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Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)/504 vs. IEP
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Question
My son is currently in the 4th grade. He has a 504 Accommodation Plan, but I am wondering if he should be re-evaluated for an IEP. Can he get one if his only issue is ADHD w/hyperactivity? He has terrible hand writing, forgets assignments and is severely unorganized. He is doing c average work, and I know that he can do better. He is very smart, however lacks to motivation to perform to his full potential. What steps should I take and what would be the better of the two services for him?
Dear Teresa,
Thanks for asking me your question. The answer is that he could possibly receive services under an IEP under Other Health Impaired. That would be determined based upon whether or not your son needs individualized instruction. If what he needs is cueing and modifications and he can do the work, then the 504 plan needs to be looked at again. IEPs are needed when children, because they are too distracted or tired or whatever due to their disability - they need someone to teach them the skills.
I would suggest that you look into OT services for your son outside of school for the handwriting. School OT usually addresses handwriting to a limited degree. An OT may also give some suggestions to decrease forgetfulness also.
You can go on the CHADD website to read more about IEPs for children with ADHD.
Many Blessings to you. Christine
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Answers by Expert:
Christine D. DeLoatch, MA CCC-SLP
Expertise
My expertise is both personal and professional. I am an adult with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder, and I am an ASHA certified Speech-language pathologist. I worked in the school system, giving direct theraputic servies to children with both language difficulties and attention deficit disorder. (I am very familiar with the IEP process and the IDEA.)I have consulted on-line, in person and via the telephone with a number of parents of children with ADD.
Experience
My area of expertise lies in my holistic approach to ADD and other similar neurologically-based conditions including Non-verbal learning disorders. I am a researcher of medical treatments, studies regarding concrete documentation of the geographical differences in the "ADD" brain (PET scans, SPECT scans, etc.) herbal treatments, functional organizational strategies for children and adults (stuff that'll get you through the day; sensory techniques for relaxation and stress relief; and organizational tools - from the technological to the home-grown type. I am also a researcher of other conditions that are frequently co-existing with ADD. I have read extensively about women's issues and am an empathetic individal who would like to share strength, hope, experience and education.
Organizations
I hold a Certificate of Clinical Competency issued by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association.
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