Your child has been diagnosed with a learning disability, and you know they will need accommodations at school to academically succeed. childYou've heard the term IEP before, but need details on what it is and how it will help your child successfully navigate their school environment. At Developmental Pediatrics of Central Jersey, located in Oakhurst, NJ and serving Monmouth County and Pennsylvania, developmental pediatrician Dr. Alison Smoller and her team help parents—and children—understand Individualized Education Programs (IEP). Read their answers to these common IEP questions.

 

What is an IEP?

An IEP contains a plethora of information about a child's need for special education. More importantly, it clearly details how the child's educational program reflects their special needs, current levels of performance, and modifications such as extended time for taking tests. This document is updated annually or as needed. The completed or updated IEP is distributed to the child's teacher or teachers, parents, and the special education department.

 

How long can a child have an IEP?

The age limit is twenty-one years old, or as long as it is needed.

 

Does my state education department have input on the IEP?

Yes, it does. Your child's IEP should line up with the state standards for reading, math, and so on. While not every child can reach state education goals, the IEP helps parents and teachers do everything possible to help them thrive.

 

What is an IEP team?

The Federation for Children with Special Needs states that an IEP team is composed of parents, teachers, administrators, parent advocates, and individuals who have evaluated the child or have an interest in his or her educational success.

 

Can an IEP be contested or changed?

Yes, it can, and a parent or guardian can request a meeting with the IEP team to achieve that. In fact, Dr. Alison Smoller makes recommendations for educational programs and accommodations, giving an opinion on the validity and completeness of your child's IEP. As an expert in Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, Dr. Smoller has wide-ranging expertise and experience in learning and behavioral disabilities. She knows how best to mainstream and accommodate a child with special needs in an educational environment.

 

Learn more

Getting your child the education they deserve presents unique challenges. At Developmental Pediatrics of Central Jersey, located in Oakhurst, NJ, Dr. Alison Smoller provides astute evaluations and compassionate help with your child's health, education, personal relationships, and more. To learn more about IEPs, please call our office for a consultation. Call (732) 660-0220. We proudly serve patients from all over the state of New Jersey including Pennsylvania.


This website includes materials that are protected by copyright, or other proprietary rights. Transmission or reproduction of protected items beyond that allowed by fair use, as defined in the copyright laws, requires the written permission of the copyright owners.

804 West Park Avenue, Building C
Ocean, NJ 07712

(732) 660-0220

View map and directions

Questions or Comments?
We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest about our services.

Please do not submit any Protected Health Information (PHI).