Does the school have to help provide child care during an I.E.P.?

Question

We have always had child care for our children during IEP meetings but we have just a couple of days notice for this one and we can't find anyone to watch our kids. We asked the school if our kids could sit in one of the teacher's classrooms while we were in our meeting and the answer was,"Oh no. They are very busy." The meeting is scheduled the day before school starts and our children are pretty well behaved.

I just thought I read somewhere that the school had to help ensure the parents could attend by helping if child care was needed.

Answer 1

I think that is just rude or them and I would make sure they are aware of how you feel and don't let them do that to you again!  They cannot say yes or no if you bring your other children!  h**l, I bring my both my kids and my mom!

Do not take the schools c**p, your in charge not them! Its your children

Answer 2

By now you know that the school does not have to provide child care.  You CAN bring your children to the IEP meeting if you want to.  If they won't be distracting, and can behave and be quiet, it shouldn't be an issue.  It's also kind of nice for the IEP team to see the child in question.  

The school is required to give you plenty of notice before an IEP meeting.  If it's not a good time for you, ask to reschedule because you want to participate but are unable to on that date.  Did you already get copies of the reports that will be discussed in the meeting?  Ask for those, and that you want them at least 5 days prior to the meeting,  Reschedule it for when you can have child care.   You do have that right.  

Answer 3

As Jenn L states child care is your responsibility and not that of the school especially as school has not started. Could you not ask a friend or relative to look after your children for a couple of hours?

Answer 4

Sorry....the school is responsible for a lot.  But not this one!  If you have less than 10 days notice for this IEP meeting, then you waived your right to 10 days notice.  Child care is your responsibility.  

Answer 5

I agree ask for the meeting to be reschedule.  It's supposed to be a mutually agreeable time AND they were supposed to give you at least ten days notice.