Back to all podcasts

3 Common IEP Mistakes Parents Make and How to Avoid Them | IEP Advocacy Guide

Updated on June 25, 2025 Listen to the Podcast

Navigating the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process for your child can feel overwhelming, even for seasoned parents and advocates, especially if you’re still learning the difference between an IEP vs 504 plan or trying to figure out how to get started. From our conversations with families, educators, and experts, we’ve identified the three most common IEP mistakes parents make and, most importantly, how to avoid them.

Understanding these pitfalls is crucial, especially as schools increasingly recognize the value of assistive technology like AngelSense for helping students meet IEP goals related to safety, independence, communication, and inclusion.

 

🎓 Want to avoid these IEP mistakes in real-time? Join our free webinar with Master IEP Coach® Catherine Kahl: “Your IEP Success Guide: What to Say, What to Ask, and How to Partner Effectively”

 

Mistake #1: Waiting for Someone Else to Tell You to Start the IEP Process

Over half of parents said they first learned about IEP eligibility from a teacher, school staff member, or external evaluator, not because they asked.

Why this matters: Waiting for the school to initiate the process can delay access to essential services and supports. Some families only began the IEP evaluation process days before school started or after their child aged out of early intervention.

How to avoid it:

• Start the conversation early. If you think your child may need an IEP, talk with your pediatrician, therapists, or school staff. Depending on your child’s needs, they may qualify for either an IEP or a 504 plan: an IEP will offer more comprehensive services including specialized instruction and measurable goals, while a 504 plan only provides accommodations without changing the curriculum.


• Learn your state’s IEP timeline and eligibility rules. Understanding how to request an IEP evaluation gives you the confidence to advocate early and effectively.


• Know your rights. You can request an evaluation at any time, even if the school has not brought it up.

💡 Expert Tip: Early elementary years are when schools are most responsive to IEP requests. Don’t wait for an issue to escalate, get ahead of it.

 

Mistake #2: Not Insisting on Assistive Technology and Safety Supports in the IEP

Many parents face challenges getting assistive technology and safety supports included and properly implemented in their child’s IEP. This includes not just tools to prevent elopement or support close supervision, but also devices that promote independence, facilitate transitions, reduce reliance on 1:1 aides, and enable meaningful communication between school staff and caregivers.

Common Challenges:

• Schools may be hesitant to include GPS tracking or voice features due to privacy concerns or misunderstandings district policies.


• Staff are often unaware that voice features can be customized or disabled during school hours to meet district guidelines.


• Parents tend to not know how to advocate effectively for these supports, how to frame their request, or which documentation helps.

How to avoid it:

• Know your rights. Federal law requires assistive technology to be considered if it helps your child meet IEP goals. If your child’s IEP includes goals like promoting independence, supporting safe transitions, or enhancing communication, AngelSense may be the exact kind of tool that helps achieve them.


• Bring supporting documentation. Letters from doctors or therapists detailing your child’s specific needs carry weight.


• Frame your request around goals. Explain how technology reduces reliance on 1:1 aides, fosters communication, and ensures safe participation in all activities. Because IEPs are legally required to include supports that help students access their education and reach their goals, it’s important to explain how AngelSense directly contributes to those outcomes.

 

💡 Expert Tip: Use the Following Sample Language and IEP Goals Examples for Including AngelSense Assistive Technology in the IEP

 

These sample phrases are aligned with common IEP goals examples related to safety, independence, and school participation.

General safety request:

“Due to [child’s name]’s history of elopement and safety concerns, we are requesting that the AngelSense Assistive Technology be included in the IEP as an assistive technology and safety accommodation. It will be worn during school hours to monitor location and support rapid response if needed.”

Support during transitions:

“Because [child’s name] struggles with transitions and needs additional supervision, AngelSense provides real-time monitoring and alerts that support safe movement between classrooms and during less structured times (e.g., recess, specials, hallway transitions).”

Reducing dependence on 1:1 aide support:

“As [child’s name] works toward greater independence from 1:1 staffing, we request the use of AngelSense to maintain safety while building autonomy. This supports both the student’s growth and the school’s staffing flexibility.”

Implementation request:

“We ask that school staff be trained on the AngelSense Assistive Technology, including alert responses and secure usage. Clear guidelines should be documented in the IEP.”

Including assistive technology in the IEP isn’t a luxury, it’s often essential. Tools like AngelSense protect students, support their safety, empower school staff and help schools meet their FAPE obligations under IDEA law.

 

Mistake #3: Underestimating the Importance of IEP Follow-Ups and Team Collaboration

The IEP process doesn’t end when the document is signed. Your child’s needs will evolve, and so should the plan. One of the most overlooked steps in IEP advocacy is ensuring consistent follow-up and communication.

How to avoid it:

• Build a collaborative relationship with the school’s IEP team. Be open and respectful, but firm in advocating for your child’s needs.


• Follow up regularly. Don’t assume implementation is happening, ask for updates and document any concerns


• Request a new IEP meeting anytime. If your child’s needs change or the plan isn’t working, you can request a reevaluation or adjustment.


• Bring in outside support. Advocates, therapists, or specialists can help back your case with professional input.

💡 Expert Tip: Use assistive technology to provide concrete data on your child’s safety and behavior. Tools like AngelSense can provide real-world data to support adjustments and reinforce your concerns, helping the team make informed decisions.

 

Final Thoughts

Getting the right Individualized Education Plan takes persistence, preparation, and partnership, as well as the right tools at hand. Parents who start early, understand their IEP rights, advocate for supports like AngelSense, and maintain strong relationships with their IEP team are more likely to see their child thrive.

Assistive technology like AngelSense isn’t just about safety or tracking, it’s about supporting IEP goals such as:

• Promoting independence


• Supporting transitions


• Improving communication


• Reducing reliance on 1:1 support

 

AngelSense can be a powerful tool in making that vision a reality. It’s a bridge between your child’s unique needs and the IEP team’s ability to meet them safely, effectively, and consistently, both in the classroom and beyond.

Not sure where to begin? Start by reviewing your child’s current challenges and looking at relevant IEP goals examples that align with their needs. Remember: You are your child’s strongest advocate. Trust your instincts, understand your rights, use the tools available to you, and collaborate with the IEP team to make sure your child receives the education and safety they deserve.

 

📣 Want to Turn This Knowledge into Action?

Now that you know the top mistakes parents make during the IEP process, take it a step further and get the words, questions, and strategies you’ll need to confidently walk into your next IEP meeting!

Join us for our free upcoming webinar: Your IEP Success Guide: What to Say, What to Ask, and How to Partner Effectively

With Catherine Kahl, M.Ed., Founder of Master IEP Coach®

📅 Date: July 8th

⏰ Time: 1 PM Eastern Time

You’ll learn:

• What exactly to say when requesting supports like AngelSense


• How to partner with your IEP team without second-guessing yourself


• Where assistive technology fits into your child’s IEP and how to make your case

 

👉 Reserve your seat here — space is limited!

 

Get peace of mind from AngelSense, the groundbreaking AI-based assistive technology designed to enhance safety and peace of mind for individuals with special needs and their families. Our solution ensures you stay connected with your loved ones, empowering a higher level of independence while maintaining safety. Learn more about how AngelSense can make a difference for your family.