|
BEHAVIOR |
|
| Create a stable environment and routines. | The more consistent your home and your demands on your child the more likely they will be able to meet expectations. |
| Plan a variety of different activities | Avoid boredom |
| Teach your child what ADHD/ADHD is and what it is not | It is not an excuse; it does not make you bad or lazy. |
| Encourage your child to release extra energy | By allowing them to move in a safe environment they are less likely to hurt themselves or be disruptive. |
| Get their attention | Before asking your child to do something make sure they are hearing you. |
| Promote their strengths | School might not be their strength – let them explore art, sports, music etc. |
|
SCHOOL |
|
| Break up large tasks | Teach your child to recognize the various steps involved in each task they do. The total task won’t seem as overwhelming. |
| Color code notebooks | Each subject can be its own color. |
| For young children use one folder | Things that go home keep on the left & things that go to school on the right. |
| Give them breaks during their homework | Have them work for a pre-set amount of time & then take a break for a pre-set amount of time |
| Homework time should be consistent. | Establish a routine – your child will never like homework but will at least know the rules around it. |
| Movement | Allow them to move or stand while doing their homework, or doodle while they are reading. |
| Promote & nourish your child’s strengths rather than trying to improve their weaknesses | They may not be a great writer but they can tell a great story – let them talk into a tape recorder. |
|
ORGANIZATION |
|
| Use color! | Make it sparkle & fun! Associate colors with activities. |
| Label bins/shelves/drawers | It is much easier to find things and put them away with labels (pictures for younger children). It is also harder to put things away incorrectly. |
| Let them help you figure out where things belong | By involving them in planning & putting away they will own the system and be better able to follow it. |
| Model behavior | Don’t just tell them where something goes or how to break up a task show them! |
| Keep a calendar | Record school information and extra-curricula activities. |
by Carrie Greene, ACC, CarrieThru, LLC, ADHD Coaching & Organizing Services.
Leave a Reply