Totally agree that it is more common and helpful for the psych to perform the observation. I can tell you from experience that kids almost never behave the same way with a parent in the class as they would on a normal day. (I've never seen a child's behavior NOT change under these circumstances! Sometimes the behavior is better, and sometimes it is worse, but I've NEVER seen it be the same.) Many teachers will change their behaviors when another adult is present also. Often the presence of a psych will also change the student's behavior as well as the teacher's behavior... but you would hope the psych is experienced enough to sort this out.
However, not allowing you to observe is a big red flag! The only way I could see your presence as a privacy violation is if you want to be present on test day. Parent observations can be stressful for many teachers (even good ones), but should be granted within reason.
Last edited by KathrynH; 04/17/14 07:20 AM.
