Children, teens, and adults who are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often exhibit difficulty attending to tasks, lack of impulse control, poor planning and organizational skills, and hyperactivity. Neurological indicators show abnormal activity in the frontal area of the brain which controls those abilities. Individuals with ADHD must put forth extraordinary effort to pay attention to details, stay focused and alert, and manage their emotions—all basic skills.

Facts about Individuals with ADHD

Children:

• They represent 3-5% of the school population.
• Girls and boys are equally at risk for an ADHD diagnosis.
• Boys and girls with ADHD are equally at risk for developing academic and social problems.
• Boys are more likely than girls to be referred for evaluation and special help because boys are often more disruptive and aggressive.
• Girls are often overlooked because they do not demonstrate problem behaviors in the classroom.

Teens:

• Boys with ADHD often grow into angry teenagers.
• A disproportionate number of young men with ADHD become juvenile offenders and/or indulge in thrill-seeking behavior such as drug and alcohol abuse.
• Many show significant growth and improvement from their childhood years. They are still energetic but not out of control.

Accommodations at Church for Individuals with ADHD

1. More time. People with ADHD often do not need significant accommodations to thrive. What is often needed most is extra time to learn Bible concepts. Consider multisensory ways to reinforce the lesson. Review often. Break down chunks of knowledge into smaller pieces and help layer those pieces into memory.
2. Help getting on task. Children and teens with ADHD may need prompts or strategies to help them stay on task when their minds wander. Try making teaching segments shorter. Take movement breaks. Incorporate multisensory elements into your lessons. Utilize standing tables or alternative seating designed to engage the brain in learning.