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Does My Child Need a 504 Plan or an IEP? A Parent’s Guide

At Unlockt, we believe kids with ADHD aren’t broken—they think differently. The real challenge is that schools are built for a narrow definition of how kids should learn, focus, and show progress. For children who process the world differently, these expectations can create unnecessary barriers.


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That’s where 504 Plans and IEPs come in. These supports don’t label your child as “less than.” Instead, they help schools adjust the environment so your child’s strengths—creativity, problem-solving, energy, and curiosity—can shine through.


But which option is right for your child? Let’s break it down.


What is a 504 Plan?


A 504 Plan is about access. It ensures students with ADHD have the same learning opportunities as their peers by adjusting the classroom environment.

  • Think of it as: Tweaks that allow your child’s unique learning style to fit into the system.

  • Common accommodations include:

    • Flexible seating (near the teacher or away from distractions)

    • Extra time on tests or assignments

    • Movement breaks to release energy and refocus

    • Reduced homework load

    • Visual reminders and organizational supports


Best fit for: Kids who can succeed with some adjustments, but don’t need extra services or intensive instruction.

Student paying attention in the front of a classroom.
Student paying attention in the front of a classroom.

What is an IEP?


An IEP (Individualized Education Program) goes further. It not only provides accommodations but also adds specialized instruction and services tailored to your child’s needs.

  • Think of it as: A personalized roadmap that blends environmental supports with targeted teaching strategies.

  • Examples of support:

    • Small group or one-on-one instruction

    • Behavior intervention plans with specific goals

    • Related services like speech, occupational therapy, or counseling

    • Academic or executive functioning goals written into the plan

    • Regular progress monitoring to track growth


Best fit for: Kids whose ADHD impacts daily learning and who need structured, customized teaching approaches.


Student receives one-on-one support.
Student receives one-on-one support.

How to Determine Which Plan Your Child Needs


Deciding between a 504 Plan and an IEP can be challenging. Here’s a step-by-step process to help you make the right call:


1. Assess Your Child’s Needs


Start by reflecting on how ADHD affects your child in the classroom.

  • Do they understand the material but struggle to stay focused long enough to show what they know?

  • Do they fall behind academically despite trying hard?

  • Are their challenges mostly about environment (distractions, transitions, organization) or about needing direct instruction in skills (reading, writing, behavior regulation)?


If environmental changes are enough, a 504 Plan may fit. If your child needs targeted teaching or therapy, an IEP might be better.


2. Consult with Educators


Talk openly with your child’s teacher(s), school counselor, and/or principal. They see your child daily and can share:

  • How your child compares to classroom expectations

  • What strategies are already helping (or not)

  • Whether they see the need for more formalized, specialized support


Build a partnership: frame the conversation around “What will help my child thrive?” rather than “What’s wrong with my child?”


3. Gather Documentation


Schools make eligibility decisions based on evidence. Collect and share:

  • Medical or psychological evaluations diagnosing ADHD

  • Reports from pediatricians, therapists, or specialists

  • Notes about what strategies you’ve tried at home and what works

  • Examples of struggles (unfinished homework, repeated calls from school, declining grades)


This documentation strengthens your case for either a 504 or an IEP.


4. Request an Evaluation


  • For an IEP: Submit a written request to the school asking for a special education evaluation. Schools are legally required to respond and begin testing within a set timeframe (often 60 days).

  • For a 504 Plan: Request a meeting with the school’s 504 coordinator (often the counselor or principal) to review your child’s needs and discuss accommodations.


Even if you start with a 504, you can request an IEP evaluation later if your child needs more support.


Making the Right Choice for Your Child’s Education


Both 504 Plans and IEPs are tools to help schools adjust—not your child. They’re designed to create a fair learning environment where kids with ADHD aren’t penalized for thinking differently.

  • Start small if you’re unsure. A 504 Plan can often meet many needs.

  • Push for an IEP if progress stalls. If your child continues to struggle, don’t hesitate to advocate for more structured support.

  • Stay involved. Both plans require regular review, and your voice as a parent matters most in making sure the plan works.


ADHD doesn’t mean your child is “less than”—it means they bring a unique way of seeing the world. With the right plan in place, school can shift from a source of stress to a place where your child learns, grows, and feels successful.


Parent tip: You’re not asking for favors—you’re advocating for the right environment that lets your child’s strengths shine.

 
 
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