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Behavioral modification in the classroom
Children with ADHD often struggle in school, not because they can't handle the work but because they can't concentrate on their lessons and have trouble following instructions. They frequently miss important pieces of information and forget or lose assignments because of poor organizational abilities.
When the condition is severe enough to significantly impact performance, a youngster with the disorder may qualify for educational accommodations provided under a federally mandated 504 plan, such as extended time on tests and note-taking support. Others might qualify for special education services under the category of Other Health Impaired, or OHI. The exact form of educational assistance or special services children receive will depend on the nature and severity of their condition.
Even if the child does not qualify for accommodations, parents may find that cooperative teachers would rather work with them on ways to develop better focus and organizational skills than simply discipline a child for constantly seeming to fool around. A teacher might seat the child in the front row and tap her on the shoulder when she seems to daydream, for example, and might be willing to break complex sets of instructions or assignments into discrete steps.
In addition, parents might want to hire a tutor with special expertise in ADHD to help a child master better study and organizational skills.
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