A poem written from the perspective of a child with ADHD. Practical strategies that teachers can utilize in the classroom to help make a difference. Created by educationandbehavior.com.

1. I got in trouble in school today.

2. They took away my recess.

3. They said it was because I couldn’t sit still.

4. But I was feeling so restless.

5. I couldn’t control my body.

6. I wish they’d give me breaks to move.

7. It’s so much easier to concentrate when
I’m not forced to sit for an hour or two.

8. Sometimes directions come on so fast, I
can’t keep them all straight.

9. Giving them one step at a time or
writing them down would be great.

10. It’s hard for my mind to focus on 30
questions in a row.

11. Break my work into smaller parts
and watch the answers flow.

12. Check on how I’m doing after I complete
the first ten.

13. While you’re looking at my work can I
get up, stretch, or play with my pen?

14. My mom told me you’re disappointed
with my messy space.

15. All my belongings overwhelm me. Teach
me how to keep them in their proper
place.

16. You yelled at me for calling out and I felt
embarrassed in front of my friends.

17. Sometimes my mouth goes faster than
my mind. Kindly remind me to raise my
hand.

18. Please know that these things don’t
define me. Let me know when I make
you proud.

19. If you just take the time to notice, you’ll
see a bright star, instead of a cloud.

20. So the next time I have trouble
following your rules and routines,
please don’t take away my recess.

21. Burning energy improves my focus and
self-esteem.

22. Please Don’t Take Away My Recess:
A Poem About ADHD
Created by educationandbehavior.com
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