Less Is More: Why Minimal Classroom Displays Are Essential for Supporting ADHD

At the start of the term, we fill our classrooms with vibrant displays that contain information and examples we believe will enhance learning. We feel great when our Head of Department praises the displays we created during a meeting. Then our ADHD enters and is so overwhelmed that they can't even look at our great displays.

Research on environmental psychology and sensory processing emphasises the importance of organised, calming spaces for children with sensory sensitivities (Evans, 2003). Plus, Universal Design principles highlight how simplicity and clarity make environments more accessible for everyone, including neurodiverse learners. We should take heed — cluttered, busy displays can hinder learning, not promote it. So, let's seize the opportunity at the start of the year to make meaningful changes that make a real difference.

The Hidden Cost of Visual Overload

Children with ADHD often experience heightened sensory awareness, which can make bustling classrooms overwhelming. Excessive visual stimuli aren’t just distracting — they can cause real sensory overload, leading to anxiety, frustration, and decreased focus. Just because a display is colourful or “motivational” doesn’t mean it’s helpful. In fact, it might be actively hindering learning and emotional regulation.

It's time to question: are our displays aiding or inhibiting our children’s success?

Why You Need to Rethink Your Classroom Displays Now

1. Cut Out Distractions, Boost Concentration

A cluttered, busy display pulls attention in every direction. Simplify things — with clean designs and plenty of white space — so children can focus on the most important information. The science is clear: reducing visual clutter decreases extraneous cognitive load, allowing kids to concentrate better (Sweller, 1988).

2. Make Learning Stick

The most effective displays highlight key concepts with minimal distraction. When information is clear, concise, and well-organised, children process and remember it more easily. Now is the time to pare down current displays and make room for purposeful, simple visuals — before the chaos of the year sets in.

3. Cultivate Calm and Confidence

An uncluttered classroom feels calmer and safer — vital for children who might otherwise feel overwhelmed or anxious. Early in the year, create a space that’s visually soothing. It’s a simple step that can have a lasting impact on mood, behaviour, and overall well-being.

4. empower Independence and Self-Regulation

Children shouldn’t have to sift through endless visual noise to find what they need. Clear, straightforward displays foster independence. As you prepare your classroom now, focus on visuals that support self-management, not confusion.

Action Steps at the Start of the Year

• Reassess all existing displays: ask yourself, “Does this truly support learning and wellbeing?”

• Use neutral backgrounds with strategic colours to emphasise crucial information.

• Please consider reducing the amount of text and incorporating simple icons or visuals instead.

• Use limited fonts and styles, always as large as possible

• Ensure that white space is prioritised around key content.

• Rotate displays regularly to keep visuals relevant and calm, not cluttered.

• Focus on a handful of meaningful themes rather than overloading with every possible detail.

  
  

Teach the Undiagnosed Child

We cannot just wait to find out if a child is ADHD before implementing change that is so easy that it costs nothing more than a different mindset.

The start of the school year is the perfect window for transformation. By making these changes early, you set a tone that promotes focus, reduces overwhelm, and supports every child to thrive. Remember — less truly is more. When we intentionally design our classrooms to reduce sensory overload, we’re giving children a foundation for success that lasts all year long.

Let’s challenge outdated display practices — for a calmer, clearer, more inclusive classroom environment. Your unknown ADHD learners will thank you.