The three main components of an ADHD diagnosis include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. These symptoms make it difficult for children struggling with this disorder to be successful in school and make friends. Parents need to be an advocate for their children to ensure that they are getting the attention and services they need to thrive.
Effects
The lack of concentration and inattention makes it hard for children with ADHD to finish quizzes and tests on time, complete homework or follow directions. Hyperactivity impairs the child's ability to sit still while his teacher gives instructions and while he's expected to work on class work or take a test. Impulsivity leads the child to blurt out answers without being called on, interrupt peers and teachers, and say things without thinking.
Considerations
If parents are lucky enough to choose their children's learning environment, they should consider several things. First, they should make a list of how their child is as a student, according to Nicole Sprinkle in the 2004 April/May issue of ADDITUDE. For instance, does the child need to visualize things to learn them or does he learn by listening? Second, parents need to look at the size of the school and the size of the classes, because a child with ADHD will do better in a smaller school setting with individualized attention. Third, parents should take into account the experience levels of the teacher's and the flexibility of the school. It's important that the school be willing to work with a child with ADHD to accommodate her. Once parents have picked two or three schools, they should take tours of them to see which one they think will be the best fit.
Individualized Education Plans
Under the federal law, schools are required to accommodate children with ADHD through specialized services, according to ADDITUDE editors in the 2006 August/September issue. Not every school will offer this up. Parents might have to request or possibly demand it. Once a parent requests these services, the school will complete an evaluation and devise an individualized educational plan (IEP) for the child. This plan will detail the extra services that the child will receive such as individual counseling, social skills training and extra time to take quizzes and tests. They might recommend medication such as Ritalin or Adderall.
Misconceptions
Unfortunately, many children and teens with ADHD get labeled as bad kids, because their symptoms cause them to stand out among their peers, frustrate their teachers and disturb the class. Teachers and parents have to remember that the child is not doing these things intentionally.
Parenting and Learning
Parents of children with ADHD should get involved with the child's school. They can contact the child's teachers to ask how she's doing in between report cards, volunteer to go on field trips and work with the child's teacher to create goals. Parents can also improve learning by making it fun at home. Children with ADHD can't sit for long periods of time without breaks, so parents should break up homework into manageable sections and require that the child work for 20 minute increments with 20 minute breaks.
