Parents, I need to tell you something important. If you suspect your child needs extra support — whether it’s speech, OT, PT, social skills help, or academic support — you have the right to ask for a full disability evaluation. And the school is not allowed to just shrug it off or say, “We don’t think she needs it.”
Here’s the truth:
Schools sometimes try to only test in one area — the one they think matters — and skip the rest. But under IDEA (that’s the law that protects your child’s right to an education), they must test in every area you suspect a disability. Not just one. Not just “what fits their budget.”
💡 Example: If your child struggles with climbing stairs, avoids the playground, leans on furniture for balance, AND has speech delays — you can request mobility testing, PT, OT, speech, AND educational testing all in the same evaluation. They have to consider it.
Here’s how you protect your child:
- Put it in writing — always send your request by email or certified mail.
- List every area you want tested — don’t just say “evaluation.” Spell it out: speech, language, OT, PT, social/emotional, academics.
- Use the law’s wording — say, “I am requesting a comprehensive evaluation under IDEA in all areas of suspected disability.”
- Keep proof — save all emails and letters. Dates matter.
- Don’t let them delay — once you request in writing, the school has a legal timeline to respond and test.
Your voice matters more than theirs
You know your child better than anyone. If you see them struggling, don’t let anyone — even the school — tell you it’s “fine” or “just a phase.” That’s how kids get overlooked.
If you need a ready-to-use letter, I’ve shared one in this post that you can copy, fill in, and send to your school today.
📌 And remember: When you stand firm, you’re not being “pushy.” You’re being the parent your child needs.
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