Getting Your Child the Support They Need

Understanding Your Child's Rights

Parents of children with anoxic brain injuries need to know their rights under federal education laws. Two primary laws protect students with disabilities:

- IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) – Ensures eligible children receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP) with specialized instruction and related services.

- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act – Protects children with disabilities from discrimination and allows for classroom accommodations through a 504 Plan.

IEP vs. 504 Plan: What's the Difference?

- IEP (Individualized Education Program) – Provides special education services and individualized goals for students who qualify under IDEA.

- 504 Plan – Provides classroom accommodations to support students with disabilities who do not qualify for special education but still need assistance.

How to Request School Accommodations

1. Write a Formal Request – Submit a written request to the school's special education department for an evaluation.

2. Attend the Evaluation Meeting – The school will assess whether your child qualifies for an IEP or 504 Plan.

3. Review the Proposed Plan – If your child qualifies, the school will create a plan outlining accommodations and services.

4. Advocate for Your Child – You can request revisions if the plan does not meet your child's needs.

Preparing for Your First IEP Meeting

- Bring documentation, such as medical records, neuropsychological evaluations, and teacher observations.

- Know Your Child's Strengths & Challenges – Be ready to discuss areas where your child excels and struggles.

- Ask for Specific Accommodations – Schools may not automatically provide everything your child needs unless requested.

IEP & 504 Plan Accommodation Checklist

Classroom Accommodations

- Preferential seating (away from distractions)

- Extra time on tests and assignments

- Reduced workload or modified assignments

- Frequent breaks throughout the day

- Use of visual schedules and step-by-step instructions

- Access to a quiet space for overstimulation

Academic Support

- Speech therapy, occupational therapy, or physical therapy

- One-on-one or small-group instruction

- Access to audiobooks, text-to-speech software, and other assistive technologies

- Alternative testing methods (oral responses instead of written)

- Repetition and reinforcement of new concepts

Executive Functioning & Behavioral Support

- Extra time to transition between activities

- Use of checklists and planners for organization

- Social skills training or counseling support

- Positive behavior support plans

- Access to a mentor or aide for guidance

Physical & Sensory Accommodations

- Adaptive seating or equipment

- Modified physical education requirements

- Adjusted lighting and noise levels for sensory sensitivities

- Permission to use fidget tools or sensory breaks

How to Request a Neuropsychological Evaluation

A neuropsychological evaluation provides in-depth insights into how a child's brain injury impacts learning. Schools can conduct an evaluation, but parents can also request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) if they disagree with the school's assessment.

When to Request an IEP Reevaluation

- If your child's needs have changed significantly

- If accommodations are not effectively supporting your child

- Every three years (mandatory) or sooner if necessary

Advocacy & Communication Tools

Parent's Guide to Working with Schools

- Build a strong relationship with teachers and staff.

- Communicate regularly about your child's progress.

- Stay organized – Keep copies of evaluations, meeting notes, and communication logs

Helping Your Child Thrive in School

Executive Function Challenges & Strategies

Children with anoxic brain injuries often struggle with organization, focus, and task management. Helpful strategies include:

- Breaking assignments into smaller steps

- Using planners and visual schedules

- Providing extra time for processing information

Memory & Processing Speed Support

- Use repetition and review – Frequent review of materials can help with retention.

- Provide written and verbal instructions – Multi-modal learning improves comprehension.

- Encourage self-advocacy – Teach your child to ask for help when needed.

Sensory & Fatigue Considerations in the Classroom

- Allow rest breaks or reduced school hours if fatigue is an issue.

- Create a quiet space for overstimulated students.

- Adjust lighting and noise levels for sensory sensitivities.

Classroom Behavior & Emotional Regulation Strategies

- Teach self-regulation skills using visual cues or calming techniques.

- Use positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behavior.

- Provide structured routines to reduce anxiety.

Assistive Technology for Learning

- Speech-to-text software for students with motor difficulties.

- Audiobooks & digital readers for students with processing delays.

- Task-management apps to help with organization.

Homework & Study Strategies

- Encourage short, focused study sessions with breaks.

- Provide a structured, distraction-free workspace.

- Use checklists to help with completing assignments.

What to Do If the School Won't Cooperate

- Request a meeting with the school's special education team.

- Seek assistance from a special education advocate.

- File a formal complaint with your state's Department of Education if necessary.

Legal Advocacy & When to Seek Outside Help

If you face significant pushback, consider hiring a special education attorney or advocate to help secure your child's rights.