What Is an IEP and How Does Pediatric Therapy Support It in Arizona?

If your child has developmental delays, speech challenges, or physical or sensory needs, you may hear the term IEP during school meetings. For many parents, understanding what an IEP is — and how pediatric therapy fits into it — can feel overwhelming.

This guide breaks it down clearly and explains how pediatric therapy services in Arizona can support your child’s success both in school and beyond.

What Is an IEP?

An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legally binding plan developed by a public school to support a child with a qualifying disability. It outlines:

• Your child’s learning goals

• Accommodations and modifications

• Therapy services provided through the school

• Progress tracking and review timelines

IEPs are designed to help children access education in the least restrictive environment, meaning they can learn alongside peers whenever possible.

Which Children Qualify for an IEP?

A child may qualify for an IEP if they experience challenges related to:

• Speech and language delays

• Autism spectrum disorder

• Fine or gross motor delays

• Sensory processing challenges

• Developmental delays

• Physical disabilities affecting mobility or coordination

The school conducts evaluations, but parents can request assessments at any time if they have concerns.

What Therapy Services Are Included in an IEP?

School-based IEPs may include:

Speech Therapy

Supports communication skills, articulation, language development, and social communication.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Helps with fine motor skills, handwriting, sensory regulation, and daily classroom tasks.

Physical Therapy (PT)

Supports balance, strength, coordination, posture, and safe mobility at school.

Important to know:School therapy focuses on educational access, not comprehensive skill development.

School-Based Therapy vs Private Pediatric Therapy

Many families don’t realize that school therapy and private pediatric therapy serve different purposes.

School-Based Therapy	Private Pediatric Therapy
Focused on classroom success	Focused on overall development
Limited session frequency	Individualized, consistent care
Educational goals only	Functional, long-term outcomes
Provided in school setting	Clinic, home, or community settings

Private therapy can complement an IEP, helping children progress faster and build skills beyond the classroom.

How Pediatric Therapy Supports IEP Goals

Private pediatric therapy can:

• Reinforce school-based therapy goals

• Address gaps not covered in the IEP

• Improve carryover into home and daily life

• Prepare children for IEP evaluations and reviews

• Support transitions between grade levels

Therapists can also collaborate with families to help parents advocate confidently during IEP meetings.

Can My Child Receive Both School and Private Therapy in Arizona?

Yes.Children in Arizona can receive both school-based IEP services and private pediatric therapy at the same time.

Many families choose this approach to ensure their child receives:

• Adequate therapy frequency

• Individualized attention

• Support beyond academic skills

When Should Parents Consider Additional Pediatric Therapy?

You may want to explore private therapy if:

• Progress feels slow

• Your child needs more frequent sessions

• Goals extend beyond school performance

• You want family education and home strategies

• Your child is transitioning between therapy phases

Supporting Your Child’s Growth Beyond the Classroom

IEPs are an important part of your child’s support system — but they are just one piece of the puzzle.

With the right combination of school services and pediatric therapy, children can build confidence, independence, and skills that support lifelong success.

If you have questions about how therapy can support your child’s development, connecting with a pediatric therapy provider can help you understand your options and next steps.