This month is ADHD Awareness month, a time to promote awareness and raise the profile of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across the UK.  It is an often misrepresented and sometimes misunderstood disorder that affects between 2% to 5% of school-aged children in the UK.

 

Therefore, teaching staff need to ensure that they adapt the classroom to suit those suffering from the disorder and understand the common behaviours. We have put together some top tips to help you manage ADHD in a school setting.

Educate fellow pupils 

 

Educating the class on the behaviours of certain children in the class will help them understand if they are treated slightly differently. Maybe involve the child who has been diagnosed with ADHD in the discussion, so they can explain how they feel.

Establish a routine 

 

Make a routine and stick to it so as not to confuse the child and keep them on task. Establishing rules will keep every pupil in the class engaged and under control.

Make tasks interactive 

 

A child with ADHD may find it difficult to sit still and focus on a full lesson. Making tasks more interactive will help keep them engaged. Letting them hand out equipment for the lesson will give them a purpose in the lesson and release some energy.

Create a quiet area 

 

Consider making a quiet space where the child can take some time out from the lesson if they are feeling overwhelmed. Create some activities there that may take their mind off their anxiety.

 

You can find out more information about ADHD here.