Ever felt unsure about your child’s rights at school — or frustrated when the system seems to overlook what they need? There are federal laws designed to protect kids with disabilities and give them access to education and their environment, but they can be confusing to sort through. IEPs are often the first school support parents think of, but they’re not the only option — especially if a child doesn’t qualify.
You might be wondering about 504 plans or bigger protections like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). How do they work, and which ones matter for your child? This week, we’re breaking it all down and answering some of the most common questions parents have along the way.
If my child is ‘covered’ under the ADA, what does that mean?
The ADA is a landmark civil rights law that makes it illegal to discriminate against people with disabilities — including kids in school. But if your child is “covered” under the ADA, how does that play out in everyday life? You might have heard some common myths, like ADA protections only apply if a child has an IEP or a 504 plan, or that a program can deny a child if their disability “requires too much support” — both false!
Head over to our article on the ADA to explore what the ADA is, the protections it offers, common barriers and myths families face, and how to request — and fight for — reasonable accommodations.
How do I get a 504 plan for my child?
While 504 plans might not be as common as IEPs, they’re just as important for evening the playing field and making sure children are protected against discrimination at school. As of 2024, about 1.6 million students in the U.S. have 504 plans!
Some common questions we hear: what’s the difference between a 504 plan and IEP? (Psst… we have an article on that!) Is my child eligible? What’s in a 504 plan? How do I get one?! We’re here to answer all your 504 plan questions, including benefits (and potential drawbacks) and how to respond when schools say things like, “Your child is getting good grades, so they don’t need a 504 plan,” and more.
Additional articles on accessibility, acceptance, and awareness:
- Don’t miss our top Google Chrome extensions for accessibility!
- These indoor and outdoor accessible activities in California are a hit with kids and parents.
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL) makes lessons more inclusive for kids with different diverse learning styles, abilities, and interests.
- How do we raise strong advocates? Check out our list of books, TED talks, and online resources for parents!
- Then head to our list of children’s books, TV and film resources, and TED talks to help your kiddos along their self-empowerment journeys!
Introducing the brand-new podcast series from Undivided: Undivided Voices!
Take all the best wisdom from special education experts and parents on the go with each weekly episode, available wherever you get your podcasts. Look for our first episode this week — “Debunking Myths About Inclusion” — featuring education advocate, teacher educator, and faculty at UCLA, Dr. Caitlin Solone. Available on all streaming platforms!
Say hi to an Undivided parent
Meet Cristal, an Undivided parent who is no stranger to feeling stressed amongst the endless to-dos and chaos. Check out this video to learn how Undivided helped her find her way through it all.
Join us for expert office hours
If your child is a Regional Center client, are you making the most of the Self-Determination Program? Whether you’re new to SDP or your child is already enrolled and you need help troubleshooting, join us for office hours on Wednesday, October 1 at 12:00 p.m. PT with Iris Barker, our Self-Determination Consultant. If you’re not an Undivided member yet, get started here to join us for office hours every week.
Upcoming Undivided Conversations
Tune in to our Facebook page to watch!
- September 27 at 10:00 a.m. PT – What To Know About 504 Plans: If your child needs school supports to access learning, a 504 plan may be the right fit. Join this conversation to learn from experts who qualifies, what’s included, who’s involved, the protections offered, and answers to parents’ top questions.
- September 28 at 10:00 a.m. PT – Everything No One Tells You about Raising a Disabled Child: Join us for a re-stream with Kelley Coleman — author, advocate, and parent — sharing practical tips (and a pep talk!) on navigating benefits, insurance, and education so kids get the support they need.
Check out one of our favorite videos all about ADA rights, explained by kids in the Undivided community! Watch on Instagram→
.png){kind=icon}
What are the main differences between IEPs and 504 plans? Get a quick rundown from education advocate Lisa Carey on our YouTube channel→
What are your family’s favorite accessible activities to enjoy in your area? Share your recommendations in our private Facebook group for parents→
Know someone in your network who wants to learn more about accommodations under ADA and 504 plans? Share Undivided’s resources on LinkedIn→
