One diagnosis, two points of view and some advices
Definition
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a syndrome that refers to people who have significant difficulty concentrating on an activity and may also be physically hyperactive. In particular, people with ADHD are characterized by carelessness, clumsiness, difficulties in committing to school obligations or adhering to suggestions. The disorder translates as inability to regulate behavior. It is often associated with poor school performance, learning disabilities and communication deficits. (source)
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Teacher
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Child with ADHD
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"Stop looking at the painting board, look at your book better"
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"But Ms, without wanting it, the paintings on the board attract my attention"
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"Raise your hand before you speak and do not fly"
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"I think very fast and I find it difficult to stop, so I stop or talk all the time. Because I just want to talk "
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"Sit on your chair at last and do not constantly go to the toilet / water"
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"I do not want toilet / water all the time. I find it difficult to stay calm "
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”Stop moving all the time!“
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"I find it difficult to stay still and I am constantly stressed, so I constantly shake my arms, legs or turn around on my chair"
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”Wait for your turn!“
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"Sometimes it is impossible for me to wait my turn and follow orders"
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From the occupational therapy room to the school classroom. Some tips for teachers!
- Inform the other teachers of the child.
- Listen to the child and his needs.
- Modification of the classroom environment:
- Place the child in a place near you away from schoolwork, photos, announcements, etc.
- It would be good for the child to sit with a model student, who will not distract him but instead will be an example to imitate for him/her. Allow freedom of movement on the student desk with ADHD.
- Give him/her the opportunity to make his/her bag and organize his/her space, always with supervision and clear boundaries.
- Recognition and channeling of the student’s kinetic energy:
- Assignment of responsibilities within the classroom, such as: clearing a blackboard, handing out brochures / notebooks, etc.
- Classroom organization:
- Application of rules in the classroom, which will be followed by all children.
- Use a calendar with the planned activities of the day, week and month.
- Division of tasks for the organization and cleanliness of the classroom.
- Understanding the sensory overload and distraction of the student with ADHD:
- Try to be close to the student at intervals.
- Detect the increase in volume in time and help unload it.
- Apply a routine to classroom activities by guiding and supervising the transition of activities.
Yiangou Eleni
Occupational Therapist