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When your child has PANS or PANDAS, school can feel like a daily battle.
The sudden onset of anxiety, OCD, or tics can derail their ability to focus, learn, and even feel safe in the classroom.
As a parent, watching them struggle to keep up—while others expect them to function like nothing's wrong—can be heartbreaking.
But here’s the good news: there are protections in place to help.
A well-crafted 504 plan can provide the emotional and academic support your child needs to feel successful again.
What is a 504 Plan and How Does It Help Children with PANS/PANDAS?
A 504 plan is a written support plan designed to make school more manageable for children with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
It comes from a federal law—the Rehabilitation Act of 1973—and ensures that every child has the accommodations they need to learn and thrive alongside their classmates.
For children with PANS/PANDAS, whose symptoms can include sudden behavioral changes, anxiety, and OCD, a 504 plan can make way for:
- Extra time on assignments and tests
- Reduced workload
- Breaks as needed
- Access to high protein snacks
- The ability to work in a quieter environment
- Access to assistive technology, such as speech-to-text software
- Permission to use fidget toys or other assistive devices
- Sensory supports
- A designated person at school who can help the child manage their symptoms
- A designated area they can go to when overwhelmed or upset
- A plan for excused absences or missed assignments due to flare-ups or doctor appointments
- Flexible or late start schedule
- Support from a school psychologist or counselor
Additional training for school staff on how to support the child with PANS/PANDAS and common co-occurring conditions such as OCD
How Do I Know If My Child Qualifies for a 504 Plan?
To qualify for a 504 plan, your child must have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
PANS/PANDAS can affect:
- Learning and concentration
- Emotional regulation
- Attendance due to medical appointments or flare-ups
If your child’s condition impacts their ability to learn or participate in school activities, they may be eligible for a 504 plan.
What Accommodations Are Commonly Included in a 504 Plan for PANS/PANDAS?
Accommodations should be tailored to your child’s specific needs. Common accommodations include:
- Extended time on tests and assignments
- Modified homework load during flare-ups
- Access to a quiet space for breaks
- Permission to leave the classroom when overwhelmed
Use of sensory tools to aid concentration
How Can I Advocate for My Child During the 504 Plan Process?
Advocating means being prepared, informed, and persistent.
You’re not just asking for support—you’re helping the school understand your child’s needs.
- Gathering documentation from healthcare providers.
- Requesting a meeting with school officials to discuss concerns.
- Clearly communicating your child’s needs and challenges.
- Collaborating with educators to develop appropriate accommodations.
“Let’s calm the brain first.” Prioritizing emotional regulation can make academic learning more effective.
What Should I Do If the School Is Resistant to Implementing Accommodations?
Not every school team will understand PANS/PANDAS right away—and that’s okay. It’s common to face resistance when a condition isn’t widely recognized.
Here’s what you can do:
- Remain calm and persistent.
- Provide medical documentation supporting your child’s needs.
- Request a formal evaluation for a 504 plan.
- Seek assistance from advocacy organizations if necessary.
How Often Should a 504 Plan Be Reviewed and Updated?
A 504 plan should be reviewed at least once a year to ensure it continues to meet your child’s changing needs.
But as a parent, if you see negative changes in your child’s condition or school performance, you can request for a review any time.
Regular reviews help in:
- Adjusting accommodations as needed
- Monitoring progress and effectiveness
- Ensuring continued collaboration between parents and educators
Can a 504 Plan Include Mental Health Supports?
Yes, a 504 plan can include accommodations that address mental health needs, such as:
- Access to counseling services
- Scheduled breaks to manage anxiety
- Flexible deadlines during periods of emotional distress
What’s the Difference Between a 504 Plan and an IEP for PANS/PANDAS?
While both plans are designed to support students, they work a little differently:
- 504 Plan: This provides accommodations such as extra time on tests or breaks during the day, to help your child access the general education curriculum. It doesn’t include specialized instruction.
- IEP (Individualized Education Program): This goes a step further. It includes customized instruction and services for students who qualify under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Choosing between a 504 Plan and an IEP depends on your child’s unique needs and how much those needs affect their ability to learn in a typical classroom setting.
| 504 Plan | IEP | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides accommodations and modifications to support a child with PANS/PANDAS education | Provides specialized instruction and support services to address a child with PANS/PANDAS disability and support their learning |
| Eligibility | Child has a disability that impacts their ability to access their education | Child has a disability that impacts their ability to learn |
| Evaluation | School conducts an evaluation to determine eligibility and accommodations needed | School conducts a comprehensive evaluation to determine eligibility and develop an appropriate educational program |
| Meeting | Meeting held to discuss evaluation and determine accommodations | Meeting held to review evaluation, develop goals and objectives, and determine appropriate services |
| Documentation | Plan is documented in a 504 Plan document | Plan is documented in an IEP document |
| Annual review | Plan is reviewed and updated annually | Plan is reviewed and updated annually |
| Team | Team includes parents, classroom teacher, school administrator, and other relevant school staff | Team includes parents, classroom teacher, special education teacher, school administrator, and other relevant school staff |
| Services and accommodations | Provides accommodations and modifications such as extended time on tests, breaks as needed, and access to assistive technology | Provides specialized instruction and support services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling |
| Legal protections | Provides legal protections against discrimination based on disability | Provides legal protections against discrimination based on disability |
Expert Says
- “Accommodations are not a crutch; they are a bridge to learning.” — Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge
- “Understanding the neurological basis of PANS/PANDAS is key to effective support.” — Dr. Susan Swedo, NIH Researcher
Parent Action Steps
FAQs
Can my child have both a 504 plan and an IEP?
Typically, a student will have one or the other, depending on their specific needs. An IEP is more comprehensive and includes specialized instruction.
What if my child’s symptoms improve?
504 plans are flexible. If your child no longer requires certain accommodations, the plan can be adjusted accordingly.
How do I start the process of obtaining a 504 plan?
Begin by contacting your child’s school to request a meeting to discuss your concerns and the possibility of a 504 plan.
Citations
Capanna-Hodge, R. (2025). 504 Plans for PANS/PANDAS: Creating a School Success Plan. Retrieved from https://drroseann.com/504-plans-for-pans-pandas-creating-a-school-success-plan/
PANDAS Network. (n.d.). How to Get 504 Accommodations for Children With PANDAS. Retrieved from https://pandasnetwork.org/pandas-504-plan/
Aspire. (n.d.). 504 Plan Basics for PANS PANDAS. Retrieved from https://aspire.care/schools-educators/504-plan-basics-for-pans-pandas/
Virginia Department of Health. (2020). PANDAS/PANS frequently asked questions (FAQs). https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/3/2020/06/PANDAS-FAQS.pdf
Dr. Roseann is a mental health expert in Self-Regulation who frequently is in the media:
- Healthline Understanding Self-Regulation Skills
- Scary Mommy What Is Self-Regulation In Children, And How Can You Help Improve It?
- The Warrior Parent Podcast It's Gonna Be OK! Changing Behaviors and Responses (And The Magic of Magnesium)In Your Family with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge
Always remember… “Calm Brain, Happy Family™”
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to give health advice and it is recommended to consult with a physician before beginning any new wellness regime. *The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment vary by patient and condition. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC does not guarantee certain results.
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