ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

ADHD is a condition that can affect attention, impulse control and activity levels. Children with ADHD may find it harder to concentrate, sit still, or manage their emotions – but they also often bring creativity, energy and unique problem-solving skills.

Common Characteristics of ADHD

Children with ADHD may experience some of the following:

• Difficulty concentrating or staying focused

• High levels of energy, fidgeting or restlessness

• Impulsivity, such as finding it hard to wait, interrupting, or blurting out answers

• Challenges with organisation, planning or remembering things

• Emotional ups and downs, or frustration when tasks feel difficult

• Strengths such as creativity, curiosity and thinking differently

How We Support in School

At Woodchurch, we put strategies in place to help children with ADHD succeed. These include:

• Breaking tasks into small, manageable steps

• Using visuals, checklists and timetables

• Providing movement breaks and opportunities to use energy

• Establishing clear routines and consistent expectations

• Offering positive reinforcement and praise

• Building on children’s strengths and interests

How You Can Help at Home

Families can make a big difference by:

• Keeping daily routines consistent

• Using reminders, charts or apps to support organisation

• Giving instructions one step at a time

• Encouraging physical activity and healthy outlets for energy

• Using calm, positive reinforcement and praise

• Supporting focus with short, regular breaks

Useful Resources

• NHS – ADHD in children

• ADDISS – ADHD Information Service

• Young Minds – ADHD advice

• Kent SEND Information Hub

We’re Here to Help

If you think your child may have ADHD, or if they already have a diagnosis, please talk to their class teacher or our Inclusion Leader, Mrs Butcher. Together, we can create the right support strategies to help your child thrive both in school and at home.

Interested in watching more videos about ADHD? Here are a few videos that may help you:

• "ADHD the questions parents want to ask  their children" - a BBC series supporting parents
• Reaching families animations - video animations showing support relating to autism and sensory issues.
• "How do I help?" - NHS video for parents helping to understand how to support neurodiverse children.
• "A parent's guide to supporting children and young people with ADHD and autism" - various videos helping parents to support their child.

If you believe your child has ADHD, see what help is available for you.

Are you an adult looking for ADHD or autism support for yourself? Visit the NHS website.