Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects a child's attention and behavior. Kentucky's Office for the Americans with Disabilities Act states that 3 to 5 percent of school-aged children are diagnosed with the disorder. Because ADHD is first noted in childhood and symptoms can interfere with schoolwork, certain accommodations are made to help in the classroom. The accommodations used depend on which symptoms---inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior---are the most prevalent. The success of these accommodations depends on cooperation between parents and teachers.
Inattention Accommodations
If a child with ADHD has inattention symptoms, the focus of the school accommodations is to eliminate distractions that can worsen the attention problems. The Cleveland Clinic recommends seating the child in a quiet area and assigning a study buddy who can help keep the child in check. The child may also need extra time to get work done. Shorter work times with breaks in between can also help minimize problems with inattention. The teacher can reduce the amount of homework the child has to do and give him only one assignment at a time so that he does not get overwhelmed. When giving directions, the teacher should be clear and concise, as the inattention symptoms of ADHD can make it difficult for the child to follow through with instructions. These instructions should be given to the student both orally and written. HelpGuide adds that the directions should be broken down step-by-step for ease and reinforced. If the child becomes distracted, the teacher can redirect him toward his work instead of scolding. When the child completes as assignment, the teacher and patients should give positive reinforcement and rewards.
Hyperactivity Accommodations
Because hyperactivity can make it difficult for the child to stay still and focus during class, the child should have outlets for her extra energy. The Cleveland Clinic states that the child can stand at times during class or can have seat breaks, during which she can get up and move around; these seat breaks should be monitored so that child gets up only at appropriate times. Sports and doing errands for the teacher can be positive outlets for the hyperactivity. HelpGuide suggests the teacher create a "secret language" or signal with the child to be used during interruptions. This method helps reduce the amount of inappropriate behaviors during class without affecting the child's self-esteem.
Impulsive Behavior Accommodations
Because the impulsive behaviors with ADHD can be disruptive, HelpGuide recommends using a behavioral plan. For example, a daily report card can track the child's behavior and let him know where he did well and where he needs to improve. A written schedule can also help limit impulsive behaviors. When the child has acceptable behavior, the parents and teacher can reward him; when he misbehaves, he faces consequences. The Cleveland Clinic recommends that minor inappropriate behaviors should be ignored and time-out should be used as a consequence. The parents and teacher should also avoid lecturing the child. Sitting the child next to a role model or the teacher can also limit impulsive behaviors.
