We provide ADHD tutoring to students of all ages and design a unique plan for each client. Given the unique advantages of online tutoring for ADHD, we offer many of our services virtually, allowing us to assign the best fit with a clinician and uniquely tailor our methods to each student. This post describes the process, benefits, and outcomes ADHD tutors provide, but of course, you are welcome to contact us with any questions anytime.
Background Information 
ADHD tutoring is specialized academic support designed to help students with ADHD succeed in their studies. It goes beyond regular tutoring by incorporating strategies that address challenges like:
- Time management – Creating schedules, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and using timers.
- Organization skills – Structuring notes, using planners, and keeping track of assignments.
- Focus & motivation – Using movement breaks, interactive learning, and rewards.
- Study techniques – Active recall, visual aids, and ADHD-friendly strategies to improve retention.
- Task initiation & completion – Overcoming procrastination and building momentum.
How ADHD Affects Learning
ADHD affects learning in several ways, primarily due to difficulties with attention, executive function, and impulse control. Here’s how it can impact students:
- Attention & Focus Issues
- Easily distracted by noises, movement, or thoughts.
- Struggles with sustained attention, especially in lectures or while reading.
- Hyperfocus on interesting tasks but difficulty switching attention when needed.
- Executive Function Challenges
- Time management difficulties, leading to procrastination or rushed work.
- Trouble with organization, such as losing notes, forgetting assignments, or having a cluttered workspace.
- Difficulty following multi-step instructions, leading to frustration in complex tasks.
- Memory & Processing Speed
- Working memory struggles (forgetting steps in a math problem or what was just read).
- Slow processing speed can make completing assignments or tests difficult within time limits.
- Impulsivity & Emotional Regulation
- Blurting out answers or interrupting in class.
- Difficulty waiting turns in discussions or group work.
- Emotional sensitivity, leading to frustration with mistakes or criticism.
- Motivation & Task Initiation
- Struggles to start tasks, especially if they seem boring or overwhelming.
- Avoids effort-intensive work (like writing essays or long readings).
- Benefits from high-interest or hands-on learning to stay engaged.
Accommodations & Support:
- Use timers and reminders to manage time.
- Break work into smaller, more manageable steps.
- Incorporate movement and interactive learning.
- Allow for accommodations like extended test time or audiobooks.
- Use external tools like planners, apps, or study buddies for accountability.
What ADHD Tutors Do
ADHD tutors provide specialized support to help students succeed academically by addressing their unique learning challenges. Here’s what they typically do:
- Executive Function Coaching
- ADHD tutors teach time management skills (using planners, timers, and routines).
- They help with organization (structuring notes, keeping track of assignments).
- They work to improve task initiation (breaking tasks into smaller steps, overcoming procrastination).
- Study & Learning Strategies
- ADHD Tutors use multi-sensory learning (visuals, hands-on activities, movement-based techniques).
- They teach memory strategies (mnemonics, active recall, summarization).
- They help the student adapt note-taking techniques for ADHD (color coding, mind maps, digital tools).
- Focus & Motivation Techniques
- ADHD tutors help students develop focus strategies (Pomodoro technique, background noise, fidget tools).
- They use gamification and interest-based learning to increase engagement.
- They teach self-advocacy and confidence-building techniques.
- Academic Support
- ADHD tutors provide subject-specific tutoring (math, reading, writing, etc.) with ADHD-friendly methods.
- They help with essay writing and long-term projects by breaking them into steps.
- They offer test-taking strategies, including how to manage time and reduce anxiety.
- Accountability & Encouragement
- ADHD tutors check in regularly to track progress and adjust strategies as needed.
- They provide positive reinforcement to build motivation and resilience.
- They collaborate with parents, teachers, and therapists if needed.
ADHD Tutoring Strategies
ADHD tutoring strategies focus on engagement, structure, and executive function support to help students learn effectively. Here are some of the best strategies:
Time Management & Organization
- Chunking Work – Break tasks into small, manageable steps to avoid overwhelm.
- Timers & Alarms – Use the Pomodoro technique (25-minute focus sessions with 5-minute breaks).
- Color-Coding & Visual Schedules – Assign colors to subjects/tasks for easier organization.
- Checklists & Planners – Use digital or paper planners to track assignments and deadlines.
Focus & Attention Boosters
- Active Learning – Use hands-on activities, discussions, or movement while studying.
- Change Study Environments – Rotate between quiet spaces, standing desks, or background noise options (white noise, instrumental music).
- Fidget Tools & Movement Breaks – Allow movement while working (standing, stretching, or using fidget toys).
Study & Memory Techniques
- Mnemonics & Acronyms – Create memory aids for key concepts.
- Mind Maps & Visual Aids – Use charts, diagrams, and drawings to reinforce ideas.
- Verbal Processing – Talk through concepts instead of just reading or writing.
- Gamification – Turn studying into a game (quizzes, flashcards, rewards).
Task Initiation & Motivation
- The “5-Minute Rule” – Start a task for just 5 minutes to build momentum.
- Body Doubling – Work alongside someone else for accountability.
- Interest-Based Learning – Relate subjects to personal interests to boost motivation.
- Immediate Rewards – Use small rewards for completing tasks (stickers, snacks, short breaks).
Writing & Reading Support
- Speech-to-Text Tools – Help with writing by dictating thoughts first.
- Graphic Organizers – Plan essays visually before writing.
- Audiobooks & Text-to-Speech – Assist with reading comprehension.
Case Example: ADHD Tutoring for a High School Student
- Name: Jake (fictional case)
- Age: 14
- Diagnosis: ADHD (Inattentive Type)
- Challenges:
- Struggles with time management and procrastination
- Difficulty staying focused on schoolwork
- Poor organization and frequently forgets assignments
- Anxiety around tests and deadlines
- Avoids writing tasks due to overwhelm
ADHD Tutoring Approach
Building Structure & Routine
- The tutor helps Jake create a visual schedule for assignments and study sessions.
- Uses a checklist to break large assignments into smaller steps.
- Introduces a reward system (e.g., after 30 minutes of work, he earns a 5-minute break).
Focus & Engagement Strategies
- Active Learning: Instead of just reading, the tutor uses mind maps and flashcards.
- Movement Breaks: After 20 minutes of focus, Jake takes a quick movement break.
- Body Doubling: The tutor sits with Jake during independent work to provide accountability.
Emotional & Executive Function Support
- Mindfulness Exercises: Before starting, they practice a breathing exercise to reduce anxiety.
- Self-Advocacy Coaching: The tutor helps Jake draft emails to teachers to ask for extensions or clarifications.
- Positive Reinforcement: Instead of focusing on mistakes, the tutor emphasizes progress and effort.
Writing & Test Prep Strategies
- Speech-to-Text Tools: Jake uses dictation to get his ideas out before editing.
- Graphic Organizers: He outlines essays using a visual chart before writing.
- Test-Taking Techniques: The tutor teaches relaxation strategies and timed practice to reduce anxiety.
Outcome After 3 Months
- Jake turns in more assignments on time.
- He reports feeling less overwhelmed by schoolwork.
- His test anxiety decreases with practice and support.
- He gains confidence in writing by using new strategies.
Online Tutoring for ADHD
Online tutoring for ADHD from a Therapeutic Tutor can be highly effective when structured to support their unique learning styles. Below are some of the best methods and the benefits we provide.
Effective Strategies for Online Tutoring for ADHD
The following are some of the methods and approaches we use when we provide online tutoring for ADHD.
Multisensory Learning
Method: ADHD Tutors use videos, interactive whiteboards, and multisensory explanations, all available through apps and computer programs, to engage multiple senses.
Benefit: Online tutoring for ADHD increases retention and reduces boredom by keeping lessons engaging.
Chunking Information
Method: Breaking down large concepts into smaller, digestible parts.
Benefit: Helps prevent overwhelm and allows for better focus.
Visual Aids & Graphic Organizers
Method: Online tutoring for ADHD lets the professional share charts, diagrams, color-coded notes, and mind maps virtually.
Benefit: Enhances understanding and makes abstract concepts more concrete.
Active Learning & Gamification
Method: Online tutoring for ADHD allows the tutor to use interactive quizzes, educational games, and problem-solving exercises.
Benefit: Boosts engagement and motivation while reducing distractions.
Flexible Pacing & Breaks
Method: Shorter, focused sessions with built-in movement breaks. During these times, the student is at home with access to pleasant distractions.
Benefit: Prevents mental fatigue and supports sustained attention.
Personalized Learning Plans
Method: Online tutoring for ADHD allows us to assign the perfect tutor to fit individual strengths and challenges.
Benefit: Increases confidence and allows students to learn in ways that work best for them.
Key Benefits of ADHD Tutoring Online
- Convenience & Comfort – Learning from home eliminates distractions of a classroom setting.
- One-on-One Attention – Allows for individualized teaching tailored to the student’s needs.
- More Control Over Environment – Students can create a distraction-free setup that works for them.
- Access to ADHD-Specialized Tutors – Can work with professionals trained in ADHD-friendly strategies.
- Flexible Scheduling – Sessions can be adapted to fit peak focus times.
- Recorded Lessons (if available) – Allows for rewatching to reinforce learning.
Case Example: ADHD Tutoring
- Name: Sophia (fictional case)
- Age: 16
- Diagnosis: ADHD (Primarily Inattentive)
- Challenges:
- Struggles with organization and forgets assignments
- Procrastinates on studying and big projects
- Low self-confidence in math and writing
- Gets overwhelmed by long reading assignments
- Feels anxious and avoids asking for help in class
ADHD Tutoring Approach
Executive Function & Organization Support
- Planner System: The tutor helps Sophia set up a color-coded planner for assignments and deadlines.
- Time Management: Uses the Pomodoro technique (25-minute focus, 5-minute break) to help her stay on track.
- Task Breakdown: Large projects are divided into small, manageable steps with check-ins.
Focus & Engagement Strategies
- Reading Support: Sophia listens to audiobooks while following along with the text to improve comprehension.
- Background Noise Options: The tutor helps her test white noise, instrumental music, or a quiet workspace to improve focus.
- Fidget Strategies: Allows doodling, a stress ball, or movement breaks while studying.
Building Confidence & Reducing Anxiety
- Strength-Based Approach: Instead of focusing on struggles, the tutor highlights Sophia’s progress and effort.
- Self-Advocacy Coaching: Role-plays asking teachers for help and drafting polite emails to request extensions.
- Calm-Down Techniques: Practices deep breathing before tests or overwhelming tasks.
Subject-Specific Strategies
- Writing Support: Uses speech-to-text tools and graphic organizers before drafting essays.
- Math Confidence: Practices problems using real-life examples and a step-by-step breakdown with positive reinforcement.
Outcome After 3 Months with an ADHD Tutor
- Sophia misses fewer assignments and feels more in control of her workload.
- She asks for help in class and emails teachers when needed.
- She feels less anxious about tests and projects.
- Her confidence in math and writing improves with structured support.
Conclusion:
A therapeutic tutoring approach for dyscalculia focuses on creating a personalized, supportive environment that combines multi-sensory learning, emotional support, and real-world applications. By addressing Lily’s emotional challenges alongside her academic difficulties, she gains the skills and confidence needed to succeed in math and beyond.
More Information:
Who do our tutors and educational therapists help | What do our private tutors for children with special needs offer | Where do we provide tutoring for children with learning disabilities | When do learning disability tutors work best| | Why do therapy and tutoring work well together
Summary and Our Work
The role of a therapeutic tutor for ADHD can be critical. We use evidence-based psychological strategies braided with educational interventions. Foresight Psychology, our parent organization, can also provide executive functioning assessments and therapy for ADHD.
If you would like more information about ADHD tutors or how our services might benefit you or your child, please contact us or schedule a consultation anytime.
