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Accommodation Finder

Step 1: pick what's hard. Step 2: see ideas. Step 3: copy the language for your IEP/504 request.

Built by a special-ed teacher. We cover what other lists skip:

Slow processing · Language delay · Speech / late talker · Working memory · Executive function · Social · Math · Motor · Vision · Hearing · Anxiety · Medical — plus reading, writing, focus, sensory, transitions, regulation.

These work for testing too — state tests, district benchmarks, and classroom tests.

Don't let your child miss out. Accommodations like extended time, headphones, calculators, multiplication charts, number lines, scratch paper, scribes, small-group settings, and read-aloud are commonly allowed on testing — but ONLY if they're written into the IEP or 504 plan ahead of time. Toggle "Testing (state / classroom)" below to see only test-eligible supports.

Your advocacy journey

  1. Spot it
  2. Document it
  3. Organize it
  4. Request it
  5. Evaluate it
  6. Support it

Step 1 — Pick the challenges

Tip: pick 2–4 that match your child best. Hover a chip to see what it means. Add the "Testing" chip to filter for accommodations you can request for state and classroom tests.

Step 2 — Suggested accommodations

Pick one or more challenges above to see accommodation ideas.

A note about testing accommodations

  1. It must be in writing. If the accommodation is not listed in the IEP or 504 plan, the test proctor cannot give it on test day.
  2. Use it in class first. States usually require that the accommodation has been used regularly in the classroom before it can be used on a state test.
  3. Ask early. Request changes at least 30 days before a major test window so the school can update the plan.
  4. Some tools have rules. A calculator, multiplication chart, or read-aloud may be allowed on most sections but restricted on the part that measures that exact skill. Your team will tell you which sections.
  5. Your child has the right to refuse a specific tool on a specific day without losing the accommodation overall.

Educational guidance only. Bright Steps does not replace professional educational, medical, or legal advice. State testing rules vary — confirm allowed accommodations with your child's IEP/504 team and your state's testing manual.

Solve it — what's next

You have a list. Take it to school.

Bright Steps provides parent support and educational planning tools only and does not replace professional educational, medical, or legal advice.

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