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What are typical accommodations for students with AD/HD?

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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD), formerly classified as ADD or ADHD, may impact a student's classroom behavior and study skills. Some students with AD/HD will need accommodations to help them achieve academic goals. Students may be the best source of information about their needs; teachers should encourage student input on the best accommodations. Teachers can provide support to all of their students, including those with AD/HD, by following practices of universal design of instruction.

In addition, accommodations for a student with AD/HD may include

  • a quiet work area and seating away from windows, doors, or other distractions.
  • opportunities for movement and tactile input. Some students with AD/HD benefit from sitting on a therapy ball instead of a standard chair.
  • a safe environment with encouragement and compliments for positive behavior while ignoring minor inappropriate behavior.
  • reformatting documents to minimize clutter and providing documents in alternative formats.
  • clear and specific instructions.
  • breaking long assignments into smaller parts.
  • peer assistance with note taking.
  • extended time to complete assignments and alternative testing arrangements.

For more information on accommodations for students with AD/HD, consult 83 Accommodations That Can Help Students with Attention Deficit Disorders Perform Better in School. Accommodations recommended for students with learning disabilities (LD) may also be helpful for students with AD/HD. For accommodations for students with LD, consult What are typical accommodations for students with learning disabilities?