Supporting Your Child following an ADHD diagnosis

Understanding Your Child's ADHD Learning Profile

Like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD),  Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

(ADHD) can present in many ways and, as such, it’s important to try and identify your child’s unique learning profile and the particular challenges they are experiencing. ASD and ADHD are human variances which share many characteristics and this overlap can make it difficult to separate the two and address the different needs accordingly. For this reason, this blog addresses characteristics which relate primarily to ADHD. If your child is currently undergoing ADHD assessment or has recently received an ADHD diagnosis, we hope this guidance will be helpful. 

Let’s have a look at some tips and strategies that can support your child on their learning journey and help them to reach their potential.

Creating an Effective Study Environment

One of the biggest differences between the needs of ASD and ADHD learners is study environment. Unlike children with ASD who may need reduced sensory input, many children with ADHD actually benefit from controlled movement and sensory engagement:

• Incorporate flexible seating options (stability balls, wobble stools, standing desks)

• Create a "movement zone" near the study area where they can take quick movement breaks

• Allow fidget tools that can be manipulated quietly during work sessions

• Consider background white noise or instrumental music rather than complete silence

Organisational Strategies

Due to challenges with executive function, many learners with ADHD struggle with time management, motivation and sustained focus. These traits, addressed in this and the following section, are also primary characteristics of ADHD:

• Use analog clocks or visual timers to make time tangible and visible

• Reward and celebrate the completion of time-based goals

• Use technology tools specifically designed for ADHD time management

• Use visual planners to organise study sessions and practice prioritisation skills

• Encourage ‘brain dumps’ of ideas

Effective Study Techniques

• Consider a "study buddy" system for accountability during homework

• Implement a consistent "getting started" routine to trigger focus mode

• Implement the "Pomodoro Technique" with shorter work intervals (10-15 minutes) followed by brief breaks 

• Connect learning to areas of interest

• Capitalise on periods of hyper-focus for more challenging work

ADHD Medication and Learning Support Coordination

Both ASD and ADHD learners can benefit from a wide range of support, as we have discussed in both this and last month’s blog post. However, ADHD can additionally benefit from medication which can be used as part of the learning strategy:

• Coordinate homework schedules with medication effectiveness windows

• Maintain open communication with teachers about medication timing and effects

• Consider scheduling most challenging subjects when medication is most effective

• Document which strategies work best at different times of day

Final Thoughts

Parenting a child with ADHD requires flexibility, patience, and creativity and the strategies that work best now may change over time as your child develops. Focus on progress rather than perfection and celebrate success, however small, along the way. Remember that building these skills is a marathon, not a sprint. By understanding how your child's ADHD brain works, you can help them develop learning strategies that will serve them throughout their academic career and beyond.