Children with special needs must be helped to develop at their own pace and optimize their individual potential. As parents and as educators, we can help children achieve this goal through an education plan that meets their needs as individuals. An Individual Education Plan (IEP) outlines realistic and achievable goals and provides the framework for each student to experience success, and move ahead at their own individual learning rate. The IEP identifies any additions or changes to the regular school program that should be made for an individual student to make sure that all students have an educational program that meets their specific needs.