Related services are supportive services required for a child with a disability to benefit from special education. Under IDEA, these services help students access their education and make progress on IEP goals. Related services are provided at no cost to families.
Types of Related Services
Common related services include speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, school psychology services, transportation, and nursing services. Assistive technology, interpreting services, and orientation and mobility services also qualify.
Determining Need
The IEP team determines which related services a student needs based on evaluation data and educational impact. Services must be documented in the IEP with frequency, duration, and goals.