Lesson Plan
ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Lesson Plan 1
Students will be able to define ADHD, recognize its common symptoms, and understand how it personally impacts their daily lives.
Understanding ADHD is the first step towards managing it. By learning about their own brains, students can feel empowered to take control and develop strategies that work for them, reducing frustration and improving school and home life.
Audience
6th Grade Students
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Interactive discussion, visual aids, and self-reflection.
Materials
ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1, ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Script 1, My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1, and My Reflection Ticket Cool Down 1
Prep
Review Materials and Prepare
15 minutes
- Review the ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 and familiarize yourself with the content.
- Read through the ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Script 1 to understand the flow and key talking points.
- Print copies of the My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1 (one per student).
- Print copies of the My Reflection Ticket Cool Down 1 (one per student).
- Ensure projector/screen and computer are set up for the slide deck.
Step 1
Warm-Up & Introduction (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Begin with a quick check-in: "On a scale of 1-5, how 'on' is your brain right now?" (1 being sleepy, 5 being super alert).
- Introduce the session: "Welcome to ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Today, we're going to start by understanding what ADHD is and how it uniquely affects each of us. This is a safe space to share and learn."
Step 2
What is ADHD? (10 minutes)
10 minutes
- Use ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 to present the definition of ADHD.
- Explain common symptoms (inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity) with relatable examples for 6th graders.
- Emphasize that ADHD is a brain difference, not a flaw. Discuss the concept of 'neurodiversity'.
- Facilitate a brief discussion: "What are some things you've heard about ADHD?" or "How do these symptoms show up in real life?"
Step 3
My ADHD Superpowers (10 minutes)
10 minutes
- Distribute the My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1.
- Guide students through the worksheet, encouraging them to reflect on how ADHD impacts them personally, both challenges and potential strengths.
- Circulate and offer support, helping students articulate their experiences. Remind them there's no right or wrong answer.
Step 4
Cool Down & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Distribute My Reflection Ticket Cool Down 1.
- Ask students to complete the cool-down ticket silently.
- Collect the tickets as an exit ticket. Briefly preview the next session: "Next time, we'll dive into some cool strategies to help manage those energy boosts and focus challenges!"
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Slide Deck
ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! 🧠
Welcome to our first session!
Warm-Up Question: On a scale of 1-5, how 'on' is your brain right now? (1 = sleepy, 5 = super alert)
Welcome students and introduce the session. Explain that this is a safe space to learn about their brains. Ask the warm-up question to get them thinking.
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for:
Attention-
Deficit/
Hyperactivity
Disorder
It's how some brains are wired differently!
Introduce the official definition of ADHD. Explain that ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Emphasize that it's a difference in how the brain works, not a flaw or a choice.
How Does ADHD Show Up?
ADHD can affect people in different ways:
- Inattention: Trouble focusing, easily distracted, forgetting things.
- Example: Daydreaming during class, losing your pencil.
- Hyperactivity: Feeling restless, lots of energy, difficulty sitting still.
- Example: Fidgeting, needing to move around.
- Impulsivity: Acting or speaking without thinking first.
- Example: Blurting out answers, interrupting conversations.
Break down the three main ways ADHD can show up: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Provide simple, relatable examples for each. For inattention, mention difficulty focusing on homework or listening to instructions. For hyperactivity, talk about fidgeting or feeling restless. For impulsivity, give examples like blurting out answers or interrupting. Stress that not everyone experiences all of these in the same way.
Your Unique Brain: Challenges & Superpowers!
Every brain is unique, including yours!
Challenges can be:
- Staying focused
- Organizing tasks
- Waiting your turn
But also... ADHD can come with amazing strengths!
- Creativity
- High energy
- Problem-solving
- Hyperfocus (on things you love!)
Discuss the 'superpowers' or strengths often associated with ADHD. This is crucial for building a positive self-image. Mention creativity, energy, problem-solving, and hyperfocus when interested. Encourage students to think about how their unique brain might be an advantage.
Let's Reflect: Your ADHD Journey
Now it's time to think about your experiences.
We'll use the "My ADHD Superpowers" Worksheet to explore:
- How ADHD shows up for you.
- What challenges you face.
- What amazing strengths you have because of your unique brain!
Explain that they will now work on a worksheet to reflect on their own experiences with ADHD. Emphasize that it's a personal reflection and there are no wrong answers. This also leads into the My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1.
Wrapping Up: Reflection Time
Time for our Cool Down Ticket!
- Quickly write down one thing you learned or one feeling you have about your ADHD today.
- This helps me know what was helpful!
Next time: Practical strategies for your brain!
Explain the cool-down activity. Students will fill out an exit ticket to summarize what they learned or how they're feeling. Collect these as they leave. Briefly mention what's coming next.
Script
ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Session 1 Script
Warm-Up & Introduction (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks)
"Welcome, everyone! I'm so glad you're here today for our first session of 'ADHD Hacks: Focus Up!' This is a special time for us to learn about our amazing brains and discover some cool tools to help us succeed. We're going to create a safe space here, where everyone feels comfortable sharing and asking questions, so let's agree to listen respectfully and support each other.
To start, let's do a quick check-in. On a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 means your brain feels super sleepy and 5 means it's buzzing with energy and ideas, how 'on' is your brain right now? You can just show me with your fingers."
(Pause for students to show fingers. Acknowledge a few responses briefly.)
"Great! Thanks for sharing. Today, we're going to dive into understanding what ADHD is and how it uniquely affects each of us. This understanding is the first step to finding what works best for your brain."
What is ADHD? (10 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 2: "What is ADHD?")
"Alright, let's start with the basics. You might have heard the term 'ADHD' before, but what does it actually mean? ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.
Now, don't let the 'disorder' part scare you. Think of it more like a different way your brain is wired. It just means your brain works a little differently than some other people's brains, especially when it comes to things like paying attention, sitting still, or thinking before acting.
Has anyone heard of ADHD before? What are some things you think it means?"
(Facilitate a brief discussion, clarifying misconceptions and affirming correct understanding.)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 3: "How Does ADHD Show Up?")
"ADHD can show up in different ways for different people. It's like having a superpower, but sometimes that superpower needs a little guidance! There are three main ways we often see ADHD.
First, there's inattention. This means it can be tough to focus on one thing for a long time, you might get easily distracted, or sometimes forget where you put things. Can anyone think of an example of when their brain might wander during class or when they've forgotten something important?"
(Allow for a few student examples, normalizing these experiences.)
"Next is hyperactivity. This is when you have a lot of energy, feel restless, or find it hard to sit still. Maybe you feel like you just have to fidget, or you need to get up and move around a lot. Does anyone ever feel a strong need to move even when they're supposed to be sitting still?"
(Allow for a few student examples.)
"And finally, there's impulsivity. This means sometimes you might act or speak without thinking it all the way through first. Maybe you blurt out an answer, or interrupt someone by accident because an idea just popped into your head! Has anyone ever said something without meaning to, or done something on impulse?"
(Allow for a few student examples.)
"Remember, you don't have to have all of these, and they can show up differently for everyone. What's important is knowing how your brain works."
Your Unique Brain: Challenges & Superpowers! (10 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 4: "Your Unique Brain: Challenges & Superpowers!")
"It's really important to remember that having an ADHD brain isn't a bad thing. It's just a different thing. While there can be challenges, like staying focused on boring tasks or organizing your backpack, your unique brain also comes with some amazing strengths, or what I like to call 'superpowers'!
People with ADHD are often incredibly creative. They can think outside the box and come up with brilliant new ideas! They often have a lot of energy, which can be great for sports or exciting projects. Many are also fantastic problem-solvers because they look at things from different angles. And when they're interested in something, they can hyperfocus – dive deep into it and learn tons!
Think about it: What are some things you're really good at? What makes your brain amazing?"
(Briefly encourage positive self-reflection.)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 5: "Let's Reflect: Your ADHD Journey")
"Now, we're going to take some time to reflect on your own experiences. I'm going to hand out a worksheet called 'My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1'. This worksheet will help you think about how ADHD shows up for you personally – both the challenges and those amazing strengths.
Take your time with it. There are no right or wrong answers. Just write down what feels true for you. If you need any help or want to talk through an idea, I'll be walking around to assist. This is for your own reflection, but if you feel comfortable, you can share something later."
(Distribute My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1. Circulate and provide support. Encourage students to be honest with themselves and focus on both aspects.)
Cool Down & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 6: "Wrapping Up: Reflection Time")
"Alright, let's start to wrap up for today. Before we go, I have one more quick activity for you. I'm going to hand out a 'My Reflection Ticket Cool Down 1'. On this ticket, I'd like you to quickly write down either one thing you learned today about ADHD or one feeling you have about your ADHD after our discussion. This helps me understand what resonated with you and what we might want to explore more."
*(Distribute My Reflection Ticket Cool Down 1.)
"Take a moment to fill it out. When you're done, please hand it to me as you leave. Thank you all for your amazing participation and for being so open today."
(Collect tickets.)
"Next time, we're going to dive into some really practical 'hacks' – cool strategies to help manage those energy boosts and focus challenges you might experience. I'm excited to share them with you! See you next time!"
Worksheet
My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1
Understanding My Brain
Name: ____________________________ Date: _____________
Part 1: How ADHD Shows Up for Me
Think about the ways ADHD might affect you in your daily life. Be honest and think about both school and home.
-
Inattention: Do you sometimes find it hard to focus, get easily distracted, or forget things? Give an example.
-
Hyperactivity: Do you often feel restless, have a lot of energy, or find it tough to sit still? Give an example.
-
Impulsivity: Do you sometimes act or speak without thinking first? Give an example.
Part 2: My ADHD Superpowers!
Even though ADHD can bring challenges, it also comes with some amazing strengths! What are some of your superpowers?
-
Creativity: Are you good at coming up with new ideas, drawing, or being imaginative? How?
-
Energy/Enthusiasm: Do you have lots of energy for things you enjoy, or are you very enthusiastic about certain topics? Give an example.
-
Problem-Solving: Are you good at figuring out tricky situations or finding unique solutions? How?
-
Hyperfocus: Is there something you can get totally absorbed in and focus on for a long time? What is it?
Part 3: One Thing I Want to Learn
What is one thing you hope to learn in our
Cool Down
My Reflection Ticket
Name: ____________________________ Date: _____________
One Thing I Learned OR One Feeling I Have Today
In our session today, we talked about what ADHD is and how it affects different people, including some of your own experiences. Please write down one thing you learned or one feeling you have about ADHD from our discussion today.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! Your input helps me make these sessions even better for you.
Lesson Plan
ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Lesson Plan 2
Students will learn and practice specific strategies to improve focus, organization, and task management in their daily lives.
Providing concrete, actionable strategies empowers students to feel more in control of their ADHD symptoms, leading to improved academic performance and reduced frustration.
Audience
6th Grade Students
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Direct instruction of strategies, interactive activity, and group discussion.
Materials
ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2, ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Script 2, ADHD Strategy Card Sort Activity 2, and My Strategy Selection Cool Down 2
Prep
Review Materials and Prepare
15 minutes
- Review the ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 and familiarize yourself with the content.
- Read through the ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Script 2 to understand the flow and key talking points.
- Print and cut out the ADHD Strategy Card Sort Activity 2 cards (one set per small group/pair).
- Print copies of the My Strategy Selection Cool Down 2 (one per student).
- Ensure projector/screen and computer are set up for the slide deck.
Step 1
Warm-Up & Review (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Begin by asking students to recall one thing they learned from the last session about ADHD or one personal superpower they identified. "Who can remind us of something we discussed about ADHD last time?"
Step 2
Introducing Strategies (10 minutes)
10 minutes
- Use ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 to introduce various strategies for focus, organization, and task management.
- Categories might include: Body Tools (fidgets, movement breaks), Brain Tools (breaking tasks, visual timers), Environment Tools (creating a calm space), Planning Tools (checklists, planners).
- Briefly explain each strategy with a simple, relatable example. Encourage students to think about which ones might resonate with them.
Step 3
ADHD Strategy Card Sort Activity (10 minutes)
10 minutes
- Divide students into small groups or pairs.
- Distribute the ADHD Strategy Card Sort Activity 2 cards to each group.
- Instruct them to sort the cards into categories: "Strategies I already use," "Strategies I want to try," and "Strategies that might not work for me." - Facilitate a brief group discussion: "What strategies did you put in 'want to try' and why?"
Step 4
Cool Down & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Distribute My Strategy Selection Cool Down 2.
- Ask students to choose 1-2 strategies they want to try and write them down.
- Collect tickets. Preview the next session: "Next time, we'll talk about how to manage big feelings and communicate our needs!"
Slide Deck
ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization 🛠️
Welcome back, amazing brains!
Quick Review: What was one thing you learned or one superpower you identified about your ADHD last time?
Welcome students back. Ask a warm-up question to connect to the previous session and activate prior knowledge. Encourage sharing.
Our Toolkit of ADHD Hacks!
Last time, we learned about our unique ADHD brains. Today, we're building our toolkit!
These are 'hacks' or strategies to help with:
- Focus
- Staying Organized
- Getting Tasks Done
Introduce the idea of 'ADHD Hacks' as tools or strategies. Explain that different tools work for different people and the goal is to find what works best for them.
Hack #1: Body Tools 🏃
Sometimes our bodies need to move to help our brains focus.
- Fidget Toys: Squeeze balls, fidget cubes, putty.
- Why they help: Give your body an outlet for restless energy.
- Movement Breaks: Stand up, stretch, walk to the water fountain.
- Why they help: Reset your focus and release energy.
- Chewing Gum/Crunchy Snacks:
- Why they help: Oral stimulation can help some people focus.
Introduce 'Body Tools'. Explain what they are and why they help. Provide examples and ask students if they already use any or can think of others.
Hack #2: Brain Tools 🧠
These hacks help your brain manage information and tasks.
- Break It Down: Turn a big assignment into smaller, manageable steps.
- Example: Instead of "Write a report," think "Research," "Outline," "Write intro."
- Visual Timers: Use an actual timer or an app to see time passing.
- Why they help: Helps you understand how much time is left and stay on task.
Introduce 'Brain Tools'. Explain breaking down tasks and using visual timers. Give clear examples for each and discuss how they can make big tasks feel smaller.
Hack #3: Environment Tools 🏡
Your surroundings can make a big difference!
- Calm Space: Find a quiet spot with fewer distractions for homework or reading.
- Example: Not next to the TV or a noisy sibling.
- Declutter: Keep your workspace tidy.
- Why it helps: Less visual distraction, easier to find things.
Introduce 'Environment Tools'. Talk about creating a personal space that supports focus. Discuss minimizing distractions and having an organized area.
Hack #4: Planning Tools ✅
Getting organized helps your brain know what to do next.
- Checklists: Write down tasks and check them off as you go.
- Why they help: Satisfying, keeps you on track, and helps with memory.
- Planners/Calendars: Use a planner or a digital calendar for assignments and appointments.
- Why they help: See everything in one place, avoid forgetting deadlines.
Introduce 'Planning Tools'. Explain the benefits of checklists and planners. Connect it to breaking down tasks.
Let's Get Hacking! (Activity Time)
Now, it's your turn to explore these hacks!
We'll do an ADHD Strategy Card Sort:
- Sort cards into: "I already use this!", "I want to try this!", "This might not work for me."
- Discuss with your group why you chose each category.
Find your personalized toolkit!
Transition to the activity. Explain the card sort activity and its purpose: to personalize strategy selection. Guide them to the ADHD Strategy Card Sort Activity 2.
Wrapping Up: My Top Hacks
Time for our Cool Down Ticket!
- Choose 1-2 strategies you want to try this week.
- Write them down on your ticket.
Next time: Managing big feelings and talking about ADHD!
Explain the cool-down activity. Students choose 1-2 strategies to try. Collect the My Strategy Selection Cool Down 2 as an exit ticket. Briefly mention the next session's topic.
Script
ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Session 2 Script
Warm-Up & Review (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks)
"Welcome back, everyone! It's great to see your amazing brains ready for another session of ADHD Hacks. Last time, we talked about what ADHD is and how our unique brains can have both challenges and superpowers.
To get us started today, who can remind us of one thing you learned or one personal superpower you identified about your ADHD last time? Don't be shy!"
(Allow 2-3 students to share. Affirm their contributions.)
"Fantastic! It's awesome that you're starting to understand your unique brain better. That's exactly what these sessions are for. Today, we're going to move from understanding to doing. We'll be looking at some practical strategies, or 'hacks,' that can help you manage your ADHD in different situations."
Our Toolkit of ADHD Hacks! (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 - Slide 2: "Our Toolkit of ADHD Hacks!")
"Think of today like building your own personal toolkit. Just like a carpenter has different tools for different jobs, you'll learn a variety of strategies to help with things like focusing, staying organized, and getting tasks done. Not every tool works for every person, and that's okay! Our goal is for you to find the hacks that work best for you."
Hack #1: Body Tools (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 - Slide 3: "Hack #1: Body Tools")
"Let's start with 'Body Tools.' Sometimes, our bodies need to move to help our brains focus. If you've ever felt restless or squirmy, you know what I mean!
-
Fidget Toys: Things like squeeze balls, fidget cubes, or even a piece of putty. These give your hands something to do, which can actually help your brain pay attention to something else, like the teacher talking. Does anyone use a fidget toy already? How does it help?
-
Movement Breaks: Sometimes, you just need to get up! Standing up to stretch, walking to the water fountain, or even just shifting in your seat can reset your focus and release that extra energy. When might a movement break be helpful?
-
Chewing Gum or Crunchy Snacks: For some people, having something to chew on can also help them focus. It provides a little bit of stimulation that can calm the restless parts of the brain."
Hack #2: Brain Tools (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 - Slide 4: "Hack #2: Brain Tools")
"Next, let's talk about 'Brain Tools.' These are hacks that help your brain manage information and tasks.
-
Break It Down: This is a big one! When you have a huge assignment, it can feel overwhelming. Instead of 'Write a book report,' you can break it into smaller steps: 'Research topic,' 'Create an outline,' 'Write introduction,' 'Write body paragraphs,' 'Write conclusion,' 'Edit.' Breaking it down makes it feel much less scary. What's a big task you could break down?
-
Visual Timers: Have you ever used a timer that shows you how much time is left, like a sand timer or a traffic light timer? Seeing time pass can really help you stay on task and understand how long you have left for an activity."
Hack #3: Environment Tools (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 - Slide 5: "Hack #3: Environment Tools")
"Our surroundings can also make a huge difference in our ability to focus. These are 'Environment Tools.'
-
Calm Space: When you're trying to do homework or read, finding a quiet spot with fewer distractions is super helpful. This might mean not working right next to a blaring TV or a sibling playing loud video games. Where's a calm space you could use?
-
Declutter: A messy desk or backpack can be visually distracting and make it hard to find what you need. Keeping your workspace tidy means less visual noise and easier access to your materials."
Hack #4: Planning Tools (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 - Slide 6: "Hack #4: Planning Tools")
"Finally, let's look at 'Planning Tools.' These help your brain know what to do next and what's coming up.
-
Checklists: Who loves checking things off a list? It's so satisfying! Writing down tasks and checking them off as you go helps you stay on track, remember what's next, and gives you a sense of accomplishment. What's something you could put on a checklist?
-
Planners/Calendars: Using a school planner, a simple notebook, or even a digital calendar on a phone or computer can help you keep track of assignments, tests, and appointments. It helps you see everything in one place so you don't forget important deadlines."
Let's Get Hacking! (Activity Time) (10 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 - Slide 7: "Let's Get Hacking! (Activity Time)")
"Now it's your turn to explore these hacks and start building your personalized toolkit! I'm going to give each of your groups a set of cards for our 'ADHD Strategy Card Sort Activity 2'.
Your task is to sort these cards into three piles:
- 'I already use this!': Strategies you've tried or regularly use.
- 'I want to try this!': Strategies that sound interesting and you'd like to experiment with.
- 'This might not work for me.': Strategies you've tried and didn't like, or that just don't fit your style.
As you sort, talk with your group about why you're putting cards in certain piles. There's no right or wrong answer, just what works for you! I'll give you about 7 minutes to sort and discuss, then we'll share a few ideas as a whole group."
(Distribute ADHD Strategy Card Sort Activity 2. Circulate and facilitate discussion, prompting students to explain their choices.)
"Great discussions, everyone! Does anyone want to share one strategy they put in the 'I want to try this!' pile and why?"
(Allow 2-3 students to share.)
Wrapping Up: My Top Hacks (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Tools for Focus & Organization Slide Deck 2 - Slide 8: "Wrapping Up: My Top Hacks")
"Alright, fantastic work today! Before we finish, I want you to choose 1 or 2 strategies from our discussion or the card sort that you are genuinely interested in trying out this week. I'm going to hand out a 'My Strategy Selection Cool Down 2' ticket.
Please write down those 1-2 strategies you want to try. This helps you commit to giving them a shot and helps me see what strategies you're finding most useful."
*(Distribute My Strategy Selection Cool Down 2.)
"When you're done, please hand it to me as you leave. Thank you for your amazing participation and for being so open to trying new things!
Next time, we're going to talk about something really important: managing those big feelings that sometimes come with ADHD, and how to talk to others about your needs. See you then!"
Activity
ADHD Strategy Card Sort Activity 2
Instructions for Teacher: Print this page and cut out the individual strategy cards below. Distribute a set of cards to each small group or pair of students. Students will sort these cards into three categories: "I already use this!", "I want to try this!", and "This might not work for me."
Strategy Cards (Cut Out Each Box)
| Fidget Toy (Squeeze Ball, Fidget Cube) | Take a Movement Break (Stand, Stretch, Walk) |
|---|---|
| Give my hands something to do so my brain can focus. | Release extra energy and reset my attention. |
| Break Big Tasks into Small Steps | Use a Visual Timer (Sand Timer, App) |
|---|---|
| Make overwhelming tasks feel manageable. | See how much time is left to stay on track. |
| Find a Calm, Quiet Workspace | Declutter My Desk/Backpack |
|---|---|
| Reduce distractions when I need to focus. | Less visual chaos, easier to find things. |
| Create a Checklist for Tasks | Use a Planner or Calendar |
|---|---|
| Stay organized and remember what to do next. | Keep track of assignments and important dates. |
| Chew Gum or Have a Crunchy Snack | Listen to Calming Music (Instrumental) |
|---|---|
| Provide oral stimulation to help focus. | Block out distractions and create a focus zone. |
| Ask for Clarification/Repeat Instructions | Take Notes/Doodle During Listening |
|---|---|
| Make sure I understand what I need to do. | Keep my brain engaged and help me remember. |
| Set a Reminder Alarm (Phone, Watch) | Use a Designated Spot for Important Items |
|---|---|
| Don't forget important tasks or appointments. | Always know where my keys, wallet, or homework are. |
| Mindfulness/Deep Breathing Breaks | Exercise Regularly |
|---|---|
| Calm my mind and improve my focus. | Burn off excess energy and improve sleep. |
Cool Down
My Strategy Selection Cool Down 2
Name: ____________________________ Date: _____________
My Top Hacks to Try This Week!
From today's session and the card sort activity, choose 1 or 2 strategies that you would like to try out in your daily life this week. Write them down below and briefly explain why you chose them or how you plan to use them.
-
Strategy I want to try: ____________________________________________________________________
Why/How: -
Strategy I want to try: ____________________________________________________________________
Why/How:
One Question I Still Have (Optional)
Is there anything you're still wondering about or want to discuss next time?
Thank you for sharing your awesome strategies!
Lesson Plan
ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Lesson Plan 3
Students will learn strategies to manage strong emotions associated with ADHD and practice effective communication skills to advocate for their needs.
Developing emotional regulation and communication skills is vital for students with ADHD to navigate challenges, build healthy relationships, and advocate for appropriate support in school and at home.
Audience
6th Grade Students
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Discussion-based learning, interactive role-play, and reflective journaling.
Materials
ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3, ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Script 3, My Communication Plan Journal 3, and My Growth Reflection Cool Down 3
Prep
Review Materials and Prepare
15 minutes
- Review the ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 and familiarize yourself with the content.
- Read through the ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Script 3 to understand the flow and key talking points.
- Print copies of the My Communication Plan Journal 3 (one per student).
- Print copies of the My Growth Reflection Cool Down 3 (one per student).
- Ensure projector/screen and computer are set up for the slide deck.
Step 1
Warm-Up & Check-In (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Begin with a check-in: "How did trying out your new strategies go this week? Any wins or challenges?"
- Briefly discuss a few student experiences, affirming effort and progress.
Step 2
Understanding Emotions & ADHD (10 minutes)
10 minutes
- Use ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 to explain how ADHD can sometimes make emotions feel more intense or harder to manage.
- Discuss common emotions (frustration, impatience, excitement) and provide simple coping strategies: Deep breathing, counting, talking to a trusted adult, taking a break.
- Facilitate a short discussion: "When do you feel big emotions, and what helps you?"
Step 3
Communicating My Needs (10 minutes)
10 minutes
- Continue with ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 on effective communication.
- Introduce the concept of using "I statements" (e.g., "I feel frustrated when...").
- Discuss who to talk to (parents, teachers, friends) and how to ask for what they need (e.g., "Can I have a movement break?" or "Could you help me break down this assignment?").
- Distribute My Communication Plan Journal 3. Guide students through brainstorming who they can talk to and what they might say. If time allows, briefly role-play a simple scenario.
Step 4
Cool Down & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Distribute My Growth Reflection Cool Down 3.
- Ask students to reflect on their learning throughout the entire series.
- Collect tickets. Offer words of encouragement and reiterate that they have tools and support for their ADHD journey.
Slide Deck
ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication ❤️
Welcome back, amazing brains!
Quick Check-in: How did trying out your new strategies go this week? Any wins or challenges?
Welcome students back. Start with a brief check-in about their experience trying strategies from the last session. Affirm their efforts and any successes.
Big Feelings & ADHD
Sometimes, with ADHD, our emotions can feel extra strong, like a rollercoaster!
- Frustration (when things are tough)
- Impatience (waiting is hard!)
- Excitement (super high energy!)
It's okay to feel these things!
Introduce the topic of emotions and ADHD. Explain that ADHD can sometimes make emotions feel bigger or harder to control. Normalize this experience.
Hacks for Managing Emotions 🚦
What can you do when big feelings hit?
- Take a Deep Breath: Breathe in slowly through your nose, out through your mouth. (Count to 3 for each.)
- Count to 10 (or 20!): Gives your brain a moment to catch up.
- Talk to a Trusted Adult: Share what you're feeling with a parent, teacher, or counselor.
- Take a Quick Break: Step away for a few minutes (e.g., get water, stretch).
Present simple coping strategies for managing strong emotions. Encourage students to share what already helps them.
Speaking Up: Communicating My Needs 🗣️
Your brain is unique, and sometimes you need to ask for specific things to help you learn or stay calm.
This is called advocating for yourself!
It means politely and clearly telling others what you need.
Who can you talk to?
- Parents/Guardians
- Teachers
- School Counselor
- Trusted Friends
Transition to communication. Explain the importance of being able to tell others what they need. Introduce 'I statements'.
How to Use "I Statements" (and What to Say!)
Using "I statements" helps others understand your feelings without feeling blamed.
- "I feel frustrated when I have to sit still for a long time. Could I use my fidget toy?"
- "I need help breaking down this big assignment into smaller steps."
- "I get distracted when there's a lot of noise. Could I wear headphones?"
- "I learn best when I can take a quick movement break every 20 minutes."
Provide examples of how to use 'I statements' and practical requests related to ADHD. Encourage brainstorming of their own phrases.
Let's Practice: My Communication Plan 📝
Now, let's create your own communication plan!
We'll use the "My Communication Plan Journal" to think about:
- Who you can talk to.
- What you want to say.
- How to ask for what you need.
This helps you feel prepared!
Introduce the journal activity. Explain that they will practice writing down their own communication plans. If time, facilitate a quick role-play of a scenario.
Wrapping Up: My Growth Reflection ✨
Time for our final Cool Down Ticket for this series!
- Reflect on everything we've learned over the past few sessions.
- Write down one big takeaway or how you feel about your ADHD journey now.
Remember: You've got this! Your unique brain is awesome, and you have tools to help you thrive.
Explain the final cool-down activity, which is a reflection on the entire series. Collect the tickets and offer final words of encouragement.
Script
ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Session 3 Script
Warm-Up & Check-In (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks)
"Welcome back, amazing brains, for our final session of ADHD Hacks! I'm really excited about what we're going to learn today. Last time, we explored a bunch of strategies – body tools, brain tools, environment tools, and planning tools.
To start us off, how did trying out your new strategies go this week? Did anyone have any 'wins' or find a new 'hack' that really worked for them? Or maybe a challenge they want to share?"
(Allow 2-3 students to share. Validate their experiences, both successes and struggles, and reinforce that it's a learning process.)
"That's fantastic! It takes courage to try new things, and every bit of effort helps you learn what works best for your unique brain. Today, we're going to talk about two really important parts of managing ADHD: understanding our emotions and learning how to communicate what we need to others."
Big Feelings & ADHD (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 - Slide 2: "Big Feelings & ADHD")
"With ADHD, sometimes our emotions can feel extra strong, like being on a rollercoaster with big ups and downs! You might feel frustration very quickly when something is tough, or impatience when you have to wait. You might also feel super high excitement about something. It's totally okay to feel all of these things.
Sometimes, because our brains are processing things so quickly, or because we might be feeling overwhelmed, these feelings can sneak up on us and feel really intense. Has anyone ever felt like their emotions just take over?"
(Allow for a few student responses, normalizing the experience of strong emotions.)
Hacks for Managing Emotions (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 - Slide 3: "Hacks for Managing Emotions")
"So, what can we do when those big feelings hit? We can't always stop them from coming, but we can learn hacks to manage them. Here are a few ideas:
-
Take a Deep Breath: This sounds simple, but it's powerful! Breathe in slowly through your nose, hold for a moment, and then breathe out slowly through your mouth. Try counting to 3 for each part. Let's try one together right now. (Lead one deep breath.) How did that feel?
-
Count to 10 (or 20!): This gives your brain a moment to catch up and cool down before you react. It's like a mini-pause button.
-
Talk to a Trusted Adult: Sometimes, just sharing what you're feeling with a parent, teacher, or school counselor can make a huge difference. They can help you think through it.
-
Take a Quick Break: If you're feeling overwhelmed, sometimes stepping away for a few minutes to get water, stretch, or just walk away can reset your brain."
Speaking Up: Communicating My Needs (10 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 - Slide 4: "Speaking Up: Communicating My Needs")
"Your brain is unique, and because of that, sometimes you might need specific things to help you learn or stay calm. This is called advocating for yourself! It means politely and clearly telling others what you need to be successful.
Think about it: who are the people in your life that you can talk to about your ADHD and what helps you?"
(Brainstorm with students: Parents/Guardians, Teachers, School Counselor, Trusted Friends, Siblings, etc.)
"It's super important to know who your support team is. But how do you talk to them? Sometimes it can be hard to find the right words."
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 - Slide 5: "How to Use 'I Statements' (and What to Say!)")
"A really helpful hack for talking about your needs is using 'I statements.' These help others understand your feelings and needs without making them feel blamed. You're focusing on your experience.
Let's look at some examples:
- Instead of 'You always make us sit still too long,' you could say: 'I feel frustrated when I have to sit still for a long time. Could I use my fidget toy for a few minutes?'
- Instead of 'This assignment is too hard,' you could say: 'I need help breaking down this big assignment into smaller steps.'
- Instead of 'It's too loud here!', you could say: 'I get distracted when there's a lot of noise. Could I wear my headphones for this activity?'
- Or, 'I learn best when I can take a quick movement break every 20 minutes.'
Notice how these start with 'I feel...' or 'I need...' or 'I get distracted when...' and then suggest a solution or a request? It's clear and helpful. What's something you might want to say to a teacher or parent using an 'I statement'?"
(Encourage a few students to practice forming an 'I statement' based on their own needs or a common scenario.)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 - Slide 6: "Let's Practice: My Communication Plan")
"Now, let's create your own communication plan! I'm going to hand out a 'My Communication Plan Journal 3'. This journal will help you think about:
- Who are the important people you can talk to?
- What specific feelings or needs do you want to communicate?
- How can you use 'I statements' to ask for what you need?
Take some time to fill it out. This will help you feel prepared and confident when you need to speak up for yourself."
(Distribute My Communication Plan Journal 3. Circulate and assist students. If time allows, ask if anyone wants to role-play a simple scenario, practicing an 'I statement' with you.)
Cool Down & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Emotions & Communication Slide Deck 3 - Slide 7: "Wrapping Up: My Growth Reflection")
"Alright, amazing brains, we've reached the end of our ADHD Hacks series! You've learned so much about your unique brains, discovered practical strategies, and now know how to manage big feelings and speak up for yourselves. That's a huge accomplishment!
For our final cool-down, I'm handing out a 'My Growth Reflection Cool Down 3'. On this ticket, I'd like you to reflect on everything we've learned over the past few sessions. Write down one big takeaway or how you feel about your ADHD journey now."
*(Distribute My Growth Reflection Cool Down 3.)
"Take a moment to fill it out. When you're done, please hand it to me as you leave. I want to tell you all how proud I am of your hard work and openness. Remember: You've got this! Your unique brain is awesome, and you now have a toolkit full of hacks to help you thrive."
(Collect tickets.)
"Keep practicing these hacks, and don't be afraid to keep learning what works best for you. You are all incredible, and I wish you the best!"
Journal
My Communication Plan Journal 3
Name: ____________________________ Date: _____________
Part 1: My Support Team
Who are the trusted adults or friends you can talk to about your ADHD or when you need help? List at least three people.
Part 2: What I Need to Communicate
Think about some common situations where your ADHD might make things challenging. What specific needs or feelings do you want to communicate?
-
When I feel frustrated or overwhelmed:
-
When I need help focusing on a task:
-
When I need a break or to move:
-
When I forget something important:
Part 3: Practicing "I Statements"
Using the situations above, or new ones, practice writing what you would say using an "I statement." Remember to start with "I feel..." or "I need..." or "I get distracted when..." and then suggest a solution or request.
-
Situation: (Example: Sitting still for a long time)
What I would say: "I feel restless when I have to sit still for a long time. Could I use my fidget toy or stand up for a moment?" -
Situation:
What I would say: -
Situation:
What I would say: -
Situation:
What I would say:
My Takeaway: How do you feel about being able to communicate your needs now?
Cool Down
My Growth Reflection Cool Down 3
Name: ____________________________ Date: _____________
My ADHD Hacks Journey: Reflecting on My Growth
We've completed our series of ADHD Hacks! Take a moment to think about everything we've discussed and learned together over the past few sessions.
What is one big takeaway you have from this series? This could be something you learned, a new strategy you're excited about, or how you feel about your unique ADHD brain now.
How I Feel About My ADHD Journey Now (Optional: Circle one)
- More confident
- More knowledgeable
- More hopeful
- Still a little unsure
- Excited to try new things
- Other: ____________________________________
Thank you for being such an important part of these sessions! You've got this!
Script
ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Session 1 Script
Warm-Up & Introduction (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks)
"Welcome, everyone! I'm so glad you're here today for our first session of 'ADHD Hacks: Focus Up!' This is a special time for us to learn about our amazing brains and discover some cool tools to help us succeed. We're going to create a safe space here, where everyone feels comfortable sharing and asking questions, so let's agree to listen respectfully and support each other.
To start, let's do a quick check-in. On a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 means your brain feels super sleepy and 5 means it's buzzing with energy and ideas, how 'on' is your brain right now? You can just show me with your fingers."
(Pause for students to show fingers. Acknowledge a few responses briefly.)
"Great! Thanks for sharing. Today, we're going to dive into understanding what ADHD is and how it uniquely affects each of us. This understanding is the first step to finding what works best for your brain."
What is ADHD? (10 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 2: "What is ADHD?")
"Alright, let's start with the basics. You might have heard the term 'ADHD' before, but what does it actually mean? ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.
Now, don't let the 'disorder' part scare you. Think of it more like a different way your brain is wired. It just means your brain works a little differently than some other people's brains, especially when it comes to things like paying attention, sitting still, or thinking before acting.
Has anyone heard of ADHD before? What are some things you think it means?"
(Facilitate a brief discussion, clarifying misconceptions and affirming correct understanding.)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 3: "How Does ADHD Show Up?")
"ADHD can show up in different ways for different people. It's like having a superpower, but sometimes that superpower needs a little guidance! There are three main ways we often see ADHD.
First, there's inattention. This means it can be tough to focus on one thing for a long time, you might get easily distracted, or sometimes forget where you put things. Can anyone think of an example of when their brain might wander during class or when they've forgotten something important?"
(Allow for a few student examples, normalizing these experiences.)
"Next is hyperactivity. This is when you have a lot of energy, feel restless, or find it hard to sit still. Maybe you feel like you just have to fidget, or you need to get up and move around a lot. Does anyone ever feel a strong need to move even when they're supposed to be sitting still?"
(Allow for a few student examples.)
"And finally, there's impulsivity. This means sometimes you might act or speak without thinking it all the way through first. Maybe you blurt out an answer, or interrupt someone by accident because an idea just popped into your head! Has anyone ever said something without meaning to, or done something on impulse?"
(Allow for a few student examples.)
"Remember, you don't have to have all of these, and they can show up differently for everyone. What's important is knowing how your brain works."
Your Unique Brain: Challenges & Superpowers! (10 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 4: "Your Unique Brain: Challenges & Superpowers!")
"It's really important to remember that having an ADHD brain isn't a bad thing. It's just a different thing. While there can be challenges, like staying focused on boring tasks or organizing your backpack, your unique brain also comes with some amazing strengths, or what I like to call 'superpowers'!
People with ADHD are often incredibly creative. They can think outside the box and come up with brilliant new ideas! They often have a lot of energy, which can be great for sports or exciting projects. Many are also fantastic problem-solvers because they look at things from different angles. And when they're interested in something, they can hyperfocus – dive deep into it and learn tons!
Think about it: What are some things you're really good at? What makes your brain amazing?"
(Briefly encourage positive self-reflection.)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 5: "Let's Reflect: Your ADHD Journey")
"Now, we're going to take some time to reflect on your own experiences. I'm going to hand out a worksheet called 'My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1'. This worksheet will help you think about how ADHD shows up for you personally – both the challenges and those amazing strengths.
Take your time with it. There are no right or wrong answers. Just write down what feels true for you. If you need any help or want to talk through an idea, I'll be walking around to assist. This is for your own reflection, but if you feel comfortable, you can share something later."
(Distribute My ADHD Superpowers Worksheet 1. Circulate and provide support. Encourage students to be honest with themselves and focus on both aspects.)
Cool Down & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
(Teacher speaks while displaying ADHD Hacks: Focus Up! Slide Deck 1 - Slide 6: "Wrapping Up: Reflection Time")
"Alright, let's start to wrap up for today. Before we go, I have one more quick activity for you. I'm going to hand out a 'My Reflection Ticket Cool Down 1'. On this ticket, I'd like you to quickly write down either one thing you learned today about ADHD or one feeling you have about your ADHD after our discussion. This helps me understand what resonated with you and what we might want to explore more."
*(Distribute My Reflection Ticket Cool Down 1.)
"Take a moment to fill it out. When you're done, please hand it to me as you leave. Thank you all for your amazing participation and for being so open today."
(Collect tickets.)
"Next time, we're going to dive into some really practical 'hacks' – cool strategies to help manage those energy boosts and focus challenges you might experience. I'm excited to share them with you! See you next time!"