Back to School After Epilepsy Surgery: Creating a Snapshot of Your Child

As the new school year starts, parents of kids who had epilepsy surgery often wonder how to make sure their child gets the right support at school. Even if your child has an IEP (Individualized Education Plan), creating some short, summary documents about your child can be very helpful. A few key documents can help teachers and staff quickly understand your child’s needs.

NOTE: You can call an IEP meeting at any time to discuss your concerns!

Here are some important documents you could use to provide an overview of your child:

1. “All About Me” Document

An “All About Me” document introduces your child to their new teachers and staff or updates them about new interests and needs. While the IEP covers your child’s learning needs, the “All About Me” document shares things like what your child likes, dislikes, their strengths, and their personality. This helps teachers know your child better. This document can include important medical details that might not be in the IEP, like emergency contacts, medicines, allergies, and specific medical needs. It gives a full picture of your child, including both medical and personal details, which helps the school team provide better support.

Key Sections for an “All About Me” Document:

• Introduction: Your child’s name, age, grade, and a few of their interests or hobbies.
• Medical History: A brief overview of your child’s epilepsy surgery and any ongoing medical needs.
• Strengths and Challenges: Your child’s strengths and any challenges they may face in the classroom.
• Tips for Success: Strategies that have worked well for your child in the past, like seating arrangements, break times, or learning aids.
• Contact Information: Your contact details and the best way to reach you in case of questions or emergencies.

2. Medical Snapshot

A medical snapshot provides essential medical information at a glance, making it easy for teachers and staff to quickly access important details in case of an emergency. This document includes vital details like medications, allergies, emergency contacts, and specific medical protocols. It ensures that everyone involved in your child’s care knows their medical needs to provide consistent and safe care throughout the school day.

Key Sections for a Medical Snapshot:

• Your Child’s Name and Photo: Clearly displayed at the top of the page.
• Medical Condition: A brief description of your child’s epilepsy, shunt failure symptoms, and other medical conditions.
• Emergency Action Plan: Detailed steps on what to do during a seizure or an injury, including medication and when to call emergency services.
• Key Contact Information: How the school can contact you, your child’s doctor, or other relevant medical professionals if needed.
• Additional Instructions: Any other important information, like allergies, sound sensitivities, or other health conditions.

3. IEP at a Glance

An “Individualized Education Plan (IEP) at a Glance” gives a quick overview of the most important parts of the IEP, such as goals, accommodations, and supports. It helps teachers and support staff quickly understand the essential aspects of your child’s educational plan without having to read through the entire IEP document. It ensures that specific supports and accommodations your child needs are readily understood and consistently implemented. This document could be kept in your child’s backpack and should be shared with substitute teachers and paraprofessionals.

Key Sections for an IEP at a Glance:

• IEP Goals: The main goals and objectives in your child’s IEP.
• Accommodations and Modifications: Specific accommodations your child needs, like extra time on tests, special seating arrangements, or assistive technology.
• Daily Schedule: A snapshot of your child’s daily schedule, including any therapy sessions or special classes.
• Key Contacts: Contact information for the IEP team members, including the special education coordinator and primary teacher.

Support and Resources

To help you create these important documents, our new course, Navigating the IEP Process, includes templates and instructions.

Join us for our Back-to-School Power Hour on August 12, where we will discuss these documents and answer your school-related questions.

Sample documents and templates:

• SAMPLE All About Me – 1st grade
• SAMPLE All About Me – 8th grade
• SAMPLE Medical Snapshot
• SAMPLE IEP At A Glance

Wrapping it up

Preparing these documents will help make sure your child’s return to school is smooth and supportive. By sharing your child’s needs with their teachers and staff, you can help create a safe and caring learning environment. Providing all essential information in an easily accessible format enhances your child’s safety and ensures they receive the support they need to succeed in school. Use our educational resources and support to make this process easier for you and your child.

Here’s to a successful and stress-free school year!