Cheat Sheet: Common Accommodations for Neurodivergent Students
- Sophia Whitehouse
- Mar 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 21
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.
Understanding Accommodations for Neurodivergent Students
Accommodations are like the cheat codes of education. These adjustments help neurodivergent students navigate school without feeling like they’re running a marathon in clown shoes.
Unlike modifications— which change what is taught— accommodations tweak how it’s taught. This levels 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 needing a little more runway to master those algebra problems.
Flexible Seating: Standing desks, wobble stools, or bean bags— not everyone thrives in a plastic chair.
Noise-Canceling Headphones: Great for students whose brains scream, “Too loud!” in a bustling classroom.
Fidget Tools: Spinners, cubes, and squishy toys— fidgeting can actually support regulation.
Visual Schedules and Checklists: Ideal for students who thrive on predictability but struggle with transitions.
Breaks for Movement: A quick lap around the hallway can work wonders for focus.
Alternative Testing Locations: For kids needing a quiet space free of side-eyes and sniffly classmates.
Assignment Chunking: Breaking tasks into smaller steps helps prevent overwhelm.
Assistive Technology: Devices such as speech-to-text software, audiobooks, or screen readers can be game changers.
10. Clear Instructions: Because “write a 5-paragraph essay” can mean 20 different things without specifics.
How to Advocate for These Accommodations
You may be 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: Begin 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: Paper trails are your best friends in this process.
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 providing neurodivergent students with an “unfair advantage.” They aim to make education more accessible— similar to 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 would benefit from tailored support, admin@achievepsychology.org
Understanding Neurodiversity: Embracing Differences
Neurodiversity celebrates the range of human cognitive variations. This perspective reshapes how we look at neurological differences. It shifts the narrative from deficits to strengths. Embracing this viewpoint fosters an inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
The Importance of Inclusion in Education
Inclusion benefits not only neurodivergent students but also their peers. When all students learn together, they develop empathy and understanding. This collaborative environment encourages teamwork and communication. Ultimately, it prepares everyone for a diverse world.
Resources for Parents and Educators
There are numerous resources available to support parents and educators working with neurodivergent students. Websites, books, and community programs offer valuable information and strategies. Engaging with local support groups can also provide insight and encouragement.
Advocating for Change
If you feel passionate about inclusive education, consider advocating for broader changes in your community. Engage with local school boards to highlight the importance of accommodations. Your voice can lead to more supportive policies and practices that benefit all students.
Conclusion: Move Forward with Confidence
Understanding accommodations for neurodivergent students can significantly impact their educational experience. Those small adjustments make a big difference. With the right tools and strategies, everyone can succeed.
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.
In the foreground, a warm and approachable teacher leans over to assist a student with a math problem, exuding encouragement and patience. The class features dynamic zones: a cozy reading corner with bean bags, a sensory area equipped with tactile materials, and an interactive whiteboard displaying a group project outline. The overall scene radiates inclusivity and energy, with students collaborating and learning at their own pace. Shot with a Fujifilm GFX 100S, 23mm f/1.4 lens, vibrant color palette with rich, cheerful tones.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/21124d_8de65027acec46978ae21fb3227335ec~mv2.png)