How To Teach And Manage Children With ADHD - Fintan O'Regan

This is another in the 'How to,,,' series of books of which I am such a fan. This book was very hard to get hold of, I think it was out of print, but is now readily available again. The fact that I was willing to search so hard for this book is testament to how much I like the series.

This book is aimed at teachers, teaching assistants and other educational professionals who work with children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I would also recommend this to anyone working with children with other behavioural difficulties as many of the tip and suggestions would be relevant, and they won't harm the child in any way.

The book starts with a contents page, then a preface which very briefly explains the content of the chapters; I have used this preface and the content of the chapters themselves to write this review. Before the content of the book really starts there is a page headed 'Acronyms', this is a list of the abbreviations used in the book and what they stand for (e.g. DfES – Department for Education and Skills).

The book is divided into five chapters and an appendix.

Chapter 1 – Teaching Children with ADHD:
This chapter looks at the current prevalence of ADHD and the huge likelihood that teachers will encounter it in their career (it's estimated that one child per average classroom presents at least 2 symptoms). The condition is explained, with typical characteristics and case studies (I like these, it's much more meaningful when you can imagine an actual child). I like the fact that this book is not defeatist, it points out the positives about ADHD as well as reminding teachers that it is the condition and not the child that is problematic.

Chapter 2 – Structure, Differentiation, Flexibility and Relationships
This chapter is multi-faceted. It first looks at how the structure of the school and the classroom can affect the child with ADHD, and identifies watch-points for the child, such as punctuality and getting homework done. Then it looks at reasons for and ways to differentiate lessons.

Chapter 3 – Social Factors
This looks at ADHD children's relationships with peers and school staff, particularly highlighting the issue of bullying which is a big problem.

Chapter 4 – Other Organisations, Professionals and Parents
This chapter deals first with assessment of ADHD, then goes through outside and internal help which the teacher can use (e.g. educational psychologists as outside help, the SENCO as internal). It also gives suggestions for treatment, both pharmaceutical and 'alternative'; obviously the teacher will not be medicating the child but it is useful to know about the types of medication and side effects. Many of the ideas on how to support the child in school are presented in this chapter.

Chapter 5 – Support Materials
There are checklists and some supplementary materials for teachers to adapt in this chapter. What I find very helpful are the bullet pointed suggestions on how to deal with certain situations; not all of these will work for every child, but there are enough that you are able to find one that will.

Finally there is a section on support groups, several are given with their contact details. I personally have never used these, but I know of teachers who have and other teachers who have given parents the page.

Overall, I think this book is an invaluable addition to any staff room. It's full of useful and easy to apply advice, as well as maintaining a positive approach throughout.