Care Team, Therapy & Support
504 plan
A 504 plan provides accommodations to support a child with a disability in a general education setting.
In short: 504 plan
- It provides accommodations rather than specialized instruction.
- It supports access to learning in a general education setting.
- It is developed with the family and school.
- It differs from an IEP in its scope.
What it is
It is a plan, under U.S. civil rights law (Section 504), that provides accommodations to support a child with a disability in accessing education, typically in a general education setting. It focuses on accommodations rather than specialized instruction.
Understanding 504 plan
For a child with encephalocele who needs accommodations — such as adjustments to the classroom, schedule, or environment — a 504 plan can help ensure access to learning alongside peers. It differs from an IEP: a 504 plan provides accommodations to access general education, while an IEP provides specialized instruction and services. The 504 plan is developed with the family and school based on the child's needs. The right tool depends on the child's specific situation.
Why it matters
Understanding the 504 plan helps families see another option for school support, how it provides accommodations for access to learning, and how it differs from an IEP — so they can pursue the right support for their child.
Common questions
What is a 504 plan?
A plan providing accommodations to support a child with a disability.
How does it differ from an IEP?
A 504 plan provides accommodations; an IEP provides specialized instruction.
Who develops it?
The family and school together.
Bottom line
A 504 plan provides accommodations for a child with a disability to access general education, differing from an IEP.
Browse all 265 Encephalocele definitions
Read the Encephalocele patient guides
Not sure which page you need? Put words to it with the symptom navigator