Table of Contents
Print

Is teachers calling attention before switching tasks part of accommodation? 

Yes. ADHD task transition support often includes teachers calling a student’s attention before changing tasks. For students with ADHD, shifting focus quickly can be difficult, especially if they are deeply engaged or distracted. A simple verbal cue, visual signal, or gentle prompt can help them prepare for what is coming next. 

These teacher prompts are easy to integrate and highly effective. They provide a moment of reorientation that supports self-regulation and improves the likelihood that students stay on track. This strategy helps maintain classroom structure while giving ADHD learners the extra support they need. 

How Attention Cues Help During Transitions 

Here is how attention cues contribute to better task switching and focus in ADHD students: 

Helps with mental preparation  

Giving students a heads-up allows them to finish what they are doing and shift gears with less resistance. 

Improves responsiveness 

Consistent prompts train students to expect structure, which helps them follow routines more independently. 

Reduces classroom friction  

Smooth transitions lower the chance of confusion, behavioural issues, or lost time between activities. 

In conclusion, ADHD task transition support can be part of a broader accommodation plan, whether informal or documented in a 504 or IEP. A well-timed prompt can be the key to helping ADHD students move through their day with clarity and calm. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Classroom accommodations for ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.