STRUCTURE – A FEW HINTS
June 10, 2004
A free newsletter by BJ Madewell
DIAGNOSIS ADD ADHD
Now What?
Published 10th, 20th & 30th of each month
PLEASE SEE DISCLAIMER AT THE END OF THIS DOCUMENT!
STRUCTURE – A FEW HINTS
In the words of Dr. Hallowell, “Structure refers to the external limits and controls people with ADD/ADHD so urgently need. Such concrete, practical tools such as lists, reminders, simple filing systems, appointment books, goals, daily planning, and the like can greatly reduce the inner chaos of an ADD/ADHD life and improve productivity as well as one’s sense of control”.
To create structure/rules have a
schedule/plan --
Be sure to include the ADDer as the plan is formulated.
It is best to KISS
the plan (Keep It Simple Stupid).
Write it down, and post it, make a recording
of it --- then comes the hard part -- follow
it. Review and
refine as needed.
Transition times (switching from one activity to another) will probably be difficult.
A “time check” is extremely helpful. Announce the time left before a change. For example: “TIME CHECK!!! 10 minutes until we will leave.” It is important to announce “TIME CHECK!” to attract the ADDer’s attention. The declaration needs to be short and to the point. Consider having the ADDer be a time check monitor – use a timer or a stopwatch for assistance. (Remember – Most Adders have difficulty with “time sense” and tend to live in the HERE AND NOW.)
Consistency with structure/rules can be difficult.
ADDers may be so rigid that any deviation from the plan will bring forth fits of anger, denial, and even non-compliance. Example: “You said I should have 3 or 4 sentences in a paragraph and now you tell me I need more sentences in THIS paragraph. Make up your mind! Note: I actually had a child say these exact words to me the other day. (BJ)
Some ADDers will honestly be unable to recall, let alone follow the schedule/plan. That’s why it is important to write it down, post it, and/or record it for future reference.
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HOUSE RULES
if you sleep on it ... make it up
if you wear it ... hang it up
if you drop it ... pick it up
if you eat out of it ... wash it
if you open it ... close it
if you turn it on ... turn it off
if you empty it ... fill it
if you get it out ... put it back
if it needs to be done ... do it
if it cries ... love it
--- anonymous
Classroom Rules
(FOR INSTRUCTORS)
-
PLAN FOR ORGANIZATION INSTRUCTION AND PRACTICE
how to clean/organize desk, cubby, locker, etc.
-
DAILY AGENDA POSTED PROMINENTLY AND UPDATED
-
HAVE WELL-DEFINED DAILY ROUTINES
specific procedures for completed work, unfinished work and homework -- imperative
that students practice these procedures
-
REFINE AND USE NON-VERBAL CUES
music, proximity control, eye contact, use student's name, selective ignoring
-
TEACH AND PRACTICE COOPERATIVE LEARNING
study buddy, telephone numbers for students
-
PROVIDE ADEQUATE WORK AND STORAGE AREAS
-
RECOGNIZE EFFORT
-
UTILIZE MULTI-SENSORY PRESENTATIONS
visual, auditory, kinesthetic,
role playing needs to be incorporated
-
FOLLOW THE IEP/504 -- IT'S THE LAW!
-
BE CONSISTENT
but not rigid
IT’S YOUR CHOICE
Structure can (almost) create order out of
the chaos of ADD/ADHD.
DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational purposes only. Much of the information is from classes and workshops I've taken AND GIVEN during my 30+ years of working with ADD & ADHD students - sprinkled with my own comments, thoughts and insights.
Some information is acquired from the INTERNET. Be aware that not all information on the WWW is accurate. Use your own judgment. This information is not intended to replace information from your doctor, therapist, lawyer, psychologist, nutritionist or psychiatrist. Consult your child's (or your own) doctor for additional input.
Editor: BJ Madewell
Wichita, KS area
316-733-9532
Email ADDchoices@aol.com or ADDchoices@yahoo.com
