Supporting Children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

At Hollymount, we know every child is unique. Some children are naturally energetic, impulsive, highly curious, or find it harder to focus, organise themselves, or manage big emotions. For some children, these traits may be linked to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Whether your child has a diagnosis, is currently being assessed, or you simply have questions about attention, activity levels, or emotional regulation, we want families to know that support is available.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect a child’s attention, impulse control, organisation, activity levels, and sometimes emotional regulation. Children with ADHD are often creative, energetic, curious, and full of ideas, but may also find some aspects of school or home life more challenging.

ADHD can present in different ways, including:

• Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks

• Being easily distracted

• Forgetfulness or losing items regularly

• Difficulty following multi-step instructions

• Acting before thinking

• Finding it hard to wait their turn

• High energy levels or constant movement

• Strong emotional reactions or frustration

• Difficulty with organisation or time awareness

Not every active or distracted child has ADHD, and many of these behaviours are also a normal part of childhood development.

Signs families may notice at home

You may wish to explore support if your child regularly:

• Finds it very hard to sit still, even for enjoyable activities

• Moves quickly from one activity to another

• Interrupts conversations frequently

• Struggles to complete simple routines independently

• Forgets instructions soon after hearing them

• Becomes easily frustrated or emotionally overwhelmed

• Has difficulty with bedtime routines, transitions, or getting ready

• Appears “constantly on the go”

• Can hyperfocus on preferred interests but struggles with everyday tasks

What to do if you have concerns

If you think your child may have ADHD:

1. Speak to us

Your child’s class teacher is often the best first point of contact. School and home together can build a fuller picture of your child’s strengths, needs, and patterns across different environments.

2. Keep notes

It can be helpful to keep a simple diary of:

• Behaviours you notice

• Times of day when challenges are greater

• Sleep patterns

• Eating habits

• Emotional triggers

• What strategies seem to help

3. Speak to your GP

Your National Health Service GP can discuss concerns and advise on local pathways, which may include community paediatrics or neurodevelopmental services.

4. Remember that diagnosis can take time

Assessment pathways can be lengthy, but support strategies do not need to wait for a formal diagnosis.

Practical strategies that can help at home

Many children benefit from:

Clear routines

• Keep morning, homework, and bedtime routines predictable

• Use visual timetables or checklists

• Give warnings before transitions (“5 minutes until we leave”)

Breaking tasks into smaller steps

Instead of “tidy your room,” try:

1. Put books away

2. Put clothes in the basket

3. Make your bed

Reducing distractions

• Quiet homework spaces

• Limited background noise

• Screens off during focused tasks

Positive reinforcement

• Notice effort, not just outcomes

• Celebrate small successes

• Use immediate, specific praise

Movement breaks

Many children focus better after movement:

• Walking

• Stretching

• Bike rides

• Trampolining

• Outdoor play

Supporting sleep

Good sleep routines can make a significant difference:

• Consistent bedtime

• Reduced screen time before bed

• Calm wind-down activities

Helpful organisations and resources

Families may find these organisations useful:

• ADHD Foundation – practical advice, webinars, and resources

• YoungMinds – emotional wellbeing support

• NHS – information about ADHD and local services

• ADDISS – parent guidance and information

How we can help

If concerns are identified, school may be able to support through:

• Classroom adaptations

• Movement or sensory breaks

• Visual prompts

• Organisational support

• Emotional regulation strategies

• Regular home-school communication

• Advice from inclusion or external professionals where appropriate

At Hollymount, we believe that understanding a child’s needs is the first step in helping them thrive.