Children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder need specialized services and treatment in the classroom to ensure success due to symptoms such as trouble concentrating, making careless mistakes, forgetfulness, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. Teaching a classroom full of children is already a significant undertaking, but when you add children who suffer from ADHD, it can be even more difficult. Administrators and teachers can steps to make the learning process more rewarding and enjoyable for children with ADHD by implementing a few changes.
Step 1
Practice patience and stay calm when working with children with ADHD. It can be frustrating when you’re teaching a class and one child constantly blurts out answers, fidgets in his seat and daydreams. Remember that the child does not misbehave on purpose. He’s probably frustrated with his behavior as well, and he needs help managing it.
Step 2
Sit children with ADHD away from distractions such as doors and windows, recommends ADDitude magazine. Try to seat them in the front of the classroom and next to children who are good role models.
Step 3
Mix things up in the classroom to keep all of the students engaged. Children with ADHD have trouble sitting still and listening to lectures for long periods of time according to Help Guide. You’ll find that if you can get the students up and moving, have them participate in the lesson and use group work that the children with this disorder will be able to learn more effectively.
Step 4
Set behavioral expectations and consistently provide rewards and consequences. Children with ADHD do much better when they understand what’s expected of them and receive consistent responses. Give behavioral guidelines before each lesson. For example, say, “During the test, you’re expected to stay seated and quiet. If you have questions, raise your hand and I’ll come to you.” If a child doesn’t follow the expectations, remind her of the expectations and consequences once. If she has trouble again, follow through on the consequence.
Step 5
Keep the parents involved. Parents know their children well and have probably been struggling with their child’s behavior and the effects of the disorder for a while. Schedule regular parent/teacher conferences, and listen to the parent’s advice. For instance, the parents might have already figured out at home that their child can’t concentrate on the same task for more than 30 minutes. Use this information in the classroom. Let the parents know what areas the child struggles with, so they can work on them at home.
Step 6
Write down directions for children with ADHD, so you don’t have to constantly repeat them. Refer the child to the written directions when he has questions.
Tips and Warnings
- If the child needs to take medication during the day in the school clinic, try to remind her, because she might forget on her own. If you’re overwhelmed with a child’s behavior, consult with the school guidance counselor or social worker. A mental health professional might be able to observe the child in class and give you suggestions on how to manage the issues.
