We are beginning a brand new series here at Cottage 2 Classroom this month called “Understanding Special Needs.” Today we will be talking about ADHD or also known as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Let’s start with the statistics. . .
- 6.4 million children between the ages of 4 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD
- The average age of diagnosis is seven
- Males are three times more likely to have ADHD than females
- ADHD people will spend roughly $14,576 in medical costs in their lifetime
What exactly is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a condition that can make it hard for a person to sit still, control behavior, and pay attention. Teaching early childhood might make it seem like EVERY three, four, or five year old MUST have this. NO! That is not the case….3,4, and 5 years old are just naturally curious about everything and have not built up their attention span, so please don’t jump to any conclusions. However, problems paying attention, being very active, and acting before thinking are some signs of ADHD.
Some ADHD symptoms are different then others and many research studies have proven that there are 3 types of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
- Inattentive: the child can’t seem to get focused or stay focused on a task
- Hyperactive-Impulsive: the child is very active and acts without thinking
- Combined: the child is inattentive, impulsive, and too active
What can You, as a teacher do?
Be aware that children with ADHD feel anxious and unsure of themselves, so they need lots of assuring comments. Often times, depending on the age….children with ADHD can be depressed---so, it is something to be on the look out for. ADHD children often cannot sit still for long periods of time, so I suggest doing activities standing up or laying down on a carpet in circle time. Sometimes a change up in the approach can go along way with a child with ADHD. Many children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder have a heightened alertness to environmental stimuli and may need help channeling their physical activity.
Teachers can have set times for specific tasks, and student can only move on to something new when a buzzer or bell go off signaling a switch in routines. Rules, schedules, and assignments should be posted for the ADHD to see. Sometimes, if a child with ADHD is having difficulty with finishing an assignment, have them take a break and play an educational game on the computer for 15 minutes and then come back to the first task.
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