This paper considers ways to help children with special health needs by utilizing the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the Individualized Health Care Plan (IHCP). Results of a study which found a lack of necessary health information in school documents is summarized. The school nurse is seen as a pivotal person in the identification and coordination of student health needs. He/she conducts a health assessment and writes an Individualized Health Care Plan. This is followed by development of an Individualized Health Services Plan by a committee composed of the nurse, parent, student, teacher/s, school administrator, and others. This document specifically addresses goals and objectives leading to independence in self care. A sample checklist demonstrates how to assess levels of involvement in self care. A case example of a 9-year-old with diabetes demonstrates how to develop health care goals and objectives. Extensive attachments include health services plan forms and instructions; an outline of levels of care; case examples; training checklists for catheterization, gastrostomy, clean suctioning, and tracheostomy care; and fact sheets/emergency procedures for Type 1 diabetes, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, mechanical ventilation, and spina bifida. (DB)