Parents ask about following schedules, keeping track of assignments, and helping their child transition from one task to another.
Dear ADDitude: Part 4
Our readers ask: How can I help my child get organized and keep track of time?
Question 1:
“The mornings in our house are chaos no matter how much I prepare the night before. Clothes are out and lunches are made already, but no one listens to me. My boys jump, spin, sing, make all kinds of noises, bait each other, play fight, you name it!” Read the answer.
Question 2:
“What’s the line between normal kid behavior and ADHD forgetfulness? Is it appropriate to ask the teachers to remind my son to turn in his completed work? Or to email me when he doesn’t? I know the world won’t be accommodating when he grows up, but he’s still learning.” Read the answer.
Question 3:
“Is it too much to ask a 13 year old with ADHD to take the initiative to schedule a make-up exam with his teacher? All of the symptoms and behaviors of ADHD make this type of ‘take responsibility for yourself’ effort extremely difficult, but his teacher says she’s provided enough reminders.” Read the answer.
Question 4:
“The behavior chart my 12-year-old uses at school never makes it home, so we’re lacking consistency in routines, rewards, and discipline. How can we better structure her day to prevent the behavior problems she’s having?” Read the answer.
Question 5:
“My son fights every step of his morning routine, every day. Sticker charts and rewards like extra tablet time just don’t work with him. He takes Focalin XR, but his school day is long so I give it to him after breakfast. What can I do?” Read the answer.
Question 6:
“Our 15-year-old daughter loses track of time and refuses any reminders to stay on track. She’s late to school most mornings and will soon be assigned ‘Saturday School,’ but I don’t think this will make an impression. She doesn’t respond to consequences and doesn’t seem concerned.” Read the answer.