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ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood.
A person with ADHD has differences in brain development and brain activity that may affect focus, the ability to sit still, and self-control. ADHD can manifest itself in many subtle ways. It is key that educators have the information and tools necessary to support students with this learning difference.
We can help by ensuring that all appropriate accommodations and modifications are clearly written into a student’s IEP or 504 plan.
No! ADHD can look very different in each child.
The ability to focus, and change focus when requested is a skill. It is a skill that is relied upon very often in a school environment. Think about a normal day: changing classrooms, changing topics within a class, or changing activities.
A child with ADHD generally over-focuses on what’s captivating to them in that moment. They struggle to focus when a teacher asks them to focus on a different, or non-preferred topic or activity. This then may cause problems transitioning, because shifting attention is part of managing focus.
The educator’s challenge then becomes recognizing and accommodating for the behavior associated with the inability to shift focus. This can look like a student ignoring an instruction, lashing out, displaying disruptive behavior, or struggles with organization and the need to fidget.”
Consider these examples to help with understanding of some ADHD behaviors…
If it is suspected that a child may have a disability that impacts their ability to progress in the school environment, testing and evaluation should take place to define a students needs. The school team might determine that specific supports need to be put in place for your child (Parents are a key member of this team; as is the student if appropriate). Your child might require special education or a 504 plan to access these supports.
Based on discussion of the student’s current performance in all areas of need, the team should structure accommodations, modifications, and potentially even special education services to facilitate the student’s success in the classroom.
If a child with ADHD is not properly accommodated in school, they may struggle to succeed in their educational environment. As a parent, you may be struggling to determine if your child is being appropriately accommodated and supported.
If you are feeling overwhelmed in IEP/504 meetings, and want help to insure supports and services for your child are in place, please give me a call for a free initial consultation – Leah Sansone M.Ed. | (919)510-3180
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