About Me for Teachers
- Monarch
- Aug 26
- 3 min read
Do you have a neurodivergent child? Or a sensitive child? How about an easily misunderstood child?
I have been hearing more and more about parents creating a one page “information” or About Me sheet that can be shared with a student’s new teacher in the fall. This sheet is used to introduce the student, their strengths, areas of difficulty, and how to best support them. I haven’t created something like this before but am going to give it a try this year for my early elementary aged student.
My child, like many students with ADHD, has a hard time regulating their reactions. A new teacher might notice that they respond impulsively, fidget, and seek connection with others (not always at the most expected times). While these areas of difference are important to know about, so a new teacher has a better understanding about why things might be happening and so that my child can be supported, it is also incredibly important to know about areas of strength. Strengths can be used to support areas of difference and help build confidence, as well as engagement.
My child’s information sheet will look something like this (with identifying information removed and Monarch-friendly information included):
Student’s Name: Monarch Butterfly
Grade/Class: Caterpillar
Strengths:
Creative Thinker: Monarch has a vivid imagination and often comes up with unique and flexible solutions.
High Energy and Enthusiasm: Monarch brings a lot of passion and excitement to their learning, especially when interested.
Quick Learner (When Engaged): Monarch easily picks up new concepts when their attention is captured and when learning is hands on or interactive.
Curious and questioning: Monarch is naturally inquisitive, asking deep or unexpected questions.
Empathetic and friendly: Monarch is sensitive to others’ feelings and enjoys social connection.
Areas of Difficulty:
Becoming easily distracted: Especially on longer tasks, lectures, or non-preferred subjects.
Impulsivity: May act without thinking.
Emotional Regulation: Monarch can become easily frustrated or overwhelmed, especially when tasks feel too hard.
Hyperactive: May fidget, leave their seat, or appear restless.
What Works:
Clear, Concise Instructions: Break tasks into smaller steps with visual checklists or models.
Movement Breaks: Short, regular breaks to move or stretch help with focus and regulation.
Preferential Seating: Near the front or close to teacher, but not isolated—helps reduce distractions.
Positive Reinforcement: Immediate and specific praise works better than delayed rewards or criticism.
Visual Schedules & Timers: Helps ease transitions and build independence.
Fidget Tools or Alternative Seating: Access to fidgets (we have many and can send some in), wobble cushions, or standing desks as needed.
Chunked Work & Extended Time: Reduces overwhelm and allows processing time.
Safe Space/Cool Down Option: Access to a quiet area or a calm-down routine when dysregulated.
Consistent Routines: Predictability reduces anxiety and supports executive functioning.
Communication Tips
Monarch benefits from:
Being given choices when possible (e.g., order of tasks, partner/group work)
Gentle reminders and check-ins during independent work
Private, not public, redirection when behavior needs addressing
Regular home-school communication (e.g., weekly updates)
Monarch wants to do well and will thrive with structure, encouragement, and flexibility! Your support makes a huge difference for them!
Family Contact
Parent/Guardian Name(s): Peacock and Hawk Butterfly
Best Contact Method: Phone or email
Not every student and family need to share an information sheet with their new teacher. For those choosing to create and share one, it can be a helpful way to make a quick and easy introduction. If you are thinking about making an information sheet, what are the important things you include to help your student’s teacher get to know them?
ADHD - Autism - Executive Functioning - Learning Disorders
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