Teaching Children with ADHD: Planning, Patience, and Practical Support
Teaching children with ADHD comes with unique challenges—but with the right mindset, structure, and tools, you can be a positive influence. Whether you're a parent, tutor, or teacher, planning and patience are essential, especially when a child is taking stimulant medication. As that medication begins to wear off, symptoms of ADHD—like impulsivity, distractibility, and emotional reactivity—can temporarily intensify. How we support children during these times makes a significant difference.
Build a Supportive Schedule
One of the most powerful tools in supporting a child with ADHD is a thoughtful, consistent schedule. But it’s not just about what happens during tutoring or class time—it’s about what happens before and after as well.
Ask yourself:
Has the child had sugary snacks or gone too long without eating?
Are they tired or overstimulated from video games, loud environments, or too much screen time?
Have they had a chance to move their body or get outside?
These factors can all impact a child’s ability to self-regulate and focus. Being mindful of the transitions into and out of tutoring or homework time can help reduce frustration and increase success. If possible, create calming routines before lessons and consider gentle wind-down activities afterward.
Create a Calm Reset Space
Even with the best preparation, some sessions may feel chaotic. In those moments, it’s helpful to shift from pushing through to pausing.
Give the child a designated space where they can reset—a cozy corner with a soft blanket, stuffed animal, or other soothing items can work wonders. Sit together, breathe deeply, and offer reassurance. Once the child is calm, offer them a simple choice: “Would you like to read first, or start with writing?”
Giving children autonomy—especially after helping them calm down—can reduce power struggles and build trust.
Setting Boundaries Without Battles
In addition, one of the most important long-term strategies is to establish a few non-negotiable daily responsibilities—especially around reading, writing, and completing homework. When done consistently and with kindness, this teaches children that certain expectations are firm, helping to build structure, boundaries, and confidence.
While it may feel counterintuitive when a child is struggling, these boundaries are actually a protective measure. They help reduce the risk of oppositional defiant behaviors and give children the message that you believe in their ability to meet expectations, even if it takes time and support.
Final Thoughts
Supporting a child with ADHD isn’t about fixing them—it’s about understanding them. When we meet them where they are, make thoughtful choices about their environment, and stay calm in the storm, we empower them to succeed—not just in school, but in life.
