ADHD - primary school

[Partydressredridinghood]

My DD was diagnosed with ASD aged 3. Now 6. High functioning but it seems pretty clear to me that she also has ADHD. Teachers have spoken about her lack of attention, impulsiveness (shouting out, moving about the room), not listening. She is a lovely little girl but she has told me she struggles to concentrate at school. Her teacher sometimes asks to speak to me at the end of the day and says she hasn't been listening etc. Awaiting referral but what can I do with regard to support I can ask for within the school? What sort of classroom strategies can work for a young child struggling with ADHD behaviours in a noisy classroom?. DD is bright but just can't focus well, which obviously impacts massively on learning. We do have Ed Psych meetings once or twice a year but nothing really comes from this except some quite superficial suggestions (e.g. talk about friendships to help socialising) I would like to ask to speak to the school about strategies but not convinced the teacher knows much about ADHD and has ideas up her sleeve. I think she thinks I can talk my daughter out of these behaviours (I do try!) What can reasonably be suggested/ what strategies can help kids in this situation?

If she isn't already on the SEN register request for her to be added and speak to the SENCO ASAP so her needs are met in class. She cannot help how she behaves. There are a number of children with undiagnosed ND in my children's classes and there are all sorts of adjustments available as a while class such as movement breaks and being able to sit at the back for a 'breather' through to fidgets in desks, wobble cushion and bands on chairs they can tap with their feet if feeling restless. You do not need a diagnosis for her needs to be met.

A properly structured and sequenced sensory circuit first thing in the morning and after lunch
Timetabled movement breaks where she gets out of breath
Standing desk
wobble cushion
Theraband for chair legs
Ear loops to block out background
distractions
Task lists
Regular adult check-ins and non verbal signals to ask for help or clarification

These are a few of the provisions I have in place for children in my school (with or without a diagnosis of ADHD). They may help you lead a discussion with your SENCO about support, moving forward.