STRATEGIES FOR SUPPORTING STUDENTS WITH ADHD IN THE CLASSROOM

As ADHD impairs both social and cognitive functioning in daily life, teaching students with ADHD can be very challenging as they struggle to behave appropriately; thereby interrupting teaching and learning in the classroom.

Some of these behaviours are typical of students with ADHD:

• Hyperactivity –unable to sit still, constantly fidgeting, and excessive movement.
• Inattentiveness – having a short attention span, easily distracted, unable to concentrate on tasks, constantly changing activity or task, appearing as unable to follow instructions, and forgetfulness.
• Impulsiveness – acting before thinking, interrupting conversations, and little or no sense of danger.

Teachers will learn to manage ADHD students by using strategies to:

• create a supportive learning environment
• give instructions
• modify behaviour
• enhance self-esteem
• practice teaching techniques through roleplay