Include the name, birth date, place of birth of family members; parent/guardian name, address, phone number, place of employment, and so forth; brief health history of grandparents, aunts and uncles, parents and siblings.
Include the mother's health during pregnancy and any unusual circumstances at birth or during the infant/toddler stages. Also note the child's behavior patterns and other significant growth and development information.
Include the names and addresses of doctors, dates and nature of serious illnesses and operations, records of the child's immunizations, medications taken, and a copy of the child's birth certificate.
Include the names and dates of schools attended: names of teachers and principals and other staff who provided services for your child; copies of IEPs, test results, therapy reports, or progress reports and examples of (dated) schoolwork.
List the child's interests, clubs and organizations, camps, special awards, and pictures.
Include copies of records from any other agencies with which you have had contact. Also, include letters you have written or received.
Log all phone calls or visits from agencies or professionals. Include dates, names, phone numbers, and the purpose and outcome of such contacts.
Support and maintain close contact with child's teacher to encourage students success.
When possible, call and make an appointment to observe your child in class and/ or request a conference with your child's teacher.
Keep your child's school informed of changes in child's health, routine, medication, behavior, and home environment.
Ensure that your child has adequate rest, nourishment, and health so that he/she is ready to learn.
Build your child's confidence by encouraging all learning efforts.
Identify both strengths and needs of your child as you see them.
Read and play games with your child.
Provide opportunities for your child to experience new learning situations and then discuss them.
Attend IEP meetings and bring a list of possible questions, suggestions, and concerns. Bring and discuss written records of pertinent development, medical, and education information kept in notebook discussed earlier.
Participate in parent groups to learn about special education.