Parents choose their child’s caretaker and babysitters. It seems natural to have the same say in their kid’s teacher too, especially with ADHD. Right? Maybe.
High teacher turnover. Low performance. Lack of potential of non-tenured teachers. The controversy of choosing teachers is traveling around the world. It is a plague for large schools and occurs when there are multiple classes per grade level. Often, there is a preference of one teacher over another.
Students with ADHD have unique skills and struggles that make learning a challenge. Having access to a teacher to understands how they think is paramount to finding success. Most of all, they should demonstrate concern and empathy when stressful situations take place.
Creating student assignments to specific classes is a definite challenge for both teachers and administrators. Demographics make a key consideration. Race, gender, native language, and socio-economics should reflect the overall balance of the area. Academic achievement levels, special needs, and behavioral concerns are other areas to think about before making final decisions. Specific students are also evaluated for interpersonal conflicts among peers. The balance should be maintained.
What is it about teachers?
Teachers have the opportunity to shape students with ADHD in a variety of ways. Attitudes toward school is just one. Personalities are impacted by the way they see themselves. These experiences further give support to their outlook in life.
Ideal teachers understand how students with ADHD think and how to make them better at it. Providing flexible learning activities assist in improving behavior. Most importantly, they are passionate about students, not just their subject matter.
- Have structure in the classroom.
- Set clear expectations.
- Provide multiple modes of teaching (visual aids, hands-on activities).
- Express personal self-discipline.
- Show caring, in spite of stress.
Get ready to go.
Preparation is key when seeking a change in teachers. In-home strategies help to improve first conversations. Parents and child should create a united front.
- Do what you think is best for your child.
- Document valid concerns.
- Request an educator whose teaching style and personality is the best fit.
- Look for coaches, not lecturers.
- Make a connection with someone willing to have an open dialogue.
Teachers may see parent in the classroom in an adversarial way. Have an honest conversation before things begin. Express your concerns. Start with an eagle-eye on the situation. Observe students in class before, during, and after instruction. Look for engagement, tolerance, discipline, and transitions.
Empowerment is a skill that is sometimes lacking in people with ADHD. They should shoulder their responsibility for learning. It is important for them to take a role in interacting with each teacher. They should for a serious dialogue to avoid “talking at.”
Self-identity is equally important to evaluate teacher interaction. They must understand themselves as a person and as a student. Competing forces result from peer interaction (unique/combination). Recognizing passions and interests foster intrinsic motivation.
How do I take the next step?
- Get information. Talk to parents whose kids are like yours.
- Be polite. Follow the school’s procedures and policies.
- Put it in writing. Explain what would work best and why.
- Be flexible. Not getting the first pick might not affect your child in a long run.
- Take a look through reality glasses. Your child spends about 40 minutes/per day in a single class.
Remember…”Our kids” are tough. Make the best of it.
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