Your child has ADHD and the school is talking about a plan. The first question is usually which plan: an IEP or a 504. The short version: if your child can keep up academically but needs accommodations like extra time or movement breaks, a 504 Plan may be enough. If ADHD is keeping your child from making progress and they need specialized instruction or services, your child can qualify for an IEP under the category Other Health Impairment (OHI). Here is how to get the right one.
IEP or 504 for ADHD: how to tell
A 504 Plan provides accommodations in the regular classroom. An IEP provides specialized instruction plus services and is the stronger, more enforceable plan. Ask for an IEP evaluation when grades, behavior, or focus are blocking real progress even with accommodations. ADHD qualifies for an IEP under Other Health Impairment when it limits alertness or energy enough to affect learning, and the child needs specially designed instruction. You can request either, in writing, at any time.
Accommodations and supports to ask for
- Extended time on tests and assignments.
- Movement breaks and flexible seating.
- Chunked assignments and clear, written instructions.
- Preferential seating away from distractions.
- A daily home-school communication system.
- Organizational and executive-function support: checklists, planners, help with transitions.
- A reduced-distraction setting for tests.
- Behavior supports through a Behavior Intervention Plan when needed.
Goals that matter
For an IEP, look for goals targeting focus and task completion, organization and executive function, and self-regulation, all written so they can be measured. Vague goals like "will stay on task" should be rewritten with a number you can track.
Your rights, in one breath
You can request an evaluation in writing at any time, the school must respond within your state's timeline, and every evaluation and service is free. If the school says no, get that no in writing (Prior Written Notice). If you disagree with the evaluation, you can request an Independent Educational Evaluation.