ADHD Schools: Finding The Right Fit For Your Child

When you have a child who has been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a traditional classroom setting can prove to be unproductive, frustrating, and, frankly, not the best option for your son or daughter. Few ADHD schools exist, but they specialize in adaptive teaching techniques and individualized lesson plans to present the material in a manner that effectively engages a hyperactive child. Selecting the ideal institution for your son or daughter can be a difficult decision. Asking these questions can help in your search for the optimal learning environment.

Classroom Size

When considering the student-to-teacher ratio, the larger the gap, the less individualized attention your child will receive. In traditional public schools, classrooms can easily fill more than 30 students. Often, students with attention defecit disorder specific needs that require one-on-one instruction are lost in the shuffle. The smaller the classroom, the more engaged your child will be. In specialized schools, there may also be more than one teacher present in the classroom at one time. The more direct interaction your child receives, the more actively they can be engaged in learning.

Teacher Certifications

Teachers in a traditional setting receive standardized training to best serve a large population of students. In ADHD schools, instructors are specially trained and certified to meet the unique needs of students with attention deficit. This background allows them to develop specifically targeted lesson plans and present the material in a way that is conducive to the hyperactive learner. Along with this additional training, these instructors also have extensive experience working with students of a similar disposition. Many will also have degrees in special education.

The Curriculum

Gauge the level of homework expected of each student. Large amounts of homework can require a large commitment on the part of the parent. Tutoring and additional assistance may provide the extra guidance your child requires to complete work outside of the structure of the classroom. Will there be large amounts of testing? If so, will the students be answering questions on computers or on paper? Will there be long tests? ADHD schools are able to adapt testing as well as standard instruction to meet the needs of your child. Special accommodations should be made to ensure that your student’s level of learning is effectively assessed rather than their ability to focus.