Sending your child off to preschool can be nerve-wracking, especially if they have been diagnosed with a condition like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While you may understand your child’s temperament and know what to do to keep them calm and attentive, you may wonder how a teacher would cater to their needs. Luckily, during preschool, your little one will make new friends, explore different activities, and learn how to take direction and respect the authority of adults. To help you support their transition, here is a guide to sending your child with this disorder to a child care facility.

What Are the Challenges a Child With ADHD May Face in Preschool?

A child with ADHD may find some parts of classroom-based learning more challenging than others. There’s plenty of opportunity for play and creativity in child care, which will help inspire them and keep them focused on activities that capture their attention.

However, they may have trouble when they’re expected to play in a more structured way. This may include collaborative projects where they need to share and take turns, and when they must pay attention to the teacher in learning exercises.

How Can You Help Them?

• Visit the child care facility: Introducing your child to the building and the teachers before they start preschool will help them grow familiar with the new surroundings. This may reduce their anxiety.
• Speak to the teachers: Checking in with their teachers periodically will help you understand what your child is excelling at and where there may be challenges you can work on together at home.
• Set clear rules and boundaries: Keep household rules few and clear. To further prevent confusion, don’t get hung up on telling them off for smaller outbursts if there are several or more important behavioral issues you want to address.
• Positive reinforcement: When you talk to them about their day, praise them for small accomplishments, such as sitting quietly while the teacher talks or hanging their coat up neatly. This helps reward this type of behavior.

If you’re looking for a child care facility for a child with ADHD, turn to Penn Garden Day Care Center, Inc. in Monroeville, PA. Serving Monroeville, Penn Hills, Plum, and Murrysville, they have over 80 years of combined experience in child care. They take great pride in providing a fun, educational, caring environment where your child will thrive. They cater to each student’s individual needs and abilities. Learn more about their center online or call (412) 372-4144 to schedule a tour.