All the research shows that parental involvement is essential to a child’s academic success. The earlier parents become involved, the greater the beneficial impact. When your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, it can be difficult to know the best ways to offer your support. Here are some tips for helping your ADHD-diagnosed child succeed in school.
[list icon=”chevron-sign-right”]Provide consistency and structure[/list]
ADHD-diagnosed children really need a regular routine if they are to stay on track and develop good study habits. Find a homework routine that works for your family and stick to it. It’s a good idea to allow a small break after getting home from school so your child can eat and unwind, then move smoothly into homework time in a space where all necessary materials have been provided. Help them plan the tasks they will tackle and be on hand to help and answer any questions. It’s good to review your child’s homework to ensure it’s done correctly. Many middle and high school students may not want their parent to review their work and it may be appropriate to allow them some freedom in this area. But there should be an understanding that if their work quality becomes poor, someone will review their work for careless mistakes.[/list]
[list icon=”chevron-sign-right”]Set expectations, but be realistic[/list]
Just because your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, it does not mean that he or she is not capable of being academically successful. However,be aware that your ADHD-diagnosed child may have some limitations, and don’t set impossible expectations that may lead to your child feeling that he or she has failed you. A great way to help address your child’s weak areas while also holding them to reasonable expectations is to get the assistance of a Homework Coach who can help your student learn strategies to overcome their weaker executive function skills, while also teaching them organizational skills.
[list icon=”chevron-sign-right”]Communicate[/list]
Ask your children about their day. Be aware of the challenges they are facing at school and with their homework so you can help them find ways to overcome those challenges. Communicate concerns with teachers or their school counselor. Because these individuals are with your child in a different environment, they may be able to offer information about your child’s experiences at school. Oftentimes,teachers and school counselors can also offer strategies and ideas for helping your student be more academically successful, such as moving them to the front of the class so that they can better focus or arranging tutoring assistance for your child to help with weak subject areas. By communicating with the school,you can ensure that your child is performing at their academic peak both at home and school.
Let us know your own ADHD homework tips!
