Nearly a decade into our advocacy journey, we’ve recently found ourselves navigating the sometimes overwhelming path of the educational system in unexpected ways.

Navigating the school world can be tricky. As parents, we wear the hats of mom or dad, advocates, champions, and partners. We recognize that school is not just about following rules and getting good grades; it’s also about wholeheartedly supporting our children.

Are you wondering how you can be a better advocate for your child at school? Advocating for your child at school is an act of love, commitment, and belief in your child’s potential. It’s about seeing them as they are and walking alongside them as they discover who they will grow to be.

First off, it’s important to team up with your child’s teachers and classroom educators. They aren’t just adults in classrooms; they are allies in our children’s development. And while the goal is to work together, sometimes you’ll find that collaboration isn’t always a breeze. That’s where things get difficult, as facing differing approaches can be tough! But it’s important to approach the relationship with the school team with an open heart and sincere, respectful dialogue.

To rock this partnership, you need to know your child’s learning style and strengths, and you need to find ways to communicate these with the school team. That way, you can help them to establish the groundwork for success in the classroom.

Empathy is a game-changer and becomes the bridge that connects us. Embrace the power of empathy and approach conversations with understanding and acknowledgement of the demands on the edcational team’s time and resources. Educators are faced with diverse classrooms, which is awesome! And, with each child bringing a distinctive set of needs and challenges, it can be tricky to navigate. Empathy can help you to build a partnership with the educators that is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to your child’s well-being.

When you’re advocating for your child, be specific and helpful. If you see that something isn’t working, offer solutions and alternatives. Maybe your child learns best in a certain way, or they need some extra help in specific areas. If you’re lucky to have a collaborative educational team, it will be like making a game plan for success!

OK, this is all good! But what if the school seems resistant? Our recent experience showed us the need to maintain composure and strategically advocate for change.

When you are faced with a school that seems resistant to collaboration or doesn’t appear to want to address concerns you might have, try to maintain composure as you begin to take strategic steps to advocate for change. Start by documenting all interactions with the school, including dates, conversations, people who were present, and any written correspondence that may have been exchanged. Having a clear record of events and conversations will serve as a valuable resource if further action is needed.

Next, consider requesting a formal meeting with the school team. Communicate your concerns clearly, present evidence, and express your commitment to finding a collaborative solution. This meeting gives everyone an opportunity for a more in-depth discussion and may shed light on any miscommunication or misunderstanding. Follow up with a debrief email to those present in order to ensure everyone is on the same page.

If attempts to work with the school at this level prove unsuccessful, it may be necessary to escalate the matter. Sometimes, involving a neutral third party can facilitate more constructive conversations. You may need to seek advice from advocacy groups or even legal advice, as we discovered.

On that note, be aware of your rights as a parent and the rights of your child within the educational system. Familiarize yourself with relevant policies and procedures, as this knowledge can empower you to navigate the situation more effectively. Some will be published directly on the school board’s website (their commitment and promises to an inclusive education), and some you may need to dig deeper to find (such as a human rights policy).

Don’t be afraid to do what’s right. It’s exhausting, and sometimes it feels as though you aren’t being taken seriously, but doing what’s right for your child feels so good. Your child, a living piece of your heart, is entrusted to the educators and adults in the school. Your child deserves an advocate. Show your kiddo that you are their number one fan.

By advocating with sincerity, heart, and passion, you help ensure their educational experience is rich and vibrant. Together, let’s champion our children, nurture their brilliance, and build a foundation where every child can soar.