Tops Children are not alone in the world. They are integral members of families. Parents are the team members who can provide the best links between home, school, and community. It is important for parents to provide information to the rest of the team about their children, such as background history, their children's likes and dislikes, and routines, and their families goals for their children. Because families are the primary providers for their children today and throughout their children's school careers, families have a vested interest in seeing that their children progress optimally through the educational process.
Families are the only constant team member during their children's school careers.
Typically, however, parents have often been passive participant's in IEP planning. It is difficult or impossible for parents to provide input when the IEP is presented in this fashion. Family members serve as equal partners in assessments and provide information regarding how their child functions at home and in the community. Parents participate in determining the least restrictive environment for their child's school program, working with the rest of the team throughout the school year to enhance their child's education, socialization, and participation in community activities. Communication is key to a successful school year.