How to Get an IEP for a Nonverbal Learning Disability

What's happening

You're trying to navigate the special education system on behalf of your child who has a nonverbal learning disability (NLD). You might be noticing challenges your child faces in areas like social skills, organization, spatial relations, or abstract thinking. These are common difficulties for children with NLD and can impact their school performance and overall well-being. You want to ensure your child receives the appropriate support through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to help them succeed in school.

Why it happens

Nonverbal learning disabilities can often be misunderstood because they contrast with verbal strengths; this sometimes leads to delayed intervention. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), schools are generally expected to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) tailored to each student's needs. A nonverbal learning disability can qualify a student for special education services, but schools might struggle to identify the exact support needed due to the subtlety and complexity of NLD symptoms. This gap underscores the necessity for a clear and thorough evaluation process.

What parents should know

• An IEP is a document that outlines the specific educational needs and services your child should receive. It's a legally binding plan that schools are generally expected to follow.
• Children with nonverbal learning disabilities may require customized accommodations and modifications to their learning environment, such as visual aids, social skills training, or organizational support.
• It's important to have a comprehensive evaluation done by qualified professionals to ensure all facets of your child's learning difficulties are understood and documented.
• For your child to qualify for an IEP under IDEA, their nonverbal learning disability must significantly impact their ability to learn and benefit from general education.
• Remember, this is educational information, not legal advice. If you're facing challenges with school compliance, consult a qualified special education advocate or attorney.

What you can do next

1. Request a formal evaluation in writing from your child's school to assess their eligibility for special education services.
2. Gather and organize existing records and assessments that document your child's learning difficulties and strengths.
3. Prepare specific questions and concerns to discuss at the IEP eligibility meeting to ensure all aspects of your child's needs are considered.
4. Collaborate with teachers and other school staff to develop strategies that can be implemented immediately while awaiting the IEP meeting.
5. Follow up with the school to make sure all necessary evaluations are completed within the timeline, generally within 60 school days from your request.

In summary

Navigating an IEP for a child with a nonverbal learning disability can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. The most important next step is to request a formal evaluation to start the process. If you want to see how this shows up in your child's IEP today, the free IEP Health Score tool gives you a 5-minute read.