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We know that living with a student who has ADD or ADHD can
be frustrating at times, but learning coping mechanism and ways in which to
channel all that energy into something positive will mean that you have a
happier home and a student who stays ahead of the game academically. Here are
some techniques you can use to help your student to excel.
Understanding your
role
Students with ADD or ADHD have trouble with executive
functioning. They are every bit as capable and intelligent as other students,
but they have trouble planning ahead, seeing consequences, organizing,
controlling impulses and completing the task at hand. This means you have to
work with your in-home tutor and your teacher to provide guidance and take over
these executive functions until your student learns the skills to be
independent.
While they want to sit quietly in class, follow instructions
and complete tasks, they need to acquire the tools to do so. They are rarely
purposefully disruptive, but it’s important to recognize that they can be and
manage the impact they have on parents, siblings and class members.
Stay positive and
supportive
Remember that not being able to follow instructions or
complete tasks can be just as frustrating for your student as it is for you. When
you stay positive and calm, you will help them to build confidence and won’t
make them think that they are always doing something wrong. Always remember
that they are not being purposefully difficult and try to be supportive and
encouraging.
Focus on the positive
Believe in your student and believe that they are capable of
learning the skills they need to succeed. This will mean that you focus on the
positive and don’t sweat the small stuff. When your student does three out of
five of their chores, focus on the ones they did and praise them for those
while gently reminding them of the ones they left out.
Create structure
Routines and structure will help your students to establish
the tasks they need to do and the time they have to complete them. Establish a
schedule for getting ready in the morning, doing homework and evening routines.
Use clocks or timers to remind students of the time limits and to refocus them
when their attention is diverted elsewhere. Keep routines as simple as
possible.
Free time
Not every minute of every day should be structured. Allow
your student some free time and their own space.
Activity
Physical activity helps students with ADHD and ADD to find a
positive outlet for all their energy. Sports are a great way to get your
students active and to allow them to rid themselves of all that energy.
Diet
Avoiding refined sugars and other processed foods will help
your student to focus and to sleep better. Without the rush of too much sugar
and with a good night’s sleep, they will be able to cope better.
Socializing
Encourage your students to make friends with their peers.
Healthy social lives will help them to feel a sense of belonging and friends
can provide support and encouragement.
Get involved
Every single student will thrive when their parents are
involved in their lives and supportive of their academic and sporting
endeavors. Keep in touch with your teachers and tutors to ensure that your
student is progressing well and take an interest in them. Spend time with them
and really listen to them.
Take care of yourself
Ensure that you have your own support network of friends and
family members. You can also contact other parents who have students with ADD
or ADHD and form a support group. Take time out and make sure that you get to
focus on yourself from time to time. Happy parents make for far happier
children.
Need organizational skills or test taking skills help for your child with ADD/ADHD? Are
your math or language arts classes getting harder and harder? Call Tutor Doctor Longmont for one to one learning in your home. We
serve the St Vrain Valley School n Longmont, Firestone, Erie, Frederick, Niwot, Dacono, Mead . A FREE consultation STARTS YOUR BEST YEAR
EVER!! We take the stress out of homework and tests : )
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