Homework can be a struggle for the child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is more than just sitting down and completing the work (which can be its own challenge). The initial hurdle is knowing what the assignments are and having the needed materials.
Assignment Notebooks Offer LD Students Organization
A clearly formatted assignment notebook is important. The notebook should have the following features:
- Adequate size and space for the student to write
- Preprinted dates and days of the week
- Separate, labeled sections for each subject (Reading, English, Spelling, Math, Science, Social Studies)
Some assignment notebooks offer only a block of space after each date, requiring the student to remember what should be included. Others are so small or have binding that makes using the notebook frustrating.
Assignment Notebook Strategies and Attention Deficit
Consistent use of the assignment notebook is necessary for it to be an effective tool. Students with ADHD should be taught to fill in the assignment at the end of each class. This helps students (as well as their parents and teachers) avoid scrambling at the end of the day to figure out what the assignments are. This is especially true for older students who may have more than one teacher, and the day’s assignments may not be posted on the board of the last class. In fact, the day’s assignments may be different for students in the same homeroom since they may have different schedules and teachers.
Students should also be taught to write down all homework assignments (including the ones that are finished in class or in study hall). As the work is completed, the student may put a check next to the listing in the assignment notebook. This is beneficial in two ways. It reminds the student (and parents) which assignments have been done. It helps the student remember the following day which assignments he should have ready to turn in. If an assignment is not written down because it was completed it may be out of sight, out of mind by the next day when the teacher calls for it to be turned in.
Parents Provide Immediate Review of Assignments
Having a completed assignment book is helpful for parents. If the book is reviewed as soon as the student arrives home, the student and parent can work together to make sure all needed materials were brought home. In addition, the family can create an evening plan for how much time will be needed to complete the work.
The beginning of the school year is a perfect time to start an assignment notebook routine. Making it a consistent practice will assist the student with ADHD in completing and organizing his assignments.
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