How can Speech Therapy help with ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to regulate their attention, impulse control, and activity level. Children with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention, following instructions, and controlling their behaviors, which can impact their academic, social, and overall daily functioning.
ADHD is typically diagnosed in childhood, and it is estimated to affect about 5-9% of children in Canada. While it is most commonly diagnosed in boys, girls are also affected. ADHD can continue into adolescence and adulthood, and it is often accompanied by other conditions, such as learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression.
There is no cure for ADHD, but it is a treatable disorder. Treatment may include medication, occupational therapy, and educational support. In some cases, speech-language pathology sessions may also be helpful in improving communication and social skills in children with ADHD.
Children with ADHD can experience difficulty with regulating their attention, and their activity level can affect language skills. Individuals with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing language delays and articulation problems. Listening comprehension can also present challenges for them. Therefore, speech therapy for children with ADHD may focus on improving language skills, including their ability to understand and use language, as well as their social communication skills.
The goals of speech therapy for children with ADHD often include:
- Improving listening and attention skills (at home, in school, with friends)
- Improving expressive language in both verbal and written forms
- Developing the ability to initiate conversations and maintain conversation topics
- Developing and understanding higher-level language: use of figurative language and sarcasm
- Understanding nonverbal communication
“Working with a team of professionals, including a speech-language pathologist, can help ensure that the child’s treatment plan is comprehensive and meets their unique needs.”
How a Speech Therapist may address ADHD
Speech therapy for children with ADHD may involve a variety of techniques, including:
- One on one therapy: sessions with a Speech-Language Pathologist targeting speech and/or language skills with effect strategies to help manage the child’s ADHD
- Social skills groups: bringing children with and without ADHD to practice social communication skills in a structured setting.
- Parent and educator consultation: helping parents and educators understand the communication needs of children with ADHD and how to support their language and social development at home and school.
The specific approach to speech therapy for children with ADHD will depend on the child’s individual needs. A qualified speech-language pathologist will work with the child and their family to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals. For example, due to the distractible nature of children with ADHD, a quiet space, noise-canceling headphones, and/or regular breaks can often help with concentration.
It is important to note that ADHD is a complex disorder and speech therapy is just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Children with ADHD may also benefit from other interventions, such as medication, occupational therapy, counseling, educational support, and more. Working with a team of professionals, including a speech-language pathologist, can help ensure that the child’s treatment plan is comprehensive and meets their unique needs.
We’re here to help
For parents of children with ADHD, finding the right treatment and support can be a challenging journey. It is important to work closely with your child’s healthcare team and to advocate for your child’s needs. With the right support and interventions, children with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms and succeed in school and in their daily lives.
Get in touch with Arbutus Speech Therapy for a free consultation to discuss you and your child’s goals.