It’s commonly known that no child enjoys doing homework, but for kids with ADHD, homework becomes even more challenging and can quickly feel like a daunting task.
An assignment that may take an hour for others could take anywhere from 2-4 hours for children with ADHD. It becomes difficult to keep up with homework without becoming distracted, stressed or anxious.
When it comes to doing homework, there are so many things going on that can be difficult for a child with ADHD, such as remembering the material taught in class, bringing the right books, and remembering when a project is due.
Homework doesn’t have to ruin your child’s day. By following a few simple tips and strategies, you can ensure that your child is prepared to take on homework in a way that works for them.
Establish a Routine
Children with ADHD may benefit from developing a regular homework schedule so they know when and what to expect. A regular routine for doing schoolwork can also help parents and kids feel less stressed and anxious.
Here are some more pointers for establishing a routine:
- Pick a time of day when your youngster is most likely to be awake and attentive. This could happen immediately following school, after a snack and a short break, or after dinner.
- A to-do list of homework assignments helps keep your child organized and on task. Each activity can be checked off as it is finished, which helps boost their motivation and sense of accomplishment.
- Your child may benefit from using a timer to stay focused and efficiently manage their time during each homework assignment. They can complete a task until the alarm sounds, then pause for a moment before moving on to the next one.
- Encourage your kid to take part in setting up the homework schedule. They can have opinions about the best time of day to work for them or the ideal setting for them.
Create a Homework-Only Space
Whether it’s a space in their room, in the kitchen, or in a home office, having a secluded space for your child to complete their homework will help them finish on time.
Children with ADHD get easily distracted by their surroundings, which causes them to lose focus on the task at hand.
This space should be free of distractions such as TVs, toys, and any siblings.
Be sure to have all the tools and materials needed to complete their homework within reach, including textbooks, calculators and pens or pencils.
Ensuring that your child is in a great environment to do school work free of distractions is more necessary than you think. Give it a try the next time they have homework!
Use Visual Aids
For kids with ADHD who can struggle with organizing and focusing, using visual aids can be useful. Here are some pointers for supporting your child’s schoolwork with visual aids:
- Visualizing chores and thoughts on a whiteboard can be useful. It can be used for idea generation as well as task writing and diagramming.
- Your child can learn to organize duties and information by using colour coding. Use highlighters to draw attention to key information, for instance, or various coloured markers for different themes.
- Your child can see upcoming tasks and due dates by using a calendar. Use an app on your phone or tablet, a paper calendar, or both. Encourage your child to keep track of forthcoming tasks and to check the calendar frequently.
Incorporate Breaks
Children, whether with ADHD or not, require several breaks in between studying.
If your child struggles to focus, having short breaks for talking walks or having a snack will let their minds refresh and reset. In addition, any built-up energy from staying in place will be released, allowing for a more productive work period afterward.
Depending on the workload, you can divide the breaks into sections based on the subjects. It’s important to not add too many breaks, as frequent pauses when it’s not needed will disrupt learning rather than improve it.
Study how long your child can work through the material without losing focus. Some children are able to work for 30 minutes in one go while others get distracted after about 15 minutes.
Get Organized
To keep your child from falling behind or missing assignments, create checklists and schedules that detail what work is due and when.
Organization may seem like a boring and unnecessary task, but it can be made more fun and efficient by using colourful folders, stickers, and labels. You could also try keeping their backpacks tidy by removing unneeded items, as unorganized bags will pull children’s attention and make them want to explore what’s in their bag.
Hanging a bulletin board detailing upcoming tasks and assignments will allow you and your child to stay on top of things since it serves as a constant reminder.
ADHD Assessment Experts at Waystone Psychology
Have you noticed your child losing concentration or focus easily when completing their homework?
Getting easily distracted and fidgeting are signs your child may have ADHD. The challenges your child faces when doing their homework can be eliminated with proper study skills and habits.
Our professional psychologists collaborate with kids to determine what areas they need help in by using a series of evaluations that test their strengths and weaknesses. Then, they’ll work together with you and your child to come up with helpful strategies, all while providing the support they need.
Reach out to us to learn more about studying techniques for ADHD and book your appointment today.