Back to School Strategies
Back
to school is one of the busiest times of the year for both parents and
children, but it is especially stressful when ADHD is involved. We’ve
complied a list of six strategies specifically designed for returning
to school. Developed by Russell Barkley, PhD (a psychologist who is
nationally recognized as an expert on ADHD), these strategies provide
parents with a good road map for living with a child with ADHD.
»Work closely with your child’s teachers.
Children
with ADHD have difficulty obeying two different sets of rules, so it’s
important for parents and teachers to agree on the same rules and the
same management system.
»Identify your child’s strengths.
You
can help your child build on those strengths and develop the confidence
to tackle whatever it is that he or she finds difficult.
»Keep track of tasks with a list.
Have
children check off tasks as they complete them. Why? Not only does this
help children complete their chores, but it can also serve as a reward
for a job well done.
»Use time-outs.
Time-outs
help children calm down. Younger children may need to be told to take a
time-out, but older children should learn to sense when they need to
calm down and do so on their own.
»Set up a study area.
Find
an area where your child feels comfortable studying and set a specific
time each day for the child to do homework. Make sure the designated
homework spot is far enough away from any potential distractions. Do
not allow your child to do homework near a television set or radio
(except in rare situations, this does not typically work well).
»Relax!
Take
it slow, one day at a time. Things will not change overnight. Don’t
feel stressed or blame yourself for your child’s problems. With time,
things will improve. Remember to celebrate the successes!
