HelpGuide.org notes that children with attention deficit disorder often need special accommodations and support in academic settings. Children with ADD can have pervasive challenges paying attention, staying on task and sitting still. They may also struggle with understanding and following directions. Parents can provide support by communicating directly with teachers and developing classroom-based accommodations to support the child's academic success.
Provide Quiet Work Space
HelpGuide.org notes that one of the most useful learning accommodations for child with ADD is to provide a quiet work space, away from distractions. This may include preferential seating in a part of the classroom where the child is most able to focus. It also includes providing a small, quiet space for testing and homework, as children with ADD often struggle to complete work in larger, highly active environments.
Supervise Transitions
The Indiana Resource Center for Special Needs suggests that children with ADD benefit from extra support during transitions. This can include moving from class to class or even moving between different classroom activities. Children with ADD may need several cues to be prepared to make a transition, so teachers should give clear directions several times and then check back to make the sure the child is on task.
Divide Directions and Assignments into Steps
The Indiana Resource Center for Special Needs notes that large assignments may pose challenges for children with ADD. Breaking assignments down into smaller chunks allows the child to finish one piece at a time at his own pace. Likewise, when teachers give directions they should write out the steps and encourage the child to complete one step at a time. Since children with ADD tend to procrastinate and often have difficulties with organization, it's also important for teachers to assist with planning and management of long-term projects or assignments.
References
- Help Guide: ADD/ADHD and School
- LD Online: Teaching Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Instructional Strategies and Practices
- Indiana Resource Center for Special Needs: List of Appropriate School-Based Accommodations and Interventions
- Help Guide: Parenting Children with Learning Disabilities
