125: IEP Service Hours: How Much Support Does Your Child Really Need?

Parents often wonder: Is my child getting enough support? In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist Podcast, Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, tackles the big question of IEP service hours—how they’re determined, what truly matters (quality vs. quantity), and how to advocate for services that make a real impact. Learn key questions to ask at your next IEP meeting and bust common myths about service allocation. More hours don’t always mean better support—let’s talk strategy!

3 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

1️⃣ More Hours ≠ Better Support – It’s not about the number of service hours but rather the effectiveness of those services. Individualized instruction that aligns with IEP goals is what truly drives progress.

2️⃣ Parents Have a Say – You are an equal member of the IEP team! You have the right to ask questions, review progress data, and request changes if services aren’t meeting your child’s needs.

3️⃣ Ask the Right Questions – At your next IEP meeting, focus on how service hours align with your child's goals, what progress data shows, and whether there are alternative supports that might work even better.

Want more advocacy strategies? Check out Wendy’s course: Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility

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