Welcome to the ultimate cheat sheet for understanding accommodations for neurodivergent students! If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I make school less overwhelming for my neurodivergent kid—or, y’know, make it through a parent-teacher meeting without Googling acronyms?” you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down.
What Are Accommodations, Anyway?
Accommodations are like the cheat codes of education. They’re adjustments that help neurodivergent students navigate school without feeling like they’re running a marathon in clown shoes.
Unlike modifications (which alter what is taught), accommodations tweak how it’s taught or accessed, leveling the playing field without watering down the curriculum.
Common Accommodations: A Greatest Hits List
Here’s the lowdown on accommodations that actually work. Cue the drumroll:
Extra Time on Tests: Perfect for students who need a little more runway to land those algebra problems.
Flexible Seating: Standing desks, wobble stools, or bean bags—because not everyone thrives in a plastic chair.
Noise-Canceling Headphones: For students whose brains scream, “Too loud!” in a bustling classroom.
Fidget Tools: Spinners, cubes, and squishy toys—because fidgeting isn’t a distraction; it’s regulation.
Visual Schedules and Checklists: Great for students who thrive on predictability and struggle with transitions.
Breaks for Movement: A quick lap around the hallway can do wonders for focus.
Alternative Testing Locations: For kids who need a quiet space free of side-eyes and sniffly classmates.
Assignment Chunking: Breaking assignments into smaller steps prevents overwhelm.
Assistive Technology: Speech-to-text, audiobooks, or screen readers—tech is a game changer.
Clear Instructions: Because “write a 5-paragraph essay” can mean 20 different things without specifics.
How to Advocate for These Accommodations
You’re probably thinking, “Great list, but how do I get these for my kid?” Here’s the roadmap:
Know Your Rights: Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), students are entitled to accommodations.
Request a Meeting: Start with the school’s Special Education team or counselor.
Be Specific: Bring examples of your child’s challenges and how these accommodations could help.
Document Everything: Because paper trails are your BFF.
Top Accommodations by Neurodivergence
Not all accommodations fit every student. Here’s a cheat sheet within your cheat sheet:
For ADHD: Movement breaks, noise-canceling headphones, and visual timers.
For Autism: Sensory tools, predictable schedules, and social skills support.
For Dyslexia: Audiobooks, text-to-speech software, and reading guides.
Final Thoughts: It’s About Equity, Not Special Treatment
Accommodations aren’t about giving neurodivergent students an “unfair advantage.” They’re about making education accessible—like adding a ramp for a wheelchair user or subtitles for a foreign film.
As one wise teacher said, “Fair isn’t everyone getting the same thing. Fair is everyone getting what they need to succeed.”
If your neurodivergent student could use tailored support, call or text 614-470-4466, email admin@achievepsychology.org, or visit www.achievepsychology.org.
Works Cited
Americans with Disabilities Act. (1990). Public Law 101-336.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). (2004). Public Law 108-446.
Shogren, K. A., et al. (2015). Research-based practices for inclusive education. Research and Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities, 40(3), 163–181.
DuPaul, G. J., & Stoner, G. (2014). ADHD in the schools: Assessment and intervention strategies. Guilford Publications.
Meyer, A., Rose, D. H., & Gordon, D. (2014). Universal Design for Learning: Theory and practice. CAST Professional Publishing.
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