ADHD

What it is

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a common neurodevelopmental difference that affects attention, impulse control, and activity level. It's not about laziness or bad behavior — it's a difference in how the brain regulates focus and self-control. With the right support, students with ADHD thrive, and many bring energy, creativity, and hyperfocus as strengths.

Signs & characteristics

• Inattentive signsTrouble sustaining focus, careless errors, disorganization, forgetfulness, losing things
• Hyperactive-impulsive signsFidgeting, difficulty staying seated, blurting out, interrupting, acting before thinking
• CombinedMany people show both patterns
• Varies by settingSymptoms show up across home, school, and activities
• NoteEveryone is inattentive sometimes — ADHD is a persistent, impairing pattern

Evaluation & testing

ADHD is diagnosed by a doctor or psychologist using history, interviews, and behavior rating scales (like the Conners or BASC) completed by parents and teachers — not a single test. A school evaluation can determine eligibility for support (often under “Other Health Impairment” for an IEP, or a 504 Plan).

Supports & accommodations

• Classroom accommodationsExtended time, movement breaks, chunked tasks, preferential seating, checklists
• Organization & routine strategiesPlanners, reminders, consistent structure
• Behavioral supportsPositive reinforcement and clear expectations
• Medication (a family/medical decision)Some families, with their doctor, find medication helpful
• 504 Plan or IEPTo formalize accommodations or services at school

What families can do

• Start with what you noticeKeep notes on specific examples over time
• Talk to the school and your doctorShare your observations and ask about an evaluation
• Request an evaluation in writingIt starts the process and creates a record
• Learn your rightsAn IEP or 504 Plan may provide support
• Focus on strengths tooEvery child has strengths to build on

Terms to know

• Executive functionSkills like planning, organizing, and self-control
• Other Health Impairment (OHI)The IDEA category ADHD often falls under
• Behavior rating scalesQuestionnaires used in diagnosis (Conners, BASC)
• HyperfocusIntense focus on high-interest tasks

Frequently asked questions

• Is ADHD a real condition?Yes — it's a well-established neurodevelopmental difference.
• Does my child need medication?That's a personal medical decision to make with your doctor; many supports are non-medical.
• Can my child get school support?Yes — through a 504 Plan or an IEP (often under Other Health Impairment).
• Who diagnoses ADHD?A doctor or psychologist, using history and rating scales.
• Is it just bad behavior?No — it's a difference in attention and self-regulation.

Key facts

• WhatA neurodevelopmental difference
• AffectsAttention, impulse control, activity
• TypesInattentive · Hyperactive-impulsive · Combined
• Diagnosed byA doctor or psychologist (with rating scales)
• School support504 Plan or IEP

Where to learn more

Learn more and find support: