Joanie Clarkson
In this video, Jessica McCabe from How to ADHD provides some great tips specifically for students with ADHD to study or do homework. How many times have the parents/guardians of students with ADHD (especially newly diagnosed) come to you, the teacher, for help? This is a great resource you can provide. You can send them this video or provide them with a list from this post. It can also be a great resource for students with or without ADHD. I've found a lot of these tips are great for students of all ages regardless of if they are diagnosed with ADHD or not. Below the video I've list a few of my favorite tips.
Homework + Study Space
By creating a specific space for studying and doing homework, your brain can focus better. It should be free from distractions yet comfortable. It doesn't need to be a stark white room with super bright lights a single table and a chair (unless of course, that's what works for you). But, it should be carefully created with your needs in mind. Fall asleep if it's too dark? Have a light nearby. Like soft blankets and pillows? Throw those in too. This space should find the balance between distraction-free and comfortable. It may take some trial and error to figure it out, but that is perfectly fine!
Homework + Break it up
Don't try to eat the whole pizza at once, break it up into smaller, more manageable pieces. This is so important, not only for focusing but for retention too! It is a terrible strategy to study for a final the night before having never opened the textbook. You can't read all 12 chapters in one night and expect to get anything meaningful out of it. Instead, break it down into smaller segments. Maybe you review for the final by looking over your notes and the textbook a chapter a night. You can always combine easier tasks if your brain is feeling particularly motivated.
Homework + Movement
Don't feel like you have to sit still while studying. Get up and move! You can read and pace, have dance breaks, or utilize fidget toys. This is why we like to promote the use of brain breaks in the classroom. Moving helps the brain retain information. It can also be a great tool for motivation. set a timer for 10 minutes of uninterrupted study time. At the end of that time, get up and stretch or dance or anything that gets your body moving. The reward center of your brain will thank you.
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