Starting 2026 Right: What Matters Most in the First Weeks

The beginning of a new school year can feel like a fresh start — but for many students (especially those with ADHD), it can also feel overwhelming, uncertain, and dysregulating.

New teacher.
New expectations.
New routines.
New sensory input.

Before learning can truly happen, students need to feel safe, confident, and understood. 

The good news? 

You don't need elaborate systems or over decorated classrooms to achieve this.

You just need intention.

Prioritise Regulation Before Expectation

In the first few weeks of 2026, behaviour is information — not a test of compliance.

Students who struggle to sit, follow instructions, or engage are often communicating:

“I don’t feel settled yet.”

“I’m unsure what’s expected.”

“My nervous system is overloaded.”

What helps:

• Daily movement built into transitions

• Short, predictable lesson blocks

• Calm, consistent responses (even when behaviour escalates)

Regulated brains learn. Dysregulated brains survive.

Teach the Routines Like They’re New (Because They Are)

Even if students “should” know classroom routines, ADHD brains need repetition, visuals, and practice — not reminders or reprimands.

Try this:

• Model routines step-by-step

• Use visual schedules and cue cards

• Practise routines without an academic demand attached

• Clarity reduces anxiety. Anxiety fuels behaviour.

Set Fewer Expectations — and Hold Them Consistently

Instead of a Rules Chart try Reframing your thinking.

Choose 3–5 clear, positively framed expectations and revisit them daily.

For example:

“We look after each other.”

“We do our best to try.”

“We ask for help when we need it.”

Consistency builds trust. Trust builds cooperation.

Build Connection Before Correction

Students with ADHD often enter the year expecting to “get it wrong.”

A few small connection habits can shift this belief:

• Greet students by name

• Notice effort, not just outcomes

• Comment on strengths you see early

When students feel seen, they are far more willing to engage.

Remember: You Set the Emotional Climate

Your calm presence is one of the most powerful tools in your classroom.

You don’t need to be perfect.
You don’t need to have all the answers.
You just need to be predictable, warm, and regulated yourself.

That’s what students remember.

A Gentle Reminder for 2026

You are not behind.
Your students are not “too much.”
And behaviour is not something to control — it’s something to understand.

Let’s start this year with compassion, clarity, and connection.

You’ve got this — and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Warmly,