504 Accommodations for ADHD
Understanding 504 Plans: What They Are & How They Help ADHD Kids
Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed in school, and for kids with ADHD, having the right support can make all the difference. A 504 Plan can provide the accommodations needed to ensure they thrive in a general education setting.
What is a 504 Plan?
A 504 Plan falls under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal law designed to prevent discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Unlike an IEP (Individualized Education Program), which provides special education services, a 504 Plan offers accommodations to help students succeed in a general education setting without modifying the curriculum.
A 504 Plan is designed for students who don’t require significant changes to their coursework but still need specific supports to create a level playing field.
Common Accommodations in a 504 Plan
⏰ Extra Time on Assignments & Tests – Helps kids who need more time to process information and complete work without feeling rushed.
🏃🏽➡️ Movement Breaks – Allows short breaks to reset focus and release excess energy (like stretching, walking, or fidget tools).
🧍🏼 Flexible Seating – Provide flexible seating options for kids (wobbly ball, yoga ball, standing desk)
📝 Chunking Assignments – Breaks tasks into smaller, manageable steps so they don’t feel overwhelming.
🎧 Reduce Distractions – May include noise-canceling headphones, a quiet workspace, or written instructions to help with focus.
This is not an exhaustive list of accommodations for ADHD—many other possibilities exist. These are just some of the most common ones.
Does Your ADHD Child Need a 504 Plan?
Many parents wonder if their child qualifies for a 504 Plan. Here are key signs that one might be beneficial:
ADHD is affecting school performance – Even if your child is bright, they may struggle with organization, task completion, or focus.
Frequent frustration or meltdowns – If school-related stress leads to overwhelm, a 504 Plan could help.
Teacher concerns – Reports of missing assignments, behavior challenges, or difficulty staying on task.
Need for accommodations – If extra time, movement breaks, or reduced distractions could help, it’s worth considering.
How to Get a 504 Plan
If you think your child could benefit from a 504 Plan, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Request a Meeting in Writing – Email your child’s teacher, school counselor, or principal to request a 504 Plan evaluation.
2️⃣ Gather Documentation – Provide ADHD diagnosis paperwork, doctor’s notes, and teacher observations to support your request.
3️⃣ Meet with the School Team – Discuss your child’s struggles and suggest accommodations that would help.
4️⃣ Get It in Writing – If approved, ensure the 504 Plan is clearly documented and enforceable.
📢 Remember: You have the right to advocate for your child and ensure they get the support they need!
By taking these steps, you can help your child navigate school with greater confidence and success. Have questions about 504 Plans? Schedule a Breakthrough call with Kristina here!
