Assistive technology can help students with disabilities learn, communicate, and be more independent at school. You and your child’s school should work together to make sure they have access to the AT they need to be successful.

Discuss assistive technology at IEP meetings

Your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) team must consider whether your child needs assistive technology to meet their goals. As a parent, you can ask questions or make suggestions about what kinds of AT you think would be helpful. The team should not just assume your child does not need it.

Write assistive technology decisions into the IEP

If the team decides AT is needed, make sure it is written into your child’s IEP. If your child will use AT during schoolwork or tests, that should be documented also. The IEP team may decide it needs more information about what AT will work best. A plan to try different types of AT should also be written into the IEP.

Assistive technology training at school and home

AT is about more than the tool. Your child, their teachers, and you as a parent also need to know how it works. The IEP team should discuss what help is needed and write the training plan into the IEP.

Assistive technology and 504 plans

If your child has a 504 plan, AT can be provided as an accommodation. Ask your school’s 504 coordinator if you think your child needs AT to access their education. If AT is needed, it should be included in their 504 plan.

Paying for assistive technology

If your child’s IEP or 504 plan includes assistive technology, then the school must provide it at no cost to you.