How can I make sure my child’s school supports their needs properly? 

Parenting Perspective 

Arrange a Calm Meeting 

Building a good relationship with your child’s school can make a huge difference in how well their needs are understood and supported. Start by arranging a calm meeting with your child’s teacher and, if possible, the school’s SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). Bring clear examples of your child’s challenges and strengths and explain how these affect their learning or behaviour in the classroom. 

Agree on Practical Steps 

Ask what support is already in place and what more could help your child do their best. Try to agree on small, practical steps that can be reviewed regularly. It is very helpful to get everything in writing. After your meeting, send a kind follow-up email to confirm what was agreed. 

Stay in Contact and Be an Advocate 

Stay in regular contact with the school and share what works well at home so teachers can adapt their strategies if needed. Remember, you have every right to ask questions, suggest ideas and request reviews of your child’s progress. Be respectful but confident. You are your child’s voice and strongest advocate. 

Most schools want to help but sometimes need your insight to do it well. By working together calmly and consistently, you help create an environment where your child feels understood, supported and able to thrive. Your partnership with the school really can make all the difference. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam reminds us that seeking what is best for our children is part of fulfilling our sacred Amanah. Advocating for your child’s needs at school is not being demanding, it is an act of care and responsibility. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Imran (3), Verse 159: 

‘So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. ‘

This Ayah teaches us that calm; kind words open doors that anger cannot. 

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 shows that seeking the right help for your child is a noble form of parenting. Make sincere Dua before each meeting, asking Allah Almighty for Barakah in your words and for hearts to be softened. Trust that your patient efforts are seen by Him, and that He will guide you to the right people, the right words, and the right support at the right time. Keep your intention pure, for your child’s well-being, and trust that when you act with Sabr and Tawakkul, Allah Almighty never lets your sincere efforts go to waste.