A special education primer for the pediatrician: supporting families through educational evaluations and services

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To provide pediatricians with a comprehensive guide to the special education evaluation process and available accommodations, enabling them to better support families navigating educational services for their children with disabilities. RECENT FINDINGS: The number of children receiving special education services in US public schools has been steadily rising, with a recent utilization estimate of greater than 15% of children in primary and secondary school. SUMMARY: Children in the United States have the right to a Free Appropriate Public Education, including special education services delivered through an IEP, 504 Plan, or IFSP that help achieve this for students with disabilities. Pediatricians are in a unique position to identify children who may benefit from such services and to advise parents throughout the lengthy process of obtaining accommodations.