Tips for Supporting Students With ADHD

Supporting students with ADHD requires patience, understanding, and the right strategies to help them thrive in the classroom. With challenges like inattentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, these students often benefit from structured environments, clear expectations, and creative approaches to learning. In this blog, we'll explore practical tips educators and caregivers can use to create a supportive and inclusive space where students with ADHD can succeed.

Slowly Build Up Goals:

●       Start at a zero error goal that can’t be failed.

●       These goals will often be time-limited, focus on regular practice rather than outcome, and easy to track.

Ex. "I will spend 10 minutes each day reviewing my notes from class”

Designate a Study Space: 

●       Choose a quiet, clutter-free area with minimal distractions.

●       Set a Schedule: Establish a consistent study routine. Use visual schedules or timers as reminders.

●       Create a study playlist using music with no chorus or climax.

Ex. Movie soundtracks and video game soundtracks.

Break Tasks into Smaller Steps:

●       Chunking: Divide larger assignments into smaller, manageable tasks. Focus on one step at a time.

Use Checklists: Create a checklist to track progress and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Use Visual Aids:

●       Color-Coding: Use colored notebooks, folders, and pens to categorize subjects and assignments.

●       Charts, Diagrams, and Lists: Visual representations can help to understand and remember concepts better.

●       Allow for there to be frequent breaks when studying with timers.

Ex. Study for 25 minutes and then have a 5 minute break.

Encourage Self-Advocacy:

●       Teach Communication: Help your child express their needs to teachers and peers regarding their learning style and accommodations.

●       Set SMART Goals: Work together to set achievable academic and personal goals.

●       Use a coping skill when becoming dysregulated or distracted.

Be Patient and Positive:

●       Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and reward small achievements to boost confidence.

●       Praise the work they put into finishing an assignment or studying rather than the outcome of a good score.

○       Ex. “You put in a lot of effort on that assignment, and it really shows!"

●       Encourage a Growth Mindset: Remind your child that challenges are opportunities to learn and grow.