Effective Support Strategies For Students With ADHD With Jeff Copper (Part 2)
May 22, 2022
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In this engaging discussion, ADHD expert Jeff Copper, founder of DIG Coaching Practice, dives into the intricacies of supporting students with ADHD. He highlights the reward-driven brain of ADHD children, emphasizing their need for immediate stimulation. Copper delves into the challenges of executive functioning, urging educators to exercise patience and develop tailored strategies. He showcases the importance of self-awareness in helping kids recognize their strengths and weaknesses, ultimately fostering emotional and academic growth. A must-listen for educators!
Understanding that children with ADHD often exhibit executive functioning delays necessitates patience and tailored support from educators and caregivers.
Recognizing the impact of technology on attention spans highlights the need for structured environments that minimize distractions for students with ADHD.
Deep dives
Understanding Executive Functioning in ADHD
The episode emphasizes that individuals with ADHD often exhibit executive functioning that is developmentally behind their chronological age. For instance, a 10-year-old with ADHD may have the executive functioning skills of a 7.5-year-old, highlighting the need for patience from adults supporting these children. This disparity calls for a nuanced approach to education and behavior management, understanding that these children may require more time and tailored strategies to cope with challenges. Acknowledging this delay can help caregivers and educators develop more effective support systems that cater to the actual capabilities of children with ADHD.
Dopamine and Self-Regulation Challenges
The episode discusses the impact of technology on self-regulation among teenagers, particularly boys, and how instant gratification from devices complicates their ability to focus on tasks. The allure of immediate rewards, like notifications and social media interactions, can overwhelm their capacity to manage longer-term responsibilities, leading to difficulties in concentration and task completion. It is suggested that removing tempting distractions and creating an environment conducive to managing attention can significantly aid students with ADHD. Addressing the balance between allowing access to technology and preventing distraction is essential for fostering their learning and self-regulation.
The Role of Observation in Supporting ADHD
The conversation highlights the importance of observing individual behaviors in children with ADHD to identify their unique challenges and needs. Instead of viewing behaviors only as problematic, educators are encouraged to consider the underlying reasons for those behaviors, which can be linked to executive functioning difficulties. By understanding and addressing the cognitive processes at play, teachers can tailor their approaches and interventions more effectively. This kind of observational skill development among educators can result in better support plans that respect individual student needs and contribute to their success.
Self-Awareness and Strengths in Context
The episode addresses how self-awareness in students with ADHD is crucial, but may develop at a different pace than their peers. Conversations surrounding personal strengths should be tailored to be relatable and understandable for children, considering their developmental stage. When discussing what comes easily to them, rather than abstract strengths, students may find it easier to engage and reflect on their skills. Guidance towards recognizing their potential should be patient and not force them to conform to adult perceptions of success, which helps build a foundation for their growth and self-advocacy.
Did you know that children with ADHD have a very reward driven brain - that drives them to seek out immediate pleasure ? That means if they're doing something that's boring, whatever the activity may be, it's physically uncomfortable for them.
In Part 2 of this episode, ADHD expert and founder of DIG Coaching Practice Jeff Copper, reveals more of his insights into the difficulties and challenges that kids with ADHD have and how we can effectively support them in school.