On the other hand, some parents are truly out of control. There are individuals whose anger runs deep and they need help to unravel the feelings that prevent them from establishing a meaningful relationship with care providers. It takes time to establish a rapport with team members. These teams are strengthened by the collective expertise of the group. I've witnessed an abundance of these progressive teams in our state's Infant Learning Program, where parent involvement is a major key to success.
Professionals visit families in their homes and respect parent priorities and culture.
One factor that influences IEP teams is the turnover of team members from year to year. Each time a member is added or dropped from the team, the team goes through changes, and team members must adapt to those changes. A rapport must be established again and again. Parents often express frustration with this continued transition. Communication and negotiation skills top this list.