Parent Press

a Goally Publication

Get

Goally

ADHD Accommodations: Unlocking the Potential of Children with Attention and Behavioral Challenges

Apr 24, 2024

< 1 min read

Home>>Neurodiversopedia>>A Terms

Summary

summary

Get ready to discover the amazing world of ADHD accommodations! These game-changing strategies are like superpowers for kids with ADHD, helping them focus, stay organized, and do their best at school and beyond. With exciting tools like extra time, quiet workspaces, and friendly reminders, ADHD accommodations are transforming the lives of countless children, unlocking their full potential and making learning an adventure they can’t wait to embark on.

 

Frequently Asked Question

donut

How do I get ADHD accommodations?

ADHD accommodations can be requested through a school’s disability services office, a human resources department at work, or a medical professional. A comprehensive assessment of your needs and documentation of your diagnosis is required to receive accommodations.

 

Are ADHD accommodations permanent or do they need to be reapplied every year?

ADHD accommodations are not permanent and may need to be reapplied or reviewed regularly, typically every year. This is especially true for accommodations provided in a school setting, where policies and procedures may change. It’s important to stay in contact with your school’s disability services office or your medical professional to ensure that your accommodations are up-to-date and still meet your needs.

 

Can ADHD accommodations be used in the workplace?

Yes, ADHD accommodations can also be used in the workplace. They can be requested through a human resources department or through a medical professional. Accommodations in the workplace can include a flexible work schedule, a designated quiet workspace, and help with organization. Employers are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities, including ADHD. It’s important to have open communication with your employer about your needs and to work together to find accommodations that will help you be successful in your job.

 

Scientific Definition

scientist

ADHD accommodations are special bits of help for people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD is when someone has trouble paying attention and controlling their behavior. Accommodations are ways to make it easier for these people to learn and work. Some common accommodations are: extra time on tests, having a quiet place to work, help to stay organized, and getting reminders to stay on task. These accommodations can be used at school, at work, or in other daily activities. They help level the playing field and make sure that people with ADHD have the same chances to succeed as others. Accommodations help people with ADHD do their best and reach their full potential.

 

Video Explanation

video-explanation

Real world example of ADHD Accommodations

Meet Susie, an energetic and imaginative 8-year-old with ADHD. Like many kids with ADHD, Susie often struggles with staying focused and sitting still. However, her teacher and parents have implemented some fantastic ADHD accommodations to help her thrive in the classroom. Let’s dive into Susie’s story and discover how these accommodations have made a positive impact on her learning journey.

  • Susie’s teacher, Mrs. Johnson, noticed that Susie often found it challenging to concentrate during class lectures. To address this, she introduced a fidget tool for Susie. This simple, handheld device allowed Susie to channel her excess energy and remain engaged in the lesson. As a result, Susie’s attention improved, and she could actively participate in class discussions.
  • During group activities, Mrs. Johnson assigned Susie a task card with clear step-by-step instructions. This visual aid helped Susie stay organized and on track with her assignments, preventing her from feeling overwhelmed and becoming distracted.
  • In addition to visual aids, Mrs. Johnson incorporated movement breaks into the daily routine. Every hour, the class would have a quick dance or stretching session to refresh their minds. These breaks were particularly beneficial for Susie, as they allowed her to release her pent-up energy and return to her seat more focused and ready to learn.
  • Susie’s parents also implemented ADHD accommodations at home. They created a designated study area for Susie, free from distractions and clutter. This quiet space helped her concentrate better while doing her homework or engaging in independent reading.
  • Recognizing Susie’s need for structure and visual reminders, her parents implemented a visual schedule. This schedule displayed her daily routines and tasks, enabling her to anticipate what’s coming next and reducing anxiety.

Thanks to these ADHD accommodations, Susie’s educational journey has taken a positive turn. The combination of fidget tools, task cards, movement breaks, a designated study area, and a visual schedule has empowered Susie to manage her ADHD symptoms effectively. She now thrives in the classroom, participates actively, and feels more confident in her abilities. By understanding and implementing such accommodations, parents and educators can unlock the full potential of children with ADHD, just like Susie.

 

By utilizing ADHD accommodations, such as those mentioned in Susie’s story, children with ADHD can thrive academically and emotionally. Products like Goally, with its digital visual schedules and gamified learning apps, can further support their development by providing engaging tools to enhance focus, organization, and communication skills.

How ADHD Accommodations is Used

ADHD accommodations can greatly assist individuals in their daily lives. Here are some practical examples:

In School:

  • Extra time on tests
  • Front-row seating in the classroom
  • Note-taker assistance
  • Breaks during class

At Work:

  • Flexible work schedule
  • Quiet workspace
  • Support person for organization
  • Task reminders

During Daily Activities:

  • Utilizing planners or calendars
  • Breaking tasks into smaller steps
  • Smartphone reminders
  • Taking regular breaks

In Social Situations:

  • Designated focus reminder
  • Finding a quiet retreat spot
  • Conversation scripts

Remember, ADHD accommodations vary for each person, so these examples might not suit everyone. Tailor accommodations to individual needs for optimal effectiveness.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 4, 2023. It was updated on May 29, 2023.

About the Author

pencil
author

Hennah

Hennah

Hennah is an experienced writer and researcher, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. As a blog contributor for Goally, she combines her deep understanding of neurodiversity with practical advice, offering valuable insights to parents and educators.