Can I choose which strategies school uses with my child? 

Parenting Perspective 

The Importance of Your Input 

As a parent, you are the expert on your child. You know what soothes them, what triggers them and what helps them feel safe and understood. It is completely reasonable to want a say in the strategies a school uses to support your child’s needs. Schools do have their own professional approaches, but your input is so important. 

A Collaborative Conversation 

Arrange a calm meeting with your child’s teacher or the school’s SENCO. Share what works well at home and be clear about what has not worked in the past. This saves time and helps avoid extra stress for your child. Keep the conversation collaborative. Instead of demanding, you might say, ‘Could we try this approach?’ or ‘This strategy really helps at home.’ 

Staying Open and Getting Plans in Writing 

Stay open to the teacher’s ideas too, as they may notice things you do not see during the school day. Ask for a written plan that clearly shows which strategies have been agreed, who will put them in place and when they will be reviewed. Check in regularly and speak up politely if something is not working as well as you had hoped. 

When Your Input is Ignored 

If you feel your input is being ignored and the strategies being used are causing your child harm or distress, remember you have every right to raise your concerns. Take it step by step, speak to the SENCO, then the headteacher, and if needed, reach out to your local SENDIASS service for extra advice and support. 

Always remember, you are not interfering by doing this. You are protecting your child’s well-being and making sure they have what they need to learn and feel secure. Your insight and calm persistence really do make a difference. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam honours parents who advocate for their children with wisdom and patience. Choosing strategies that support your child’s unique needs is part of your Amanah, a trust given by Allah Almighty. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqan (25), Verse 74: 

‘Our Lord, grant us from among our wives and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us an example for the righteous. ‘

This beautiful Dua reminds us that our children’s well-being brings comfort to our hearts, and striving for it is a form of worship. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3671, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Be kind to children and perfect in your upbringing of them. ‘

This Hadith Shareef reminds you that your gentle persistence is not troublesome but an act of mercy. Make sincere Dua that Allah Almighty guides your words, softens hearts, and places understanding in those who care for your child at school. Trust that He sees your late nights researching, your careful meetings and your patient explanations. By standing up for the strategies that truly help your child, you show them they are not alone in their struggles, they have you, and more importantly, they have Allah Almighty’s mercy and care at every step.