Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Teaching Strategies

• Agree a calm area or safe haven

• FIdget toys

• Short, chunked tasks

• Rest breaks

• Opportunities to move around where possible

• Short simple instructions and language

• Set a task as soon as they enter the room

• Four positive comments to one negative

• Use signals for when a pupil becomes agitated

• Planned reward system

• Relaxation strategies

• Clear and consistent routines

• Model behavioural skills and talk through negative behaviour after it happens

• Label the behaviour - not the pupil

• Calm but firm and fair approach

• Use positive adult language at all times

• Catch the pupil being good

• Praise often

• Use humour to settle

• Avoid sarcasm

• Access to ICT when appropriate

• Modelling

• Visual aids

• Writing frames and prompts

• Clear whole school behaviour policy

• Use pupils name when giving instructions – ensure you have their attention before giving instructions

•  A range of opportunities for social and emotional development e.g. buddy systems, friendship strategies, circle time

• Reinforcement of rules – visual prompts to support if needed

• Visual timers used to support regulation

• Visual timetable to support familiar routines

• Time out systems within the classroom

• Legitimise movement - pupil to go on message, collect item etc.

• Use of choice and motivation

• Supportive peer systems

• Calming strategies

• Clear communication with parent/carer

• Regularly reviewed behaviour targets and/or action plan

• Chunk instructions – support with visual cues

• Personalise teaching where possible to incorporate the pupils’ interests

• Restorative practices used consistently – allow pupils opportunity to explain actions

• Allow pupils time to regulate - speak to them once they are in the right frame of mind to do so