ADHD
What is it?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a condition that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It is not a sign of lower intelligence or a lack of effort.
People with ADHD may: - Have difficulty concentrating on tasks - Be easily distracted - Act impulsively without thinking - Have difficulty sitting still - Struggle with organisation and time management
People with adhd often also find it hard to:
- quickly recall words
- follow directions that are given in large chunks instead of step by step
This means that they will struggle in school. ADHD often co-occurs with other difficulties such as ADHD or dyspraxia.
It is also possible for a person with autism to have adhd.
What to look out for
ADHD is a hidden disability and cannot be reliably determined without a set of assessments performed by a certified assessor. However, many of the signs below may indicate adhd. And even if the person is not adhd, they can still benefit from the same strategies.
Look out for:
- Difficulty maintaining attention
- Easily distracted by surroundings
- Fidgeting or restlessness
- Acting without thinking
- Difficulty following instructions
- Poor time management
- Disorganisation
What to do
Break tasks into smaller steps, Give clear, short instructions, Minimise distractions.
Other strategies include:
- Break tasks into smaller steps
- Give clear, short instructions
- Minimise distractions
- Allow movement breaks
- Use visual reminders and checklists
- Be patient with repetition
- Provide structure and routine
Related strategies
Who can help
Contact your local SEN specialist or disability support services for more information and support.
Related behaviours
Can't concentrate
ADHD affects the brain's ability to regulate attention. People with ADHD struggle to maintain focus even when they want to.
Always late
Your client may have problems with reading notes, sequencing, understanding time or following instructions. This could be a sign of dyslexia, dyspraxia or ADHD.
Can't follow instructions
People with dyslexia struggle with long chains of instructions because of limits on the speed of processing. Someone with dyslexia is still processing the first instruction while you're already on the second one.