472- What Educators Don’t Know About ADHD (and Need To)
Sep 21, 2023
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Learn the myths and facts about ADHD in education, the impact of teachers on students with ADHD, strategies for managing time effectively, benefits of fidget tools, ways to promote ADHD awareness among educators, and resources for supporting the ADHD community.
Educators should be aware that girls with ADHD may have different symptoms compared to boys and may be overlooked.
Medication is not a cure-all for ADHD and educators play a crucial role in medication management.
Providing visual schedules, fidgets, and accommodations can help students with ADHD stay organized and focused.
Deep dives
Understanding ADHD in the Classroom
ADHD affects students of all genders and backgrounds, and educators should be aware of this. Girls with ADHD are often overlooked because their symptoms may differ from boys'. Medication is not a magic solution for ADHD and may not work the same for every individual. Educators play an important role in medication management by providing feedback and observations. Students with ADHD are often bright and creative, but may also have coexisting conditions like learning disabilities or anxiety. It's crucial for educators to recognize that executive function deficits and emotional dysregulation can affect students in various ways. Visual schedules, fidgets, and accommodations like technology can help students with ADHD stay organized and focused. Educators should understand that time management can be a challenge for students with ADHD, and implementing tools like timers and breaking tasks into smaller parts can be helpful. Normalizing ADHD in the classroom can be achieved by talking about it openly, addressing challenges, and encouraging empathy among students. Educators can also support parents by providing suggestions for accommodations and resources.
Working with Students with ADHD
When students with ADHD become overwhelmed or frustrated, it's important to give them outlets to cope, such as taking breaks or finding quiet spaces. Helping students recognize their own emotions and teaching them self-advocacy skills can be beneficial. Educators should also manage their own emotional regulation by taking personal time-outs when needed. Supporting students with ADHD in managing their time effectively can be done through reminders, timers, and breaking tasks into smaller parts. Providing fidgets, such as squeeze balls or tangles, can help students focus and manage their energy. Educators can also model good ADHD practices and share personal experiences to create a supportive and understanding classroom environment.
Informing Parents about ADHD
When educators observe ADHD symptoms in students who haven't been diagnosed, it's important to approach parents sensitively and avoid making direct diagnostic claims. Engage in open conversations about behaviors and share personal observations while being mindful of the child's privacy. Comparing behaviors at home and school can help parents recognize patterns and consider seeking an evaluation. It's essential to emphasize that a medical diagnosis is necessary for appropriate support and accommodations.
Promoting ADHD Awareness among Educators
To get educators interested in learning more about ADHD, provide resources like books and articles on the topic. Hang posters like the ADHD iceberg in the teachers' lounge to spark curiosity and discussions. Inviting ADHD experts to speak during professional development days can also increase awareness. Encourage open conversations among colleagues and share strategies and success stories to show the positive impact of ADHD-informed teaching. Emphasize that normalizing ADHD benefits not just students with ADHD, but the entire classroom.
Additional Tips and Resources
Additional tips for supporting students with ADHD include reducing homework and in-class assignments, implementing diverse teaching modalities, providing visual reminders and organizational tools, offering exploration time in new environments, and fostering inclusivity in lesson plans. Educators can access a variety of fidget tools from online retailers, such as squeeze balls, fidget spinners, and tangles. Recommended resources include Attitude Magazine, professional organizations like CHADD and ADHD Coaches, and websites like trainerswarehouse.com for classroom tools and accommodations. Remember to approach ADHD with empathy, as students with ADHD may be developmentally delayed compared to their peers. By understanding and supporting students with ADHD, educators can make a profound and positive impact on their academic and personal success.
Given the prevalence of ADHD, every educator should assume they’ll be teaching at least one student with the condition. Evelyn Polk Green, M.S.Ed., highlights myths about ADHD, and the facts and accommodations teachers need to know.
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