Supporting Students Diagnosed with ADHD
By Pam Petralia
Research tells us that adding choices, visuals and hands on activities are beneficial for students diagnosed with ADHD, but what does that look like in our classrooms? Here are 4 tips for applying research and supporting students with ADHD.
ADD IN CHOICES
When students are able to make choices about their learning, they feel valued and invested. Giving choices doesn’t have to be disruptive to your classroom. These examples allow the student to feel in control without being disruptive:
None of these choices will create havoc, but they all will incorporate the movement and input our students sometimes crave.
VISUALS
Use visuals to support sequencing, initiation and following directions. Visuals could be pictures, clip art, photos, text or a combination of all types. One of my most favorite things about visuals is how they are able to be faded.
It’s important to remember that we need to have a plan for fading any prompts we add in. Without fading, the student will need help lifelong. Read the blog posts below to help create plans for fading supports and helping our students to be more independent.
ORGANIZE MATERIALS
Students diagnosed with ADHD often struggle with organization, so this is an area students may need specific teaching and help. This is a great time to add in choices and talk about what is or isn’t helpful. Here are some ideas for systems for organization:
If your student is somewhat able to remain organized independently, a binder system with dividers may also be an option.
ORGANIZE TIME
Initiation and sustained attention and participation can be an area of struggle. Adding in supports such as a visual schedule, visual timers or checklists can help. Click the links below to read more about classroom organization strategies.
As you begin to think about and plan for supporting your students with ADHD, remember that most of these ideas and supports are helpful for all students. Teaching your whole class about these strategies and tools can develop lifelong skills for your entire class.