Ask the Specialist: Behavioral Support and 504 Plans

Remote Learning for Children with ADHD

Question: My child is doing well academically in school; however, they are struggling with their behavior. Often, I receive a call from school after my child gets removed from the classroom because they’ve been acting out. We asked about a Section 504 plan to help with behavior, but their teacher told me that they would not qualify because they are doing well academically. What can I do to help my child?

—Frustrated Mom

CHADD’s Health Information Specialist: It is common for a child with ADHD to do well academically but still struggle with their behavior during the school day. Academic difficulties are not the only reason a student may be eligible for a 504 plan. Your child may qualify for accommodations based on their behavior in the classroom, even when getting passing or better grades.

Begin by formally requesting a 504 plan in writing. You’ll need to send this request to your child’s classroom or homeroom teacher, school counselor, building administrator, and any other staff member who interacts with them (an email request is fine). Keep a record of your communication with the school. Some parents find it helpful to create an email folder especially for their child’s 504 plan to keep track of this information so they can refer to it if needed. Other options include using a file folder in your home filing system or keeping all related papers and requests in a specific box, near other important family documents.

If your child goes off task easily, ask your child’s teacher or another staff member to observe them in the classroom. This observer is watching for specific things or events that are contributing to their behavior. Some students with ADHD have trouble during transitions during down time. Being able to identify contributing factors can help you and the education team determine which accommodations are needed.

Once the request to create a 504 plan is granted, you will meet with the school’s education team to discuss what accommodations should be listed in the 504 plan. Accommodations for behavior can include seating away from distractions, or a note card with a record of their behaviors—appropriate and inappropriate to the setting—the teacher can share with you at the end of the school day. Other common behavioral accommodations that can be helpful include activity breaks or a designated code word or nonverbal cue from the teacher to signal your child when their behavior is not appropriate. You can find a list of behavioral accommodations in our Classroom Accommodations fact sheet.

We have heard from parents that some schools may agree to a section 504 plan, but then present a pre-written “standard” plan that may or may not meet your child’s needs. The education team leader may then state that is the only option available. It is not. Never sign a plan agreement you don’t agree to or have not yet read. You have an important role to play in the creation of your child’s 504 plan and you should be at the table when that plan is developed for your child.

However, if the request is not granted, don’t stop there. Ask the school administrator how you can appeal that decisions and then follow those steps. It may require you to push above the school building’s staff to the school district’s department of special education to have the decision reviewed. You can learn more about the steps to take at Appealing a School Decision.

Do you have a question about ADHD or are you looking to find support from professionals or peers? Call CHADD’s ADHD Helpline, Monday-Friday, 1-5 PM ET, at 866-200-8098.

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