A young child can communicate, but they cannot advocate. Th relationship is inherently unequal, and if you have the kind of teacher and school where advocacy is necessary, you sort of by definition need the adult to do it. Yes,the kid is like a witness in that situation, talking about their feelings and needs, maybe even bring up suggestions, but all relevant decisions will be made by adults, teachers or parents or both together and the children know this. The accommodations I discussed today with my child's teacher (subject acceleration in math versus radical acceleration via a full grade skip) are NOT things I'd want my almost 8 yo to discuss with a teacher without me.
Edited to add that the teacher mentioned that while she thought it was right to have our first conference without him, she wanted him present for the follow up meetings discussing further steps. I liked that.
Last edited by Tigerle; 10/09/14 12:11 PM.
