Before They Begin to Study

Before beginning the school day and doing homework after it, make sure your child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is getting enough sleep. Adequate sleep is essential for all children to learn. For students with ADHD, lack of sleep can certainly worsen symptoms and make concentrating more difficult.

Next, set up a place for your child to study. Whether it is the kitchen table or a quiet corner in the family room, this spot should give your child enough space to spread out. Arrange the area so that he has all the supplies needed to do his homework (pencil, pencil sharpener, eraser, paper, etc.). Allow soft music (classical works best) if it helps him focus. Otherwise, make sure the area does not have any distractions and is clutter-free.

One of the most important ADHD homework tips is to schedule regular time for homework. If after-school activities get in the way of a regular schedule, use a calendar and write down when your child should start and finish homework every day. Some students require a break after classes, while others work best right after school. Children with ADHD sometimes need exercise and recreation to help them focus. A snack also prevents inattention when doing homework.

Getting Assignments and Focus

Homework cannot be completed unless it comes home. If your child has trouble copying assignments, tell his teacher. Ask her if he can dictate the assignments into a tape recorder. If not, ask her if she is willing to email them to you.

When the time comes for him to sit down and do homework, do not allow procrastination. Confirm that he understands the work and begins it. Stay close to offer support and refocus his attention when it wanders.

Breaks and Fatigue

Schedule a short break after every 20 minutes of work. For students with ADHD, concentration expends a lot of energy. Short, frequent breaks of approximately 5 minutes help them refocus. Encourage them to get up and move. Children can use a timer and set it to go off every 20 minutes. They can take a 5-minute break, then reset the timer for 20 more minutes of homework.

If your child with ADHD becomes too tired or frustrated to finish his homework, allow him to stop. With a note, let his teacher know he did as much as he could. If assignments regularly take more time than his attention or writing allows, you may need to talk to the teacher about shortening homework assignments. Students with ADHD may benefit from modified or reduced homework. In addition, assistance in planning and completing long-term assignments can lead to success.

Praise and Reward

Finally, praise and reward your child for homework completion. Children with ADHD usually respond well to daily success charts. Each day your child finishes his homework, place a star on the chart. After earning a certain number of stars, reward him with a special treat or privilege.