ADD and ADHD differ from learning disabilities in that attention-related conditions render the student temporarily "unavailable for learning." In ADD, the student may appear to be day-dreaming for short periods of time; in ADHD, the student is so busy doing other things that he does not attend adequately to the learning task. (In learning disabilities, to articulate the distinction, the student is available for learning; in ADD and ADHD, much important information is simply not received, so it is not learned.)

What a teacher can do with ADD/ADHD students is to slow down (again, between but not within key ideas), repeat, and give examples. By slowing down after presenting major concepts, the educator gives students extra opportunities to attend to the necessary information. Behavior modification techniques, such as reinforcement for appropriate behavior, are also helpful. With adults, this is more subtle than it often is with children. (Sometimes I give my lecture standing near a student who appears to be daydreaming; by being near her, I assure that the eyes of other students are turned in the direction of the wayward student. I need do nothing more.)