What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people's behaviour. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating and may act on impulse.

Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age and may become more noticeable when a child's circumstances change, such as when they start school.

Most cases are diagnosed when children are 6 to 12 years old.People with ADHD may also have additional problems, such as sleep and anxiety disorders.

Top Tips to support children with ADHD:

• Offer routines and structure
• Create a quiet space for them to learn with no distractions.
• Give them something to fiddle with whilst you are talking to them or you want them to focus. It can also be helpful to let them move around whilst they listen.
• Ask them to do one task at a time
• Provide checklists or visual timetables to support organisation.
• Use timers to help with time management and build in frequent movement breaks.
• Suggest rather than criticise (children with ADHD can often have low self-esteem)
• Provide lots of opportunities for exercise and movement.
• Set up a reward scheme to encourage them and support them with their behaviour.
• Build on success and help children to pursue more of what they enjoy.
• Put clear boundaries in place.

Further Support:

You can find further information and support at the websites below.