How Does a Child With ADHD Learn Best?🤔 🙋‍♀️

by Julie Diamond, OCT

Every parent wants to see their child thrive in school, and for parents of children with attention challenges and/or ADHD, homework can present unique challenges. However, with the right strategies, you can help your child develop the focus needed to succeed academically. Here are some practical and effective tips, from our online teachers, to support your child with their learning at home.

1. Tailor the Environment:

Create a customized study space that minimizes distractions. Consider noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, or a study carrel to help your child stay focused. Customizing the environment to suit their needs can make a significant difference in their ability to concentrate.

2. Use Visual Aids and Timers:

Visual aids, such as charts, calendars, and to-do lists, can help children understand and manage their time. Additionally, set clear time limits for tasks using timers or alarms. This provides a structured framework, helping your child stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps:

Divide assignments into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach makes the work seem less daunting and allows your child to focus on completing one task at a time. Celebrate achievements at each step to boost their confidence and motivation.

4. Incorporate Movement Breaks:

Children with ADHD, often benefit from incorporating movement into their study routine. Schedule short breaks for physical activities like stretching or jumping jacks. Movement helps release excess energy and can enhance your child's ability to refocus when returning to their schoolwork.

In one of my classrooms, we had a small exercise trampoline as well as different seating options (standing desks, beanbag chairs, stools, etc) and they were well used by all students to help them stay on track. Any of these options can be adapted to use at home too! If your child gets work done walking around or standing up dictating their thoughts, then embrace it!

5. Teach Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:

Introduce mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help your child manage stress and stay focused. Simple practices such as deep breathing or guided imagery can be valuable tools for centering their attention. Check out our online mindfulness course for kids here which focuses on meditation and breathing techniques and teaches them how to improve their attention span and focus.

6. Establish Consistent Routines:

Many children thrive on routine and structure. Establish a consistent daily schedule that includes designated times for homework, meals, and bedtime. Predictability provides a sense of security and helps minimize anxiety, allowing for improved focus during study sessions. Try to get them to help with creating the schedule. It will (hopefully!) help when it’s time for homework since they scheduled it then.

7. Utilize Technology Wisely:

Leverage technology to assist with focus. Educational apps, tools, and devices designed for children with focus challenges can provide interactive and engaging ways to reinforce learning. However, set clear boundaries to prevent technology from becoming a distraction. An hour offline each night would be something to include in the daily schedule.

8. Encourage Self-Advocacy:

Empower your child to communicate their needs to teachers, tutors, and peers. Teach them to ask for accommodations when necessary and to express what strategies work best for them. Fostering self-advocacy helps your child take an active role in managing their focus challenges. Maybe it’s writing tests in a quiet room, asking for more time to complete assignments, or using timers to chunk time to improve their focus.

9. Celebrate Progress:

Acknowledge and celebrate your child's achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement fosters a sense of accomplishment and motivates continued effort. By focusing on their progress, you are reinforcing the idea that perseverance leads to success.

10. Enlisting the Right Support:

If things are overwhelming, and your child is struggling with building the skills necessary to do well in school including test prep, organization, note-taking and study skills (otherwise known as executive functioning skills), you may want to hire help. With a child who struggles with attention, 1 to 1 tutoring over group tutoring would be your better option. It’s also a good idea to inquire about the tutor’s expertise with ADHD and/or how they keep their students engaged.

In conclusion, supporting a child with ADHD, and/or challenges with attention, involves implementing tailored strategies that address their specific needs. By incorporating these practical tips into your child's daily routine, you can create an environment that fosters focus, confidence, and academic success.