One of the best researched and most effective interventions for ADHD is medication. However, medication is not an option for every child, and schools can’t require families to seek a diagnosis or a prescription. Since schools generally can’t control whether a family chooses medication as a treatment for ADHD, often the most effective, evidence-based supports for children with ADHD involve “classroom-possible” strategies that are good for all students, yet demonstrate the most benefit for students with ADHD.
- Play-based skills coaching with peers
- Recess at the beginning of the day, and ideally throughout instructional time
- Positive reinforcement paired with clear, predictable expectations for behavior and classroom routines
- Explicit training in organizational skills