40 Working Memory Accommodations for a 504 or IEP

Ever feel like your kid’s brain is juggling so much that one of the balls is bound to drop? I hear you. If working memory struggles are getting in the way of your child’s learning, this post is for you.

Let’s get something straight right out of the gate: working memory is NOT the same as short-term memory. Think of short-term memory like a sticky note—quick and temporary. Working memory? It’s like your kid’s brain trying to use the info on that sticky note while solving a math problem, reading a paragraph, or figuring out how to complete a multi-step task. If that sticky note gets lost, crumpled, or overwhelmed, things fall apart fast.

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Many parents notice these challenges but aren’t sure how to address them at school. That’s where working memory accommodations come in. Whether you’re advocating for a 504 plan or an IEP, there are specific supports that can make a huge difference for your child.

I have a separate list for Working Memory IEP Goals.

How Do Working Memory Issues Show Up at School?

First, let’s break down what these challenges actually look like day-to-day. Here are a few red flags:

• Forgetting instructions: Your child hears the teacher say, “Open your book to page 10, write down three questions, and then find the answers,” but by the time they open the book, they’ve already forgotten what comes next.
• Difficulty with multi-step tasks: Whether it’s solving a math problem, following a recipe, or organizing their materials, your kiddo gets overwhelmed when too much is expected at once.
• Reading comprehension struggles: Holding onto details while trying to make sense of a paragraph is HARD when working memory is weak.
• Losing focus: Their brain’s bandwidth fills up quickly, so they may zone out, lose track of what’s happening, or abandon tasks altogether.

Sound familiar? Don’t worry—this is exactly why accommodations exist.

Working memory is like the brain’s short-term workspace, where information is temporarily held and manipulated to complete a task. Children use working memory in a variety of everyday situations, both in and out of the classroom. Here are some examples:

Examples of Working Memory in Action

1. Following Multi-Step Instructions
   • Example: A teacher says, “Go to your desk, pick up your math book, and turn to page 35.”
   • Working Memory: The child must hold all three steps in their mind and carry them out in sequence.
2. Solving Math Problems
   • Example: Solving 25 + 37 mentally without writing it down.
   • Working Memory: The child has to hold the numbers in their mind, remember the steps (add the ones column, then the tens), and calculate while keeping track of what they’ve already done.
3. Writing a Sentence
   • Example: Writing a sentence about a favorite activity: “I like going to the park because I can play on the swings.”
   • Working Memory: The child needs to hold their idea in mind while translating it into written words, remembering spelling, grammar, and punctuation rules.
4. Participating in Conversations
   • Example: A friend says, “What’s your favorite game to play at recess?”
   • Working Memory: The child has to listen, process the question, retrieve the information (favorite game), and formulate a response—all while keeping the question in mind.
5. Reading Comprehension
   • Example: Reading a paragraph and answering questions about it.
   • Working Memory: The child must remember key details from earlier in the text while continuing to read and process new information.
6. Playing a Game
   • Example: Remembering whose turn it is in a board game or following the rules of “Simon Says.
   • Working Memory: The child has to keep track of the sequence of turns or hold and update the rules in their mind during play.
7. Packing a Backpack
   • Example: A parent says, “Make sure you pack your homework folder, lunch, and gym shoes.”
   • Working Memory: The child must remember the list and check off each item mentally while gathering their things.
8. Science Experiments
   • Example: Following a series of steps to mix ingredients or set up an experiment.
   • Working Memory: The child has to remember and execute each step in the correct order without skipping or forgetting one.

Let’s talk specifics. Below are accommodations I’ve seen work for students with working memory challenges:

1. Chunking Information: Teachers can break assignments or instructions into smaller, more manageable parts. For example, instead of saying, “Read the passage, answer the questions, and write a paragraph,” they might say, “First, read the passage. I’ll check in before we move to the next step.”
2. Visual Supports: Kids often benefit from written instructions, diagrams, or checklists to supplement verbal directions. These act as a safety net when their working memory falters.
3. Frequent Check-Ins: Teachers or aides can touch base regularly to ensure the student is on track. This doesn’t mean hovering—it’s about proactive support.
4. Assistive Technology: Tools like audio recorders, task management apps, or text-to-speech software can bridge gaps in working memory.
5. Extended Time: Processing and completing tasks takes longer when working memory is a challenge. Extended time on tests and assignments can alleviate pressure.
6. Peer Support: Pairing your child with a buddy who can model tasks or provide reminders can reduce the cognitive load.
7. Environmental Modifications: A quieter workspace or reduced visual clutter can help children focus and retain information better.
8. Repetition and Overlearning: Repeating concepts or skills until they’re second nature is essential. Teachers might also incorporate practice into daily routines.

Working Memory Accommodations: What to Ask For

Accommodations level the playing field. They don’t change what your child is expected to learn; they simply change how they access and demonstrate that learning. Here are some accommodations to consider:

1. Chunk Instructions into Smaller Steps
   If your child struggles with multi-step directions, ask that instructions be broken into manageable chunks. For example:
   • “First, open your book to page 10. Let me know when you’re ready, and I’ll give you the next step.”
2. Written or Visual Instructions
   Teachers can provide instructions in writing, with visuals, or both. Instead of relying on memory to keep track, your child can refer back to what’s expected. Bonus: picture cues can be especially helpful for younger kids or visual learners.
3. Checklists and Graphic Organizers
   Checklists are like little cheat sheets for the brain. They help kids organize tasks and keep track of what’s done. For example, a checklist for homework might include:
   • Write name at the top.
   • Answer all even-numbered problems.
   • Double-check answers.

Graphic organizers (like story maps or flowcharts) are great for breaking down information during reading, writing, or problem-solving.

4. Extra Time: Let’s be real—if working memory is weak, processing information takes longer. Asking for extra time on assignments, tests, and classroom activities can relieve some of that pressure.
5. Assistive Technology: Tools like text-to-speech software, speech-to-text apps, or reminders set on devices can be game-changers. For example, if your child struggles with writing sentences while holding onto ideas, speech-to-text can help them get their thoughts out.
6. Repetition and Rephrasing: Teachers can check in to repeat or rephrase instructions to make sure your child understands. “Can you tell me what you need to do next?” gives kids a chance to self-check, too.
7. Reduced Workload for Complex Assignments: If multi-step tasks overwhelm your child, ask for shortened assignments that focus on quality over quantity. For example, instead of completing 20 problems, they might complete 10—showing the same level of understanding without the overwhelm.
8. Use Memory Aids: Things like anchor charts, multiplication tables, or word walls are lifesavers for kids who can’t hold everything in their head. For older students, note-taking supports like outlines, pre-filled notes, or “cheat sheets” can help, too.
9. Frequent Breaks: Working memory fatigue is real. Short brain breaks between tasks (even 3-5 minutes) can help kids reset and refocus.
10. Verbal and Visual Prompts: Sometimes kids just need a nudge. A teacher pointing to the board, asking a guiding question, or offering a subtle cue can help your child get back on track.

Working memory challenges can be frustrating—for you, your child, and even their teachers. But with the right accommodations and a solid plan, these hurdles become manageable. You’re not just asking for changes; you’re asking for fairness, for your child to have the same shot at success as everyone else.

Let’s help your child stick to that sticky note a little better, one accommodation at a time.

List of Working Memory Accommodations

How to Request These Accommodations

1. Know Your Rights
   Schools are required to provide accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and IDEA (for IEPs). Understanding these laws is your first step.
2. Document, Document, Document
   Whether it’s teacher observations, neuropsychological reports, or your own notes, bring data to the table. Schools respond to data, not just verbal requests.
3. Write Specific Requests
   Instead of saying, “Help with memory,” be precise: “A checklist for multi-step tasks in science and math.”
4. Collaborate, Don’t Fight
   Building a good relationship with your IEP or 504 team is key. You’re not just asking for accommodations—you’re working together to help your child succeed.
5. Review and Revise Regularly
   What works in 3rd grade might not in 7th. Stay on top of progress and tweak accommodations as needed.

Working Memory Accommodations PDF