As the parent of a child with ADHD, you probably realize that attention difficulties have nothing to do with your child’s intelligence. Many children with ADHD are of above-average intelligence, and with the proper environment, your child can succeed in school as well as anyone else. But sometimes, your child may feel like ADHD affects his or her classroom performance. For example, it’s possible that your child has experienced the following scenarios in school:

• Feeling unable to process information in the same way that others do
• Avoiding teachers because they seem unapproachable
• Not asking questions because questions might make attention difficulties more noticeable
• Having trouble making friends or other ADHD relationship problems

Parents are the child’s top advocate. If your child is having trouble in school or complains that he or she doesn’t like school, you should notify your child’s school and teachers immediately. By being aware of the ADHD, teachers and school officials can focus on ADHD classroom management. They can help your child be more successful in school and ultimately, more successful in life.

When you speak to school personnel and teachers, ask about the ways your child has succeeded in school and any difficulties your child may have encountered. Explain the treatments your child is receiving, including ADHD behavior therapy and medications. Ask about school-sponsored programs that will help your child, including activities aimed to encourage peer friendships and improve social skills.

Some parents find it beneficial to write a letter to teachers explaining a child’s ADHD condition. If you want to write such a letter, you can use it to outline the measures you’re taking to help your child. You also can ask that teachers accommodate your child whenever possible and use correction techniques that do not damage your child’s self-esteem.

During the summer vacation, stay in touch with your child’s school about the upcoming year. Meet the principal, teachers, and other school personnel in advance to get a jump-start on the next grade your child will be entering. Find out as much as you can about the school and how your child’s condition will be handled. You may want to consider an ADHD summer camp that offers refresher courses so your child doesn’t fall behind during summer vacation. Your preparation and communication will help your child throughout the school year.