By Charles Cox


All parents want the best education possible for their children. For those who have youngsters with physical and mental disabilities, it can be difficult and frustrating negotiating with educators and administrators to get the academic accommodations necessary. In these cases, it is vital that parents become active advocates for their children. In order to give attention deficit suffers the best possible academic experience, you will have to thoroughly understand the laws pertaining to 504 Plan ADHD children.

In order to do the best job for your affected child, you need to become conversant with the federal laws that apply in your youngster's case. Children with mental and physical disabilities usually fall under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act. The law that applies to children with disorders is covered under Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act.

Section 504 is the law that traditionally applies to kids with ADHD. These children often do not qualify for special education services. They do have a right to preferential seating, assistance with taking notes, and additional time for completing tests. If you are under the impression that the classroom teacher will automatically accommodate your child, you are probably mistaken. It will be up to you to get your youngster evaluated and into the program.

The first thing you will need is an evaluation of your child. Discussing this with school administrators and teachers will not get you the best result. You should send a letter directly to the committee for special education services. The letter needs to be either hand delivered or sent by certified mail. You will find sample letters online. It not uncommon to be turned down initially. If that happens, getting a private assessment is the next step.

The evaluation is typically conducted by school psychologists and members of the special education team. They consider academic reports, assess behavior and watch your child interact in the classroom. As the parent, you need to be involved in the process and understand each step. Taking good notes and keeping paperwork for your records is important.

Once the evaluation process is completed and your child has been approved, it is time to put a proposal, specific to your youngster, in place. It is not unusual for school administrators to advocate for programs they already have in place. This makes the job easier for them, but may not be the best solution for your child.

Once a plan is agreed upon and put into place, you will have to monitor it and the progress your child is making. Section 504 does not require school officials to hold an annual review to assess the progress of qualifying children. Many schools do have review meetings at least once a year and encourage parents to be involved in the process.

Brain based disorders are common, and treating them can be tricky. Getting your youngster the best education possible, even with these challenges, is possible although it can be frustrating. The important thing is to let your child know she is worth the trouble, and you are willing to do whatever it takes to help her succeed.




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