January 2011-Parent Tip On ADHD amd Homework Skills
Homework for parents may be challenging enough but for parents with children effected by ADHD, it can be especially frustrating. For this month, I wanted to focus on how parents and children can work together to solve some problems with homework time.
It is important to set up a quiet study area for your child so that they are away from distractions (or unwanted sibling attention). This could be anywhere from a child's bedroom to the kitchen table, whatever works for your child. Allow them to share their own feelings about the best place-it may not be what you first think of as a "quiet area" but if it works for them, go for it. Before starting homework, have your child prioritize their assignments. This could be verbally or an actual list. Some people find small whiteboards helpful. The child can cross off each task as it is accomplished, giving them a sense of success. Next, set a timer for a certain amount of time such as 30 minutes or 45 minutes (this will depend on age and homework load). If it helps to take a break, schedule a short break for a snack or movement.
If remembering to bring homework to school has been an issue, have a "Back to School" box or have your child pack their backpack immediately after they complete it, and place this in front of the door. If a reward system motivates your child, set up small goals for them to accomplish and offer incentives. Sometimes that could be one-on-one time with a parent or a special outing together. Involve your child in this process and use whatever has worked in the past in terms of steps to success.
I have listed some resources for kids and adults effected with ADHD in my bibliographies. As always, please feel free to call me if you have any questions or concerns at 206-329-3260 X220.
Thanks!
Jennifer Moyer-Taylor
School Counselor at St. Joseph School
It is important to set up a quiet study area for your child so that they are away from distractions (or unwanted sibling attention). This could be anywhere from a child's bedroom to the kitchen table, whatever works for your child. Allow them to share their own feelings about the best place-it may not be what you first think of as a "quiet area" but if it works for them, go for it. Before starting homework, have your child prioritize their assignments. This could be verbally or an actual list. Some people find small whiteboards helpful. The child can cross off each task as it is accomplished, giving them a sense of success. Next, set a timer for a certain amount of time such as 30 minutes or 45 minutes (this will depend on age and homework load). If it helps to take a break, schedule a short break for a snack or movement.
If remembering to bring homework to school has been an issue, have a "Back to School" box or have your child pack their backpack immediately after they complete it, and place this in front of the door. If a reward system motivates your child, set up small goals for them to accomplish and offer incentives. Sometimes that could be one-on-one time with a parent or a special outing together. Involve your child in this process and use whatever has worked in the past in terms of steps to success.
I have listed some resources for kids and adults effected with ADHD in my bibliographies. As always, please feel free to call me if you have any questions or concerns at 206-329-3260 X220.
Thanks!
Jennifer Moyer-Taylor
School Counselor at St. Joseph School