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How Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Affects Learning Chinese 

For students with ADHD in mainstream Singapore MOE schools, the condition can present real challenges to success in the classroom. It’s not easy to diagnose and students with ADHD are often labelled as naughty, inattentive and uninterested. That’s because such students may find it difficult to pay attention, control their impulses, and even the simple act of sitting still can be a real challenge.

Where it comes to learning Chinese, which requires a lot of focus and concentration, a student with ADHD will find it doubly hard. Since they find it hard, students with ADHD often give up out of sheer frustration at their inability to grasp the language, which leads to undesirable behaviours in the classroom like acting out, or disinterest in learning.

However, there are specialised teaching methods that can help students with ADHD learn Chinese. These methods are based on psychological research and intervention, and they can help students to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential in Chinese language learning.

“Very glad to have found Mandarinstars that actually understands the learning difficulties of the child. The child is learning without fear and discouragement, thanks to the teachers here.” Linli Ng, parent of a student at MandarinStars, posting on Google Reviews.

One of the most important things that students with ADHD need is structure and routine. They need to know what is expected of them and when it is expected. This can help them to stay focused and on task.

Another important thing is visual aids. Students with ADHD often learn better by seeing things than by hearing them. Visual aids, such as flashcards, posters, and diagrams, can help them to remember new vocabulary and grammar concepts.

Multisensory teaching is also effective for students with ADHD. This type of teaching involves using a variety of senses to help students learn, such as sight, hearing, touch, and movement. For example, students might learn a new Chinese word by seeing it written, hearing it spoken, and touching a real-life object that represents the word.

Behavioral interventions can also be helpful for students with ADHD. These interventions help students to learn how to control their impulses and stay on task. For example, students might be taught how to use a timer to help them stay focused on a task for a certain amount of time.

With the right support, students with ADHD can learn Chinese and succeed in school. Specialised teaching methods can help them to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.

How to Find a Specialised Teaching Method for ADHD

If you are looking for a specialised teaching method for ADHD, there are a few things you can do to find the right one for you or your child. First, talk to your doctor or a psychologist. They can assess your child’s needs and recommend a specific method. Second, do some research online. There are many websites that offer information about different teaching methods for ADHD. You can also read reviews of different methods to see what other parents have said. Finally, talk to other parents of children with ADHD. They can share their experiences with different methods and help you to decide which one is right for you.

Finding the right specialised teaching method for ADHD can be a daunting task, but it is worth it. With the right support, children with ADHD can learn and succeed.

Here are some tips for parents of children with ADHD who are learning Chinese:

  • Be patient and understanding. Learning Chinese can be challenging for any child, but it can be especially difficult for children with ADHD. Be patient with your child and offer them support and encouragement.
  • Set realistic expectations. Don’t expect your child to be able to learn Chinese as quickly as a child without ADHD. Set realistic expectations and celebrate your child’s successes, no matter how small.
  • Find a specialised teaching method that works for your child. There are many different teaching methods available for children with ADHD. Find one that works for your child and stick with it.
  • Make learning Chinese fun. Learning Chinese should be fun for your child. Find ways to make learning Chinese enjoyable and engaging.

With the right support, children with ADHD can learn Chinese and succeed. With patience, understanding, and the right teaching methods, your child can reach their full potential in Chinese language learning.

Frances Yeo

Frances was trained in Sydney, Australia, where she obtained a Bachelor’s degree at the University of New South Wales before completing her studies with a Master’s degree at the University of Sydney. She began her career at Singapore Prison Service, where she treated offending behaviours and assessed the risk of re-offending for two years. Subsequently, she joined KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) where she established the Psychology Service and, as the Principal Psychologist, grew the team to eight psychologists. During her 7 years at KKH, Frances worked with children, family, and adults, conducting diagnostic assessments for learning difficulties, ADHD and epilepsy, traumatic brain injuries. She also treated adults with anxiety, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorders, eating disorders, self-harming, depression and coping with gynaecological cancers.