How
to Help the ADHD Child Succeed in School
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.
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