How to Get an IEP for Speech Support for Your Child
Lately, you’ve noticed your child is having a harder time communicating at school.
Maybe they struggle to express themselves, aren’t being understood, or seem frustrated when trying to participate.
So you do what most parents do. You Google. You ask a friend. You bring it up at pickup. And before you know it, one word keeps popping up over and over again: IEP.
Now you’re left wondering,
Do we need one?
How do I get an IEP?
Does my child need a speech diagnosis first?
Who am I supposed to talk to at school?
When no one has explained the process, the whole IEP thing can start to feel confusing and overwhelming so let’s clear it up for you!
First, what is an IEP?
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally required plan provided through public schools for students ages three through twenty-one who qualify for special education services.
An IEP outlines:
a student’s areas of need
the services and supports the school will provide
goals related to educational access and participation
School-based speech and language services can be included on an IEP when communication difficulties affect a child’s ability to learn, participate in classroom activities, or access the school curriculum.
Does My Child Need a Diagnosis to Get Speech Therapy at School?
Nope!
A child does not need a medical or clinical diagnosis to receive speech therapy through an IEP. Schools determine eligibility based on both formal assessment measures and whether a child’s speech or language skills impact their educational performance, not whether they have a specific diagnosis.
This means children can qualify for school-based speech services even if they’ve never been evaluated privately or diagnosed outside of school.
What Is School-Based Speech Therapy?
School-based speech therapy focuses on how speech and language skills impact a child’s ability to function in the school environment.
This may include support with:
speech sound errors that make classroom communication difficult
language skills needed to understand instructions or express ideas
social communication skills that impact peer interaction or participation
School-based speech therapy often looks different from private therapy. The focus is on educational impact, and services may be delivered 1:1, in small groups or within the classroom during the school day.
How to Request an IEP Evaluation for Speech Therapy
If you’re concerned about your child’s communication, you do not have to wait for the school to initiate the process.
Parents can request a school evaluation in writing. This request can be sent to your child’s teacher, a school administrator, or the special education department. Making the request in writing helps ensure your concerns are formally documented and starts the evaluation process.
Procedures and timelines can vary by state and school district, but written requests are an important first step across systems.
What Happens After an Evaluation Is Requested?
Once an IEP evaluation is requested:
the school completes assessments related to speech, language, and other relevant areas
a meeting is scheduled to review the results
the IEP team discusses and determines whether the child qualifies for services
If speech or language difficulties are found to impact a child’s ability to access their education, speech therapy may be included on the IEP.
Eligibility decisions are based on educational impact, and criteria may differ depending on state and district guidelines.
Who Is Part of the IEP Team?
Parents are a required and essential part of the IEP process.
The IEP team typically includes:
parents or caregivers
teachers
school specialists (such as speech-language pathologists)
school administrators or coordinators
Parents are equal members of the team. You have the right to ask questions, share concerns, and participate in decisions about goals, services, and support.
What If I Don’t Understand the Process or the Recommendations?
This is extremely common.
IEP meetings often move quickly and are filled with educational and clinical terms that aren’t always explained clearly. Many parents leave feeling unsure about what was actually decided, what the recommendations mean, or what’s supposed to happen next, and that can feel frustrating or overwhelming.
That’s why we offer 1:1 parent consultation calls. If you’d like help talking through the IEP process, understanding school-based speech therapy, or preparing questions for meetings, caregiver coaching or consultation can be a helpful next step.
These sessions give you a space to slow things down, review recommendations in plain language, talk through your concerns, and feel more confident advocating for your child’s needs.
👉 Learn more about parent consultations and book your 1:1 call here.
Final Thoughts on IEPs and Speech Therapy
If you have concerns about your child’s communication at school, requesting an evaluation is often the first step toward clarity and support. And remember: you’re allowed to ask for explanations, take time to process information, and seek outside guidance if you need it.
Supporting your child’s communication is a journey, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
If you live in Springfield, IL and have concerns about your child’s speech or communication, you don’t have to navigate this on your own. You can explore our pediatric speech therapy services and evaluations, or schedule a parent consultation call to talk through your questions and next steps.
We’d love to connect with you and provide the support you need!
Hi, I’m Daj! Founder of UniVie Therapy
I started UniVie Therapy Solutions with one simple goal: to help individuals of all ages communicate with confidence! My work is grounded in personalized, evidence-based support that honors each person’s strengths, needs, and differences. Whether I’m working with children, families, caregivers, or individuals, my approach is always collaborative, affirming, and focused on real-life communication.
If you’d like to learn more or stay connected, here are a few helpful resources:
