10 top tips for parents: How to make school a success with ADHD

Starting kindergarten or school is a big step for children and parents alike. With these 10 specific tips, you, as the parent of a child with ADHD, can ensure that everyone involved can cope with the symptoms in the best possible way.

1. Open communication with teachers
Prepare an information sheet or letter for your child's teachers explaining the ADHD diagnosis , individual needs, and helpful strategies. Schedule regular meetings to discuss your child's progress and work together to address challenges that arise.

2. Introduce early daily structure
Establish a set daily routine that includes morning routines like getting dressed and eating breakfast, set homework times, and evening rituals like reading together and going to bed. This will help your child prepare for the structured routine of kindergarten or school.

3. Visualization of processes
Create a visual schedule or daily routine for your child that uses pictures and symbols to illustrate the different activities and times. Post this schedule in a prominent place in the child's room and actively involve your child in the daily routine.

4. Collaboration with specialists
Talk to teachers and, if applicable, school psychologists about support options for your child. Find out about special programs such as individual or small group instruction, social-emotional training, or learning support that might be appropriate for your child.

5. Use tools to promote concentration
Ask your teacher about useful resources that can help your child focus. Examples include seat cushions for better body awareness, motor games for reading and math , or separate work areas to reduce distractions.

6. Breaks and exercise
Schedule regular breaks and exercise sessions into your child's daily routine, both at home and at school or daycare. Discuss with teachers how to incorporate exercise breaks or activities into the daily routine to improve your child's concentration.

7. Promote strengths and celebrate successes
Work with your child to identify their strengths and interests and look for opportunities to develop them at school or daycare. Encourage your child to participate in competitions or projects that highlight their strengths. Celebrate successes with your child in areas that are more difficult (such as concentration, task discipline , etc.).

8. Set rules and boundaries
Talk to your child about the rules of conduct at school or daycare and explain why they're important. Practice together how to deal with frustrations or impulses without breaking the rules. Establish clear consequences for rule violations and involve teachers in this process.

9. Train social skills
Support your child in learning social skills through targeted exercises and activities. For example, you can read stories together that address social situations or conduct role-playing activities in which your child practices responding appropriately in different situations.

10. Show patience and understanding
Be patient and understanding with your child and their ADHD-related difficulties. Show interest in their experiences at school or daycare and listen attentively. Offer support and encouragement when they face challenges and remind them that they can count on your help.

Conclusion:
The transition to kindergarten or school can be particularly challenging for children with ADHD. However, as parents, you can play a crucial role in making this transition as smooth as possible for your child, the teachers, and yourself. By following these 10 tips, you'll help provide your child with a positive and supportive learning environment where they can thrive.