ADD stands for attention deficit disorder and effects approximately 10% of children in our school systems.  There is also another part very similar that is called ADHD attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.  It shows up as primarily by inattention, easy distractibility, disorganization, procrastination, and forgetfulness which can lead teachers and/or parents to be frustrated at the situation instead of understanding that there is an underlying issue at hand.  ADD can be helped with forms of medicine but if possible with lots of encouragement and redirection can be brought under control without medicines.

Some of the issues that students with ADD or ADHD suffer from are daydreaming, problems with completing a lot of their work, paying attention in class, and typically are not good at following directions.  This is a problem many of our students face and they need extra support in the classroom in order to help them maintain their schoolwork and focus. 

The key points to remember when teaching children with ADD or ADHD it is to be patient, creative and consistent.  Doing things such as repeating instructions and saying them one at a time, giving shorter quizzes instead or large tests, using props and visual aids and seating the child away from doors and windows to minimize unnecessary distractions.  All these help the student that has ADD to hopefully learn better and more than they might have.

http://www.dryaun.com/what-we-treat/adhd/

ADD is in at least 1 child/classroom and needs to be addressed so that the whole class can learn, i.e. this child may be the “class clown”.  Teachers recognizing the symptoms and adjusting their routine slightly to accommodate for this type of learning disability is important for both students and the teacher. Remember patience is key.