Unlocking ADHD writer Stephanie Cheng on classroom adjustments to support your child’s ADHD needs with teachers.
Children spend over half of their day at school, and you can imagine how many encounters they will have with their teachers. Teachers have a significant impact on a child’s life. Given this, it may be advisable for you to inform your child’s teacher about his or her ADHD. By ensuring that the child is properly supported both at home and at school, the child can better manage his or her ADHD symptoms to reach new heights!
Let’s support ADHDers in the class today! Here are 6 simple steps to keep in mind when addressing your child’s ADHD:
Be Optimistic!
It may be difficult to be optimistic about your child’s ADHD at first, and you may be immobilised, stressed and unsure what to do after the diagnosis. However, it is important to maintain a positive mindset while you support your child. Remember that there are others out there who will be happy to work alongside you with your child’s best interests in mind. A positive attitude can also help you stay calm and focused, allowing you to connect with and support your child more effectively.
Share information about your child’s ADHD
ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all condition; each individual is unique and hence displays ADHD symptoms differently. Thus, it is advisable to inform your child’s teacher of the specifics on how ADHD has affected him or her, as well as offer some details on how your child behaves. This can assist the teacher greatly in better understanding your child’s ADHD, and making the appropriate accommodations for him or her.
Help educate stakeholders (teachers)
Most teachers, particularly general education teachers, do not have extensive training in dealing with or recognising ADHD. They may be aware of the symptoms, but they may not completely comprehend the challenges associated with supporting ADHD children. You could start by describing how ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impairs executive functioning [link to What is ADHD? Article], and you can also help to clarify any misconceptions regarding the condition [link to Myth or Fact? Article].
Suggest possible adjustments
As a parent, you may have seen how schooling and homework affects your child. Collaboration with your child’s teacher is essential to ensuring that your child can manage his or her assignments!
Here are some suggestions for you to share:
- How long it takes your child to do his or her homework
- Homework assignments that your child may struggle with
- Circumstances that may intensify your child’s ADHD symptoms
If your child is on ADHD medication, here are some things you can share as well:
- Side effects of medication
- Behaviours you have witnessed with medication
Discuss teachers’ recommendations
While it is natural that you want the best for your child, it is equally important to ensure that your child fulfills school expectations. Teachers may respond to your suggestions with some recommendations they may have, ensuring that your child’s needs are met while still making sure that they do not miss out on any school events.
Keep an active and open communication channel
Keeping in touch with your child’s teacher is a good method for you to follow your child’s progress in school. It also allows teachers to notify you immediately if they detect anything unusual or strange about your child’s behavior.
View this communication as a way to encourage one another. With an open line, both you and the teacher can continue to make modifications for your child. This can help determine the best strategies for your child to maximise his or her potential.
Conclusion
Most importantly, converse with your child’s instructors in a warm, cheerful tone and express your thanks to them. With good rapport, teachers will feel motivated and appreciated, which will encourage them to ensure that your child has a healthy environment to manage his or her ADHD. These are a crucial part of the scaffolds you build around your ADHDer’s development to ensure his or her steady progress.
