Hard to believe we are approaching the halfway mark in the school year! Many of you are holding your breath, wondering how the rest of the school year will play out. One question that we often hear from parents when things are going “well enough” at school is, “Does my child really need a 504-Plan?

(To learn more about the difference between IEPs and 504-Plans, click here.)

Let’s talk through a few possible scenarios with a 504-Plan at school.

Your child has a 504-Plan, but doesn’t seem to need accommodations anymore.

Maybe your child has a 504-Plan, but the accommodations are no longer relevant.

Perhaps your child doesn’t have a 504-Plan, but they have a documented disability, and you wonder if they need one.

Maybe your child’s teacher is providing accommodations without a 504-Plan.

Our general advice when it comes to asking for or maintaining a 504-Plan at school (for children with ADHD)

While different situations can come up, in general, we recommend that all children with ADHD should have a 504-Plan (or IEP) in place. If you don’t have one yet, ask for one! And if you do have one, don’t let it go.

If the last year and a half has taught us anything… it’s that THINGS CHANGE! Having a 504-Plan in place protects your child when the inevitable happens, teachers or learning environments change, or your child’s needs change.

It can also be challenging to get a child onto a 504-Plan as they get older, such as when they are about to transition to high school. It is helpful to have a history of documentation to support your child’s needs.

A helpful reminder…

Remember, you can always request a meeting to review your child’s 504 plan with their educational team. You don’t have to wait for a yearly review! Of course, remember that the school staff is navigating tricky times too. Give them grace and understanding as part of your child’s team. You are an essential part of your child’s educational team, and your voice matters.

If you are parenting ADHD, we are here to help!

If you are raising and ADHD child, navigating school can be tough. We believe you can do this and we want to help. We’ve created, Shining at School, to support families raise their kids to be happy and independent. This online, video-based course helps you go from confused to confident in your child’s education! 

 

Have a wonderful week,

Lori, Katie, and Mallory

Disclaimer: The contents of this site are opinions of The Childhood Collective PLLC partners unless otherwise noted. The information on this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any type of medical condition and is not intended as personalized medical/psychological advice. Any decision you make regarding you and your family’s health and medical treatments should be made with a qualified healthcare provider.