Keeping Routines For Children With ADHD

This great article by Understood.org underscores the significance of maintaining routines for children with ADHD during the summer break. While the summer months offer a well-deserved respite from the pressures of the school year, completely abandoning routines can lead to difficulties for kids with ADHD, who thrive on structure and consistency. These routines help them stay organized, manage their time effectively, and reinforce essential executive function skills. As a result, it’s crucial to keep certain routines in place even when school is out, to ensure a smoother transition back to school in the fall.

One of the most important routines to maintain is personal hygiene. The relaxed pace of summer, with its later wake-up times and fewer obligations, can lead to lapses in hygiene habits like brushing teeth, showering, and applying deodorant. For children with ADHD, who may already struggle with remembering these tasks, it’s essential to establish a consistent routine. Parents can help by setting reminders on devices or using visual aids like sticky notes to prompt these daily tasks, ensuring that good hygiene remains a priority even during the summer.

Another critical aspect of summer routines is maintaining a consistent bedtime schedule. Although summer often brings later bedtimes and more flexible wake-up times, keeping a regular sleep routine is vital. This includes having a set bedtime, limiting screen time before bed, and following a bedtime routine that includes activities like washing up and brushing teeth. Involving children in creating a summer version of their bedtime routine can increase their engagement and adherence, making it easier to stick to a healthy sleep pattern throughout the break.

Physical activity is another key component of a successful summer routine for kids with ADHD. Many children with ADHD struggle with hyperactivity, and staying active during the day can help them manage their energy levels. Parents are encouraged to incorporate exercise into daily routines, whether through family walks, active play, or organized sports. Regular physical activity not only helps manage hyperactivity but also contributes to better sleep quality, making it a win-win for both parents and children.

Finally, the article highlights the importance of keeping children intellectually engaged during the summer to prevent “summer slide,” the regression in academic skills that can occur during extended breaks. This doesn’t mean turning summer into an extension of the school year, but rather finding creative ways to reinforce reading, writing, and math skills. For example, parents can encourage their children to read books and then express their understanding through creative projects like drawing, writing summaries, or even performing a skit. By keeping learning fun and interactive, parents can help their children retain essential skills while still enjoying their summer break.