The ABC’s of Advocacy

Parents and caregivers are naturally called to become involved in your child’s learning and development. Why? Because you are with your child when they wake and when they go to sleep. You know what they like and don’t like and what works and doesn’t work. No one else has this perspective, this makes you an expert on your child.

Others that work with your child want your input so your child can flourish, this makes you a part of your child’s team.

We have developed a form families can fill out to bring to your child’s initial eligibility meeting and annual team meetings.

This form can be sent to team leaders prior to your upcoming meeting and shared at the meeting after going over initial evaluation report or present levels of performance.

Special Note: Give yourself time to learn more about advocacy.

Request ASTra Advocate Support if you would like information about advocacy.

The Special Education Process in Washington State

Special education is provided to eligible children in Washington State from ages 3 to 21. A school
team helps identify the needs of children and determines the types of supports they need to make
progress in their education.

It’s helpful to build a resource library of materials that you learn about along the way. Then when you need a resource you’ll have it to use!

Here’s a list to help you get started.

Publications:

Educational Advocacy For Students Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing: The Hands & Voices Guidebook

Expanded Core Curriculum for Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (Free to download)

Optimizing Outcomes for Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (Free to download)

Parent Safety Toolkit

Videos

Advocacy 101 

IDEA Special Considerations for Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Transition from Early Intervention Services

Hands & Voices ASTra Advocacy Webinar Series

Websites

Hands & Voices ASTra Program resources

Supporting Success for Children with Hearing Loss

Wrights Law

App

Parent Advocacy App

Reach out to our Guide By Your Side Program and request support

Network and learn from other parents

Attend webinars to review and deepen your understanding

Connect with professionals and organizations

• Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth (CDHY)
• Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing -Regional Service Centers
• Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) Special Education Parent Liaison
• Open Doors for Multicultural Families
• PAVE – Partnership for Action, Voices for Empowerment
• Washington Deaf Blind Project
• Washington Sensory Disabilities Services

List of Resources and Deaf/Hard of Hearing Educational Programs

Here is a list of those working to support families of children who are DHH in our state.

If you are not living in these program and school areas, it’s best to contact a state resource to get directed to your local supports.