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Accommodations

We have compiled a list of accommodations that students may be eligible for in school. Please note that accommodations are not one-size-fits-all; the options included here reflect strategies we have found helpful based on our experience working with a diverse range of students. In many cases, accommodations should be determined on a case-by-case basis. If you are unsure what may be most appropriate, please feel free to reach out to us or consult an educational advocate in your area.

Dyslexia- Reading & Language

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Audiobooks or text-to-speech for grade-level content

Teacher or peer read-aloud for instructions and tests

Reduced reading load (shortened passages without reducing rigor)

Access to decodable and dyslexia-friendly texts

Preview of vocabulary before reading lessons 

Reduced writing demands (shortened responses, sentence starters)

No penalty for spelling on content-based assignments

Use of graphic organizers for writing

Dictation to an adult or speech-to-text software

Option to demonstrate knowledge orally

Extended time on tests and assignments

Separate, quiet testing environment

Chunked assignments with clear steps​

Spelling and mechanics not graded on content-based work

Rubrics shared in advance

Focus on mastery of content, not speed or decoding

Dysgraphia and Expressive Writing

Reduced writing demands (shortened responses, sentence starters)

No penalty for spelling on content-based assignments

Option to demonstrate knowledge in different ways

Allow typing instead of handwriting for assignments, tests, and note-taking

Provide speech-to-text tools for written responses

Reduce the amount of written output without reducing content (e.g., fewer problems, shorter responses)

Allow fill-in-the-blank, multiple choice, or matching formats when assessing knowledge

Do not penalize for spelling, handwriting, or grammar unless those are the instructional targets

Provide extended time for written assignments and assessments

Allow assignments to be broken into smaller chunks with interim deadlines

Offer flexible deadlines for longer writing tasks

Provide graphic organizers, sentence frames, and paragraph templates

Model writing tasks and provide exemplars

Allow use of word banks and vocabulary lists

Pre-teach writing structures (e.g., topic sentence, evidence, conclusion)

Offer guided notes or outlines instead of requiring full note-taking

Access to word-processing software with spell-check and grammar support

Use of speech-to-text and text-to-speech tools

Allow use of predictive text, word prediction, or smart pens

Provide alternative writing tools (pencil grips, weighted pens)

Allow use of lined, graph, or raised-line paper

Reduce copying from the board; provide printed or digital copies

Avoid timed handwriting tasks

Dyscalculia

Pre-teaching new concepts before whole-class instruction

Clear verbal explanations paired with visual supports

Chunking information into smaller, manageable steps

Use of graphic organizers and math templates

Color-coding for place value, steps, and operations

Number lines, hundreds charts, and multiplication charts readily available

Anchor charts posted and accessible

Labeled examples and worked problems for reference

Calculator use (when computation is not the primary goal)

Access to math reference sheets or formula sheets

Manipulatives (base-ten blocks, counters, fraction tiles)

Graph paper to help align numbers and organize work

Digital math tools or apps to reduce cognitive load

Reduced number of problems while maintaining concept coverage

Extra time for classwork, homework, and assessments

Alternate assignments that demonstrate understanding without heavy computation

Allow verbal explanations or demonstrations instead of written work

Break long assignments into shorter segments

Simplified language in word problems

Word problems read aloud and clarified

Highlighting or underlining key information

Use of visual representations for word problems

Teaching explicit strategies for identifying relevant information

Anxiety

Access to a safe or quiet space when feeling overwhelmed

Scheduled or as-needed check-ins with a trusted adult

Permission to take short breaks without penalty

Use of a calm-down pass or signal to leave the room discreetly

Access to school counselor, psychologist, or social worker

Advance notice of schedule changes, drills, or substitute teachers

Extended time on assignments, quizzes, and tests

Reduced workload without penalizing learning goals

Breaking large assignments into smaller, manageable steps

Clear written instructions in addition to verbal directions

Flexible deadlines during periods of heightened anxiety

Testing in a separate or small-group setting

Option to take tests at a different time of day

Ability to pause or take breaks during tests

Flexible arrival or dismissal times if mornings or transitions are difficult

Support during transitions between classes

Modified expectations during re-entry after absences

Gradual exposure plan for anxiety-provoking situations

Permission to use fidgets, stress balls, or sensory tools

Access to mindfulness, breathing, or grounding strategies

Visual or written coping strategies available at desk

Use of a personal comfort item when appropriate

Reduced pressure for cold-calling or being put on the spot

Option to demonstrate understanding privately rather than publicly

ADHD- Executive Function 

Preferential seating (near teacher, away from distractions)

Access to a quiet or low-distraction workspace

Chunking work into shorter, manageable segments

Frequent, brief check-ins to support sustained attention

Use of visual timers to support time awareness

Digital assignment tracker with adult monitoring

Color-coded folders and notebooks by subject

Extra set of textbooks or materials at home

Explicit instruction in how to organize backpack, desk, and digital files

Teacher support with prioritizing tasks

Extended time on tests and assignments

Flexible deadlines when executive load is high

Visual schedules and countdowns for transitions

Advance notice before task or activity changes

Clear, step-by-step written and verbal instructions

Assignment breakdown with interim deadlines

Reduced quantity of work without reducing learning goals

Written directions paired with verbal instructions

Access to notes, outlines, or anchor charts

Permission to record lessons or receive teacher notes

Use of graphic organizers for writing and problem solving

Scheduled and as-needed movement breaks

Flexible seating (standing desk, wobble stool, floor seating)

Permission to use fidgets or sensory tools

Opportunity to run errands or take brief walks

Small-group or separate testing environment

Ability to take breaks during tests

Tests broken into sections

Alternative demonstration of knowledge when appropriate (oral responses, projects)

Positive behavior supports and reinforcement

Visual reminders of expectations

Private redirection instead of public correction

Support with goal-setting and self-reflection

Access to assistive technology (speech-to-text, text-to-speech)

Use of task-management or reminder apps

Digital submission of assignments when helpful

Sensory Integration Challenges

Preferential seating to reduce visual, auditory, or tactile distractions

Access to a quiet, low-stimulation workspace

Use of natural lighting or reduced fluorescent lighting when possible

Visual barriers (study carrels, desk dividers) to reduce visual overload

Seating options (wiggle stool, therapy ball chair, cushion)

Scheduled sensory breaks built into the day

Access to a calm-down or sensory regulation space

Movement breaks between tasks or classes

Use of a sensory pass to leave the classroom as needed

Alternatives to materials that cause discomfort (tags removed, gloves for messy work)

Permission to avoid or modify activities involving uncomfortable textures

Advance notice of tactile-heavy activities (art projects, science labs)

Auditory Sensitivities:

Noise-reducing headphones or ear defenders

Preferential seating away from noise sources (doors, HVAC, pencil sharpeners)

Written instructions in addition to verbal directions

Reduced background noise during independent work and assessments

Visual Sensitivities:

Reduced visual clutter in workspace

Use of visual schedules and organizers

High-contrast or simplified worksheets

Ability to use screen filters or adjust brightness on devices

 Movement & Proprioceptive Input:

Access to fidgets, hand tools, or resistance bands

Opportunities for heavy work (pushing, carrying, wall push-ups)

Alternative seating that allows movement

Permission to stand, stretch, or move while working

Additional sensory regulation accommodations:

Testing in a quiet, low-distraction setting

Extended time as needed due to regulation needs

Option to take breaks during assessments

Reduced sensory load during testing (minimal visuals, quiet room)

Support in recognizing and communicating sensory needs

Contact

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Educational Therapy LLC, 2026

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