Top 5 Questions to Ask at an Initial Identification Meeting
If you’ve been invited to an Initial Identification Meeting in Monmouth County or Ocean County, NJ, you may be feeling a mix of relief (that your child’s struggles are being addressed) and overwhelm (with all the new terms and processes).
The good news? You don’t have to walk in unprepared. By asking the right questions, you can make sure you understand the process, advocate for your child, and feel confident moving forward.
Here are the Top 5 Questions to Ask at an Initial Identification Meeting:
1. What concerns led to this meeting?
Start by asking the team what specific observations, test scores, or teacher concerns brought them to recommend this meeting. This gives you a clear picture of what challenges the school has noticed and whether they align with what you’ve seen at home.
2. What evaluations are being recommended — and why?
At this meeting, the Child Study Team may suggest evaluations (e.g., speech-language, psychological, academic, occupational therapy). Ask the team to explain why each evaluation is necessary and how it will help answer questions about your child’s needs.
3. What will the evaluation process look like?
Understanding the timeline and process helps you stay informed. Key points include:
Who will test your child
How long evaluations will take
How results will be shared with you
The 90-day timeline New Jersey requires for completing testing
4. How can I provide input as a parent?
Your perspective is vital. Ask how you can contribute information about your child — such as home routines, medical history, or behaviors you’ve noticed — so the team has the full picture, not just the school setting.
5. What happens after the evaluations?
Before leaving the meeting, clarify what comes next. You’ll want to know:
When the eligibility meeting will be scheduled
How decisions about services are made
What support options might be available if your child qualifies (e.g., an IEP or a 504 plan)
Bonus Question: What supports can we try now while waiting for evaluations?
Sometimes small classroom accommodations (like visual schedules or preferential seating) can be put in place right away. Don’t be afraid to ask!
Supporting Families in Monmouth & Ocean County, NJ
An Initial Identification Meeting is the first step in determining if your child may qualify for special education services. It can feel intimidating, but asking the right questions makes all the difference.
At NRC Therapy Services, we work with families across Belmar, Wall, Manasquan, Spring Lake, Point Pleasant, Brick, Toms River, and surrounding towns to help them prepare for meetings, review evaluations, and understand their child’s options.
If you’d like guidance before your meeting or support reviewing your child’s plan, contact NRC Therapy Services today. Together, we can make sure you feel ready to advocate for your child.