What Are the Signs My Child Qualifies for a 504 Plan or IEP?
Many parents feel something is “off” before teachers do.
Your child struggles with focus, behavior, emotional regulation, or academic performance—but the school hasn't offered support yet.
You’re not imagining it.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, 1 in 5 students needs additional learning or behavior support, yet many qualify years late.
Skill Time helps families identify those signs early so children don’t fall behind.
504 Plan vs IEP: Quick Breakdown
A 504 Plan:
Modifications helping a child access learning.
Examples:
extra time
movement breaks
preferential seating
reduced workload
behavior plans
An IEP:
Specialized instruction due to a disability affecting education.
Examples:
individualized teaching
therapy services
academic goals
behavioral intervention plans
Signs Your Child May Qualify for a 504 Plan
Your child may need a 504 Plan if they:
✔ struggle with attention or hyperactivity
✔ frequently forget materials
✔ often appear overwhelmed
✔ need movement to stay focused
✔ are easily distracted by noise
✔ have anxiety that affects performance
✔ need routine and structure to succeed
ADHD is one of the top reasons children receive 504 Plans.
Signs Your Child May Need an IEP
Your child may qualify for an IEP if they show:
✔ academic delays compared to peers
✔ difficulty reading, writing, or understanding instructions
✔ behavior impacting learning
✔ emotional regulation issues
✔ communication or speech delays
✔ fine-motor or sensory challenges
✔ social interaction struggles
If the disability affects educational performance, an IEP is appropriate—not a 504.
School Red Flags Parents Should Notice
School discipline is increasing
Child is sent out of class frequently
Teacher reports “not listening”
Homework takes hours
Child cries about school
Regression after breaks
Constant missing assignments
These patterns matter.
How Skill Time Helps Parents Navigate 504s and IEPs
We guide families through:
✔ identifying eligibility
✔ documenting needs
✔ preparing for meetings
✔ writing parent statements
✔ advocating for accommodations
✔ reviewing school plans
✔ monitoring progress
Parents should never face the school system alone.
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Address: 3379 Peachtree Road NE (Buckhead), Suite 655,
Atlanta, GA 30326
Email Us: [email protected]
Phone:(484) 699-7855