ADHD in Adolescents- Part 5: Effective Rules and Boundaries for Implementing Kinesthetic Learning Supports
To ensure academic success for adolescents with ADHD, it's essential to implement effective rules and boundaries that accommodate their unique learning needs. Kinesthetic learning tools can assist these students by engaging their physical senses, helping them retain information better and stay focused in the classroom. These rules and boundaries are designed to support adolescents with ADHD, along with specific limit-setting strategies to facilitate compliance and improved behavior.
We recently discussed the importance of kinesthetic learning and boundary-setting for adolescents. Now, let’s discuss specific tools to facilitate learning, which promote success for adolescents with ADHD.
Kinesthetic Learning Tools and Boundaries
Incorporate Movement Breaks: Schedule regular movement breaks every 20-30 minutes. Boundary: Students must return to their seats quietly and be ready to focus within five minutes of the break.
Flexible Seating Arrangements: Allow students to choose seating options that promote movement, such as standing desks or wobble stools. Boundary: Students must remain in their designated seating area unless permitted to move.
Kinesthetic Learning Strategies for Adolescents with ADHD
Integrate kinesthetic activities that require physical engagement. Boundary: Students must ask for permission to leave their seats for materials and return promptly to their learning tasks.
Utilize Fidget Tools: Permit the use of fidget tools (like stress balls or fidget spinners). Boundary: Fidget tools should not be disruptive; if a tool becomes a distraction, it must be put away.
How to Use Physical Activities and Visual Aids to Help Adolescents with ADHD Learn
Design Interactive Lessons: Create interactive lessons including physical activities. Boundary: Students must participate respectfully and follow instructions during interactive segments to ensure safety and learning.
Employ Visual Aids: Use visual aids, diagrams, and charts that allow for student interactions. Boundary: Students must keep their hands to themselves and only touch the materials related to the assigned task.
Implement Task Cards: Provide task cards that students can complete individually or in small groups. The tasks are listed individually and incorporate activities that allow for movement around the room. Boundary: Students must complete each task card before moving to the next, ensuring they stay focused on the learning objectives.
Encourage Collaborative Group Work: Foster collaborative projects where students can engage with peers. Boundary: Each group must assign roles to ensure everyone participates and stays on task, with a time limit to discuss ideas.