How do Build a 504 Plan or IEP that works!

When your child has a learning difference, developmental delay, or medical need that affects their ability to succeed in school, a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP) can make all the difference. But navigating the process and making sure the plan actually works isn’t always easy.

Whether you're new to the process or want to make sure your child's current plan truly supports their needs, this guide will help you build a 504 or IEP plan that works for your child’s learning journey.

What’s the Difference Between a 504 Plan and an IEP?

504 Plan: Provides accommodations for students with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It supports access to the general education curriculum but doesn’t change what a child is taught.

IEP (Individualized Education Program): A legal document under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). It includes specialized instruction, goals, and services tailored to a child’s unique needs.

Knowing the difference is key to advocating for the right support.

Step 1: Understand Your Child’s Needs

Start with a full evaluation. This can include assessments from the school, private psychologists, speech therapists, or occupational therapists. Be sure to ask:

• What are my child’s strengths and challenges?

• In what environments do they struggle the most?

• What support has helped—or not helped—in the past?

This foundation helps shape goals and strategies that are practical and specific.

Step 2: Get Clear on What the Plan Should Include

A strong 504 or IEP plan should be:

Specific: Avoid vague terms like “extra help” or “frequent breaks.” Instead, say “extended time on math tests” or “break after every 20 minutes of instruction.”

Measurable: Especially in IEPs, make sure goals can be tracked. For example, “increase reading fluency by 20 words per minute” is measurable.

Individualized: No two children are alike. What works for one child with ADHD or dyslexia might not work for another.

Step 3: Collaborate With the School Team

Parents are vital members of the education team. When you attend 504 or IEP meetings:

• Bring notes or examples of your child’s work

• Share what strategies work at home

• Ask questions and don’t be afraid to speak up

• Clarify who is responsible for each accommodation or support

Tip: Keep communication respectful and solution-focused. You’re all working toward the same goal—your child’s success.

Step 4: Monitor and Adjust the Plan

A 504/IEP isn’t one-and-done. Check in often to see how it’s working. Ask:

• Are the accommodations being followed?

• Is my child making progress toward goals?

• Have new challenges or strengths emerged?

Request updates or meetings if your child is not progressing, or if their needs change.

Step 5: Don’t Be Afraid to Advocate

It’s okay to push for better support. You know your child best. If needed:

• Request another evaluation

• Bring an outside advocate to meetings

• Ask for a copy of all documents

• Keep written records of communication

Extra Support Outside of School

Sometimes, students benefit from additional help beyond their 504 or IEP. Programs like The Catch-Up Center provide personalized academic support and executive functioning coaching, especially helpful for students with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences.

Whether it’s building confidence in reading or strengthening time management skills, extra support can reinforce school goals in a more flexible, engaging environment.

Final Thoughts

A well-built 504 or IEP plan can change your child’s educational experience for the better but it’s most effective when parents are informed, involved, and empowered.

With the right tools, open communication, and ongoing support, your child can thrive and not just survive at school.