Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Tips for Teachers
Tips for Teachers
Learn more about ADHD. There are resources and organizations available that will help you identify behavior support strategies and effective ways to support the student educationally.
Figure out what specific things are hard for the student. For example, one student with ADHD may have trouble starting a task, while another may have trouble ending one task and starting the next. Each student needs different help.
Post rules, schedules, and assignments. Clear rules and routines will help a student with ADHD. Have set times for specific tasks. Call attention to changes in the schedule.
Show the student how to use an assignment book and a daily schedule. Also teach study skills and learning strategies, and reinforce these regularly.
Help the student channel his or her physical activity (e.g., let the student do some work standing up or at the board). Provide regularly scheduled breaks.
Make sure directions are given step by step, and that the student is following the directions. Give directions both verbally and in writing. Many students with ADHD also benefit from doing the steps as separate tasks.
Let the student do work on a computer.
Work together with the student’s parents to create and implement an educational plan tailored to meet the student’s needs. Regularly share information about how the student is doing at home and at school.
Have high expectations for the student, but be willing to try new ways of doing things. Be patient. Maximize the student’s chances for success.
National Information Center for Children and youth with Disabilities
