Homework Tips to Help Children with ADD and ADHD

The area where the child will be doing their homework needs to be setup in a way that will minimize distractions for the child with ADHD or ADD. This should be in an area of the house that doesn't have high traffic during homework hours. It should also be out of viewing and hearing range of the television. Try to keep the study area as far away from doors and windows as possible. You can't eliminate every single distraction, but you can do your best to cut out as many as you can.

There should be a desk or table for them to use to work on their homework comfortably. Make sure that the area is equipped with all the things that they will need such as paper, pencils, pens, pencil sharpener, glue, crayons, and dictionary. Having everything organized and in easy reach will help minimize distractions for the ADHD or ADD student.

Homework organization starts at school. Some kids can write down their own homework each day. The teacher or teachers aide may need to assist some children in making sure that they have everything that they need to complete their work at home. This should include a list of assignments, so that you are aware of each subject and what assignment needs to be done in it.

Color coding notebooks and folders can help the child quickly find which notebook or folder goes with each subject. This can eliminate getting notebooks mixed up and makes it easier to find completed assignments. Children with ADHD or ADD may get irritated if they can't find something that they need.

Breaking up large assignments into smaller tasks can help keep the child focused. If they have a lot of homework, give them a break to let them get rid of some of the excess energy. You can let them have a quick snack or you can just have them stand up and do a wiggle dance. Tell them exactly how long the break will be so that they know when they need to get back to working on their homework.

Be available to answer any questions that they may have about the assignment. If they have to stop working and come to find you, it may be hard to get them focused back on the work. You don't have to hover over them the whole time, just be within calling distance in case they need your help. Being close by also keeps them from trying to get into other things. They know you are near and will catch them if they aren't doing what they are suppose to be.

These tips and strategies can help make doing homework easier for any child with ADD or ADHD. Parents and teachers need to communicate and work together so that the child with ADHD or ADD gets the best education possible.