IEP for Functional Goals & Life Skills

An IEP, or individualized education plan, consists of goals to be achieved by a student with disabilities within a school year. The student must have been found eligible for special education services. Goals are determined by the IEP team, based on the student's present abilities as well as test scores and state core curriculum content. The IEP team consists of the parents or guardians of the student, the teacher(s), the school social worker or psychologist, as well as any other professional (occupational therapist, speech therapist) who may provide services to the student.

Function

• IEP goals take the student from the present level of functioning and follow a well-thought-out plan to obtain a new level of functioning. Measuring and recording the student's progress each marking period ensures the plan is being adhered to. The team will meet at any time during the school year if a concern arises and will review goals on a yearly basis.

Benefits

• Getting along with others is an important skill for children to master. playing children image by Marzanna Syncerz from Fotolia.com

  Students are able to learn appropriate social, behavioral and communication skills that will help them obtain life skills to enhance their abilities. Self-confidence and self-esteem increase because they are successful in meeting their goals, one step at a time, at their own pace.

Considerations

• Parents and teachers sometimes put too many goals into an IEP plan, which can create confusion for the child. Keep the goals short and to the point. Keep lines of communication open for the student's benefit.