Hi RI Dad:

Welcome to the ADDitude forums! Following and retaining instructions is one of the largest (and most frustrating) challenges for children with ADHD. A few things you might try...

1. Write down and post a checklist of daily chores and activities that breaks down larger tasks into bite-size chunks. This will serve as a visual reminder and allow your son to check things off his list, which always feels good.

2. The Bill Cosby routine is funny, mostly because it's true. Small, short, simple steps (without any extra detail) is what ADHD kids need.

3. Praise your son for little victories - ideally he should get 3 to 4 times more praise than criticism in a typical day. This helps him wake up motivated again the next day.

4. Adopt a reward or token system that allows him to earn tokens for directions followed and chores finished, then trade in his token for a reward at week's end.

Here are some more tips...

How to Give Good Instructions to Children with ADHD: http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/1033.html

Helping Children Follow Directions: http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/1972.html

I hope that helps!

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