Supporting a child with ADHD on their educational journey can be challenging, but it’s also filled with opportunities for growth. Schools across the UK are becoming increasingly aware of the diverse needs of students with ADHD, and many are making strides in developing more inclusive teaching strategies.
However, as a parent, you can play an equally vital role in reinforcing these strategies at home, ensuring your child has the tools they need to thrive. In this guide, we’ll explore how schools and parents can work together, offering effective learning strategies for students with ADHD.
ADHD: Understanding Your Child’s Needs
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) affects around 1 in 9 children in the UK. It can make focusing in the classroom challenging, with symptoms ranging from inattention and impulsivity to hyperactivity. While many schools are increasingly recognising the best ways to support ADHD students, parents often feel unsure about how they can provide extra help at home.
The good news is that ADHD doesn’t have to be a barrier to success. By combining support from both school and home, students with ADHD can develop effective learning strategies that enhance their focus, confidence, and academic progress.
How Schools Are Making Progress
Many UK schools are now better equipped to support students with ADHD than ever before. With increased teacher training and access to resources like Individualised Education Plans (IEPs), there’s a growing focus on adapting learning methods to fit the needs of neurodiverse students.
Teachers are becoming more aware of how to balance academic progress with behavioural support, and this is making a real difference for many ADHD students. However, as a parent, it’s important to stay involved and communicate with your child’s school to ensure these strategies are aligned at home and in the classroom.
Tailoring Support at Home
While schools provide structured learning environments, parents can help reinforce these strategies at home by creating an ADHD-friendly space that complements school-based learning. Here’s how:
Create a Structured but Flexible Routine
Children with ADHD often benefit from having a predictable routine, but it’s important to maintain flexibility within that structure. This allows your child to work at their own pace while still having clear expectations.
Clear Schedules: A visual timetable outlining daily tasks can help your child stay on track, especially when schoolwork is broken down into smaller, manageable steps.
Short Study Sessions: Help your child by setting shorter, focused study periods with regular breaks. For example, use a timer for 25-minute study bursts followed by 5-minute breaks to keep them engaged.
Interactive Learning
For many children with ADHD, learning isn’t just about sitting down and reading from a textbook. Incorporating interactive elements can make all the difference.
Hands-On Activities: Encourage activities that involve movement and creativity. This could include building models, using educational apps, or working on group projects with classmates.
Collaborative Learning: Consider allowing your child to study with a friend or sibling. Learning together often boosts motivation, and discussing ideas out loud can improve comprehension.
Screen Time as a Tool, Not a Distraction
Depending on how it’s used, technology can be a great asset or a distraction. The key for children with ADHD is finding balance. From combatting procrastination to boosting motivation, technology can work wonders when used correctly.
Educational Apps: Many apps, such as timers, organizers, and interactive learning platforms, are designed to keep children with ADHD on task. For example, apps like Khan Academy or Forest help students stay engaged while learning at their own pace.
Limit Screen Time: It’s important to have screen-free periods during the day to give your child’s mind time to rest. Encourage activities like reading or outdoor play to keep a healthy balance.
Personalised Feedback and Encouragement
ADHD is not one-size-fits-all, and personalised support is essential. Every child has unique strengths, so providing consistent, positive feedback can go a long way in keeping them motivated.
Focus on Strengths: Highlight your child’s achievements, no matter how small. This will build confidence and show them that progress is possible.
Constructive Support: If challenges arise, guide them with practical solutions rather than focusing solely on what went wrong. This ensures that learning remains a positive experience.
Fostering a Collaborative Relationship with Teachers
Regular communication with your child’s teachers is essential to making the most of the strategies both at home and school.
Share Insights: Let teachers know what works best for your child at home. They might incorporate similar strategies in the classroom, creating a consistent learning environment.
Ask About Progress: Tracking your child’s progress will help you identify areas where they might need extra help, allowing you to adjust your approach at home.
How Tutor Doctor Can Help
At Tutor Doctor, we understand the unique challenges students with ADHD face and the importance of personalised learning strategies. Our tutors work closely with students and parents to create a plan that fits each child’s individual needs. We offer one-to-one sessions designed to keep children with ADHD engaged, motivated, and progressing at their own pace.
Looking for extra support? Tutor Doctor’s experienced tutors can provide one-on-one guidance that fits your child’s unique learning style. Find your nearest tutor and discover personalised learning strategies tailored to your child’s needs and strengths.
