How to Teach Children With ADD

With the prevalence of Attention Deficit Disorder, most teachers have at least one child with diagnosed ADD in their classroom. Because these children struggle with hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness, school can be especially challenging for them. It takes a dedicated and special teacher to look beyond the negative aspects of ADD and help the child succeed. Note: According to the National Resource Center on ADHD, "ADD" is a term formerly used to refer to one of the three types of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. In 2010, "ADHD" was the clinically recognized term for the condition, whereas ADD is an common and unofficial name for one of the ADHD types: the "predominately inattentive" type, as opposed to the other two, in which hyperactivity is a major characteristic.

Instructions

1




Find the best spot for a child to work.

A child struggling with attention problems can easily be distracted. Sit in his seat and look around at what might prevent him from focusing. It may be the window, other students, or even the sound of the clock ticking. Move his seat to a less busy spot. Make it close to you so you can frequently check on him to make sure he's going down the right path on his work, before he gets too far into it. Having a child in close proximity to you is also beneficial for classroom management and squelching possible behavior issues.

2




Use an erasable whiteboard to keep a student organized.

Second, use the whiteboard to write specific steps the child needs to do to complete work. Often, vague directions such as "Research Frogs" can be overwhelming. Use the whiteboard to help the child organize specific steps such as "What do frogs eat?" Where do frogs live?" or "Are there different kinds of frogs?"

3




Additional stimuli may help concentration.

Experiment with different stimuli to see if it helps the child concentrate and focus. A squishy ball or stress ball that is placed in a child's hands at certain times may help the child keep his hands to himself and reduce impulsivity. A strip of velcro on his desk that a child with ADD can rub his fingers on may provide tactile stimulation that keeps him focused. With parents' permission, allowing a child to have a mint or gum while doing seated work may help him be more attentive to the task at hand.

4




Extra free time might motivate a child to do his best.

Use positive reinforcement and rewards. According to "What is ADHD?" by Healthy Kids, teachers should keep their eyes open for any opportunity to encourage the child's positive behavior. They encourage teachers to "offer praise when your child stays seated, doesn't call out, or waits his or her turn instead of criticizing when he or she doesn't." Create a reward program where a child can earn free time or a coupon for a no-homework night. Think about what might be motivating to him and plan accordingly.

5




Make an effort to keep communication open with parents.

Stay in communication with the child's parents. Purchase a spiral-bound notebook just for this purpose, and make a point to write noteworthy events that occur during the day. Remember to include positive choices as well as areas in need of improvement. The notebook can be used to communicate homework expectations as well so parents can help at home in this area. Parents can write back with any questions or insights they have regarding the child's behavior, medication issues, or academics. The communication notebook can be a valuable device in keeping parents and teachers on the same page.