Talking with teachers in advance and taking steps to prepare your child with ADHD for school can significantly help improve their chances for success in the classroom.
When getting ready for back-to-school season, it’s important to consider the needs of your child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
This neurodevelopmental disorder is known for symptoms of inattention and impulsivity, which can make it hard to concentrate, follow instructions, and finish tasks in school. Planning ahead with these six steps can help ease the process of starting or returning to school and ensure a better experience for your child.
Depending on their eligibility, your child may qualify for either a 504 plan or an individualized education plan (IEP), with the latter
If you’re interested in obtaining one, it’s important to know that the process may take several weeks. This is in part due to coordinating all the professionals required to attend IEP meetings, including, but not limited to:
- your child’s teacher(s)
- special education teachers
- school psychologists
- speech or occupational therapists
- school administrators
Depending on the original date of eligibility, your child’s annual IEP meeting may take place during the school year. However, you have the right to request a meeting at any time.
If you want to have an additional meeting before the next school year, you may need to set this up before the current school year is over.
Researchers have noted that parents who actively participate in the education path for their children with ADHD can help improve their overall quality of education.
Whether your child has formal accommodations or not, it’s worth talking with their teacher(s) at the start of the school year about any concerns you may have. Rather than approaching them during open house, when they’ll likely be talking with multiple families, see whether you can schedule a virtual or in-person meeting after school.
Also, depending on the school, your child may not have physical education classes every day. It’s worth asking their teacher whether they offer “movement breaks” throughout the day so your child can burn off energy to help them focus better in the classroom.
Your child may also benefit from sitting in the front of the classroom closest to their teacher to help minimize distractions. Depending on their IEP or 504 plan, extra time for testing or other accommodations can also help ensure your child’s success.
While buying supplies is an important step in getting ready for the new school year, your child may also need help organizing them.
Younger children may need help labeling binders, folders, and pencil or crayon cases. You can assist them by coming up with an organizational system for their backpacks and classroom desks. Separate folders for each subject may also be helpful.
Older children may benefit from a daily planner, where you can show them how to write down homework assignments and other important reminders. If they use a smartphone, you can also encourage your child to set alarms for upcoming deadlines and appointments (as long as these do not go off in the middle of class).
Having a set routine
Consider writing down the routine together, either on a large piece of paper, a calendar, or a board, and putting it up on a wall, the refrigerator, or in another common area so your child can easily refer to it.
Aside from your child’s school hours, consider establishing specific times for:
- waking up and getting ready each day
- any therapy appointments after school
- extracurricular activities
- tutoring, homework time, or both
- regular breaks
- a consistent bedtime
It’s also helpful to practice this routine for a few days before the school year starts.
The extra focus required during school days
Try fitting in additional exercise where you can. Younger children can benefit from activities such as playground trips and running around in parks. You can consider encouraging older children to play sports and go on family walks.
On the flip side, stress management and relaxation can also increase your child’s ability to focus. Meditation and other mindfulness practices may help with attention training. You can start by simply teaching your child to take a few moments each day to focus on their breathing.
In addition to possible behavioral techniques your child may receive at school through an IEP or 504 plan, experts recommend using positive reinforcement and feedback at home as often as you can. Rather than worrying about certain grades, your child may benefit more from feedback regarding their ability to focus and finish their assignments.
It’s also not unexpected for any child — whether they have an ADHD diagnosis or not — to become overwhelmed at some point during the school year. You can help minimize stress by sticking with their routine, but you should also be on the lookout for clear signs when your child needs a break.
Ongoing support for your child’s mental and emotional needs will ultimately lead to better success in other areas of their life, including school.
While classroom environments often present challenges to children with ADHD, you can take steps to help improve your child’s chances of success.
Talking with teachers in advance, establishing routines, and encouraging regular physical activity can all help improve daytime focus.
It can also help to keep in regular contact with your child’s teachers. Taking an active role in your child’s education is one of the most important factors in the success of students with ADHD.