NCLD has created this Parent Guide to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) so you can become an informed and effective partner with school personnel in supporting your child’s special learning and behavioral needs. We hope you will use this IDEA Parent Guide to understand:

• How the federal law generally works in most states
• What the law requires to determine whether your child has a learning disability
• What is new to IDEA since Congress last updated the law in 2004
• What questions you should ask and what information you should prepare in order to be a full and active advocate for your child
• What resources are available to you

In developing this IDEA Parent Guide, we have worked with parents of students with learning disabilities from around the country. NCLD is thankful to these parents for their invaluable input. Together, we have tried to address the questions, challenges and barriers parents face as they navigate their way through the special education process.
Parents have also contributed their own personal stories so that you can hear firsthand that you are not alone in this journey.
Click here to access this guide