Raising a child with ADHD comes with unique challenges, but Jacksonville offers many resources to help parents support their children academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether you’re looking for specialized schools, financial assistance, or local support groups, there are options to ensure your child thrives.
Local Support Resources for ADHD in Jacksonville
1. The Broach School — The Broach School provides a structured, nurturing environment tailored to students with ADHD and other learning challenges. With small class sizes (15:1 student-teacher ratio), personalized instruction, and multisensory teaching methods, students receive the support they need. The school also emphasizes social-emotional learning and future planning, including career and college counseling. Scholarship Opportunities are available. Over 99% of our students attend the Broach School for little to no out-of-pocket expense for tuition.
Locations:
For more information, visit The Broach School Website.
2. CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) —Jacksonville Chapter: CHADD provides family resources, including support groups, educational workshops, and advocacy services. Parents can connect with others navigating similar challenges, while children can participate in programs designed to enhance executive functioning and social skills.
For more information, visit the CHADD Jacksonville Website.
3. UF Health Jacksonville—ADHD Clinic: UF Health Jacksonville offers ADHD evaluations and treatment plans, including medication management and behavioral therapy. Its specialists work closely with families to create individualized strategies for success.
For more information, visit the UF Health ADHD Services Website.
4. Jacksonville Children’s Commission —This organization provides access to early learning programs, mental health resources, and specialized education services for children with ADHD. It also offers parental training sessions to help families better understand and support their children’s needs.
For more information, visit the Jacksonville Children’s Commission Website.
Financial Assistance: Scholarships and Grants for ADHD Students
Many families worry about the cost of specialized education and ADHD-related services. The good news is that several scholarships and grants can help offset expenses.
1. The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Unique Abilities provides financial aid for private school tuition, therapy, educational materials, and other specialized services for children with ADHD and other learning disabilities.
For more information, visit the Step Up For Student Website.
2. The Anne Ford and Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarships: These scholarships, offered by the National Center for Learning Disabilities, provide financial support for students with ADHD or learning disabilities pursuing higher education.
- Anne Ford Scholarship: $10,000 for students attending a four-year college.
- Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarship: $5,000 for students enrolling in two-year programs or vocational schools.
For more information, visit the National Center for Learning Disabilities Website.
3. Shire ADHD Scholarship Program: This program provides a $2,000 scholarship and a year of ADHD coaching to students diagnosed with ADHD who are entering higher education.
For more information, visit the Shire ADHD Scholarship Website.
4. The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida: This foundation offers grants and scholarships for local students, including those with ADHD. Their focus is on supporting educational initiatives and mental health programs.
For more information, visit the Jacksonville Community Foundation Website.
Summer Camps
Jacksonville offers several summer programs tailored for children with ADHD and other learning differences. Here are some options to consider:
1. The Morris Center’s Summer Camp: The Morris Center in Jacksonville provides a summer camp specifically designed for children with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning challenges. Their program focuses on individualized treatment plans to enhance learning and social skills.
For more information, visit The Morris Center Website.
2. Angelwood Summer Day Camp: Angelwood offers a summer day camp for school-aged students (ages 5-22) with intellectual or developmental differences, including ADHD. The camp is equipped to assist children with various needs and provides a supportive environment for growth and development.
For more information, visit Jacksonville Mom Website.
3. Great Strides Rehabilitation Summer Camp: Great Strides hosts a therapist-led summer camp featuring themed activities such as scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, science experiments, and more. The camp aims to provide a fun and structured environment for children with special needs, including those with ADHD.
For more information, visit Jacksonville Mom Website.
When selecting a summer program, consider factors such as the camp’s structure, staff experience, and your child’s specific needs. Early registration is recommended, as spots in specialized programs can fill quickly.
Practical Tips for Parents of Children with ADHD
Supporting a child with ADHD requires patience, structure, and advocacy. Here are some practical strategies to help your child thrive:
1. Create a Structured Routine: Children with ADHD benefit from clear, predictable routines. Establish daily schedules for homework, bedtime, and activities to help them stay organized.
2. Use Visual Aids: Visual schedules, checklists, and color-coded planners can help children manage their time and responsibilities.
3. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps: Large assignments or chores can feel overwhelming. Break them into smaller tasks with clear instructions and short breaks in between.
4. Encourage Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps children with ADHD improve focus and reduce excess energy. Swimming, martial arts, and team sports can be especially beneficial.
5. Foster Social Skills: Children with ADHD may struggle with social interactions. Role-playing, social stories, and structured playdates can help them develop better communication and friendship skills.
6. Partner with Teachers: Meet regularly with your child’s teachers to discuss accommodations, progress, and classroom success strategies. Many schools offer 504 Plans or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to support students with ADHD.
7. Implement Positive Reinforcement: Praise and rewards can help reinforce positive behavior. Use a reward system to encourage good habits and focus on your child’s strengths.
8. Limit Distractions at Home: Designate a quiet, clutter-free space for homework and studying. Noise-canceling headphones or soft background music can also help maintain focus.
9. Teach Self-Advocacy: As children grow, they need to understand their ADHD and learn to advocate for themselves in school and social situations. Encourage them to ask for help and use tools that assist their learning.
10. Seek Professional Support When Needed: Therapists, ADHD coaches, and behavioral specialists can provide additional guidance. Don’t hesitate to seek support if your child struggles with emotional regulation or academic challenges.
You’re Not Alone – Support is Available!
Raising a child with ADHD can feel overwhelming, but Jacksonville offers many resources to help. By accessing local support groups, specialized schools, and financial assistance programs, you can provide your child with the tools they need to succeed.
If you’re looking for a school that understands and supports students with ADHD, The Broach School provides a nurturing, personalized learning environment to help students thrive. Schedule a tour today.
