Prior to the meeting: Whenever possible, please start with the parent when you are trying to identify a time for a meeting at which you hope a parent can be present. It is often very difficult for parents to rearrange an exisiting schedule in order to meet with school officials.

• Involve the parent in planning the agenda; let them know the general purpose of the meetings, but talk with them beforehand about the role that they would like to play (i.e., when would they like to talk, what kind of information do they want to provide). This is also a time for them to think about whether they would like to bring someone to act as a witness or advocate. Understand that they may have had negative experiences with schools in the past, and it will take time for you to build up trust.

 At the meeting: Your goals at the meeting are to build rapport, obtain information, and provide information. While speaking with parents, be aware that the jargon which enable professionals to communicate quickly (e.g., IEPs, ITPs, IFSPs) may be seen as intimidating by parents. At the end of the meeting be sure that you take the time to summarize and plan follow-up activities.

 After the meeting: You should create a written record of the meeting, and evaluate your satisfaction. How could the meeting have been more effective? Did you try something new that had positive results?

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