What typical kid isn’t excited about summer, and what parent isn’t anticipating how their child with ADHD is going to transition back into a routine schedule? As parents and guardians, you are your child’s biggest advocate! Sure, let them experience “summer fun” and “relaxing from the every day”, like playdates, swimming, summer camps, but don’t allow them to lose all that they have gained in the past year.
- Review what they’ve already learned. For instance, my 2nd grader has mastered addition, subtraction, and is on his way to mastering multiplication. You can review addition and subtraction, and go over multiplication flash cards or bookmarks that I found on www.3dinosaurs.com. (A really good source for printables).
- Read a short book or a chapter and write a summary. Going to a book store or a library are great ways for your child to get engaged in something that interests him or her. Breaking it into chapters and taking notes in between, as opposed to an entire book should help an inattentive child stay on task.
- Representing time externally can help a child with ADHD stay on task as well. Children with ADHD are less capable of using their sense of time to manage their current behavior and get work done in time, over time, and on time (Barkley, 2016). You can buy a sand timer online, or use a kitchen timer.
- Bond with your child during the summer. This means getting to know him or her better. For example, my son enjoys cooking and watching the Food Network, so I took out my old camcorder one time and taped him as if he was on a cooking show, and he loved it. I notice that when he is really interested in something, especially productive, he is calm, stress-free, and motivated. That is the type of feeling that I hope will transfer during times of school tasks. Learn something new about your child.
How to get school Accommodations for a struggling child
Do you have a child who is struggling in school? You are your child’s guide and cheerleader, in order to help him or her reach full potential. So how do you get the school on your team?
- Keep in contact with your son’s teacher. Ask your child’s teacher how they prefer to be contacted. Then, you can ask if the teacher notices anything about your child that could be tested or improved.
- Make sure it’s nothing physical. Get him or her tested for hearing, vision, and an overall physical examination.
- Make contact with the school counselor and psychologist. They are usually very helpful in trying to point you to the correct direction and help educate you about school accommodations.
- Have a meeting with the education committee. This usually includes your child’s teacher(s), school counselor, psychologist, vice principal and other school specialist.
- Get familiar with the district’s rules. Review the district’s rules, so that if you have any questions or issues, you are able to use it as a reference.
Don’t forget to utilize other resources, such as counseling, social groups, and continue to educate yourself through online resources, library, or seek professional help at a mental health facility.
Reference: Barkley, Russell. (2016). Managing ADHD in School: The Best Evidence-Based Methods for Teachers. Wisconsin: PESI Publishing and Media.