ADHD and Returning to School: Essential Tips

Going back to school is a crucial time, especially for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). For many parents, proper preparation is essential to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

After carefully listening to our clients, we’ve compiled the 12 best back-to-school tips for children with ADHD in this video:

If you’d like to know our top 5 favorite strategies, here they are ⬇️

Tip 1: Establish a Consistent Routine

Summer break is a wonderful time for children to relax, but it can also disrupt their daily schedules. During the holidays, it’s common for children to sleep and wake up later than usual. 😴 However, as the school year approaches, it's essential to start gradually adjusting those schedules.

Think of the weeks leading up to school as a transition period. If school starts on September 15, for example, begin adjusting the child’s sleep routine at the beginning of the month. Gradually help them go to bed and wake up earlier. This will ensure that by the first day of school, they are accustomed to the necessary sleep schedule to feel rested and alert!

Tip 2: Limit Screen Time

With the return to school, it’s crucial to manage the child’s screen time, especially since excessive device use can increase anxiety, negatively impact attention, and affect school performance. 📱🚫

Studies show that limiting screen time helps improve sleep quality and reduces impulsivity, critical aspects for children with ADHD.

How to Do This:

  • Set a daily maximum: the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 1-2 hours a day for school-aged children.
  • Include regular breaks: like the Pomodoro technique for studying, create regular breaks from screens. For example, after 30 minutes, encourage a 10-15 minute break for physical activities or other play to develop social and motor skills.
  • Use parental controls: there are several apps and settings on devices that allow for monitoring and limiting screen time. Use these tools to help manage technology use.
  • Set an example: limit your own screen time. Children are more likely to follow limits if they see adults doing the same!

⚠️ Note: Remember, this tip applies to all screens, from phones and computers to game consoles and other electronic devices commonly used for leisure during the holidays.

Tip 3: Create a Suitable Study Environment

Imagine that the return to school is only a few weeks away. It’s time to transform a space in your home into a dedicated study area.

Think of a quiet and organized space where the child can focus without distractions. This space should be welcoming but also functional, with all school materials on hand but organized. The desk should be clear, with shelves holding books and supplies, which can even spark the child’s interest in getting back to school routines!

In addition, it’s important to balance study time with leisure moments. Children with attention deficits benefit from regular breaks to avoid mental fatigue.

👉 A good practice is using the Pomodoro technique.

Tip 4: Keep Open Communication with the School

Maintain open and constant communication with teachers. Share information about the child’s specific needs and the strategies that work best at home. This allows the school to provide more personalized and effective support.

📌 If you want to learn more about hyperactivity in the classroom, we recommend this complete video.

And if it’s a new school?

If possible, visit the school before the start of the term: take the child to see the building, classroom, and other key areas like the cafeteria and playground.

  • If you know other students going to the new school, arrange a meet-up to form friendships before school starts.
  • If the child will be using public transport to get to school, take a few practice trips with them beforehand to help them feel more secure when traveling alone.
  • Talk about feelings: encourage the child to express how they feel about the new school. Listen to their concerns and offer support and encouragement.
  • Establish regular “check-ins”: have daily conversations about how school went to quickly identify and address any issues.

Tip 5: Seek Specialized Resources and Support if Needed

Consider seeking help from ADHD specialists, such as psychologists and occupational therapists. They can provide intervention techniques and additional support to improve the child’s academic performance and emotional well-being.

Specialists can also guide parents on managing challenging behaviors and offer recommendations on additional resources, such as school support programs or family support groups. This support is crucial to ensure that the child receives the necessary help to thrive both at school and home. 😌

So, What Exactly is ADHD and How Does It Impact School Performance?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to focus, control impulses, and/or maintain attention. These symptoms can lead to learning and behavioral difficulties at school.

Impact of ADHD at School

Children with ADHD may face specific challenges, such as:

  • Difficulty completing tasks
  • Organizational issues
  • Lower quality in social interactions

It’s essential that parents and teachers understand these challenges to provide the necessary support.

Proper preparation for the back-to-school season can transform a potentially stressful period into a time of growth and learning. Use the strategies described in this article to ensure the child feels ready and confident for the new school year!

📚 For more information on this topic, visit our children’s treatment page and discover our other specialized resources and services.

References

Coutelle R, Balzer J, Rolling J, Lalanne L. Problematic gaming, psychiatric comorbidities, and adolescence: A systematic review of the literature. Addict Behav. 2024;157:108091. doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.108091

Dunlosky J, Rawson KA, Marsh EJ, Nathan MJ, Willingham DT. Improving Students' Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology. Psychol Sci Public Interest. 2013;14(1):4-58. doi: 10.1177/1529100612453266

Loe IM, Feldman HM. Academic and educational outcomes of children with ADHD. J Pediatr Psychol. 2007;32(6):643-654. doi: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsl054

Peterson BS, Trampush J, Maglione M, et al. Treatments for ADHD in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics. 2024;153(4):e2024065787. doi:10.1542/peds.2024-065787.

Reinke AL, Stiles K, Lee SS. Childhood ADHD With and Without Co-occurring Internalizing/Externalizing Problems: Prospective Predictions of Change in Adolescent Academic and Social Functioning. J Atten Disord. 2023;27(13):1520-1531. doi: 10.1177/10870547231187146

Schmengler H, Peeters M, Stevens GWJM, Hartman CA, Oldehinkel AJ, Vollebergh WAM. ADHD Symptoms and Educational Level in Adolescents: The Role of the Family, Teachers, and Peers. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol. 2023;51(7):1051-1066. doi: 10.1007/s10802-023-01047-y

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Content developed by NeuroImprove professionals.
Founded in 2015, NeuroImprove Clinic is a premier Therapeutic Center dedicated to enhancing the mental health and quality of life of our clients. We are comprised of a highly qualified multidisciplinary team, including Clinical Psychologists, Neuropsychologists, Neurophysiologists, and Neurofeedback Technicians.

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