Expert: Tim Runner - 9/17/2009

Question
my daughters are 3 1/2 years old and have been diagnosed as autistic with speech delay i have them in pre school right now in a special ed class and am receiving help through our local regional center  i need to find  extra help with   speech therapy because the regional center does not provide that and the school is giving me the run around do you know of any places that might be able to help my daughters ? we live in California . thank you

Answer
The school should assess your daughters, and based on the results, provide them with speech therapy. If the school does not find them in need of this, you can pay for a private assessment by a speech pathologist. Some medical insurance programs will pay for this. Then you present your results to the school and ask for an IEE (Independent Education Evaluation) by a mutually agreed to speech pathologist. The school either has to agree or they have to file for a Due Process Hearing. If they file, you have the option of withdrawing your request for an IEE. Most districts will agree because an assessment costs much less than paying a lawyer to go through Due Process.

If you decide to provide your children with services from a private provider, you should be able to locate speech pathologists in your area on-line. Just make sure to use one experienced with preschool children. This pathologist will assess your girls and recommend services which can be done by a speech therapist or pathologist. Sometimes medical insurance will pay for this. I am located in Orange County and I have a number of very qualified speech pathologists I refer my clients to. If you are located in Southern California, email me and I will send you a list.

I wish you and your daughters the best,
Tim Runner, Advocate
Advocates 4 Kids
Email: timrunner@cox.net
Phone: (949) 582-3601
You can learn more at my web site:
www.special-education-answers.com
www.education-advocates.com (for DSL and phone)