A.D.H.D.

A.D.H.D./T.D.A.H.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder. But getting an accommodation or special services based solely on an ADHD diagnosis is difficult—and unless students manifest “one or more specified physical or mental impairments,” they’re not considered disabled and are not eligible for services. Essentially, these kids are caught in the middle. Not necessarily minority, they’re not part of the educational equity debate.

Without special education services, many students with ADHD don’t thrive in the classroom. Betrayed by their bodies, these kids struggle with peer relationships, feel like failures, and are stigmatized.

But we as teachers have the power and ingenuity to create more effective learning environments for students with ADHD. Even if students don’t have an individualized education program, we can create learning environments that foster greater productivity, order, and calm.

Making Learning Child-Centered

Child- or student-centered learning presumes that students who are drivers of their own learning will be more motivated. It’s a tenet of the constructivist learning theory first proposed by Jean Piaget, and it considers the learning styles, preferences, and interests of the student.

Gaming, hands-on activities, small-group activities, webquests, and mini-lessons can all be integrated as resources.

Integrating Personal Development Into Lessons Students with ADHD frequently lack skills required in the real world, including problem solving, time management, fiscal responsibility, personal accountability, communication skills, and public speaking. Teachers can integrate these skills into lessons. For example, students who need help advocating for themselves can learn how to present and sell ideas, market themselves, and communicate effectively through public speaking. Public speaking integrates oral presentation skills, research, storytelling, nonverbal communication, time management, problem solving, and speaking fluency.

Assess each child’s learning style and design an individualized plan to accommodate that child. It’s student-centered learning at its best, facilitated by the teacher and encouraging mastery, confidence, and enthusiasm—and students with disabilities do well with this method. Children with ADHD are statistically quite bright. Unfortunately, their symptoms—distractibility, hyperactivity, clumsiness, impulsivity, nervousness, and poor focus and concentration—can undermine learning. To help them blow off steam and refocus, schedule some short movement sessions such as yoga, tai chi, Zumba, or a quick power walk. The exercise causes the brain to release endorphins, the so-called happy hormones. Creating a Positive, Supportive Learning Environment There are common practices teachers use to reduce classroom distractions. Seating a child with ADHD in the front row, away from doors and windows, is one approach. Are recommended mentoring programs, use a study partner, a classmate to help the student with ADHD. Knowing that one person is there to help him or her can empower a student with ADHD. The school becomes a less hostile environment.

Documenting Whenever Possible

Document whenever possible, and involve the parents in your strategies. Note any modifications made in the classroom and their effectiveness. Source: https://www.edutopia.org/blog/bridging-the-adhd-gap-merle-huerta Written by: Merle Huerta Uploaded by: Andrea Larroca