17 Effective Strategies to Help Students with ADHD Stay Focused

 

Students with ADHD often struggle with concentration, but research shows that allowing them to fidget can actually improve their focus. The challenge, however, is finding ways to help them engage in movement without disrupting the rest of the class.

As educators and parents, we need to provide practical, discreet solutions that support their learning experience. Here are 17 teacher- and parent-approved strategies to help students with ADHD stay on task while maintaining a productive classroom environment.

Hands-On Strategies for Focus

• Squeeze Balls – Stress balls, squishy toys, or koosh balls can help students channel excess energy. To minimize distractions, encourage them to use these items under their desks. Bonus tip: Fill balloons with different materials (flour, rice, or playdough) to create DIY stress relievers.
• Fidget Tools – Small, quiet fidgets like beaded bracelets, Rubik’s Cubes, or slinkies can help keep hands occupied. These can be purchased or even homemade.
• Silly Putty or Playdough – Providing students with a small amount of putty or sticky tack can help them stay engaged while working through lessons.
• Velcro Strips – Attaching a strip of velcro (the rough side) under a student’s desk gives them a subtle, tactile way to fidget without drawing attention.
• Chewing Gum or Chewable Necklaces – Some students concentrate better when chewing gum. If gum isn’t allowed in class, consider chewable necklaces or wrapping rubber tubing around pencil ends for a similar effect.

Visual and Auditory Aids

• Doodling – Letting students doodle while listening to a lesson can actually enhance focus. Research supports this as an effective tool for learning retention.
• Background Noise or Music – Soft background sounds, like a fan or gentle music through headphones, can help students maintain focus without distracting others. Some teachers even use an aquarium in the classroom to create a calming effect.

Physical Movement Supports

• Chair Leg Bands – Tying a large rubber band or exercise band across the front chair legs allows students to push or pull with their feet for subtle movement.
• Bouncy Balls (Yoga or Stability Balls) – These can double as seating and movement tools, benefiting not only students with ADHD but the entire class.
• Swivel Chairs or Rocking Chairs – Allowing students to move side to side can help release excess energy while keeping them engaged.
• Wobble Chairs – These let students shift within their seats, offering movement while maintaining stability.
• Disk Seats or Cushions – Placing a balance disc on a chair provides small, controlled movement that can aid focus.

Alternative Workspaces

• Standing Desks – Great for all students, standing desks encourage natural movement and can reduce restlessness.
• Desks with Swinging Footrests – Providing a built-in footrest can help minimize disruptive tapping while allowing students to move.
• Stationary Bikes – Placing a stationary bike at the back of the classroom offers a quiet way for students to stay active while learning.
• Movement Zones in the Classroom – Designating an area where students can stand, stretch, or pace can help them refocus without disturbing others.
• Flexible Seating Options – Giving students the freedom to move between workspaces, such as a windowsill or different desks, allows them to find what works best for their learning style.

Final Thoughts

Supporting students with ADHD doesn’t mean limiting their movement—it means channeling it in ways that help them thrive. By incorporating these simple yet effective strategies, educators can create an inclusive classroom where all students have the tools they need to succeed.

Which of these strategies have you tried? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments!

Coach Benjamin Mizrahi. Educator. Learning Specialist. Family Coach. Father. Husband.   

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