Features of Teaching Children with ADHD: 8 Proven Strategies That Work
TL;DR
This guide presents 8 evidence-based strategies for teaching children with ADHD: short learning intervals, multisensory approaches, external structure support, movement-based learning, positive reinforcement, game-based platforms, homework optimization, and teacher collaboration. Each strategy is designed to work with ADHD brain functioning, not against it.
In this article, we've gathered the most effective strategies and techniques that truly help children with ADHD. Everything is based on recommendations from neuropsychologists, teachers, and parents who've walked this path.
1Short Intervals + Clear Boundaries
Children with ADHD lose focus after 7–15 minutes (depending on age). The Pomodoro technique isn't just a trend here—it's a necessity.
- 10–15 minutes of work → 3–5 minutes of active break (jumping jacks, dancing, 10 squats)
- Use a visual timer (Time Timer, hourglass, Focus Keeper app)
- Breaks must be active, not "scroll on the phone"—otherwise the brain won't reset
2Multisensory Learning
One sensory channel (hearing or sight) tires quickly. Add touch and movement.
- Math: count on an abacus, mold numbers from playdough, draw problems on a huge sheet
- Reading: read aloud with different voices, use finger puppets, walk around while listening to audiobooks
- Writing: write with markers on a whiteboard, finger-trace in sand or semolina, chalk on the sidewalk
3External Structure Instead of Internal Discipline
A child with ADHD often knows what to do but can't organize themselves. The adult's job is to become their "external prefrontal cortex."
- Picture checklists (especially for kids under 10)
- Colored stickers: red = "urgent," green = "can wait"
- Daily magnetic board: move task cards as they're completed
- Time-blocks in the calendar: "2:00–2:15 pm — math," "2:15–2:20 pm — trampoline jumps"
4Movement = Brain Fuel
Hyperactivity isn't the enemy—it's how the brain gets dopamine. Banning movement robs the child of their "working" state.
- Rocking chair or exercise ball instead of a regular chair
- "Lessons on the move": learn multiplication tables while jumping rope
- Quiet fidget toys (that don't disturb others)
5Positive Reinforcement Instead of Punishment
Punishing "fidgeting" doesn't work: the child is already trying. Reward effort—yes.
- State the expectation clearly: "Finish 5 math problems → get 5 minutes of Roblox"
- Reward immediately after completion (not "tonight")
- Praise the process, not just the result: "Great job keeping going even when it was hard"
6Game-Based Platforms That Actually Help
We recommend ones used by neuroscientists and special-ed teachers:
- PlaySend (yes, our project) — game scenarios where the child controls a hero by completing real tasks. 10 minutes of math = 10 minutes of play without feeling like "studying"
- BrainGym — attention exercises through movement
- Prodigy Math — an RPG where every battle is a math problem
7Homework Without Tears
Golden rule: cut homework volume by 2–3 times. Quality over quantity.
- Break into micro-tasks (2–3 minutes each)
- Parent as "secretary": write down answers as the child dictates if handwriting is hard
- "Bank" rule: extra work done = bonus game minutes
8Collaboration with the Teacher
Don't hesitate to ask for:
- A seat in the front row
- Permission to step out for water every 20 minutes
- Written instructions instead of verbal ones
- Grading for effort, not just results