Free ADD / ADHD Newsletter!
Discuss in my Forum

Special Education Services
How to Get Special Education Services

By Keath Low, About.com

Updated May 12, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

See More About:

As a parent of a child with ADHD, one of your roles will include being an advocate for your child. Becoming well informed about your child’s educational rights is important, as you may need to advocate for special services and support for your child in school.

1. How Does a Child Get Referred for Special Education Services?

Children can be identified and referred for evaluation for special education through several methods. Click on the link above to read more.

2. What If a Parent Makes a Referral and the School Decides Not to Evaluate?

What can a parent do if the school decides not to follow through with an evaluation after the parent has made the referral?

3. Who Provides and Pays for the Evaluation?

Learn more about who provides and pays for the evaluation to determine eligibility for special education.

4. What Does the Evaluation for Special Education Services Involve?

Once it is determined that an evaluation or reevaluation is needed, a decision must be made by the school staff, with input from the parents, as to the components of the evaluation or reevaluation.

5. What's the Next Step If the Evaluation Determines Eligibility for Services?

If the outcome of the evaluation indicates that a child qualifies for special education services, what happens next?

6. Are There Any Advocacy Programs Available to Help Parents?

Are there advocacy programs available to help parents navigate the special education system?

7. Educational Rights for Children with ADHD

The National Resource Center on ADHD (a program of CHADD) provides a free booklet for parents called, Educational Rights for Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Primer for Parents. You may order a copy of this publication by calling 1-800-233-4050.