School Readiness Support in Los Angeles
Is your child about to start kindergarten or preschool? The transition to school is a major milestone in a child’s life, and it’s natural for parents to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. You want your child to make friends, follow directions, and thrive academically, but you may worry about how they will manage in a busy classroom.
Whether your child is just starting their educational journey or you’re navigating the complexities of school supports like 504 plans and IEPs, I am here to help. At Child & Family STEPS, I specialize in equipping children with the foundational skills and confidence they need to succeed, while empowering you to be their best advocate.
Why Choose Child & Family STEPS for School Readiness Support?
- Expertise in Infant and Early Childhood Development: With a professional background rooted in early childhood development and years of experience supporting families at IEP and 504 plan school meetings, I have practical knowledge of how to translate your child’s unique needs into a plan for school success. I have a specialized understanding of how developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and medical complexities can impact a child’s ability to navigate the school day. I don’t just see a behavior; I help families see the underlying developmental need and how to support it.
- Focus on Foundational Skills: School readiness is about more than just ABCs and 123s. It also involves a focus on the foundational skills needed to feel safe and confident in a classroom. We work on emotion regulation to handle frustration, social skills for interacting with peers and building friendships, executive functioning abilities needed to following classroom routines, and confidence to see themselves as capable learners.
- An Advocate in Your Corner: The world of 504 plans and IEPs can be intimidating, confusing, and overwhelming. My experience in these meetings and in-depth knowledge of these processes allow me to be a strong advocate for your family. I help you understand your child’s rights, prepare for meetings, and use your voice effectively to ensure your child receives the meaningful support and services they are entitled to, right from the start.
- A Bridge Between Home and School: I help families navigate the transition from early intervention services (like those from Regional Center) to the school district. I can act as your “bridge,” helping translate diagnoses, needs, and therapeutic goals into actionable school-based plans, ensuring your child’s progress continues as they enter their first IEP. I can also help translate concerns between parents and educators, fostering a more collaborative approach and positive relationship. My goal is to get everyone on the same team, working together for your child’s success.
What to Expect in Our Sessions
1. A Holistic Assessment: We’ll start by discussing your child’s strengths and challenges, your goals, and any concerns from the teacher. If applicable, we will review school documents like report cards, 504 plans, or IEPs to identify clear areas for growth or support.
2. Building a Foundation for Success: Through fun, engaging, play-based activities, I will work with you and your child to build essential skills for school, including:
- Social and Emotional Skills: Learning to share, take turns, listen, follow directions, and manage emotions
- Language and Communication: Developing/practicing non-verbal communication strategies, vocabulary, listening comprehension, and the ability to express their thoughts and needs
- Cognitive Skills: Following multi-step directions and fostering problem-solving abilities, curiosity, and a love for learning
3. Parent and Caregiver Involvement: You are your child’s first and most important teacher. I will equip you with activities and language to support your child’s learning and development to continue fostering these skills at home. You will learn practical strategies to support homework, improve listening and engagement in joint activities, and manage after-school meltdowns.
4. IEP and 504 plan Support: Demystifying the special education process, including offering guidance and support for families navigating the 504 and IEP process. I will help you understand your rights, review assessments, draft parent-concern letters, prepare for meetings, and advocate for your child’s needs to ensure they have the accommodations and support to thrive at school. I can also attend these meetings with you to provide expert support.
5. Celebrating Progress and Success: We will consistently monitor your child’s growth, celebrating their achievements along the way. My ultimate goal is for your child to feel capable and for you to feel empowered as their parent.
FAQs about School Readiness
What is School Readiness?
School Readiness is about more than just knowing letters and numbers. It encompasses a range of skills, including social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, that enable a child to successfully adapt to the school environment.
Is this the same as tutoring?
What is the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is a legally binding plan that outlines the type of placement (e.g., general education, PAL program, special day class), specialized instruction (e.g., individual/small-group pull-out or push-in instruction), services (e.g., speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, 1:1 aide), and measurable goals tailored for a child with a disability.
A 504 plan involves changes to the environment or how a student completes their work (e.g., extended time on tests, preferential seating, permission to use devices to support learning, movement breaks, support for a medical need), but not to the instruction itself. It is designed to ensure a student with a disability has equal access to the general education curriculum and learning environment.
My child's school says everything is fine, but my gut tells me something is wrong.
You are the expert on your child and it’s important to trust your instincts. I can provide an independent perspective, helping you clarify your concerns and giving you the language and confidence to communicate effectively with the school.
Can you attend school meetings with me?
Yes, attending IEP or 504 plan meetings as your advocate is a key part of the services I offer. Having a professional by your side can ensure your voice is heard and your child’s needs are fully addressed.