, these extra steps and the independent organization required to execute them regularly are messy — if not untenable.
We are seeing attention waver and interest plummet — especially in already-missed lesson content, which makes it difficult to complete assignments, homework, and tests. This, in turn, creates a greater number of missed assignments, decreased motivation to log in to class or go to school, and lower grades — all resulting in a vicious cycle of anxiety, stress, and even school refusal that is difficult to resolve.
Here are a few strategies that I recommend, as an executive functioning coach and psychologist, to help our children build the skills they need to get through the rest of this weird school year:Our children are logging in to various electronic portals for assignments, and now perhaps getting some work in person and other work online.
Post-It notes that can be posted on the wall by color and class. For example, all science assignments are written on a green Post-It and all green Post-It notes are together on the wallWhatever the method, aim for one spot and one spot only where all assignments can be recorded. This will improve your child’s awareness and ability to plan — a vital executive function.
The multiple demands of being a student are hard enough for our kids with ADHD. Adding a virtual component to the learning process takes a difficult situation and makes it seem impossible. Implementing a few of these strategies might be just what your child needs to get assignments done and feel successful — no matter where or how they are learning right now.