What does IDEA guarantee for children with disabilities?

IDEA, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, ensures that children with disabilities have access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). This means that schools are required to provide educational services that are tailored to meet the individual needs of students with disabilities, ensuring that they can benefit from public education just like their peers. The scope of IDEA covers a range of related services, which may include specialized instruction, accommodations, and support services necessary for the child to succeed in an educational environment.

In this context, while the other options may present beneficial aspects related to different areas of support for individuals with disabilities, they do not reflect the primary legal mandate of IDEA. For instance, while freedom of choice in therapies can be valuable, it is not guaranteed by IDEA. Similarly, free music lessons and independent living skills training are not provided under IDEA guidelines. Hence, the essence of FAPE lies in ensuring that all children, regardless of their disabilities, have the right to an appropriate education that meets their specific needs.