This is Jennifer Gonzalez welcoming you to episode 189 of the Cult of Pedagogy podcast.

In this episode, we'll be looking at eight principles for supporting students with ADHD.

I still remember the feeling I used to get when looking at the paperwork for my students

who had ADHD.

The forms listing the accommodations I would need to make for them.

Usually extended time on tests and maybe preferential seating.

The feeling could best be described as uncertain.

I understood what these small changes looked like in practice, seat this student near the

front of the room and give him more time to work on tests.

But I knew almost nothing about the mechanics behind why the changes were supposed to make

a difference.

I signed the papers, returned them to the office, and made a mental note that if any of these

students ever showed signs of struggle, it was probably because of the ADHD.

And they did struggle.

The preferential seating and extra time wasn't often enough to help them turn in completed

work on time, keep track of their things, and stay focused on class activities.

Knowing as little as I did about ADHD, I figured that was the best we were going to get.

As uncomfortable as it makes me to stay this, I will also admit that part of me wondered

why these students couldn't just power through.

Find the motivation.

Try harder.

Disorganization got the better of me sometimes too.

...