Top 5 Practical Classroom Desk Work Accommodations for IEP Students
Desk work accommodations often are written for students with ADHD. For children who have ADHD, body movement and fidgeting are both critical as natural ways of regulation. Addressing any ADHD student's needs in your classroom plan, whether the accommodation is in their IEP or not, will significantly benefit the overall harmony and productivity of the class.
As we know, not all accommodations work for all students, so consider your student's needs and current behaviors before applying any accommodations to a classroom setting. Don't be afraid to give things a test run before writing it in a legal document.
5 classroom desk work accommodations
Accommodation
Desk close in proximity to teacher, where ever teaching happens.
The benefit to the student
Students placed near a teacher will benefit from increased frequency of student check-ins leading to a higher percentage of on-task work time.
The benefit to the teacher
A higher percentage of on-task work time equates to less classroom disruption and a higher concentration of quality work.
Accommodation
The standing desk option provides a natural non-disruptive way to fidget.
The benefit to the student
The student's brain can focus on work tasks rather than the need to expel excess energy.
The benefit to the teacher
Students with stand up desks are less likely to seek stimuli by rolling or flopping around in a standard classroom chair. Work time equates to less classroom disruption and a higher concentration of quality work.
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Accommodation
Weighted lap pads or vests can provide calm to a high anxiety student, allowing them to focus more directly.
The benefit to the student
A calming effect when weight is applied to the lab for shoulders
The benefit to the teacher
The student can initiate this accommodation on their own and when needed without classroom disruption.
Accommodation
Frequent breaks like standing, stretching, circling the room can help with focus and rechanneling thought
The benefit to the student
Student can use self initiate and use a combination on an as needed basis.
The benefit to the teacher
When used correctly and with boundaries, students are less likely to disrupt others leading to higher overall work production.
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Accommodation
Alternative seating such as a ball, knee chair, and air cushion can focus the body and express excess energy into a balancing task rather than fidgeting.
The benefit to the student
Reducing restlessness and improving focus while they learn
The benefit to the teacher
Does not require additional storage space and is a proven method to lower classroom disruptions