Good strategy to practice is active listening

During an IEP meeting when a conflict begins to develop a good strategy to practice is active listening. In a situation were a parent is frustrated maybe it is because they do not understand or may have a question. With all the information that is being shared it can be overwhelming. Pause the meeting from time to time to ask if everyone is ok or any questions. This will be proactive so each person feels that they are being heard. Contributing to the goal and establishing up to date data is critical in this meeting. Keeping everyone on task and provide an Outline of the meeting and who will be attending and position. Provide paper and pencils to take notes in case they were misplaced before hand. This also helps to keep the meeting flowing and organized.