How to Teach a Child With ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a rather prominent behavioral disorder, particularly among children. Much like Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), ADHD causes difficulties in a child's ability to focus and self-regulate, but also expresses an additional element of hyperactivity. ADHD significantly impacts a child's home, social and academic life--unfortunately, often in negative ways. However, there are several effective strategies for teaching these children important skills that positively impact their lives.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine whether the child has been formally diagnosed. If so, what is the child's treatment plan? If not, talk to others in contact with the child to establish the child's behavior patters and seek the advice of the school (or other) counselor as far as intervention strategies.

• 2

  Collaborate with peers and parents. Consistency is one of the most important elements in teaching a child with ADHD. Therefore, meet with the child, the child's parents and fellow teachers to discuss teaching strategies. Consider drawing up a behavior contract with the student.

• 3

  Provide structure. Keep the child's physical environment organized and establish a daily routine. Color-code materials and design a daily planner for the student. Make your expectations and discipline policy clear, and then stick to it.

• 4

  Create a learning environment complimentary to the child's development. Seat ADHD students near the teacher's desk or in the front of the room to minimize their view of other students, and surround them with positive role models. Cut back on potentially distracting stimuli, including unnecessary noise and objects in close proximity to the student. Speak directly to the student when giving directions (maintain eye contact) and have him/her repeat directions back to you.

• 5

  Keep the work load manageable. Break activities into shorter segments, and break down large, complicated projects into smaller steps. Prioritize assignments and homework, and distribute a little at a time so the student is not overwhelmed. Teach the child to allow himself small rewards. (For example, if a student can spend 10 minutes on spelling, then he may take 5 minutes for recreational reading.)

• 6

  Teach and encourage self-regulation and self-reflection. Ask the child to record her behaviors in a notebook. Additionally, have the child write down thoughts and feelings she is experiencing before she acts out on them. Make the student responsible for physically writing out her daily planner and then crossing items off of this daily "to do" list as accomplished.

• 7

  Build the child's self-esteem and self-confidence. Teach to his strengths and offer much positive reinforcement. Highlight the benefits of ADHD, such as the potential for great amounts of productivity. Allow the child some leadership roles.

• 8

  Set the stage for success, not failure. In following the above strategies, along with several other possibilities, you are helping to guarantee a child's success in dealing with ADHD. Helping a child to feel successful is the most important factor in effective teaching. Not only will the child retain information better, but she will be motivated to continue progressing.