How To Deal With ADHD In The Classroom

By William Phillips


ADHD, also known as ADD, is a disorder of the brain, characterized by recurring moments of inattention, or impulsivity that impacts the normal development and functioning of a person. No wonder its name, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In class, some students show the signs of this disorder. Usually, their academic performance becomes affected. Being well versed about ADHD in the Classroom is critical, to enable a teacher deal with such students.

A parent with a child who has ADHD feels lonely and neglected, for he or she has to bear the situation alone. Recent research by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that, in the United States, virtually twelve percent of the young persons aged from four to seventeen had been diagnosed to have the disorder.

In normal life situations, it is not uncommon to observe some elements of inattention, wandering motor activities and momentary impulsivity. Individuals with Attention Deficit Disorder, as it is also known, tend to exhibit these symptoms more severely, more frequently, and in some cases, can interfere with the quality of their social lives, either in the office or at school.

The nature of inattention as exhibited by individuals with ADD is varied but is signaled by ignorance, or a shrug to details, or the tendency to frequently make avoidable mistakes in school work. Moreover, a child often shows reluctance when asked to perform an assignment that calls for high mental engrossment. On the other hand, hyperactivity can is seen when a student causes a commotion in a situation where silence is expected, like in a meeting, or in a classroom setting.

Furthermore, there have been other surveys conducted to gather facts about just how comparable healthy children are, to their peers who have ADD. The research openly revealed that the kids who had the disorder were consistently incapacitated to maintain a good academic record, due to the numerous cases of harmful behavior in school. More often than not, they are caught up in situations that warrant nothing less than a suspension, or expulsion. A good number of them fail to complete their academic life.

Teachers are often the first persons to notice the symptoms of ADD, for they are mostly in contact with learners. What an educator sees is that the child may commence their work independently, but the flimsiest noise from another kid evokes irritation. Also, the child becomes a constant nuisance to the class during instructional sessions by asking unwelcomed questions or remarks.

As a teacher, there are some means you can develop to curb the occasional disturbances from other students, making others fail to concentrate because of distraction from another classmate. You can conjure up some indicator signs to the child with ADHD, to recollect themselves and carry on with academic work. For instance, hand gestures, or body language. However, when speaking to the child, find a private area.

Alternatively, you may also decide to change the seating arrangement in class to try and accommodate the students, while minimizing unnecessary distractions. Changing the seating plan may simply mean placing a child away from window apertures because outdoor movements make their thoughts wander.




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