Are you having difficulties encouraging your child with ADHD to complete their homework?
Children with ADHD may take more time and have more difficulty in getting into the homework routine. Homework can often be a source of conflict at home.
Try to establish a regular routine so it is clear when homework should be done. The best time to do homework will be different for different children. You need to find a time when they are not too tired, but after they have had time to let off steam after school.
Limit homework to short productive periods of time. It may suit your child better to do tow short sessions of up to 15 – 20 minutes each, perhaps one in the evening and one in the morning, rather than a longer session. The amount of homework required tends to increase with age.
Try to provide a space for your child to do their homework. A table facing a wall, away from distractions would be good. Make sure the television and radio are turned off to minimise distractions so they can focus. Ensure they know what they have to do and they have all the equipment they need. Praise and reward your child for spending the allocated time on their homework. If your child has spent time on their homework but has not managed to finish it then you would need to let the school know.
If homework is a terrible battleground at home it may be best to see if it is possible for your child to do their homework at school during lunchtime or immediately after school. Many schools run homework clubs where pupils are supervised and can be given support to complete their homework.
Tips for helping with homework:
• Ask the school to let you know which days your child will be given which type of homework so you are not relying on your child remembering.
• Look at what your child is expected to do and check they understand what is required.
• Once they have started tell them you will come back in 5 minutes to see how much they have done. Go back in five minutes to check progress, praise and reward them for working.
• If your child cannot do the homework, try and show them how to do it but do not do it for them. You could provide another example and work through it with them.
• It is important to show interest in what they have done and look through it with them at the end of the session.
• Communicate with the school. If your child spends more than the recommended time on a piece of homework and still doesn’t finish it, let the school know by making a note in the school planner or write a separate letter.
