Supporting children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Parents

• Give feedback and rewards when deserved.
• Provide a quiet space for calming down and help redirect when upset.
• Support good sleep habits, time outside, exercise, no fizzy drinks in the evening, no electronics an hour before bed, relaxation before sleep, and consistent bedtime and wake-up times.
• Encourage focus on one task at a time, like no TV during homework or dinner.
• Break chores or tasks into small steps with regular breaks.
• Keep daily routines simple and predictable, using tools like a fridge calendar.
• Encourage exercise to help manage energy.

In school

• Offer a quieter environment with fewer distractions, seating them at the front and away from windows or doors.
• Display clear and simple rules.
• Use a predictable routine, possibly with a visual timetable.
• Allow timeouts for movement, relaxation, or sensory play in a quiet space.
• Permit stress and fidget toys, wobble seats, and doodling to aid concentration.
• Encourage note-taking and mind mapping.
• Provide additional support for tests and exams.
• Use countdowns for transitions, giving 10, 5, and 2-minute warnings.

Plan your journey

If you use public transport, the Traveline journey planner provides information about what services and times are available.

Page last reviewed: March 12, 2025
Next review due: March 12, 2026