Guide · School support in the U.S. United States
How to prepare for an IEP meeting
An IEP meeting works best when you come prepared. Here are practical pointers on what to bring, what to ask and how to take part. This guide makes no diagnosis and does not replace the school team.
Before the meeting
Gather what you have: recent reports, examples of what helps and what is hard, and the current plan if there is one. Note your top priorities so they do not get lost in the discussion.
Questions worth asking
Useful questions include: what goals are proposed and how progress is measured, what services and accommodations are included, and who to contact between meetings. Ask for anything unclear to be explained.
During and after
You are part of the team. It is fine to take time, ask for a break, or request the plan in writing to review it. Keep a copy of what is agreed.
The block below shows, as a guide, the kind of people to turn to for a school question.
Who to turn to
-
Parent Training and Information Center (PTI)
Parent Training and Information Center (PTI / CPRC): helps families understand special education and their rights under IDEA and take part in their child's education. A PTI is a U.S. resource, not a foreign equivalent.
-
Preschool Special Education (IDEA Part B, Section 619)
State Preschool Special Education program (IDEA Part B, Section 619): special education and related services for children ages 3 to 5.
-
Community Parent Resource Center (CPRC)
Guidance for United States. As a guide, in the usual order. AtyKids guides; it makes no diagnosis.
Go further with AtyKids
Official source
Information reviewed on August 11, 2026.
Practical AtyKids guidance, distinct from official information. When in doubt, refer to the official source and to the professionals following your child.
AtyKids supports the adult, without ever making a diagnosis or replacing professionals.