Written by the Progyny Editorial Team — September 2025.
If your child needs extra support in school, you might feel like there’s a lot to learn and many steps to take. Try not to feel overwhelmed. Your child’s school, and perhaps medical team, can work closely with you to help your child get the support they need.
Let’s go over 2 programs you may hear about (a child may be eligible for one or both). This can help you feel more confident to ask questions and explore on your own. Your Progyny Care Advocate is also here to talk through your concerns or questions.
- An individualized education program (IEP) is used in public schools as a formal, detailed document describing special education lesson plans or services to help a student succeed.
- A 504 plan removes barriers for children who are limited in their daily activities. Their lesson plan is the same, but they have accommodations (changes) so they can learn along with their peers in the usual classroom setting.
Individualized education program (IEP)
IEPs are covered by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal special education law. When a child needs special education services, an IEP helps families work with educators to create a plan for their child’s success.
An IEP documents the student’s learning goals, how progress will be measured, and which services or accommodations will be offered.
Students may be eligible for an IEP if they have certain disabilities. Often, a teacher or parent notices a child is struggling and refers the student for an assessment. The assessment is done by a team of professionals (this may include teachers, a school
psychologist, therapists, or others). There is no cost to parents for their child to be assessed or have an IEP.
Reasons for an IEP include but are not limited to:
- ADHD
- Autism
- Developmental delays
- Hearing or vision problems
- Learning problems
- Physical disabilities
- Speech or language impairment
Your child’s IEP will be developed with your child’s teacher, school team, and you. Examples of services offered in an IEP include:
- Individually designed instruction
- Counseling
- Medical services
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Transportation
IEPs should be reviewed every school year. You can always ask to talk to your child’s teacher or school when you have questions or concerns.
504 plans
504 plans are covered by section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which makes it illegal to discriminate against people with disabilities in any program that gets federal funding. This includes public schools and some private schools that receive federal money.
These plans help children with disabilities learn in a regular classroom. So rather than adjusting their lesson plan, it helps overcome barriers to learning.
Reasons for a 504 plan include but are not limited to:
- ADHD
- Autism
- Hearing or vision problems
- Mental health conditions (like anxiety, depression)
- Physical health conditions (like diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, allergies)
You, your child’s teacher, or a healthcare provider can ask the school to evaluate your child for a 504 plan. The process will likely include a team of professionals from the school. They will also work with you to suggest which changes will help your child.
Examples of accommodations in a 504 plan include:
- Assistive technology use
- Classroom seating placement
- Extra time on tests or assignments
- Occupational or physical therapy
A 504 plan should be reviewed every school year. You can always ask to talk to your child’s teacher or school when you have questions or concerns.
Your rights as a parent
Your child cannot be evaluated for an IEP or 504 plan without your written consent. In addition, the school must let you know about any major changes to the plan. The IEP process will also give you a timeline to expect.
Tell the school if you disagree with how your child is being supported. They may offer a mediation service or have a process to follow. If you feel your child’s rights are not being respected under their 504 plan, you can file a complaint with the US Office for Civil Rights.
Overall, it will be a huge help to learn more about the forms of support available in your child’s school as you advocate for your child’s needs. For help navigating the process, please reach out to us! Your Progyny Care Advocate is here for you.