Understanding School Accommodations: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your Child’s Learning Needs

If your child has been struggling with learning, attention, or emotional challenges at school, you’ve probably heard terms like RtI, 504 Plan, or IEP tossed around. But many parents are left wondering—what do these supports actually mean? How do they help? And how do you know which one is right for your child?

At Grow Neuropsychology, we believe that knowledge empowers advocacy. When parents understand the available supports, they’re better equipped to ensure their child gets what they need to succeed. This guide will walk you through the key types of school-based support and how to take the first steps in getting help.

What Are School Accommodations?

School accommodations are changes made to the learning environment or instructional methods that allow students with challenges to access the curriculum more effectively. These supports don’t alter what a student is expected to learn, but they do help the child show what they know without unnecessary barriers.

Some common examples include:

• Extra time on tests or written assignments

• Breaks during long tasks or transitions

• Visual schedules, checklists, or task organizers

• Preferential seating to reduce distractions

• Use of assistive technology such as audiobooks or speech-to-text software

• Reduced homework load for students with fatigue or slow processing speed

Accommodations can be helpful for students with ADHD, learning disabilities like dyslexia or dysgraphia, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or other developmental conditions.

RtI, 504 Plans, and IEPs: What’s the Difference?

Navigating the school system can be overwhelming, especially when you’re learning new acronyms and procedures. Here’s a clear breakdown of the three most common support models used in schools:

Response to Intervention (RtI)

RtI is a tiered system of support used in general education. It’s often the first step when a child shows signs of academic or behavioral difficulties.

• Focuses on early identification and support

• Provides increasing levels (or “tiers”) of intervention based on student need

• Interventions may include small group instruction, behavior plans, or additional academic practice

• No formal diagnosis is required

• Progress is closely monitored

• Often used to determine if a child should be referred for special education testing

Example: A student struggling with reading fluency may receive Tier 2 intervention—small group reading support several times a week. If there’s limited progress, the school may move to Tier 3 and consider a full evaluation.

504 Plan

A 504 Plan provides accommodations for students with a physical or mental health condition that impacts a major life activity—such as learning, concentrating, reading, or regulating emotions.

• Does not include direct instruction or specialized services

• Typically used for students with ADHD, anxiety, mild learning disabilities, or medical conditions

• Based on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (a civil rights law)

• Requires a documented diagnosis, but not special education eligibility

Example: A student with generalized anxiety may have a 504 Plan that includes flexible deadlines, access to a quiet space for testing, and scheduled breaks to manage emotional regulation.

Individualized Education Program (IEP)

An IEP is for students who qualify for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

• Includes both accommodations and specialized instruction

• Eligibility is determined through a comprehensive evaluation

• IEPs are highly individualized, with specific goals and service hours

• Can include related services like speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling

Example: A student with dyslexia may receive specialized reading intervention, assistive technology, classroom accommodations, and small-group support under their IEP.

Why a Private Evaluation Can Help

While schools can conduct evaluations, they are often limited in scope and can take months to complete. A private neuropsychological evaluation can offer more detailed insights into your child’s learning profile, cognitive strengths, and areas of difficulty.

At Grow Neuropsychology, we:

• Explore how your child learns best

• Identify underlying challenges like ADHD, learning disabilities, or anxiety

• Provide documentation to support 504 Plans or IEPs

• Offer clear, personalized recommendations for school and home

• Help you advocate for your child’s needs in school meetings

Our goal is to provide families with practical answers and a sense of direction—not just a diagnosis.

How to Get Started

If you're concerned about your child’s academic performance, behavior, or emotional regulation, consider the following steps:

1. Talk to your child’s teacher about what they’re seeing in the classroom.

2. Request support—schools may begin with RtI or recommend a formal evaluation.

3. Consider a private evaluation if you want a comprehensive understanding and faster timeline.

4. Use the findings to determine whether a 504 Plan or IEP is appropriate.

   
   

Remember, you are your child’s greatest advocate. The sooner you act, the sooner they can receive the support they need.

Final Thoughts

No child should feel like school is a daily struggle. With the right accommodations, instruction, and advocacy, children who once felt discouraged can rediscover confidence and joy in learning.

If you're wondering whether an evaluation might help your child, we’d be happy to talk. Visit www.GrowNeuropsychology.com or call 813-492-7319 to learn more about our process and how we can support your family.

Together, we can help your child learn in a way that honors who they are.