Not every parent who doesn't participate in their child's special education is unconcerned. Many parents are too intimidated to become involved because of their own lack of education, lack of communication between school and home, or the complicated jargon used in the IEP. If you are a parent who wants to take part in your child's IEP process but find the"language" too technical, here are a few things to consider:

• Invite an advocate to attend the IEP meeting. Organizations like the Autism Society may be able to help.
• Search the Internet for parent-friendly information that will help you interpret some of the main components of the IEP.
• Take a friend or relative along. Two sets of ears are often better than one.
• Have your own data and work samples to include. 
• Make sure your concerns are recorded.
• Fight for what you believe. While the teacher and specialists have the experience, you are knowledgeable about your child and have the right to object to or agree with anything during the process.

Remember, you are a member of the team! Make your voice heard,  no matter how small or insignificant you may think it is.