Supporting children with ADHD – what works?

[EdiForum admin]

Have you supported a child with ADHD in your service? What has worked well? What challenges have you faced?

Supporting children with ADHD can look different for everyone. From adjusting the environment to building routines, it often takes patience and flexibility and that’s why sharing our experience is so valuable.

This is a space to learn from each other. All experiences, ideas and questions are welcome. Join the discussion below.

[SarahParticipant]

We’ve found that a visual timetable works really well. We use fun and engaging imaging of our daily activities to help children feel calm and prepared for what’s next. It supports their sense of routine and helps reduce anxiety around transitions throughout the day.

[EdiForum admin]

That’s a great strategy! Visual timetables can really make such a difference in supporting children’s sense of security and routine. Thanks for sharing 🙂

[EdiForum admin]

We’ve released a new fact sheet on supporting children with ADHD, packed with practical tips you can use in your practice.

Inside you’ll find:
– The different types of ADHD
– How ADHD may present in early childhood
– Common behaviours to look for
– Effective strategies to support children
– Strengths and unique qualities of children with ADHD

It’s a helpful resource for any educator looking to better understand and support children. Click here to check it out!

[HarperParticipant]

Hi everyone,
I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences on supporting children with ADHD in early childhood settings.
In my practice, I’ve found that clear routines, visual cues, and short, structured activities really help children stay engaged. I also try to offer movement breaks, use calm tones, and focus on positive reinforcement rather than correction. Consistency and empathy seem to make a big difference.
I’m still exploring strategies for helping children transition between activities smoothly and maintain focus during group time.

What approaches have worked well for you in your classroom or service?
How do you balance flexibility and structure when supporting children with ADHD?
Looking forward to learning from your ideas and experiences!

[EdiForum admin]

Hi Harper, thanks for sharing! Consistency and empathy are particularly important. Structure helps children know what to expect, and empathy supports them to feel safe and regulate their emotions.

Great question! Curious to hear from others: how do you balance structure with flexibility when supporting children with ADHD?

[LisaParticipant]

I use a lot of First this, Then that approaches to getting tasks done. For example first you go to the toilet, then we get to play cars. Or first you get your hat, then we get to go outside.

[EdiForum admin]

Great strategy! It’s a clear and motivating way to support children with ADHD.

[Author]

Posts