ADHD & School
A new school year is often a stressful time for students with ADHD, as well as their parents. That’s because ADHD makes it more likely for a child to feel distracted, bored, and unengaged in the classroom. These students may also be more likely to face social challenges.
If you are worried about the upcoming semester, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself and your child. We recommend that you start by following these four helpful tips.
-
Become Educated on Your Child’s Rights and Resources
In the United States, most children with disabilities are entitled to special education services and accommodations. If you have a child with ADHD, they may be eligible for extra support via the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
These services differ but have the same goal of making education more accessible for children with disabilities. IDEA is governed under federal law and may allow for the provision of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which would be specifically designed to meet the needs of your child.
Section 504 is also a federal plan, but differs from IEPs by providing changes and services that affect the overall learning environment. The goal of a 504 plan is to ensure that all students in a classroom have their needs adequately met.
Between these two resources, your child may gain access to accommodations like:
- Extra test-taking time
- Time management and organizational support
- Specialized instructions and assignments
- Distraction-limiting changes to the environment
- Helpful technology
- Additional time and/or space for your child
IDEA and Section 504 eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis. To learn more about whether your child qualifies for these services, contact their school to request an educational evaluation.
-
Reach Out to Your Child’s School Beforehand
You are your child’s most important resource. No one will ever be as knowledgeable about their needs or as determined to help them find success as you are. With that in mind, we always encourage parents to reach out to their child’s school if they have any questions or concerns.
Whether or not your child qualifies for an IEP or 504 plan, a conversation with teachers and educators about their ADHD symptoms is always a good idea. Although it’s best to have this conversation before the school year begins, it’s never too late to advocate for your child. Make an appointment, talk specifically about your child’s ADHD symptoms and how they are affected by them, and share strategies that have (or have not) worked in the past.
We recommend that you approach your child’s teachers in a supportive and reassuring way. Ask educators about their thoughts and recommendations, and let them know that you welcome further conversation as needs arise. If you establish a baseline of open and kind communication, you can work hand in hand with your child’s educational system to ensure a successful year.
That said, if you do approach your child’s teacher in a reassuring way and they are not receptive, don’t lose sight of the fact that educational support is not a luxury; it’s a right. Sometimes, an open relationship with your child’s school is hard won, despite your best intentions and efforts. In those cases, you should contact a counselor–like a member of our team–to learn more about the best path forward.
-
Set Shared Goals with Your Child
Setting realistic goals with your child will not only help them academically, but also socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. In fact, goal-setting is a core part of the IEP experience as it helps students, teachers, and parents navigate challenges with thoughtful and targeted interventions. When setting goals, we recommend you follow these best practices:
Follow the SMART Criteria
According to research, the best goals are those that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The idea is to avoid vague or unrealistic expectations in favor of clear, focused, and actionable benchmarks.
Break Down Large Goals into Smaller Ones
It’s easy for anyone to get overwhelmed and discouraged in the face of looming goals. When we break bigger goals down into smaller, more manageable tasks, it’s easier to move forward in confidence. This is especially true for students with ADHD, who find it difficult to stay focused, motivated, and productive.
Give Regular Positive Feedback
Positive reinforcement helps students build stronger self-awareness, confidence, and motivation. We recommend giving your child regular feedback that is descriptive and sincere to reinforce good behavior and encourage them to stay on track with their goals.
The goals you set will depend on the needs of your child and the expectations of their teachers. Generally speaking, the goals for students with ADHD are based upon the desire to improve skills like:
- Organization
- Concentration
- Task initiation and completion
- Impulse control
- Emotional regulation
Remember, goal setting is a fundamental part of the educational journey for all students, not just those with ADHD.
-
Turn to a Counselor When Needed
Counseling and therapy are proven ways to manage and reduce the symptoms of ADHD. Of course, there is no cure for the disorder, but regular sessions with a counselor can help a person with ADHD achieve greater emotional well-being.
Studies indicate that psychotherapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, can diminish irritability and aggression in children with ADHD. Behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and family therapy are other types of psychotherapy that are used to support students and individuals with ADHD.
If your child is on medication for ADHD, CBT, and other psychotherapies can also help to diminish the negative side effects that sometimes occur. Sleep problems, poor appetite, headaches, etc., can all be improved through counseling.
Schedule a Free Meet & Greet with NPS Today
The counselors at NPS have extensive knowledge of and experience with treating ADHD. We are here to provide tailored support, helpful advice, and actionable guidance. If you or your child is struggling to cope with stressful educational experiences, we are here to help.
The first step to healing is a positive counselor-client match. To make sure we pair you with the best counselor for your needs, we offer free 15-minute meet and greets for new clients. Schedule yours by calling our office at (815) 477-4727. We look forward to hearing from you!