How to help a child with ADHD
It is of utmost importance that adults (parents, teachers, coaches) who are in contact with…
The hyperactive child can have difficulties in paying attention in the class and in acquiring the teaching material. S/he needs learning in the environment which supports individual differences with a flexible, structured approach – e.g. the child should not be put under time pressure, testing time should be adjusted to his/her abilities, exams should more frequently be oral, preferably in the morning or at the beginning of the class and the child should be given small tasks which enable movement, like fetching the chalk or washing the sponge, teaching material should be divided into smaller units, adults should show understanding for his/her difficulties which may cause that the child will sometimes function better and sometimes worse, have ‘bad’ and ‘good’ days.
Educating adults, both parents and professionals dealing with hyperactive children about their difficulties, aiming at a more successful induction into hyperactivity and understanding of their characteristics as well as applying the adequate approach, will enable their healthy development, success and happy childhood. It is also important to sensitise them to the fact that hyperactive children’s behaviour is not a reflection of their disobedience, but of their inability to pay attention, to control reactions and behave calmly, as well as to sit quietly or stand in place.