As a parent of a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it can be difficult to manage their schooling. On days when your child claims it’s “no school today” or resists homeschooling, you may be feeling overwhelmed.
How can you make sure that your child’s schooling remains consistent? In this article, we will discuss 15 questions to help you get your ADHD child to do their homeschool work on days they say “no school today. “
1. What type of ADHD does my child have?
ADHD is broken down into three types and understanding each type is the first step in getting your child to do their homeschool work. Your child may have Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (also called Attention Deficit Disorder), Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation, or Combined Presentation. Knowing their type can help inform the approach you take when trying to get them to do their homeschool work.
Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
Children with this type of ADHD typically have trouble paying attention and often miss important details. They may also be easily distracted, have difficulty following instructions and staying organized, and be forgetful.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
Children with this type of ADHD are often more hyperactive, and impulsive. They may find it difficult to sit still, have trouble being patient, and act impulsively without thinking about the consequences.
Combined Presentation
This type is a combination of the two and includes symptoms from both. Children with Combined Presentation may have difficulty paying attention, staying organized and on task, as well as have trouble controlling their impulses.
2. What are the triggers that cause my child to resist school?
Once you understand your child’s ADHD type, it’s important to understand the triggers that cause them to struggle with school. Common triggers associated with ADHD are environmental stimuli, such as too much noise or distraction, boredom, or changes to the routine. Understanding the triggers is key to helping your child be successful.
3. What can I do to help create a positive learning environment?
In order to create a positive learning environment, it’s important to be mindful of the triggers and create an environment that works for your child. This could mean turning off the TV, limiting any noise or distractions, providing structure and routine, and making learning as interesting as possible.
4. How can I create a motivating and rewarding learning environment?
Rewards and motivation can go a long way in helping to get your child to do their homeschool work. Try creating a reward system for when your child completes the work, or breaks down the work into manageable chunks and offer rewards for each chunk. Also, provide visuals and colorful cues, such as charts and graphs, to help explain the material.
5. Is there a way to make learning more fun?
Making learning fun can go a long way in helping your child focus on the task at hand. When possible, try incorporating fun activities into the learning process. This could mean playing an educational game or including some physical activity into the lesson.
6. Are there any non-traditional ways to keep my child engaged in homeschooling?
If traditional homeschooling approaches are not working, there may be alternative approaches you can take. Think outside the box and brainstorm ways of teaching that may be better suited to your child’s needs.
You could also look into implementing technology-based learning solutions or online educational activities.
7. What types of accommodations can I make to help my child focus on their work?
When creating an environment that works for your child, think about any accommodations or adjustments you can make. This could include using noise-canceling headphones or providing ergonomic or posture-correcting furniture. You could also try breaking down the work into smaller tasks and provide breaks throughout the day.
8. What strategies can I use to help my child stay on task?
Creating an environment that works for your child is essential for helping them stay on task. Additionally, there are several strategies you can use to help your child focus and stay engaged in their work.
This could include setting time limits, breaking tasks down into smaller chunks, and providing verbal cues when needed.
9. Are there any tips for helping my child stay organized?
Organization is key for helping your child focus and stay on task. Try providing visual cues such as charts, calendars and graphs to help explain tasks and help your child track progress. Additionally, try using an organizer or planner to help map out tasks and create a daily routine.
10. How can I help my child stay motivated when they don’t want to do school?
When your child feels unmotivated, it’s important to provide positive reinforcement and remind them why the task is important. You could also try setting achievable goals and offering rewards for completing work. Additionally, providing breaks throughout the day can help maintain energy levels and focus.
11. What should I do if my child is overwhelmed with the work?
It’s not uncommon for children with ADHD to get overwhelmed with their homeschool work, especially if the task is difficult or there are too many distractions in the environment. In this case, it’s important to take a step back and provide positive reinforcement.
If needed, break the task down into smaller tasks and provide breaks when needed.
12. What can I do if my child struggles to focus on long-term projects or assignments?
For longer tasks or assignments, it’s important to break the task down into manageable chunks and provide rewards for each step. Additionally, you could use visual reminders, such as timelines and charts, to help keep your child on track.
13. How can I ensure my child stays on top of their studies and makes good progress?
Ensuring your child is making good progress with their homeschooling is critical. To do this, encourage your child to take ownership of their learning and strive for independent work.
Additionally, you could use a reward system for completing work and meeting goals.
14. How do I help my child if they become overwhelmed or frustrated?
For children with ADHD, it’s important to provide emotional support if they become overwhelmed or frustrated. Validate their feelings and help reframe their thinking.
Additionally, provide positive reinforcement and remind them of their strengths and achievements.
15. Are there any additional resources or support I can use to help my child?
Yes, there are many additional resources and support systems you can turn to when trying to help your child. You could consider joining an ADHD parent support group or looking into online resources, such as ADHD coaching. Additionally, it’s important to consult with your child’s doctor or therapist to ensure your child is getting the best care possible.
Conclusion
Managing your child’s homeschooling can be a challenge for parents of a child with ADHD. Understanding your child’s type of ADHD, triggers, and strategies for creating a positive learning environment is key to helping your child stay on track. By addressing these questions and considering additional resources and support systems, you can ensure your child’s success in their homeschool education.