What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) refers to a condition that effects
3-5% of a school's population. A student with ADHD has difficulty maintaining attention span, is impulsive, and may be hyperactive; however, hyperactivity is not always present in ADHD. Frequently in such cases, the student's primary problem is inattentiveness; he or she is quiet and passive, and therefore easily overlooked in the classroom. ADHD is caused by an abnormality in neurological functioning, involving deficiencies in brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Students with ADHD display poor organizational skills and are easily distracted.

Only about 30% of students with ADHD are learning disabled and therefore are eligible to receive special education services. ADHD impacts all areas of a person's life-school, home and social environments. Unfortunately, 35% of students with ADHD drop out of school.

Diagnosis & Treatment

ADHD is a medical diagnosis made by a physician, in conjunction with others who with the child. The doctor, along with parents, teachers, and psychologists, conduct a multidisciplinary evaluation of the child. Input from all people are necessary.

Effective treatment of ADHD requires support from all work with the child: teachers, doctors, and behavioral and mental health professionals. Medication alone is not enough!! Teachers should be informed so as to be able to work as part of the child's support team.

ADHA In The Classroom

Teachers-How to deal with ADHD in the classroom?

Learning Environment:
Place the student in the front of the classroom, close to you and away from distractions as doors and windows.

Instruction:
Review previous lessons, and preview new ones. Use lots of visual aides such as; library books, overheads, internet, or simply write out key words and phrases on the board.

Giving Directions:
Keep directions clear and concise. Simplify complex steps and write them on the board. If necessary, repeat the directions calmly. Create an environment in which it is safe to ask questions.

Assignments:
Give one task at a time, and modify as needed. For example, allow more time for completion, as the ADHD student may work more slowly. Keep the pressure off, as these students are easily frustrated. Circulate as the class works to ensure that all students, but especially the ADHD student, understands.

Discipline:
Establish clear rules and consequences on the first day, and review them throughout the year. Be consistent and fair with expectations and consequences, and stay calm when situations arise. Avoid ridicule or criticism, as ADHD students usually have a hard time staying in control.

National Institute of Mental Health

ADHD Information and Support