What is an essential initial step a counselor should take for a student with ADHD struggling academically?

Modifying classroom assignments is a crucial initial step for a counselor working with a student who has ADHD and is facing academic challenges. This approach recognizes the unique learning needs and capabilities of the student, accommodating their attention span and organizational skills. By adjusting the assignments to be more manageable, counselors can help alleviate stress and frustration that may inhibit learning.

When assignments are tailored, they can become more engaging and relevant to the student, enabling them to focus better and demonstrate their knowledge effectively. This also fosters a more supportive learning environment, which is essential for students with ADHD. It allows the counselor to collaborate with teachers in creating a plan that meets educational goals without overwhelming the student, thereby promoting academic success and self-efficacy.

In contrast, one-on-one tutoring, while beneficial, may not directly address the root issues of attention and organization faced by the student. Recommending medication can be a part of a broader treatment plan but is usually decided by healthcare professionals rather than counselors. Increasing daily homework might lead to further difficulties for a student with ADHD instead of helping them manage existing challenges. Hence, modifying assignments stands out as the most appropriate and supportive first step.