Is it usual to feel intimidated at an IEP?

It is normal and expected to feel intimidated or uneasy at your child’s IEP meeting — but remember that you are a vital member of the IEP team.

Openly disagreeing with a room full of five or more professionals, all of whom work with your child, can understandably be difficult because of the presumption that the other people in this meeting are more knowledgeable about IEP processes and special education than you are. Plus, the school team leads the meeting and dictates its direction. But remember that you are the expert on your child. In this clip, Dr. Sarah Pelangka from Know IEPs gives valuable advice on what you can do to combat feelings of anxiety and intimidation.

For more information, see our article IEP Meeting Tips.