Question: Should my child come to IEP meetings?
Answer: Your child is entitled to come to IEP meetings, but whether it’s a good idea will depend entirely on your child. At younger ages, caring for your child during the meeting can be a distraction from the serious business at hand, to which you will need to give your full attention. Older kids may have something to offer, but may be disturbed to hear all their weaknesses spelled out. Some kids may feel they have something they want to say, and others may not want to be pulled out of class. If your child does have an interest in attending, suggest that he or she come for the beginning of the meeting and make his or her contribution, then leave.
Next question: Do I need to hire an advocate?
