Educators are pivotal in creating classroom environments where students with ADHD can thrive. This guide equips you with practical, evidence-based strategies tailored to meet the unique needs of these students. From breaking down assignments and managing hyperactivity with movement breaks to implementing positive behavior supports and offering flexible accommodations, these tips are designed to foster focus, organization, and academic growth.
Explore this comprehensive resource or read on below to discover how to build a structured and inclusive classroom that helps students with ADHD succeed academically, socially, and beyond.
Key Facts About ADHD
- Fact 1: ADHD is a neurological condition that affects attention, impulsivity, and self-regulation.
- Fact 2: ADHD presents in different ways—some students may struggle with hyperactivity, while others may experience inattentiveness or a combination of both.
- Fact 3: With appropriate support and strategies, students with ADHD can achieve academic and social success.
Evidence-Based Instructional Practices
- Practice 1: Break assignments into smaller tasks and provide frequent check-ins to maintain focus and monitor progress.
- Practice 2: Incorporate movement breaks or opportunities for physical activity throughout the day to help manage hyperactivity.
- Practice 3: Use timers or visual cues to help students stay on track and manage time effectively.
Positive Behavior Supports
- Support 1: Implement a reward system that encourages goal setting and reinforces positive behaviors, like completing tasks or following instructions.
- Support 2: Establish clear expectations and consistently follow through with consequences to help students understand boundaries.
- Support 3: Provide immediate and specific feedback to help students understand the connection between their actions and outcomes.
Accommodations for Students with ADHD
- Accommodation 1: Allow for flexible seating options, such as standing desks or fidget tools, to help students manage physical restlessness.
- Accommodation 2: Provide extra time on tasks or tests, recognizing that staying focused may take longer for students with ADHD.
- Accommodation 3: Use graphic organizers or outlines to help students organize their thoughts before starting a task.
Time Management and Focus Strategies
- Strategy 1: Teach students to use organizational tools like planners or apps to manage assignments and deadlines.
- Strategy 2: Set up a quiet area for independent work to minimize distractions and help students maintain focus.
- Strategy 3: Use visual schedules or task cards to break down the day and guide students through transitions smoothly.
Building Social Skills
- Skill 1: Facilitate structured peer interactions through cooperative games, helping students practice turn-taking, listening, and sharing ideas.
- Skill 2: Incorporate social scripts to teach appropriate responses in common social situations, providing students with a guide to navigate interactions more confidently.
- Skill 3: Use small group discussions or partner work to encourage collaboration, while offering gentle prompts to keep students engaged and respectful of others’ input.
About the Author
Keely Keller is the Director of Professional Programs for Teaching Channel in Eagan, Minnesota. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from St. Cloud State University, a Master’s of Arts in Education from Hamline University, and additional Director of Special Education and Principal Licensures from the University of Minnesota. Before joining Teaching Channel, Keely served students with special needs as a teacher and Special Education Coordinator in a suburban Minnesota school district. Keely has years of experience working with new teachers.
Fun fact: Keely loves to go camping in her travel trailer with family and friends.
