When a child is struggling in school—whether due to a learning difference,
anxiety, ADHD, autism, or another challenge—the right support can make
all the difference. But navigating the system can feel overwhelming.
Two key tools can help ensure that students with learning and mental health
needs get the accommodations and services they need to succeed:
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans.
This guide breaks down the essentials, so whether you’re a parent advocating for your child, an educator implementing
accommodations, or a school leader ensuring compliance, you’ll have a clear roadmap for making these plans work.
Both IEPs and 504 Plans are designed to help students with challenges that interfere with learning.
However, they serve different purposes:
Students with a diagnosed disability that significantly impacts their ability to learn and requires specialized instruction.
Students with a disability that affects a major life activity (including learning, focus, or behavior) but who do not require specialized instruction.
Specialized instruction, services (such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling), and accommodations.
Accommodations (such as extra time on tests, preferential seating, or reduced homework load) to ensure equal access to learning.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Annual review with measurable goals and progress tracking.
Reviewed as needed but does not require annual updates.
IEP (Individualized Education Program):
Students with a diagnosed disability that significantly impacts their ability to learn and requires specialized instruction.
Specialized instruction, services (such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling), and accommodations.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Annual review with measurable goals and progress tracking.
504 Plan:
Students with a disability that affects a major life activity (including learning, focus, or behavior) but who do not require specialized instruction.
Accommodations (such as extra time on tests, preferential seating, or reduced homework load) to ensure equal access to learning.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Reviewed as needed but does not require annual updates.
If you believe your child may qualify for an IEP or 504 Plan, you can request an evaluation from your school in writing.
For IEPs, formal evaluations are required before a child qualifies for services. For 504 Plans, schools gather medical documentation, teacher feedback, and student observations to determine eligibility.
Creating the right plan means looking at the whole child. What are their challenges?
What accommodations or modifications will help them access learning? Here’s what goes into each plan:
Change how a student learns. (Example: Extra time on tests, using audiobooks, sitting in a quiet space.)
Change what a student learns. (Example: A simplified reading assignment, reduced workload.)
IEPs and 504 Plans require collaboration between parents, educators, and school teams. Here’s what each role looks like:
Implement accommodations, track progress, and communicate concerns.
Advocate for their child, attend meetings, and share insights about their child’s needs.
Special education teachers, general education teachers, school psychologists, therapists, and administrators who develop, review, and adjust the plan as needed.
Tip: Keep open communication between all team members to ensure your child’s plan is working effectively
IEPs and 504 Plans are living documents—they should evolve as the student’s needs change.
If you feel your child’s plan isn’t working, keep an open dialogue with their teacher and support staff, and don’t hesitate to advocate for adjustments.
Navigating IEPs and 504 Plans can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Early intervention and consistent advocacy can make a lasting difference in your child’s education and well-being.
If you need support, CHC is here to help. From evaluations and therapy to executive functioning coaching and school advocacy, our team works alongside families to ensure students receive the support they need to thrive.
Learn more about our services at chconline.org.
Reach out to placeholderemail@chconline.org.
