Accommodations for ADHD in School and Work: Setting Yourself Up for Success

For individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), traditional school and work environments can be challenging. Difficulty with focus, time management, organization, and impulsivity can make it hard to meet expectations. However, with the right accommodations, people with ADHD can succeed and thrive in both academic and professional settings.

At Rosson Therapy, we specialize in helping individuals with ADHD understand their rights and access the accommodations they need. Whether you’re a student struggling to keep up with coursework or a professional navigating workplace demands, we can guide you through the process of obtaining appropriate support.

In this post, we’ll explore common ADHD accommodations for both school and work, how to request them, and why they are essential for long-term success.

Understanding ADHD and the Need for Accommodations

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects executive functioning—the brain’s ability to regulate attention, organization, and impulse control. Symptoms can include:

✅ Difficulty starting or finishing tasks

✅ Poor time management and forgetfulness

✅ Trouble maintaining focus, especially on less engaging tasks

✅ Impulsivity and difficulty following multi-step instructions

✅ Overwhelm due to disorganization or sensory distractions

While ADHD can make school and work more challenging, it doesn’t mean you can’t succeed. Accommodations are designed to level the playing field, allowing people with ADHD to work in ways that align with how their brains function best.

Accommodations for ADHD in School

Students with ADHD often struggle with attention regulation, organization, test-taking, and following instructions. Schools, including K-12 and colleges, are required to provide reasonable accommodations under:

• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (504 Plans for K-12 students)

• The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (for K-12 students requiring special education services)

• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (for college students)

Common ADHD Accommodations in School

1. Classroom Environment Adjustments

✅ Preferential seating (front of the classroom, away from distractions)

✅ Permission to use noise-canceling headphones or white noise

✅ Access to a quiet space for independent work

2. Extended Time & Testing Accommodations

✅ Extra time on tests and assignments

✅ Ability to take tests in a distraction-free room

✅ Option to take breaks during exams

3. Support for Organization & Time Management

✅ Use of visual schedules, planners, and checklists

✅ Frequent check-ins with teachers to track progress

✅ Access to digital reminders or alarms for deadlines

4. Alternative Learning & Assessment Methods

✅ Permission to submit assignments in alternative formats (oral presentations, typed instead of handwritten work, etc.)

✅ Access to recorded lectures for review

✅ Use of speech-to-text or audiobooks for reading-intensive courses

5. Task & Instruction Modifications

✅ Step-by-step instructions for assignments and projects

✅ Break large assignments into smaller, manageable parts

✅ Extended deadlines when needed

6. Behavioral & Social Support

✅ Access to a mentor, coach, or counselor for ADHD support

✅ Scheduled movement breaks to help with restlessness

✅ Social skills training or structured peer interactions

How to Request ADHD Accommodations in School

To receive accommodations, students (or their parents) should:

1. Request an Evaluation – Schools must assess students if ADHD is affecting academic performance.

2. Develop a 504 Plan or IEP – If eligible, a plan will be created outlining accommodations.

3. Communicate with Teachers & Staff – Ensure accommodations are implemented consistently.

4. Advocate for Needs – If accommodations aren’t working, request modifications.

If you need help navigating the process, Rosson Therapy can assist you in advocating for the right accommodations.

Accommodations for ADHD in the Workplace

Adults with ADHD often face time management struggles, distractions, disorganization, and difficulty prioritizing tasks at work. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities, including ADHD, as long as it does not cause undue hardship to the company.

Common ADHD Workplace Accommodations

1. Workspace Adjustments to Reduce Distractions

✅ A quiet workspace or permission to wear noise-canceling headphones

✅ Flexible seating arrangements (e.g., near a window or away from high-traffic areas)

✅ Remote work options when possible

2. Time Management & Organization Support

✅ Flexible deadlines or extended time for projects

✅ A structured daily schedule with built-in breaks

✅ Use of task management tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar

✅ Verbal and written instructions to reinforce tasks

3. Modified Communication & Task Delegation

✅ Clear, step-by-step instructions for complex projects

✅ Option to receive important information in writing instead of verbally

✅ Regular check-ins with a supervisor to stay on track

4. Adjusted Work Expectations & Strategies

✅ Permission to take movement breaks to help with focus

✅ Body doubling (working alongside another person for accountability)

✅ Ability to use fidget tools or standing desks

5. Flexible Scheduling & Remote Work Options

✅ Flexible hours to accommodate peak focus times

✅ Work-from-home options to minimize distractions

✅ Short, frequent breaks instead of long, scheduled ones

How to Request Workplace Accommodations

To request accommodations, employees should:

1. Identify Specific Challenges – Determine which workplace difficulties require support.

2. Research Possible Solutions – Find accommodations that align with job requirements.

3. Submit a Request to HR or a Supervisor – Explain the need for accommodations and how they will improve productivity.

4. Provide Documentation if Necessary – While not always required, medical or psychological documentation can help.

5. Negotiate Adjustments – Work with your employer to determine reasonable accommodations.

If you need guidance on requesting workplace accommodations, Rosson Therapy can help you craft an effective request.

Why ADHD Accommodations Matter

Accommodations are not about getting special treatment—they are about creating an environment where individuals with ADHD can perform at their best. Without proper support, students and employees with ADHD may struggle with low self-esteem, burnout, and underperformance, despite their intelligence and capabilities.

When ADHD accommodations are implemented correctly, individuals can:

✔ Increase productivity and efficiency

✔ Reduce stress and frustration

✔ Improve time management and organization

✔ Enhance focus and follow-through on tasks

✔ Build confidence in their abilities

At Rosson Therapy, we specialize in helping individuals with ADHD identify, request, and implement accommodations that work for their unique needs.

Need Help? Contact Rosson Therapy Today!

If you or a loved one needs accommodations for ADHD in school or work, we’re here to help. Our team at Rosson Therapy can guide you through the assessment process and provide personalized support.

📞 Call Rosson Therapy at 256-434-1664 to schedule your assessment today!

With the right accommodations and strategies, you can unlock your full potential and thrive in any environment. Let’s work together to make that happen!