Teaching Children That
Suffer From ADHD

Direct young ADHD children to trace their handprints on the front and back of a folder to carry with them wherever they go.

Use a variety of teaching aids such as films, tapes, computer programs and small group work to reinforce the child's interest.

Seat the ADHD child in close proximity to you and in the area that has the least amount of distractions and stimulation, i.e.doors, windows and active students.

Use a point system, tokens, stars, or other methods to reinforce appropriate behaviors.

Give directions in simple, concrete terms. Simplify instructions, tasks and assignments.

Decide together on a sign or a code that you can use to remind the child to be on task. For example, make eye contact and touch your ear or pick up a particular object.

Seat the ADHD child in close proximity to you and in the area that has the least amount of distractions and stimulation, i.e.doors, windows and active students.

Walk around the room and pat the
child gently on the shoulder or tap
the place in the child’s book that is
being read to help him or her stay
on task.

Encourage the child to use self-monitoring techniques to help focus.

Pause before asking questions or
ask the inattentive child a question
to gain his or her focus. Use the
student’s name or interests in neutral
ways during discussions.

Provide an example by making clear and concise classroom rules. Discuss them orally and post them for easy reference.

Create schedules, outlines, lists, and/or a homework assignment book to help the student keep organized as well as to increase home/school communication.

Understand the struggle a student with ADHD has and provide an ordered, safe, predictable classroom environment.

Have all of the students stand and stretch, run in place, or do an exercise or movement activity when deemed necessary.

Furnish two desks facing each other or side-by-side for one ADHD student. The child can move freely back and forth or lounge between the desks as long as he or she stays on task and in the designated area.

Choose the hyperactive child to hand out papers or do other classroom jobs that can help release pent up energy and contribute to his or her feeling of self-worth.

Provide the ADHD student opportunities to display his or her skills, talents and/or leadership ability.

Encourage sensitivity as the child interacts with peers. If he or she lacks social awareness.

If the student interrupts peers often, remind the child to listen first before talking.

Try playing classical music or a recording of nature sounds during work time.

Empower all the activities that they are fond of.