Resources for Schools to Help Children with ADHD

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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) generally starts before the age of 7 and affects 5-8 % of children in school. The condition has been controversial over the past 40 years. Management of ADHD requires behavior modifications, counseling, and oftentimes medication. The condition is diagnosed more often in boys than girls. There are numerous online resources that offer valuable information and materials for educators. There are also personal and general blogs, discussion boards, and forums that educators can utilize. Most sites offer books, magazines, and videos for sale. Some offer materials that can actually be used in the classroom as part of classroom instruction. Several sites have membership fees while others are free. Some of the top sites are discussed below.

US Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)

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The Office of Special Education is committed to improving educational opportunities for all children and youth with disabilities. This online site provides information about all disabilities and has links specific to ADHD. It is an excellent starting point for educators looking for online resources that make suggestions on classroom management, instructional and environmental strategies to use with children and youth with ADHD.

State Departments of Education

Each state department of education can provide valuable online resources and links for educators wanting more information and guidelines for dealing with students having ADHD. Websites can be found by typing the name of the state followed by department of education. For example, the website for the Kentucky Department of Education is here, the California Department of Education is here, and the Virginia, the department of education website is here.

CHADD

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CHADD stands for Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It was founded in 1987 by a group of concerned parents and currently has over 20,000 members. While it is a nonprofit support/advocacy group for those with ADHD, it also serves professionals like educators and doctors who provide services to individuals with ADHD. The organization maintains an information website and publishes materials that keep educators, parents and other professionals abreast of current research and treatments recommended for those with ADHD. CHADD works with several other groups and agencies to provide education and support for those with ADHD.

ADD Resource

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This site was founded in 2001 claims to be the largest leading search engine specializing in information and links about Attention Deficit Learning Disabilities and Disorders. The sites has links to basic information about ADHD and also support groups like CHADD, LDA chapters, personal blogs, and discussion forums. There are also links to current articles on ADHD, parenting, medications, treatments, legal issues and advocacy. There are links specific to professionals dealing with individuals who have ADHD, one specifically for educators, that makes this an excellent site for schools. The site also offers books and classroom instructional materials that can be used in working with children with ADHD.

A.D.D. Warehouse

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One resource available for schools is “The ADHD Handbook for Schools” by Harvey C. Parker, PhD. This a comprehensive reference for teachers, coaches, counselors, and administrators or anyone involved with children with ADHD. The book addresses characteristics, causes and assessment of children and teens as well as medical treatments and classroom strategies for helping the child in the classroom and social settings. Another is “Empowering Youth with ADHD” by Jodi Sleeper-Triplett. Many more resources are available.

ADHD News

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This is an excellent site to find information and support for ADHD. It provides basic information about the identification and treatment strategies for ADHD including medications used, controlling diet, and behavior modification. There are also links to message boards and blogs as well as an online store that provides products that promote ADHD awareness.

Attention Deficit Disorders Resources

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This is a wonderful site that provides a vast array of literature about ADHD for adults and parents. Many articles are available online but some require membership to be accessed. Articles provide information on behavioral and academic issues related to ADHD as well as general information on its treatment and diagnosis. Membership comes with a newsletter and access to a lending library of over 450 books, videos, and tapes. There is also an online bookstore.

National Resource Center for AD/HD

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Those diagnosed with ADHD struggle with inattentiveness and hyperactivity in the school setting. Additionally, there is a tendency toward impulsivity. This site contains a wealth of general information for those dealing with ADHD. Part of the site addresses legal issues and the rights of students with ADHD to have an education suited to their learning needs as guaranteed by Section 504 in the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Individuals with Disability Act.

The site provides a wealth of up-to-date information and scientific research about ADHD. A link for teachers is currently being developed and will have information directed to that group of professionals.

The Learning Disabilities Association of America

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This national, nonprofit group began in 1963 as a support group for individuals with learning disabilities and those working with them to provide information and strategies for success. Their philosophy is that all individuals with learning disabilities can succeed in school and their purpose is to advance the education of children and adults who have disabilities.

The National Mental Health Association

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This is one of the largest nonprofit networks for helping individuals to live healthier lives mentally. The group serves as an advocate for changing policies, educates the general public on mental health issues, and implements programs and services related to mental health. Its primary goal is education about mental health and illnesses but it also provides assistance in finding treatment and support groups as well as an advocate for change in public policy and support for ongoing research. Nationally, it has over 240 affiliates.

American Academy of Pediatrics

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Pediatricians and other physicians routinely work with educators in the diagnosis and treatment of students with ADHD. This site provides general information as well as books and publications about ADHD. The AAP promotes the physical, mental and social wellness from infancy through adulthood.

Resource by T.Price

I am a mom of 2 boys who loves to spend time with them doing fun things outdoors. In my spare time I have my own things I enjoy doing such as gardening, reading old books, and being a closet history buff.

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