How to Help Your Kid With ADHD Study for Exams
The end of the school year is here and with it comes exam time for your kids. It can be stressful for all, but especially for kids with ADHD. Many families already have a plan in place, sometimes even worked out with the child's school, on how to accommodate specific needs for test taking.
But there are things parents can do at home to help your child study, keep focus, and reduce the anxiety around test-taking.
Dr. Mukesh Kripalani, a psychiatrist from the The ADHD Centre, reminded everyone that: 'Young people with ADHD aren't lazy or unmotivated, they're simply wired differently and need to revise differently.'
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Dr. Kripalani suggests a different approach to helping kids with ADHD prep for tests. His suggestions are helpful for kids of all ages when studying.
Work out a study plan with your child. Remember to let your child lead the plan, and then it's your job to give them the tools to follow it.
Ask your child things like 'How can I support you today?' instead of saying "You need to study now."
Remind your child to take breaks. Maybe prepare them snacks after 25 minutes of study time. And if they are planning a weekend of power-study, try to have them include a healthy break with friends or even go out to dinner to really allow them to take some time off before delving back in.
Do your best to remove distractions around the house.
Keep their confidence up. Be sure to praise their hard work along the way.
Be flexible and patient. If your child prefers to study at night, be open to it.
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You can think of this as being your child's support system. You are there for them to lean on if they need help, but you aren't there to dictate how and when they should study.
Giving them that support and encouragement may go far in helping them with confidence so they know they can succeed.
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