ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, with or without hyperactivity) affects around 5 % of school-aged children.
It influences concentration, organisation and the management of energy.
Yet, with the right tools, it is entirely possible to help a child with ADHD focus better and thrive in their learning.
Understanding how attention works in a child with ADHD
A child with ADHD does not lack willpower, but their brain processes information differently.
They struggle to filter out stimuli: everything seems important at the same time.
A sound, a smell or a movement can divert their attention without them meaning to.
They often alternate between two states:
- hyperfocus when a subject captivates them,
- extreme distractibility when they are bored.
To help them, it is therefore important to adapt the environment rather than asking them to “try harder”.
Creating a calm and predictable setting
A child with ADHD concentrates better in a structured environment.
They need clear visual and time-based cues:
- a visible timetable,
- colours to distinguish activities,
- gentle transitions between tasks.
Reducing visual distractions (objects, screens, noise) helps to channel attention.
The workspace should be simple, tidy and always in the same place.
Teachers can, for example, seat the child at the front of the class, close to the board, to avoid peripheral sources of distraction.
Offering dynamic, broken-down activities
The concentration of a child with ADHD does not last over long periods.
It is better to break work down into short sequences of 10 to 15 minutes, with regular breaks to release tension.
During these breaks, brief physical activities (walking, jumping, stretching) help to rebalance energy.
Movement is not the enemy of attention — it is often the key to it.
Attention games, visual mazes and interactive activities available on Dys’tap.io can also strengthen concentration in a playful and motivating way.
Encourage, praise, adjust
A child with ADHD has often been told they are “too distracted” or “too restless”.
To help them progress, it is important to praise their efforts, not just their successes.
A simple phrase such as “you really concentrated well” or “you took your time, well done” builds confidence and reduces anxiety.
Adults also need to adapt their expectations:
perfection is not the goal, progress is.
Working on one point at a time — for example, listening without interrupting or finishing an exercise — avoids cognitive overload.
Relying on digital tools and positive routines
Tools such as AidToi.fr offer practical sheets to establish effective daily routines:
- tidying the school bag,
- planning homework,
- getting ready in the morning without stress.
Technology can become an ally, provided it is supervised.
Time management apps, coloured timers or gamified checklists help to maintain motivation without pressure.
In summary
Helping a child with ADHD means understanding their unique way of paying attention and creating conditions conducive to their success.
By making learning concrete, dynamic and rewarding, we foster their concentration while preserving their self-esteem.
The aim is not to “calm them down”, but to teach them to channel their energy — a valuable asset when they are well guided.
