• Be understanding and compassionate. Families of children with disabilities often have a lot of stress and anxiety. Teachers can help by being understanding and compassionate. This means being patient, listening to their concerns, and providing them with support.
• Be clear and concise. When explaining the IFSP or IEP process, teachers should be clear and concise. They should use language that families can understand. They should also be prepared to answer questions.
• Be collaborative. The IFSP or IEP process is a collaborative process. This means that teachers, families, and other professionals work together to develop a plan that is best for the child. Teachers can help by being collaborative and willing to listen to the input of families.
• Be flexible. The needs of children with disabilities can change over time. This means that the IFSP or IEP may need to be revised. Teachers can help by being flexible and willing to make changes to the plan as needed.
• Be positive. The IFSP or IEP process can be overwhelming for families. Teachers can help by being positive and optimistic. They can remind families that they are not alone and that they are there to support them.

Here are some things most families expect from teachers as they go through the process of obtaining IFSPs and IEPs:

• Knowledgeable and experienced teachers. Families want teachers who are knowledgeable about disabilities and the IFSP or IEP process. They also want teachers who have experience working with children with disabilities.
• Understanding and compassionate teachers. Families want teachers who are understanding and compassionate. They want teachers who will listen to their concerns and be there to support them.
• Collaborative teachers. Families want teachers who are collaborative. They want teachers who are willing to work with them to develop a plan that is best for their child.
• Flexible teachers. Families know that the needs of their child can change over time. They want teachers who are flexible and willing to make changes to the plan as needed.
• Positive teachers. Families want teachers who are positive and optimistic. They want teachers who will help them see the possibilities for their child.