The First 30 Days of Special Education: A Guided Parent Planner
The First 30 Days: A Checklist for Your Child’s First Month in Special Education
The first month sets the rhythm. This checklist helps you stay on top of it.
New teachers, new routines, new services, and a child working hard to adjust. It’s a lot to keep track of, and it’s easy to wonder: Is this normal? Did speech start yet? Who do I even email about this?
The First 30 Days gives you a simple plan for each week. You’ll know what to check, what to watch for and when to speak up, and you’ll have a written record ready if you ever need it.
What’s inside (16 pages):
- Before the First Day: forms, transportation, supplies, the IEP and how to get ready at home
- School Team Contacts: every teacher, therapist and staff member on one page
- A guide for each week: what to check, what’s typical, what to ask and what to celebrate
- Four daily observation logs: a few minutes a day to spot patterns in mood, mornings, highlights and challenges
- When to raise a concern: signs your child is settling in, and signs it’s time to ask for a conversation
- Questions for My Child’s Teacher: ready-to-use questions about learning, supports and social-emotional needs
- Concerns & Follow-Up Log: dates, contacts and next steps, all in one place
- First Month Reflection and Celebrating Successes: look back on the progress and plan the year ahead
Perfect for: families starting special education, changing schools or placements, or beginning a new year with an IEP.
Format: an instant-download PDF (8.5×11). Print it once or reprint the weekly logs as needed.
From The Spectrum Dispatch: news, resources and advocacy for special education families.
For general information only. Not legal, medical or educational advice. School policies vary by district and state.