Classroom Suggestions For Students With ADHD





Developmental Pediatric Associates,L.L.P.
(W.Daniel Williamson,M.D.,FAAP)
(Nancy LaFevers, M.A.,CCC-SLP)



To Promote Attention

Choose seating
  •   in a quiet area
  •   near a good role model or "study buddy"
  •   away from distracting stimuli
Modify assignments
  •   allow extra time for completion
  •   shorten assignments or work periods
  •   divide long assignments into smaller parts
  •   give assignments one at a time
  •   reduce the amount of homework
  •   require fewer correct responses for grades
Modify teaching techniques
  •   instruct student to use self-monitoring or cueing
  •   pair written instructions with oral instructions
  •   provide peer assistance in note taking
  •   give clear, concise instructions
  •   involve the student in lesson planning
  •   provide written outline of lesson
  •   look at the student when talking
  •   cue the student to stay on task using a private signal
To encourage compliance and reduce impulsivity
Reward appropriate behaviors
  •   ignore minor, inappropriate behaviors
  •   supervise carefully during transition times
  •   give immediate praise for appropriate behaviors (e.g. raising hand to answer question, etc.)
  •   implement classroom behavior management system
  •   Have class rules posted; refer to them throughout the day
  •   institute regular school/home communication system having positive as well as negative comments on behaviors
Establish consequences for inappropriate behaviors
  •   use time out procedure for in misbehavior
  •   set up behavior contract, using tokens
  •   make reprimands immediate
  •   don't lecture
To Manage Motor Activity
  •   allow student to stand at times while working
  •   provide opportunity for breaks, e.g. run errands, etc.
  •   provide short break between assignments
To Improve Organization and Planning
  •   use visual aids in lesson presentation
  •   encourage student to use notebook with dividers and folders for work
  •   provide homework assignment book
  •   supervise writing down of homework assignments
  •   check homework daily
  •   encourage neatness rather than punish sloppiness
  •   give assignments one at a time to avoid confusion
  •   assist student in setting short term goals for completing assignments
To Promote Positive Emotional Development
  •   provide reassurance and encourage
  •   frequently complement positive behavior
  •   speak softly in non-threatening manner if student shows nervousness
  •   focus on student's talents and accomplishments
  •   reinforce frequently when signs of frustration are noticed
  •   look for signs of stress and provide encouragement or reduce work load
  •   spend more time talking with student
  •   provide strategies for student to deal with anger (walk away, use calming strategies, tell nearby adult if getting angry)
  •   conference frequently with parents to learn about student's interests and achievements outside of school.


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