How To Become Your Child’s Best Advocate

It is important to understand that parents of students with disabilities are key participants in their child’s educational planning, and should be involved in the development of their child’s special education and related services. The following are steps that a parent can take to advocate for their child’s education:

• Control your emotions: Do not let negative feelings towards the status of your child’s education prevent you from being involved in the process.

• Be knowledgeable about special education: You do not have to know everything about your child’s disability and the laws related to it, but you should know enough to ask questions. Try to learn the basics of special education law under the IDEA, special education regulations specific to your state, the operation of your local school system, and research parental information and support provided by your state.

• Enhance your abilities: Work on your verbal and written communication along with other skills that can help you become a better advocate.

• Participate: Go to teacher conferences, parent meetings, and ask questions and share relevant information at your child’s PPT meetings.

• Understand that you know your child and are the best advocate for their education.

Maya Murphy P.C. has proudly been included in the 2024 Edition of Best Law Firms®, ranked among the top firms in the nation. In addition, Managing Partner Joseph C. Maya has been selected to The Best Lawyers in America® 2024 for his work in Employment Law and Education Law in Connecticut. Recognition in Best Lawyers® is awarded to firms and attorneys who demonstrate excellence in the industry and is widely regarded by both clients and legal professionals as a significant honor.

Our firm in Westport, Connecticut serves clients with legal assistance all over the state, including the towns of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Bethel, Branford, Bridgeport, Brookfield, Cheshire, Danbury, Darien, Derby, East Haven, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, Meriden, Middlebury, Milford, Monroe, Naugatuck, New Canaan, New Fairfield, New Haven, Newton, North Branford, North Haven, Norwalk, Orange, Oxford, Prospect, Redding, Ridgefield, Seymour, Shelton, Sherman, Southbury, Stamford, Stratford, Trumbull, Wallingford, Waterbury, West Haven, Weston, Westport, Wilton, and Woodbridge. In addition to assisting clients in Connecticut, our firm handles education law matters in New York as well.

If you have any questions or would like to speak to an attorney about a legal matter, please contact Joseph C. Maya and the other experienced attorneys at Maya Murphy, P.C. at (203) 221-3100 or JMaya@Mayalaw.com to schedule a free initial consultation today.