02 Jul How ADHD Impacts Girls in School
Brooklyn Letters
1139 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn
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We would highly recommend Ally! Our son always asks about her, so very thankful to Brooklyn Letters for introducing us.
~ Emily, mom of Brooklyn 2 year old -
Nicole has been an amazing therapist!! She played a tremendous role in our daughter’s speech progress and overall development. She has come such a long way and we are so happy with the therapy she received!
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I cannot express how grateful and rewarding my experience with Brooklyn Letters has been. Her tutor Ms. Daria is so knowledgeable, amazing, kind and awesome. My daughter has made so much progress in Literacy and Math and it's all … More thanks to Ms. Daria. I know my daughter is sad that she can no longer work with Ms. Daria, as she looked forward to their sessions every week. Thank you again!
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Excellent services, caring therapists.
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Christina was absolutely wonderful. She went out of her way to win my son over and it worked. He looked forward to her visits and his speech improved so much under her care. She was super flexible and it’s clear she truly cares. We adore … More Christina and we’re going to miss her. Almost sad he improved so much! She’s simply amazing and we can’t say enough how great she is. I would recommend her services to anyone and everyone, without hesitation. Thank you so much for connecting us with her!
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We could not be happier with the services Valerie provided! She is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and provided significant guidance to support our daughter's speech development outside of our scheduled sessions. She established … More a great working relationship with her, and she will definitely be missed! Your business model is amazing and it was an absolute pleasure working with Valerie. I've referred your organization and Valerie to the Executive Director of our daughter's school and friends/colleagues who are in need of speech therapy services.
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We cannot say enough good things about Effie, the ASL teacher, who was so engaged and effective with our 2 year old daughter from the very first session! Effie gladly included our whole family in the sessions! Her expertise and fantastic … More personality gave our daughter a way to communicate that she was so desperately seeking. The coordinators at Brooklyn Letters were so helpful and communicative…I would highly recommend their services!
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The company is great with outstanding customer service. They keep my horses protected. I have recommended them to other horses trainers as well that are going to get service early next year. Very professional an honest too. Respectfully … More submitted Christopher
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Ron and Ken did a fantastic job with our security system today. Installed everything very quick. Both of them were very polite and asked us throughout if the installation met our needs. Simply fantastic!
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I called Cornerstone Protection to get a Security system at a relatives out of state property, within a week it was installed! The installers worked with the client to help understand her new system and she was happy! Our relative said … More they were courteous, professional and patient! I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection for all of your security needs!
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Had blink cameras; Car was broken into multiple times so I called CornerStone & they were able to install multiple cameras very quickly & for a reasonable price. I am so happy with the app & getting alerts that are not superfluous, … More like they were with Blink. Highly recommend CornerStone & the tech Ronnie.
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Ron and Ken are great guys to work with.
Both were very knowledgeable and got our system back up and running.
Thanks to both for a job well done... -
Samantha Dalmas was fantastic! We saw her for a feeding therapy evaluation and while she doesn’t think my daughter needs more feeding therapy sessions at this time, but she gave me lots of tips to try. If my daughter's doctors want … More to see more progress at her next appointment, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Samantha again.
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Amazing assistance provided by Shannon today on my security system. I’m so grateful for your prompt, efficient, professional, and courteous service. Put me down as a customer for life!
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One of the most painless experiences I've had. They came on time and was over the moon professional with still keeping a level of personability to it. The gentleman also went out of his way to say that my husband and Mines business … More was appreciated. Which is actually rare to be appreciated by such a great company. So thank you and we look forward to continuing services with this company.
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I am so happy we decided to go with cornerstone. They were quick and efficient. Shannon and the installer we very friendly. We got a lot of equipment and it was still within our budget. 10/10 would definitely recommend! Thank you
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Love the customer service and Shanon and his team go above and beyond for my restaurant. Couldn't of asked for a better security system and level of service that his team provides.
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I have been using Cornerstone Protection service for over 5 years and I'm really happy with the service and state-of-the-art equipments and it's futures are so much in advance and friendly, I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection … More Service any and all business that need a security protection days and nights specially after business hours(Cornerstone Protection is perfect solution for your business). Owner of Cornerstone Protection is proactive with their customers and their equipments. Good experienced with Cornerstone Protection!!!
Kanu Patel -
We had a very positive experience with Alissa as a tutor for our pod of 5th grade boys from January - June 2020. She cared a lot about the boys and worked hard to create meaningful activities for them. The pod experience was invaluable … More for all of our families during a difficult year and we were so grateful to have found this partnership! We also want to appreciate Craig for helping to match us with a tutor on very short notice after we had cycled through a few folks who were not able to see the commitment through. Thanks for sticking with us!
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Dusty was the exact person we needed to help our child finish out the school year. So grateful to him for the way he steadily encouraged her and helped her stay on track and organized. He is flexible, responsive to our needs/schedule as … More a family, and a delight to be with. We are also thankful that Craig at Themba Tutors really "gets it" and partnered us with such a wonderful tutor who was a great fit for our girl.
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My child worked with Gillian D virtually for math enrichment. She is an excellent teacher. She took time to understand my child's specific learning style and provided tools that would be engaging. She was kind and empathetic- really … More made it her goal to connect with my child and build trust and rapport. My child started the school year with confidence and without the typically "brain-drain" that occurs over the summer, thanks to Gillian.
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I am going into my second year as a Themba tutor. I have met so many great individuals while working for this company. Craig and the rest of the Themba team do such an excellent job picking and choosing Themba tutors that suit each client's … More individual needs! I look forward to meeting new tutors and clients in the 2021-2022 school year!
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Our son started in a new high school, 100% remote, and was really struggling with Latin and Physics. I found Themba Tudors online and had an initial call with Craig, who was very knowledgeable, responsive, and found 2 amazing tutors for … More us. Both the Latin and the physics tutors were fantastic, connected with my son really well and helped him go from 'failing' grade to 'honors'! I will for sure continue using (and recommending!) Themba Tutors. Thank you, C, K, and W!
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Brian is a fantastic executive functioning coach. Super helpful, flexible with hours, and tailored the experience to our needs.
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Giulia Mercuri is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put a ton of effort into preparing for each session and really helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able … More to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!
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As an adult student diagnosed with a learning disability during grad school, I knew I needed help dealing with my Master's program's demanding workload. I was seriously considering dropping out when I was referred to Themba Tutors. … More I was paired up with a wonderful tutor, Julie, who was a total lifesaver. I learned many techniques that I can utilize in the future as I embark on the next phase of my career.
I can wholeheartedly say after working with Themba for two years that I would not have finished my program without this organization. And I am so thankful I selected them. -
We were introduced to a wonderful tutor: Mcedwyn. He and our son, a freshman in college, worked well together. As a result, our son’s grades significantly improved. The tutor taught our son subject content and various methods to effectively … More study for quizzes and exams. Our son was also taught time management and organization. My son’s experience with the tutor made the first year of college a less intimidating experience.
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We have been with our tutor, Cailin Schiller, for two years, from 5th - 7th grade. She started as an executive functioning tutor with my daughter. From the start, she demonstrated a depth of expertise and a selective use of techniques skillfully … More adapted to my daughter’s ADHD and Math disability. Cailin made Math accessible and understandable to her in a way that even her teachers had not been able to do. She differentiated reading, writing and math tasks and assignments to tailor them to my daughter’s unique learning differences. Not only did it have an effect on her grades and her work efficiency, but she finally could do her work with less anxiety. Even my daughter’s teachers used Cailin’s guidance to modify their work with her. But most importantly, she became my daughter’s favorite resource. I can’t say how invaluable Cailin has been to my daughter’s progress and well-being. I’d recommend her a million times over. She is a gem.
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Victoria is a superb tutor. She helped my high school age daughter with her writing. Victoria's skills as a tutor, as well as her sense of humor and her engaging personality went a long way with my daughter.
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Themba Tutors provided a leaning specialist that was a perfect fit for my daughter. I told them what we were looking for and they delivered. Our tutor is responsive and flexible and makes it easy for my daughter to reach out to her own … More her own, which gives her an added sense of responsibility over her learning. As a therapist myself, I now regularly recommend Themba to my patients. A much needed and well provided service to the community!!
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The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
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I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
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We had a wonderful experience with our tutor Micaela. She helped our son not only academically but at every level. We will be forever grateful to have her in our lives.
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The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
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Paul Smith at Themba has been an exceptional tutor for my son, both in terms of teaching the subject matter and teaching how best to approach the process of learning math and executing assignments. We feel very fortunate to be working with … More Paul.
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We were very lucky to have found Edwouine Swift, my son's therapist through Themba Tutors. Thomas is 12 years old, and it is extremely difficult to get him to write. Edwouine just works her magic with him, he adores her and is so … More eager to follow her guidance. I have no doubt she will be a positive driving force in his academic future.
Have you ever felt like you just can’t focus or sit still? Like your mind is racing and your thoughts are bouncing around so much you can’t seem to accomplish what you need to get done? If so, you’re not alone. Many girls struggle with these challenges every day due to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD.
ADHD is tough enough to deal with on its own, but when you add in the pressures of school and adolescence, it can feel completely overwhelming. The challenges of ADHD are often hard to spot in girls, as symptoms tend to present differently than in boys. This can lead to missed or delayed diagnosis and lack of treatment or support. By the time ADHD is identified, it may have already significantly impacted your self-esteem, grades, and relationships.
The good news is, with the right diagnosis and treatment, many of these struggles can be overcome. But the first step is understanding what ADHD looks like in girls and being able to recognize the signs. This article will explore the unique ways ADHD shows up in girls, how it impacts school performance, and what you can do to get the help and support you need. You don’t have to deal with this alone.
Understanding ADHD Symptoms in Girls
ADHD symptoms in girls can be hard to identify. Girls tend to show inattentiveness and hyperactivity differently than boys. Instead of disruptive behavior, girls may seem “spacey” or distracted. They often struggle to focus in class and complete assignments. This impacts their grades and performance over time. Some girls compensate by becoming perfectionists, taking much longer to finish work.
Hyperactive symptoms in girls are also less obvious. Rather than running and climbing excessively, girls may talk excessively or fidget in their seat. Impulsivity could lead to emotional outbursts, overreactions or excessive risk taking. These behaviors are often misinterpreted as “drama” or normal teenage moodiness.
The diagnosis process for girls is challenging. Questionnaires often focus on disruptive behaviors more common in boys. Girls frequently develop coping skills to mask symptoms, so they may not meet the threshold for diagnosis. Many teachers and parents don’t recognize the signs of ADHD in girls or consider it a “boy’s disorder”.
By understanding how ADHD presents differently in girls, parents and teachers can better identify symptoms early on. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are key to helping girls reach their full potential. Recognizing ADHD as a true disorder that impacts both genders is an important first step.
Why ADHD Is Underdiagnosed in Girls
Why is ADHD so often missed in girls? There are a few reasons ADHD tends to fly under the radar in young women.
Social Pressures to Conform
Girls face more pressure to fit in, follow social norms, and be “good girls.” This can mask ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity or impulsiveness. Girls may work extra hard to hide their struggles, expending mental energy to appear focused and in control. By the time they get home, they’re exhausted from the effort.
Different Symptom Expression
Girls tend to show ADHD symptoms differently than boys. Rather than disruptive behavior, girls are more likely to be inattentive and distractible. They may be chatty or “spacey” but in ways that don’t stand out as clearly as a boy’s boisterous behavior. Girls also tend to internalize their symptoms, appearing anxious, low in motivation or even depressed. These manifestations are often missed as signs of ADHD.
Impact on Self-Esteem
The challenges of ADHD combined with societal pressures can take a major toll on a girl’s self-esteem. She may see herself as lazy, ditzy or not living up to her potential. This can further obscure her underlying ADHD and result in anxiety, depression, or unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse – compounding her difficulties.
In summary, ADHD tends to present differently in girls and is often well-hidden behind a mask of coping mechanisms and social expectations. But with greater awareness, sensitivity and updated diagnostic criteria accounting for gender differences, more girls may get the identification and support they need to thrive. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term impacts on their well-being, education and life success.
How ADHD Impacts Girls in School
The daily struggles of ADHD are challenging enough for anyone, but for girls, the impacts on school performance can be particularly devastating if left untreated.
Trouble Focusing
It’s hard to focus in a classroom when your mind is bouncing from thought to thought. Girls with ADHD often have trouble sustaining attention during lectures, reading assignments, and homework. They frequently miss important details and instructions, struggling to keep up.
Disorganization and Forgetfulness
The organizational and planning skills required for academic success are a constant challenge. It’s easy to lose track of deadlines, forget materials, and misplace important papers. This chaotic approach leads to missed assignments, last-minute scrambling, and constant feelings of being overwhelmed.
Poor Time Management
Girls with ADHD have trouble judging how much time tasks will take and struggle to break large assignments into manageable steps. They frequently procrastinate, waiting until the last minute to start projects and then rushing to finish them. This poor time management significantly impacts the ability to achieve in school.
Anxiety and Low Self-Esteem
The ongoing struggles with focus, organization, and time management understandably lead to feelings of anxiety, frustration, and low self-esteem in the classroom. There is a desire to achieve, but a constant feeling of failure in the face of challenges. These emotional impacts further undermine a girl’s academic potential and success.
Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment, whether medication, therapy, coaching or a combination, can make a world of difference in how a girl with ADHD functions in school. Accommodations like extra time on tests or quiet work spaces are also often helpful. With the right support and strategies in place, girls with ADHD absolutely can thrive academically.
Strategies to Support Girls With ADHD in School
Several strategies can help support girls with ADHD succeed in school.
Accommodations
Work with your school and teachers to set up official accommodations, like extra time on tests or assignments, a quiet workspace to do work, and reminders for deadlines. These small changes can make a big difference. You may also ask about organizing support, like a buddy or mentor.
Routines and Reminders
Establish solid routines and schedules for waking up, homework, and bedtime. Use visual reminders, timers, and alarms to keep on track. Break big tasks into smaller steps. Having structure and consistency can help reduce distraction and hyperfocus.
Fidgets and Movement Breaks
For some girls with ADHD, regular movement and fidgeting helps with focus. Ask if it’s okay to stand at your desk, take short walking breaks, use an exercise ball as a chair, or have fidget toys. Staying still for too long can make symptoms worse.
Help-seeking Behaviors
Don’t be afraid to ask questions in class, ask the teacher to repeat instructions, or ask for help from parents, tutors, or teachers if you feel yourself falling behind. Speaking up and self-advocating are important skills that will benefit you for life.
Peer Support
Connect with other girls who also have ADHD. Share your experiences, insights and what has worked for you. Join an online community to ask questions and feel less alone. Having a strong support system will help motivate and encourage you.
With the right interventions and strategies in place, girls with ADHD can thrive in school. But the most important thing is accepting yourself – ADHD and all. You’ve got this! Focus on your strengths, ask for help when you need it, and remember that you’re not alone.
Seeking an ADHD Evaluation for Your Child
Getting an ADHD evaluation for your child, especially if she’s a girl, can be challenging but critical for her wellbeing and success in school. Many girls with ADHD are missed or diagnosed late because their symptoms tend to be less disruptive than boys’. If your daughter struggles in school, socially or emotionally, don’t hesitate to speak to her doctor about the possibility of ADHD and the options for assessment.
Find an ADHD Specialist
Seek out professionals with expertise diagnosing and treating ADHD, especially in girls. A child psychologist, psychiatrist, or behavioral/developmental pediatrician are good options. They will evaluate your child’s medical, family and academic history, behavior, and cognition to determine if she meets the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
Get Teacher Input
Ask your daughter’s teachers to complete ADHD behavior rating scales about her functioning, attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity in the classroom. Their observations provide critical insight into how well she focuses, sits still, and controls impulses and emotions during learning activities, assignments and tests.
Consider Other Conditions
The evaluator should also consider other conditions that can co-occur or mimic ADHD symptoms in girls like anxiety, depression, learning disabilities or sleep problems. Diagnosing the right disorder(s) is key to developing an effective treatment plan.
Discuss Treatment Options
If ADHD is diagnosed, discuss options like behavioral therapy, social skills training, parenting strategies, and medication. Stimulants are often effective, but may require dose adjustments to minimize side effects in girls. The treatment approach should address the whole child to help her reach her full potential.
Getting the right ADHD diagnosis and treatment can change your daughter’s life for the better. Stay persistent until you find the help and support she needs. Her future success may depend on it.
Conclusion
So now you know the challenges faced by girls with ADHD in school. Their symptoms often fly under the radar, leading to missed opportunities for diagnosis and treatment. But with increased awareness, advocacy and accommodation, these bright young minds can thrive. Speak up if you see a girl struggling in the classroom. Talk to teachers and parents about the signs to look for. And if you’re a girl grappling with focus or motivation, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
There are resources and a community of support waiting for you. ADHD is not a limitation, it’s just a difference in how your brain works. With the right strategies and support system in place, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. You’ve got this!
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Craig Selinger
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