monitoring your child’s progress and sharing any feedback. This helps the school to fine-tune their approach in supporting your child.
Keep the long view
Change in educational support often takes time, so it’s important to remain persistent while also being patient. Stay focused on positive, solution-oriented conversations and avoid getting caught up in blame.
Remember, your advocacy isn’t just about securing immediate support - it’s about laying the groundwork for your child’s long-term success. Know that your perseverance can make a lasting impact on their growth and happiness in school.
Why advocating for your child works
We believe that successful advocacy requires a partnership between parents and schools. It’s not about demanding change; it's about working together to identify solutions that benefit everyone involved.
Our Education Navigation service provides parents with the tools and insights they need to engage effectively with educators, ensuring that recommendations are not just acknowledged, but put into action.
You can learn more about accessing our Education Navigation service on our dedicated page.
