The following list was compiled and published by NETWORK 81 in their spring term newsletter "Network News".

A Access
Can your child access all his/her school. If not contact your local disability group for information and help.

B Behaviour
If this becomes an issue find out specific details from school ie. What/why/how often/in what circumstances? Don't allow generalisation.

C Curriculum
Is this being studied by all subject teachers? Where differentiation is appropriate point this out.

D Differentiation
Often the key to success. Seek out good examples from other sources if it becomes an issue.

E Exclusion
Let's hope this never happens. If it does, ensure that correct procedures have been followed.

F Flexibility
This is needed on all sides. Try to remain calm when confronted by a brick wall. Try to walk around, not climb over.

G Goodwill
Foster this. It is the key to much good progress.

H Headteacher
Get to know him/her. Respect that it is a difficult job and try to work within the school guidelines.

I IEP - Individual Education Plan
The most important working document and should be readily available for staff to refer to.

J Joint Funding
Are your LEA and Social Services and Health Trusts working together? If not, ask why not.

K Kit
Has he/she got it? Make sure it goes on the right day.

L Lunch
Have a clear idea of what is available and the costs. Suggest possible menus to your child to avoid too much repetition.

M Messages
Not many of our children can bring verbal messages home. Get a home/school/home book started for comments and reminders.

N Numeracy
Often a difficult subject. Has the school got age appropriate material?

O Open Days
Get there early, leave late. Use your eyes as much as your tongue - you can learn a lot.

P Preparation
Prepare your child for any coming changes: for example changes of staff or routine, particularly at the start of a new school year or a change of school.

Q Queue
Don't allow your child to jump these. After all, inclusion should not seek privileges.

R Reviews
Make these work for school and pupil. Take written notes to ensure that promises are followed up. Submit your comments in advance.

S Sex Education
Ascertain the school's policy. Encourage your child to join in group discussions.

T Teachers
They are only human (most of them). Tell them yes, they can teach your child. They only need to think how best to do it.

U Uniform
Do follow the school's guidelines. Your child probably has enough to put up with without being singled out for uniform discrepancies.

V Valued Pupil
Your child has much to contribute to the school and to fellow pupils. Work on self esteem.

W Workload
Insist your child has homework that is meaningful and realistic. Be prepared to give home support in this.

X Xtra
X is for the extra effort you as a parent will have to put in to support your child.

Y Why
Why should I go for mainstream education? Because it is the best education for an inclusive life.

Z Zeal
Zeal for the enthusiasm you show as a committed parent.