YOU ARE LEGALLY ENTITLED to get help for your child, without charge, through the provisions of the federal Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA). The process will begin with an evaluation of your child to determine whether he has a learning disability and needs special education services. Once your child qualifies for services, you will attend a formal meeting with your child's teacher and school administrators to create a written plan for addressing his educational needs, called an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This chapter will help you understand the process and prepare for your child's IEP meeting.