Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a neurobehavioral disorder that is characterized by attention-related problems and hyperactivity. Children with ADHD typically find it difficult to learn to read because it requires them to be quite attentive. Yet, with the right methods, a child with ADHD can learn to read quite easily.
Step 1
Remove everything that might distract the child from the room. Turn the TV off, take your pet away, and do not allow other people to disturb you and the child.
Step 2
Set manageable learning goals for your child. Break every task down into smaller tasks. It might become overwhelming for a child with ADHD to “learn to read.” Instead, if you tell him that he will learn to recognize a few letters a day, the task might seem a lot more manageable for him.
Step 3
Begin your class with something that the child already knows. This will boost his self-confidence and make learning new material easier. Reviewing old material is essential for a child with ADHD who might take longer to learn and to remember things.
Step 4
Allow the child to take breaks. Children with ADHD benefit from regular short breaks of about 10 minutes between classes. During this time, you might let the child to do some physical activities, move around or do anything else that she enjoys.
Step 5
Set clear behavioral expectations. Explain to the child how you expect him to behave during the lesson and what kind of behavior is not acceptable. Make sure that the child understands what the consequences are if he breaks the rules.
Step 6
Document the child’s problematic behavior in order to learn the areas in which she needs more help. Does she always get off from her seat when she is sounding out certain sounds? Does she become aggressive when the words are over two syllables long? Problematic behavior is typically a sign that the child is having difficulties with learning something, in which case you may want to use different teaching strategies to teach her.
Step 7
Make learning a positive experience for your child. Do not criticize or point our past failures. Reward him when he reaches a goal that you have set.
Step 8
Read to your child a lot. Children that have been read to a lot typically become better readers themselves. Also, teach him by example. Read a lot yourself and show him how much you enjoy it.
Tips and Warnings
- Some children with ADHD might benefit from medication, so talk to your doctor about different types of drugs for ADHD. Use simple instructions. Your child will learn much more if he understands what you ask him to do.
- Do not compare your child’s achievements to those of others. The best way to ruin your child's self-esteem is by pointing out his shortcomings.
