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ADDitude Magazine
Your attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD) child's teacher is checking her backpack at the end of the day to make sure he has the books he needs to do his homework. A progress chart has improved her behavior with friends, and a set routine has made all the difference at home. With these accommodations in place, your child is thriving.
Then a "down time" comes along. The class begins a special project, school closes for vacation, or your family visits a relative. The change in routine causes your child to revert to previous problematic behavior. At this point, family members and teachers seem to "forget" that this child has a disorder, or they may believe that the modifications previously in place have "cured" your son "for good."
The situation may right itself as soon as your family returns to its regular schedule. But it underscores the fact that it's vital for the adults in your child's life to understand that ADD/ADHD causes a real difference so that they'll be equally supportive during rough patches or months of smooth sailing. Their reinforcement can lead to amazing things down the road.
Next: Helping Teachers Provide Consistent Structure for ADD/ADHD Students
Getting the Whole Family to Enforce ADHD-Friendly Routines
The Most Important Routine Is...
