Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

27% of our participants at VTRA live with ADHD – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Understanding what this means can help you support them more effectively during lessons. What is ADHD? ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate energy levels. It's not about being lazy or defiant—it’s about how the brain processes and responds to information. 

There are three main types of ADHD: 

• Primarily Inattentive Type: may seem distracted, daydreamy, or disorganized. Often has difficulty following through with instructions. May miss details or forget steps in a task.

• Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: may appear constantly “on the go”. Has trouble sitting still or waiting their turn. May interrupt or act before thinking things through. 

• Combined Type: shows signs of both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. 

What does this mean in the arena? A participant with ADHD might: need more reminders to stay focused on riding tasks, get distracted by noises or movement in the environment, struggle to sit still in the saddle or blurt out unrelated thoughts. Benefit from clear, concrete, and step-by-step instructions Do best when you use positive redirection and first/then language (e.g., “First we ride, then you can tell me about that cool thing!”).

Patience, calm energy, and consistency go a long way. You’re not just supporting riding skills—you’re helping build focus, confidence, and connection!