St Anne's Catholic Parish Primary School Newsletter

Learning Diversity

Dear Families,

 

If you feel that your child may need extra support or has a Disability that the school is not aware of, please contact the office and ask to speak to Sally Thomas or email me sthomas@saseaford.catholic.edu.au

 

 

Here's a revised version of the newsletter article tailored for primary school parents:

Supporting Your Child with ADHD at School

As a parent, you may have noticed that your child faces challenges with focusing, sitting still, or staying organized—especially in a school setting. These behaviors could be linked to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a common condition that affects many children, and it’s important to understand how ADHD can impact your child’s learning experience and what you can do to help.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how children pay attention, control their impulses, and regulate their energy levels. It’s common for children with ADHD to experience:

  • Inattention: Difficulty staying focused, finishing assignments, or remembering instructions.
  • Hyperactivity: Restlessness, fidgeting, or difficulty staying seated.
  • Impulsivity: Interrupting others, acting without thinking, or having trouble waiting their turn.

It’s important to remember that every child with ADHD experiences it differently. Some children might show more signs of hyperactivity, while others might struggle mostly with attention. Recognizing how ADHD affects your child will help you better support them at home and in school.

How ADHD Affects Your Child at School

In the classroom, ADHD can impact your child’s ability to concentrate, follow instructions, and complete tasks. Here are some common signs you might notice at school:

  • Difficulty focusing on lessons: Your child may become easily distracted by noises, people, or their own thoughts and may struggle to complete assignments.
  • Disorganization: Missing homework, losing school supplies, or forgetting tasks are common challenges for children with ADHD.
  • Impulsivity: Your child may interrupt the teacher or classmates, have difficulty waiting their turn, or blurt out answers before being called upon.
  • Restlessness: Your child may fidget, have trouble sitting still, or seem to have endless energy.

While these challenges can make school difficult, it’s important to remember that children with ADHD also bring unique strengths to the classroom. Many are highly creative, energetic, and quick thinkers, which can be valuable traits in the right environment.

How Can You Help Your Child?

Supporting a child with ADHD at school requires a combination of understanding, patience, and practical strategies. Here are some ways you can work with your child’s teacher to ensure their success:

  1. Create a Consistent Routine at Home: ADHD thrives in structured environments. Help your child stay organized by having a consistent schedule for daily activities, such as homework time, meals, and bedtime. Clear expectations will help them stay on track.
  2. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Large projects or assignments can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps, and help your child focus on one part at a time. Celebrate small victories to keep them motivated.
  3. Encourage Movement: Physical activity can help children with ADHD burn off excess energy and improve focus. Allowing your child to take short breaks during homework or after school can help them reset.
  4. Use Visual Cues: Children with ADHD often respond well to visual reminders, such as charts, checklists, or color-coded materials. These tools can help your child stay organized and track what needs to be done.
  5. Work with the School: Talk to your child’s teacher about what strategies work best for your child. Schools may offer accommodations like extra time for tests, a quieter workspace, or seating arrangements that help your child stay focused. An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan can also provide tailored support if necessary.
  6. Practice Positive Reinforcement: Praise and rewards can go a long way in encouraging positive behavior. Focus on what your child does well and reward their efforts, whether it’s with a sticker chart, extra playtime, or verbal praise.

Partnering with Teachers and Support Staff

Communication between home and school is key to helping your child succeed. Our School encourages regular conversations with your child’s teacher to discuss their progress, challenges, and any adjustments that might be needed. It’s also helpful to stay involved in school events and work together with other support staff, such as counselors or learning specialists. Some times a Program support group meeting is required to monitor ajustments and the school will contact you if this is required.

Supporting Your Child’s Emotional Well-being

Children with ADHD often experience feelings of frustration, low self-esteem, or being misunderstood. It’s important to provide emotional support at home by:

  • Building their confidence: Celebrate your child’s strengths, whether it’s creativity, problem-solving, or their ability to think outside the box.
  • Teaching self-regulation: Encourage your child to practice mindfulness, deep breathing, or calming techniques to manage their impulses and emotions.
  • Being patient and empathetic: ADHD can be challenging for both children and parents. Try to understand that your child’s struggles are not intentional, and your support makes a huge difference in their growth.

Final Thoughts

ADHD may present challenges for your child at school, but with the right strategies, encouragement, and support, they can thrive. By working together with your child’s teachers and embracing your child’s unique strengths, you can help them succeed in school and develop the skills they need for the future.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Many children with ADHD grow up to be successful adults in various fields, thanks to the support they received from parents, teachers, and other caring adults. Together, we can help your child unlock their full potential.

This version should resonate well with primary school parents, focusing on practical support and collaboration with teachers. Let me know if you'd like to make any tweaks!

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING SENDING MEDICAL INFORMATION AND REPORTS

As a result of the Quality Assurance process and discussion. It is recommended that all medical documentation and reports that families are sending to staff be sent via email or in a hard copy.  Please do not use the seesaw app to send medical information to school.

 

Sally Thomas

Diversity Leader