School can be challenging for a child with ADHD since many activities require them to sit still and stay focused. Like most children, kids with ADHD want to be able to learn and participate in school activities, but they lack the skills to be able to do so. This often causes them to feel frustrated and disheartened when it comes to their school work
However, many children with ADHD are able to overcome the challenges they face in school and thrive within an academic setting. At Emerge in Denver, we work with ADHD children and their parents on matters involving education. Many times, we have been able to help parents develop plans that allow their child to find success in school. We have found that implementing simple strategies and exercising patience can go a long way with an ADHD child and set them up for a bright future.
How to Help Your ADHD Child Find Academic Success
As a parent, you play a big role in your child’s education. Helping your ADHD child with the challenges they face at school can make learning easier and more enjoyable for them. Here are some ways that you can help make the school year easier for your ADHD child and help them cope with the symptoms associated with their disorder:
Talk to your child’s teacher.
Maintaining a line of open communication with your child’s teacher is important for helping them find success in an academic setting. You may want to set up times to meet or talk on the phone with their teacher on a periodic basis to make sure you’re on the same page. Remember, you and your child’s teacher want the same thing: for your child to be successful. While it’s important to advocate for your child, it’s also important to keep this in mind and try to keep an open mind and be willing to listen to concerns.
Create and follow a behavior plan.
Children with ADHD generally respond best to positive reinforcement. However, it’s important for your child to know what’s expected of them so they can work towards being rewarded. You can work in collaboration with your child and their teacher to create a behavior plan that your child can follow and what rewards they’ll receive for doing so. If you feel that additional support may be needed, you may want to consider psychological evaluation so that an IEP or 504 plan can be created for your child.
Work on behaviors at home.
It’s equally important to focus on your child’s behaviors at home as it is in the classroom to help them cultivate the skills they need to be successful. There are many ways you can do about this. Create a regular routine for homework and help them get organized. Work with your child to find ways to make their learning fun and enjoyable. Teach them strategies for managing their distractibility and impulsivity such as using a stress ball or taking breaks when needed. If you need more ideas for reinforcing good at home behavior, ask for help. Your child’s teacher and therapist will most likely have some good ideas for practicing healthy at home behaviors.
Get Professional Help
If you feel that your child is struggling with school and aren’t sure how to help them, you may want to consider seeking professional help. A therapist can work with you and your child to find ways to help them manage their ADHD symptoms and find success at school. Call Emerge, Denver’s premier mental health clinic, to schedule an appointment today.