Why Does the Student's Opinion Matter Even When They're Young?
A student can express a preference, a discomfort, or an idea for a solution long before they can write it in a formal plan. Their view often reveals a barrier no adult in the meeting had noticed.
Don't equate age or disability type with an inability to participate - the question is how to ask, not whether to ask.
How Do You Ask in a Way Suited to the Student?
Use pictures, simple choices, a communication device, or a trusted adult who knows the student well to relay their view accurately, instead of one rigid method for everyone.
Ask about specific, concrete things - a seat, a tool, a particular time - rather than open-ended questions that are hard for a child to answer.
How Do You Turn the Student's Opinion Into an Actual Decision?
Bring the student's view into the meeting explicitly, and explain to them afterward what was decided and why, even if their exact preference wasn't fully adopted.
Review with the student periodically whether the support still fits, since their needs and opinions change as they grow, and yesterday's decision isn't necessarily right for today.