It is that time again. Summer will soon come to an end and school will begin soon. For some children who go to year-round school, the school year may have already begun. For most others, the school year will begin sometime in August. As any parent with a special needs child knows, this can be an extremely anxiety-provoking time for both you and your child. You may have many questions about what to expect and how to best prepare your child for the beginning of school.
ADHD Central is here to help with information, resources, and support to ensure that you and your child have a great school year whether your child is just beginning preschool or is entering college.
The following are some common questions parents have about getting their ADHD child ready for the start of school:
What can I expect this school year? What sorts of challenges will my child with ADHD face this year?
Every child is unique and will vary in their challenges as well as their gifts. And likewise every teacher will have a different set of expectations for his or her students. Expectations will also differ by the child’s age and grade. We have some information for you about what you can generally expect for your ADHD child based upon his or her grade level. We have the details for what to expect for children entering preschool all the way through the college years.
• The Preschool Years: ADHD in preschool
• First and Second Grade: ADHD in early elementary age school children
• Third grade until Middle School: ADHD in elementary school
• Middle School Years: ADHD in Middle School
• High School: 12 Things High School Students with ADD/ADHD Want Their Teachers to Know
• The College Years: ADHD in College
My child seems to be afraid of school and tries to avoid going. What can I do to help?
It is not uncommon for children with ADHD to have co-morbid conditions such as depression or anxiety related issues. For some children, school can be a very frustrating and anxious place. Extreme school anxiety may manifest as school phobia. Here are some articles which may be of help to you if your child is having such difficulties.
• School Phobia: What do you do when your child is afraid to go to school?
• School Avoidance/School Refusal
• Managing Your Child’s Refusal to Go to School
College students may also be reluctant to start school due to depression.
• Back to School Blues: Symptoms of Depression in College Students
What are our options for my child’s education? Is public school our only choice?
There are a variety of educational options for children who have special needs, including ADHD. Most other options do cost much more than the free education provided by public schools. These choices range from boarding schools to private schools to homeschooling. Here are some resources to help you make your choice.
