Students with ADHD may have trouble staying focused on their math in class and at home.
In 2022, a report from the CDC shared that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was diagnosed in an estimated 11.4 percent of American children between the ages of 3-17. That is an estimated 7 million children!
Students with ADHD have more than the ordinary amount of trouble paying attention and controlling impulsive behavior.
In the classroom, these students may break rules more often, have difficulty understanding lessons, and take longer to complete assignments because of their attention drifting in and out.
ADHD and Math Help
Many students who have ADHD have above average IQs, but experience difficulty in the classroom that may lead to lower grades or other problems.
Here are 6 math help tips and teaching methods for teachers and parents to assist students with ADHD.
1. Break instructions down into smaller parts.
Giving one piece of directions at a time is helpful for kids with ADHD.
This helps students stay focused on one task at a time and helps maintain focus through the class period. This is a useful tip for students with and without ADHD. By breaking down directions, students are able more likely to successfully complete tasks and answer directions when devoting complete focus to one thing at a time.
2. Give written directions.
Students with ADHD may not remember lengthy oral directions. Provide written directions that allow students to refer back to them when needed. Having directions accessible while completing an assignment ensures students stay on track.
Students can also check off or mark the paper directions when they complete a step in the task.
3. Check student work early and often.
Students with ADHD may need to be redirected, since they may not have listened to directions carefully.
