1. Clear Instructions and Repetition

  • Use simple, direct language: Avoid multi-step or complex instructions. Break them down into smaller, more digestible parts.
  • Use visual prompts alongside verbal instructions so students can refer back to the visual cues if needed.
  • Provide opportunities for clarification—pause after giving instructions to ask if there are any questions.

2. Visual Aids

  • Color coding: Different colors for different subjects or tasks can help students easily differentiate and prioritize.
  • Interactive visuals: Use charts and diagrams that require student participation, such as fill-in-the-blank charts or visual organizers where students place images or words.
  • Timers on the wall or phone apps: Visual timers can be extremely helpful to show how much time is left for a particular task or transition.

3. Structured Routine

  • Consistency is key: Students with ADHD often thrive in predictable environments. Using the same routines day-to-day reduces anxiety and helps students feel more confident about what’s coming next.
  • Visual schedule: Display the schedule for the day in a visible place in the classroom so that students can refer to it throughout the day.
  • Use “advance warnings” for transitions: A 5-minute warning before the end of a task can help prepare students for what’s next.

4. Movement Breaks

  • Incorporate brain breaks: Activities like stretching, deep breathing, or a brief walk can help students with ADHD reset and stay engaged.
  • Fidget tools: Provide stress balls, fidget spinners, or textured fabric for students to handle quietly while they work.
  • Scheduled breaks: Give students a predictable, routine time to get up, move, and come back to their tasks.

5. Positive Reinforcement

  • Be specific in praise: Rather than just saying “good job,” be specific about what the student did well, such as “I noticed how focused you were during that task.”
  • Token system or reward charts: Using a token economy or simple reward chart can give students something tangible to work towards.
  • Immediate reinforcement: The closer the praise is to the behavior, the more effective it is for reinforcing the desired behavior.

6. Task Breakdown

  • Step-by-step guides: Provide students with checklists that outline the specific steps for each task. This can help reduce overwhelm and ensure that no part of the task is forgotten.
  • Use "I can" statements: For example, "I can read the first paragraph" or "I can answer question #1." This turns a large task into manageable, achievable steps.
  • Visual breakdowns: Sometimes a diagram or flow chart can help illustrate the process of completing a task.

7. Time Management Tools

  • Timers: Use visual countdowns or set alarms for task completion or transitions. Consider a "time left" visual for activities that are time-sensitive.
  • Time tracking apps or physical clocks: Some students benefit from apps that visually track how much time they have left for a task or activity.

8. Checklists and Organizers

  • Interactive checklists: Digital or paper checklists where students can mark off items as they complete them help them stay focused on their progress.
  • Daily/Weekly planner: Use planners to help students organize long-term assignments and break them down into smaller daily goals.
  • Personalized organizers: Customize a folder or binder with the student’s name, individual tasks, and priorities to make organization more personal and relevant.

9. Individualized Approach

  • Differentiated instruction: Modify the content, process, and product of assignments based on the student’s needs. For example, provide an alternate way to demonstrate learning (e.g., a video presentation instead of a written report).
  • Flexible seating options: Some students may need to stand or use a standing desk, while others may benefit from sitting on a balance ball or using noise-canceling headphones.

Important Considerations:

  1. Communication with Parents

    • Regular check-ins: It’s helpful to maintain a steady flow of communication with parents. Provide them with updates about how their child is doing and ask for strategies that are working at home.
    • Collaborative planning: Share strategies and interventions that work in the classroom with parents to ensure consistency in support at home.

  2. Addressing Sensory Issues

    • Create a sensory-friendly space: Some students with ADHD also experience sensory sensitivities. Having a quiet corner or a sensory space where they can calm down can help.
    • Provide sensory tools: Noise-canceling headphones, textured mats, or weighted blankets can help reduce distractions for students who are sensitive to sensory input.

  3. Addressing Anxiety

    • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Teach students calming techniques, like deep breathing exercises, to manage anxiety.
    • Clear expectations for behavior: Reducing uncertainty about what’s expected can alleviate anxiety. Offering a predictable routine or routine check-ins for any student feeling anxious can make a huge difference.
    • Supportive relationships: Building strong, trusting relationships with students can help them feel more comfortable sharing their struggles and anxieties with you.