Education Support (under 18s)

dbs2

We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, ADHD symptoms affect everyone differently, so if you have any concerns, it’s always best to speak with a healthcare professional.

Snapshot

For parents of children who exhibit ADHD symptoms, navigating the school system and ensuring their child receives the appropriate support can feel overwhelming.

However, there are numerous resources available to help your child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally within the school environment, and by understanding the available options, you can work in partnership with your child’s school to create a supportive learning environment tailored to their specific needs.

Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) and Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND) support

Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) are key tools for supporting children with ADHD in school. These plans are developed with the involvement of parents, teachers, and Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) to ensure that your child has the right strategies in place to help them stay on track with both learning and behaviour.

An IEP typically includes adjustments such as:

  • Extra time for tasks or tests
    Your child might benefit from extended time to complete assignments or exams, allowing them to work at their own pace without feeling rushed.

  • Breaking down tasks into smaller steps
    Complex tasks can feel overwhelming, so teachers may break them into smaller, more manageable chunks to help your child stay focused.

  • Regular breaks
    Children with ADHD often need frequent breaks to manage restlessness. Short, timed breaks can help them release energy and return to tasks with renewed focus.

 

These adjustments are designed to ensure that your child can meet their learning goals while also addressing the specific challenges they face in the classroom. Working closely with the SENCO at your child’s school is essential to regularly review and update the IEP, ensuring it remains relevant as your child’s needs evolve.

Teaching Assistant support

In some cases, children with ADHD might benefit from the assistance of a Teaching Assistant (TA). TAs provide one-on-one or small group support, helping children stay engaged during lessons and develop essential skills such as time management, organisation, and emotional regulation.

TAs can help in various ways, such as:

  • Guiding your child through tasks
    With direct supervision, TAs can help break tasks into manageable steps, keeping your child focused and on track.

  • Providing emotional support
    A TA can help your child regulate emotions in moments of frustration or anxiety, encouraging them to use appropriate coping mechanisms.

  • Offering feedback
    Through consistent feedback, TAs can help children understand their progress and reinforce positive behaviours in the classroom.

This personalised support can make a significant difference in helping your child succeed academically and socially.

Behavioural support plans

If impulsivity or emotional outbursts are frequent challenges for your child, a behavioural support plan can be put in place. These plans help manage challenging behaviours by using techniques such as positive reinforcement, structured routines, and clear expectations. Teachers and TAs work together with parents to ensure consistency across school and home environments.

Behavioural support plans might include:

  • Rewards for positive behaviour
    Positive reinforcement techniques, such as a reward system for completing tasks or managing emotions well, can help motivate your child to stay focused and regulate their actions.

  • Clear routines and expectations
    Children with ADHD often thrive in structured environments. Establishing consistent routines can help them know what to expect, reducing anxiety and impulsive behaviour.

  • De-escalation strategies
    Teachers may use specific techniques to calm your child during moments of emotional distress, helping them return to the task at hand without disrupting the classroom environment.

Consistency between school and home is critical. Communicating regularly with teachers will help you reinforce the strategies being used at school in your home, ensuring your child feels supported in all areas of their life.

Supporting your child at home

As a parent, you play a central role in supporting your child’s academic journey. Establishing a structured, supportive home environment can reinforce the strategies being used at school and help your child develop the skills they need to succeed.

Here’s how you can support your child’s education at home:

  • Maintain a consistent routine
    Children with ADHD often feel more secure with structure. Setting regular times for homework, meals, and relaxation can reduce the feeling of chaos.

  • Create a homework-friendly environment
    A quiet, organised space free of distractions will help your child focus on their schoolwork.

  • Use visual schedules
    Visual reminders such as checklists or timetables can help your child stay on top of tasks and deadlines. These tools are especially helpful for children who struggle with time management.

  • Positive reinforcement at home
    Celebrate your child’s successes, both big and small. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and encourages further progress.

It’s important to stay engaged with your child’s school, attending regular meetings with teachers and SENCOs to ensure that the strategies in place are working effectively.

Education, Health & Care Plans (EHCPs)

For children with more complex needs, an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) may be appropriate. This plan goes beyond the support provided by an IEP, offering a more comprehensive package that addresses educational, health, and social care needs.

An EHCP is a legally binding document that outlines the specific services your child is entitled to, such as access to specialist therapies or additional one-on-one support. If you believe your child might require an EHCP, working closely with your SENCO and local authority is key to ensuring the right resources are put in place.

Your role as a parent

As a parent, you are your child’s best advocate. Your involvement in their education journey is crucial for ensuring they receive the support they need. Building open lines of communication with teachers, TAs, and SENCOs is essential for keeping track of your child’s progress and making any necessary adjustments to their support plan.

Remember, you are not alone in this process. Schools are there to support you and your child, and there are many resources available to help you navigate the system. By staying engaged, advocating for your child’s needs, and supporting them at home, you are setting them up for success both academically and emotionally.

In conclusion, with the right support, children with ADHD can thrive in school environments. By working closely with your child’s school, establishing strong routines, and fostering open communication, you can help your child reach their full potential, overcoming challenges and achieving success in the classroom and beyond.

Ready to take our Adult ADHD self-test?

Other treatments & support

Practical, hands-on approach to managing ADHD-like symptoms, focusing on strategies to improve daily life.

One of *the* most effective non-medical approaches for managing ADHD-type symptoms.

Essential tools that can help you navigate ADHD, both individually and within your family.

There are numerous resources available to help your child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally within the school environment.

There are various support systems and strategies that can help you thrive at university.

Simple lifestyle changes that can make a big difference in managing ADHD symptoms.

If you’re exploring ways to manage your ADHD symptoms, medication could be a valuable part of your overall treatment plan.

A range of powerful tools for managing ADHD-type symptoms.

Like it or not, adding regular physical activity to your routine might be a game-changer.

Support groups can offer a valuable source of emotional and practical help.