Managing ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities & Concussion in School
About the Course:
Today's classrooms are more neurodiverse than ever before.
Teachers and school professionals increasingly work with students who have ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, learning disabilities, or are recovering from concussions. While these students bring unique strengths, they may also face challenges with attention, learning, emotional regulation, and classroom participation.
Many educators want to help, but often feel underprepared, overwhelmed, or unsure how to respond effectively.
This practical and engaging course provides educators with clear, evidence-based strategies to support neurodiverse learners while maintaining a positive and productive classroom environment.
Participants will explore how these conditions affect attention, memory, behavior, sensory processing, and academic performance, and learn practical tools that can immediately be applied in classrooms.
Through real-life school scenarios, expert insights, and interactive discussions, this course empowers educators to move beyond labels and focus on understanding student needs, reducing classroom stress, and creating supportive learning environments where every student can thrive.
By the end of the course, participants will walk away with concrete strategies, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how to support diverse learners effectively.
Course Objectives:
- Understand the key characteristics of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, and concussion-related challenges in school settings
- Recognize how these conditions affect attention, learning, behavior, and emotional regulation
- Identify early signs that a student may need additional support
- Apply classroom strategies that improve focus, organization, and engagement
- Support students recovering from concussions while balancing academic expectations
- Use inclusive teaching approaches that support diverse learning needs
- Respond to behavioral challenges with understanding rather than punishment
- Collaborate effectively with parents, counselors, and support staff
Who is the Target Audience?
- Teachers (primary, middle, and secondary school)
- School counselors and psychologists
- Learning support specialists
- Special education staff
- School administrators
- Teaching assistants and classroom aides
- Parents interested in understanding school challenges
- Anyone working with children in educational settings
Basic Knowledge:
- No prior clinical or psychological knowledge is required.
Participants should simply have:
- An interest in supporting diverse learners
- Basic familiarity with school or classroom environments
- All concepts will be explained in clear, practical, and educator-friendly language.
Understanding Neurodiversity in the Classroom
- What neurodiversity means in modern education
- Strength-based perspectives on learning differences
- Why traditional classroom approaches may not work for every student
Understanding ADHD in School
- Core symptoms of ADHD: attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity
- Why students with ADHD struggle with organization and focus
- Classroom strategies that improve attention and reduce disruption
Supporting Students with Autism
- Key characteristics of autism spectrum conditions in school
- Sensory sensitivities and social communication differences
- Creating predictable, structured, and supportive classroom environments
Learning Disabilities and Academic Challenges
- Understanding dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and processing difficulties
- How learning disabilities affect reading, writing, and comprehension
- Practical teaching strategies that support struggling learners
Concussion and Brain Injury in Students
- What happens to the brain during a concussion
- Academic and cognitive symptoms after head injuries
- Classroom adjustments for safe and effective recovery
Managing Behavior with Understanding
- Why challenging behavior often reflects unmet needs
- Reducing frustration, emotional outbursts, and classroom conflict
- Positive behavior strategies that support student regulation
Classroom Strategies that Work
- Simple adjustments that improve focus and engagement
- Supporting executive functioning and organization
- Creating inclusive learning environments without overwhelming teachers
Working with Parents and School Support Teams
- Effective communication with parents about learning challenges
- Collaborating with counselors, psychologists, and learning specialists
- Creating consistent support systems for students
Building Inclusive and Supportive Classrooms
- Moving from accommodation to true inclusion
- Encouraging confidence and resilience in students
- Helping all students feel safe, capable, and supported
Learning Experience Includes
- Case examples
- Practical classroom tools and strategies
- Interactive discussions and reflection activities
- Immediate strategies educators can implement the next day