Preschool IEP
Decoder

Preschool IEP

/resources/images/vector.png

Overview

An inclusive, accessible education starts as early as possible! With these resources, parents can learn how to prepare for their very first IEP meetings and understand the options for placement and accommodations available to preschoolers.

Where should I look to find the right preschool?

Choosing the right preschool for your child can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not yet sure what to look for. We’ve rounded up a list of questions to help you get started. What type of classroom do you envision your child thriving in? What questions should you ask of potential schools? What will your child need to be successful? Check them out along with many other tips in our article The Preschool Transition: Choosing a School and Preparing for Your First IEP.

Contents


Overview

Where should I look to find the right preschool?

What questions should I ask to assess if a school is a good fit for my child?

How do I advocate for inclusion in my child’s preschool?

What should I do to prepare for my child’s first IEP?

Top Parent Questions

Does the district have to provide gen ed placement in preschool?
Districts are not required to operate preschools for children without disabilities in California. However, LRE requires that children with disabilities be taught alongside their non-disabled peers to the “maximum extent possible.”
Does my child need an IEP in preschool?
All students who receive special education services must have an Individualized Education Program (IEP), and all IEPs must ensure that the student has access to a free, appropriate public education (FAPE). This includes preschool if your child is eligible for special education services.
How should I choose a preschool for my child?
Think about what will work best for your child and family. Once you have your list of questions, wants, and needs ready, contact the schools you’re considering or the district to set up tours. Ask to tour all class options that may apply to your child.
Tags:

Author

Brittany OlsenUndivided Editor

An editor and cartoonist who loves using words and images to simplify and share ideas. She has ten years of experience as a copy editor and lives near Portland, Oregon. She often spends her free time going on nature walks with her dog or trying new bread recipes.

Reviewed by

Jennifer Drew, Undivided Senior Editor


Promise Image
Each piece of content has been rigorously researched, edited, and vetted to bring you the latest and most up-to-date information. Learn more about our content and research process here.
A Navigator is your Partner at each turn
Every Undivided Navigator has years of experience supporting families raising kids with disabilities or parenting their own. Partner with an Undivided Navigator for a free Kickstart to learn first hand what support feels like!
tick-icon
Expert-driven content, guidance, and solutions.
tick-icon
Member events and office hours with real answers, plus access to our private parents' group.
tick-icon
Priority to begin a free Kickstart of the Undivided Support System with a dedicated Navigator.
“It’s so helpful to have one place that you can go to get many answers.”–Leeza Woodbury, with Navigator Kelly since 2020
*Currently offering Navigator Kickstarts to residents of California