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Anyone else's ADHD kid absolutely dreading high school?

Started by Steph O · 11 March 2026

My son starts high school next year and he's already anxious about it. Multiple teachers, changing classrooms, more homework, bigger social groups. I'm worried too — primary school was hard enough with support. How do you prepare an ADHD kid for high school?

3 replies

Lisa W

11 March 2026

Contact the high school NOW and ask about their transition program and learning support team. Most schools have a SENCO or support coordinator. Meet with them BEFORE day one. Share the diagnosis, what works, what doesn't. Get the IEP transferred. Preparation is everything.

Dave T

11 March 2026

Practical tips that helped us: 1) Visit the school multiple times before starting. 2) Get the timetable early and practice the route between classrooms. 3) Colour-code subjects (folder, book, pencil case). 4) Set up a homework system BEFORE it's needed. 5) Identify one trusted teacher early.

Sarah M

11 March 2026

My daughter just started Year 7 and honestly? She's thriving more than primary school. The variety of subjects means she's not stuck doing the same thing all day. And having different teachers means if she doesn't click with one, it's only a few periods a week. High school can actually be BETTER for some ADHD kids.

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