If you have an 8 year old with ADHD, you understand that kids with this condition have unique educational needs. ADHD symptoms, such as executive dysfunction, can make finishing assignments and getting to school on time more difficult. However, parents can support their kids with these five tips.
1. Building Confidence
Many kids with ADHD struggle with low self-esteem due to societal stigma and lack of accommodations for their neurodiversity. This struggle can continue into adulthood if children don’t get the support they need at home.
As a result, it’s critical to focus on building your kids’ confidence. Small acts can go a long way toward boosting children’s self-esteem:
- Encourage kids to do activities they excel at.
- Reinforce the idea that everyone needs help, and it’s OK to ask for it.
- Give specific positive feedback.
2. Effective Communication
Misunderstandings can exacerbate feelings of shame and self-doubt. Due to their neurodivergence, kids with ADHD may not communicate the same way as children without the condition.
As a parent, it’s crucial to adjust your communication style to ensure clear understanding. For example, if your child responds well to visuals, use pictures to reinforce your expectations. It’s also beneficial to keep directions simple and short, as children with ADHD may not retain long, complicated instructions.
Finally, remember that miscommunication sometimes happens. Your kids aren’t doing it intentionally — they’re struggling just as much as you are. Stay calm and work through the miscommunication by checking for understanding. If you need to have a longer discussion, periodically confirm your kids are attentive.
3. Organizational Tools
Everyone can benefit from organizational tools and strategies, but they’re essential for students with ADHD. With the right combination of techniques and aids, kids with this condition can stay focused and achieve academic success.
One common and highly successful organizational system is color coding. In this system, each subject has an assigned color; anything associated with that subject should be that color:
- Folders
- Notebooks
- Book covers
Let your children choose the colors, as they’re more likely to remember the system if they naturally associate hues with certain topics.
4. Homeopathic Products
Coping strategies are essential to success in school, but they’re only one part of a comprehensive plan. Addressing ADHD symptoms can make a big difference for kids, especially when dealing with anxiety, stress or other exacerbating factors. One way to reduce the impact of symptoms is to find the best vitamins for ADHD child. When symptoms are less severe, students have an easier time implementing organizational strategies.
5. Established Routines
Routines are incredibly helpful for neurodivergent kids, as they create a sense of stability. Parents should establish and stick to a morning and evening routine at home to build a solid foundation for student success. You can even incorporate small organizational tasks into the routine, such as checking backpacks before leaving for school.
Remember that ADHD symptoms in women manifest differently than in men, even in childhood. The best way to help students is to tailor your approach to each one’s needs. Check-in regularly with your kids to gauge the effectiveness of your strategies, and don’t be afraid to adjust as circumstances change.
