In addition to behavior management issues, SLPAs and their supervising SLPs should consider the specific needs of their students with Attention Deficit with or without Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) in the context of their speech and language goals.
Here are some ideas of how you might address attention issues within your current speech/language activities:
Model self-talk to teach internal monitoring:
- “What were the directions?”
- “Hmmm… I need to ask for help.”
- “Am I ready to listen?”
- Teach and practice, “Stop. Think. Plan. Do.”
Are you working on following directions?
- Get confirmation that the student heard you.
- Have them restate the directions in their own words.
- Make sure they know the signs of someone getting ready to give important directions.
Are you working on vocabulary?
- Teach the difference between ‘want’, ‘feel’, and ‘know’
- Talk about thinking and planning verbs – decide, hope, wait, worry, wonder, plan, schedule
- Introduce a new emotion word in each session
Are you working on syntax or complex sentences?
- Teach predicting to talk about consequences (“If… then…”)
- Practice decision-making by looking at the pros and cons
- Model planning through sequencing and time words – first, next, then, before, after, when
Schedule Your Child’s Care Assessment Today
At Care Options for Kids, we understand the unique challenges of caring for a child with basic to medically complex health conditions. Our dedicated team of pediatric therapists is here to support your family with compassionate, expert care tailored to your child’s needs. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and learn how we can help you navigate this journey with confidence and care.
Click here to start your journey to better care.
This post is for educational and informational purposes only. You should always speak with your therapist before implementing this information on your own.
