Classroom strategies for ADHD

Children with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) are bright, curious, and full of potential—but they often struggle in traditional classroom settings. Distractibility, impulsiveness, and trouble with organization can interfere with learning and behavior. With the right tools and environment, however, children with ADHD can thrive. That’s why effective classroom strategies for ADHD are essential in every inclusive learning space.

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we work with neurodivergent children daily—including many with ADHD. Whether they’re enrolled in our preschool or receiving one-on-one intervention, our approach is tailored, compassionate, and rooted in strategies that work.

Understanding ADHD in the Classroom

ADHD isn’t about laziness or bad behavior—it’s a neurological difference that affects how a child focuses, controls impulses, and regulates emotions. In classrooms, this may look like:

• Difficulty sitting still or staying seated

• Incomplete or rushed assignments

• Talking excessively or interrupting

• Forgetting instructions or losing materials

• Strong emotional reactions to small frustrations

These behaviors aren’t intentional—they reflect a child’s need for structure, support, and movement. Teachers who understand this can change the classroom experience for ADHD learners dramatically.

Top 10 Classroom Strategies for Supporting Children with ADHD

1. Break Tasks Into Manageable Steps

Large tasks can feel overwhelming. Breaking them into smaller, time-bound activities increases success and reduces frustration.

2. Use Visual Schedules and Timers

Children with ADHD benefit from knowing what to expect. Visual schedules and countdown timers improve transitions and time awareness.

3. Incorporate Movement Breaks

“Brain breaks” every 15–20 minutes help children release energy, refocus, and reduce anxiety. Movement can be as simple as stretching or walking to the board.

4. Provide Preferential Seating

Seat the child near the teacher and away from distractions like doors, windows, or noisy classmates. Use fidget cushions or footrests if needed.

5. Use Clear, Concise Instructions

Avoid multi-step verbal instructions. Give one direction at a time and check for understanding before moving on.

6. Offer Choices to Boost Engagement

Giving students autonomy in how they complete a task (e.g., typing vs. writing, working alone vs. in a group) increases motivation.

7. Establish Predictable Routines

Routine helps with organization and behavior regulation. Stick to consistent classroom patterns wherever possible.

8. Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise effort, not just results. Reinforce behaviors like waiting turns, completing tasks, or using coping strategies.

9. Incorporate Multisensory Teaching

Children with ADHD often learn best when lessons are active and visual. Use props, manipulatives, and real-life examples to enhance understanding.

10. Provide Access to Fidgets or Sensory Tools

Quiet fidget tools, weighted items, or noise-canceling headphones can help with sensory regulation—especially during seated tasks.

The Role of Teachers in ADHD Support

Teachers don’t need to be therapists—but they play a huge role in a child’s development. When classrooms become ADHD-friendly, students feel:

• More empowered and understood

• Less anxious or overwhelmed

• More likely to engage and succeed

At OrbRom Center, we also work closely with classroom teachers to help them identify ADHD behaviors and apply supportive strategies that reduce stress for both the student and the teacher.

How OrbRom Center Supports Children With ADHD

We provide a range of specialized services to support families and educators dealing with ADHD. These include:

• Developmental assessments to better understand learning profiles

• Special needs intensive intervention for one-on-one or small group support

• Teacher consultation and training on ADHD strategies and behavior management

• Parent workshops and goal-setting sessions

Our inclusive preschool and intervention programs in Phnom Penh are built around the needs of neurodivergent learners—because we believe every child deserves a classroom where they can thrive.

Let’s Build ADHD-Inclusive Classrooms Together

If you’re a parent, teacher, or school looking for ADHD support in Cambodia, OrbRom Center can help. Whether it’s through assessments, behavior strategies, or direct intervention, we offer practical solutions that work in real classrooms with real children.

Together, we can move from chaos to calm—one strategy, one success, one student at a time.