Homework and Your ADHD Child

As the parent of a Child with ADHD. I know firsthand how frustrating homework can be. Kids with ADHD have a hard time trying to hold it together and stay on task while they're in school all day. By the time they're home, the last thing they want is to do more school work. They've been sitting still, being quiet, and trying not to be distracted for anywhere from 6 to 7 hours. Now they want to run, yell, and do what they want. It's not that easy though, life has rules and expectations for everyone. The key to success is to make homework as quick and easy as possible. As parents we need to provide them with support and praise. I hope this article will help other parents to better understand how to help their child.

ADHD kids often need a break after school. A snack and some time to run around helps these kids unwind and rejuvenate themselves. Once they get some physical exercise they are able to relieve their frustration and clear their head. After this break many kids have an easier time concentrating on their work.

Homework should be done at approximately the same time and same place every day. Consistency and order is very important to kids with ADHD. They can't have too much organization. Everything has to be planned and prepared ahead of time. This way child only task is to focus on his work.

You should make sure that your child has a specific area for doing his homework. This area should be free of distractions and clutter. Make sure the area is well stocked with homework aids. I find that reference charts, highlighters, index cards, a dictionary, a thesaurus, a ruler, a protractor, calculator really help. They are able check to see if they have the right answers and make any necessary changes. If everything they need is there then they don't have excuses for not getting it done.

Some children are not able to concentrate in complete silence. They need a little background noise. You could try some soft music, a fan, or any soothing consistent noise.

Homework should be done in short intervals. It's difficult for ADHD kids to keep on task for long periods of time. A simple kitchen timer works great. They set it for 20 minutes. When it dings they get to take a quick break and clear their head before they start again. Homework should not take hours to complete. If it is overwhelming, talk to your child's teacher to see if it can be shortened. Homework should be manageable.

Remember sitting still for some ADHD kids can seem like being in a straight jacket all day. Try to let your child be comfortable while doing his homework. As long as he's being productive, it doesn't really matter if he sits or stands or swings his feet. Kids put enough stress on themselves, so try not to add any additional pressure.

Complicated problems can be mind boggling for your child. Try to break down problems into short and easy steps. This way your child can keep track of his progress and check off each step as it's completed.

Remember ADHD kids learn best when they are taught from more than one perspective. When they can see it, hear it, and touch it, information more readily absorbed. Visuals and manipulatives are great study tools, especially for math. If you have room for a chalkboard or white board, then you could try using one. Blocks, popsicle sticks, m&m's, tapes, charts, videos are just some of the things you can try.

Don't push your child too hard. Once your child becomes frustrated and agitated, he will not be productive. Take a break and let him collect himself. It is your job to be a role model. You need to be patient and supportive. Don't let him see any disappointment or frustration. You don't want him to think he's a failure or that he's done anything wrong. Most of all praise him and make sure he knows you love him.