Supporting Children With ADHD With Their Communication

Understanding their world

Children with ADHD may struggle with impulse control, attention, and hyperactivity, making it difficult to process and respond to information like their peers. You may notice your child:

• Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly - this is otherwise known as 'inattention'.
• Talks excessively - also referred to as 'hyperactivity'.
• Interrupts or intrudes on others, or blurts out an answer before a question has been completed - also known as 'impulsivity'.

Recognising these challenges is the first step in supporting communication. Patience and empathy are essential, as they help create a safe environment where your child will feel understood and supported.

In addition to the above, you may also recognise:

• Difficulties focusing and sustaining attention in conversation
• Missing or misinterpreting social cues and social situations
• Difficulties retaining information
• Difficulties remembering multi-step instructions
• Needing longer to process thoughts to give a response
• Difficulty starting conversations
• Difficulties with waiting for their turn to talk
• Dominating conversations

Establish clear and simple communication

Get your child’s attention by saying their name to ensure you have their attention before asking questions or giving instructions. Give them time to stop what they are doing and direct their attention to you.

Use clear language to help your child understand instructions and information better.

Allow processing time such as pausing frequently to allow your child to process what you have said to them.

Ask your child to repeat back to you what you have said.  This helps support working memory and to gauge if they have understood the instructions or information.

Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps. For instance, instead of saying, 'clean your room', try, 'first, put your toys in the box. Then, make your bed'. Visuals, such as charts or checklists, can be helpful in reinforcing verbal instructions. For example, information or instructions can be in picture or icon form, be written down. You might try check lists, to-do lists, note books, white boards, WhatsApp or text messages, note facilities on phones or iPad.

Encourage active listening

Explore social situations such as using role play, books, tv programs, social stories and real-life experiences to talk to your child about social interactions and social cues.

Role-playing exercises can be effective in teaching active listening. For example, take turns speaking and listening, and then discuss what was heard and understood. Praise your child when they demonstrate good listening skills, reinforcing positive behaviour.

Create a structured environment

A structured environment provides predictability, which can be beneficial for children with ADHD. Establishing routines helps them know what to expect and reduces anxiety. Consistent routines also make it easier for them to follow instructions and communicate effectively. Ensure that communication routines, like family meetings or regular check-ins, are part of this structure.

Foster a positive and supportive atmosphere

Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building communication skills. Celebrate small achievements and give regular praise and encouragement. Avoid negative language or criticism, which can discourage your child and hinder their progress. Instead, offer constructive feedback that focuses on improvement and effort.

Seek professional support

If your child continues to struggle with communication despite your efforts, consider seeking professional support. Teachers, SENCo, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and ADHD specialists can provide tailored strategies and interventions to address specific challenges.

To conclude

Supporting a child with ADHD in developing their communication skills requires patience, understanding, and a proactive approach. Be creative and encouraging and take time to explore what strategies work for your child. 

Reassure your child that everyone is different, and we all have our own unique personality and communication style.