Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and adults. It involves ongoing inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity patterns that can disrupt daily life and vary in severity.
October is ADHD Awareness Month
The goal of ADHD Awareness Month is to correct misunderstandings about ADHD and highlight the shared experiences of the ADHD community. Help the CDC raise ADHD awareness, encourage inclusion, and connect people to support services. Get more information at ADHD Awareness.
What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. ADHD is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. It is a complex condition with a range of symptoms and severity.
Educational Tips
Communication
- Give frequent feedback and attention to positive behavior.
- Be sensitive to the influence of ADHD on emotions, such as self-esteem issues or difficulty regulating feelings.
- Provide extra warnings before transitions and routine changes.
- Understand that children with ADHD may become deeply absorbed in activities that interest them (hyper-focus) and may need extra assistance shifting their attention.
Tasks and Assignments
- Make assignments clear — check to see if they understand what they must do.
- Provide choices to show mastery (for example, let the student choose between a written essay, oral report, online quiz, or hands-on projects).
- Do not make assignments long and repetitive. Shorter assignments that provide a little challenge without being too hard may work well.
- Allow breaks since paying attention requires extra effort and can be tiring.
- Allow time to move and exercise.
- Minimize distractions in your educational environment.
- Be resourceful and efficient by using organizational tools.
What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology (AT) refers to devices, software, or equipment designed to help individuals with disabilities perform tasks that might otherwise be difficult or...
