Teens with ADHD can experience fidgeting, restlessness, and difficulty in maintaining concentration. In class, this may distract them from listening to instruction, focusing, and working alongside others. Given the proper support and tools, teens can combat the common symptoms associated with ADHD, experiencing the satisfaction in their abilities and relationships with their peers.

We've put together a list of practical tips you can apply to help set your student up for success.

1. Fidgeting

Students that cannot sit still can be a distraction to teachers and peers, not to mention a distraction from schoolwork.  A great solution is to speak with their teacher and ask if it's ok for your student to bring an object that will help the student combat fidgeting. Possibilities are squeeze balls, silly putty and Rubik's cubes. Ideally, it would be plain in color and something that the teen can use under their desk not to draw too much attention. 

2. Seating Location

Speak with their teacher and put your teen at the front of the class. Doing this promotes student accountability as they can't indulge in classic school-time distractions like passing notes or whispering to their classmates. It also helps the teacher stay aware of the student's performance, enabling them to address any issues with the parent before they become a problem. 

3. Prioritize with Color-Coding 

Students with ADHD get easily lost between the different assignments they have to do. Sitting down with your student and deciding on a color-coding system together will reap substantial rewards. By picking three to four colors and assigning them different priority levels, from high to low, you can prevent homework from being forgotten or left unfinished. 

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4. Exercise

The benefits of exercise for everyone are universally known, especially true of those who have ADHD. As parents, signing your student up for physical activities that they like, e.g., football, gymnastics, or dancing, can do wonders for their mood, social relationships, as well as their ability to focus on their schoolwork. You could also buy them swivel chairs or standing desks to stay active while they are working. 

5. Time Management

Managing your teenager’s time effectively can work wonders. Combine using a calendar with a task timer, and you'll be amazed at the results. Task timers benefit both you and your student to how long is required to complete particular duties or pieces of work. They can also remind them when they need to switch focus or move on to something else. 

6. Self Advocacy

Nothing will be more effective for your student than giving them the tools to become their self-advocate. By arming them with the confidence and the ability to discuss how they learn differently with their peers and teachers, you set them up for a lifetime of open dialogue and connection. Parents can't be there for everything that happens in their teen’s life, but by educating them on how to advocate for themselves, they will grow in independence and resilience.  

For even more information on ADHD, check out our full-length guide here. 

YOUR STUDENT DESERVES TO BE SEEN FOR THEIR ABILITIES, RATHER THAN DEFINED BY THEIR DIAGNOSIS.

Here at PS Academy Arizona, students love coming to school. Why? Because here, they aren't defined by their diagnosis. They shine when they identify their abilities, are accepted for their differences, make friends, and discover new skills. They are given the tools and the responsibility they need to be challenged and inspired to excel in school and beyond.