- Attention and focus: Students with ADHD can struggle to maintain attention, so reading longer texts, following plot details, or remembering information across pages can be difficult.
- Working memory: ADHD often impacts working memory, which is needed to hold and connect pieces of information while reading (I liken it to our little whiteboards that hold information from the session and then we erase it at the end of the lesson). This can make comprehension harder, even if decoding words is fine.
- Processing speed: Some students read more slowly because their brains are juggling distractions and trying to stay on task.
- Self-monitoring/self-correcting: They may miss errors or skip over words because they’re reading quickly to finish, not always checking for meaning so missing the messages and ideas.
Is it the same as dyslexia?
No! ADHD does not cause difficulties with decoding (breaking words into sounds) like dyslexia does, but they can co-occur. Students with both ADHD and dyslexia might struggle with accuracy and focus.
What helps
- Shorter, chunked texts: Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable parts.
- Purpose: Giving a reason to read (e.g., “Find three facts about…” , looking for inferencing etc.).
- Active reading strategies: Highlighting key words or ideas, taking notes, reading aloud, looking at what was going on before a word, sentence, passage or what came after etc.
- Movement breaks: To reset focus, during longer reading – go on vibrating board, get a drink etc.
- Technology: Audiobooks, text-to-speech, and reading pens can support comprehension and reduce cognitive load.
- Clear routines: Same time and place for reading can reduce distractions i.e., the calm corner.