Special Education - 3 Areas of Knowledge That Parents Must Understand to Help Their Child

Would you like to learn about 3 important areas whereNational Information Center for Children and Youth with
you need knowledge, to effectively advocate for yourDisabilities (NICHCY); they can be found at
child? Would you like resources to find moreArea 3: You must have knowledge about case law in
information on these areas? If you are the parent of aspecial education that affects your child. For Example:
child with a disability, you need to have information inif you child has behavioral issues, you should learn
three different areas to help your child receive anwhat rulings have already been made in this area.
appropriate education. This article will discuss theseCase law means due process rulings, court rulings
three areas, as well as give you easy to usefrom State and Federal court, and Supreme Court
resources.cases. A wonderful organization that you should join is
Area 1: You must know the educational laws that willthe Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates
help your child receive an appropriate education. The(COPAA). There is a small membership fee, but it is
laws are: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Actworth it. COPAA can be found at COPAA has a
(IDEA), which is the federal law governing educationmembership area where you can find Case law, in the
for children with a disability, states law that mustarea that you are interested in.
comply with the federal law, and No Child Left BehindBy learning these three areas, you will well be on your
Act (NCLB),way to being an effective advocate for your child. It
Area 2: You must learn advocacy skills to help youwill take you time to learn about these three areas, but
learn how to advocate effectively for your child. Anit will be worth it! Remember: Your child's life is at
organization that gives lots of helpful information is thestake!