Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD)-National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities

Tips for Teachers

Learn more about AD/HD. The resources and  organizations listed under “Additional Information” (at the end of this fact  sheet) can help you identify specific techniques and strategies to support the  student educationally. We’ve listed some strategies below. 

Figure out what specific things are hard for the  student. For example, one student with AD/HD may have trouble starting a task,  while another may have trouble ending one task and starting the next. Each  student needs different help.

Post rules, schedules, and assignments. Clear  rules and routines will help a student with AD/HD. Have set times for specific  tasks. Call attention to changes in the schedule.

Show the student how to use an assignment book  and a daily schedule. Also teach study skills and learning strategies, and  reinforce these regularly.

Help the student channel his or her physical  activity (e.g., let the student do some work standing up or at the board).  Provide regularly scheduled breaks.

Make sure directions are given step by step, and  that the student is following the directions. Give directions both verbally and  in writing. Many students with AD/HD also benefit from doing the steps as  separate tasks.

Let the student do work on a computer.

Work together with the student’s parents to  create and implement an educational plan tailored to meet the student’s needs.  Regularly share information about how the student is doing at home and at  school.

Have high expectations for the student, but be  willing to try new ways of doing things. Be patient. Maximize the student’s  chances for success.