Children with Distractibility and Impulsivity Difficulties

How would you describe Miguel? “he’s all over the place” “he makes me nervous just watching him” “he bothers the children around him” “he blurts out answers”

Characteristics *Inattention *Distractibility *Impulsiveness (Can’t focus well) *Distractibility (Pays attention to everything) *Impulsiveness (Difficulty thinking before they act)

The Problem These children are at high-risk for future school failure: gain negative attention, little encouragement always in trouble, little peer interaction expected to fail poor self-esteem, self-concept Child eventually stops trying and fails

Causes/Reasons Other disorders Stress A Learning Disability Gifted but Bored A Combination

Early Intervention In the face of misbehavior my job is to create a change in order to effect a change. I may change the structure of the classroom, the method of instruction, the peer interaction, my actions, or thoughts or expectations, or… I may simply command change in the actions of the child. Of these, the last is the least effective. “Shilo,” I say, I want you to pay attention now.” Sound familiar? L. Tobin

Learning Environment Provide highly predictable schedule Limit distractions Define personal space

Planning and Instruction Make rules and consequences clear Teach social behavior Minimize time spent waiting Plan for transitions

Teacher-Child Interactions Use visuals Be specific Give immediate reinforcement Offer frequent feedback Maximize eye contact Ignore minor fidgeting

Personal Inventory Think of a child you have worked with in your program. Check the strategies you have tried. Highlight the strategies you might want to try in another color