Organization

[skylark1]

My son has ADHD, and I am aware that organization can be a major problem for people with this disorder. As he is growing older, I would like to help him to take responsibilty for organizing things, whether it is writing a paper, doing homework, organizing time, or doing work around the house, or anything else that involves orgazational skills. Does anyone who has ADHD have any tips on how they have dealt with organizational problems?

Thanks.

 

[Zacharias]

Try to make a list of everything that you need to get done.

One thing that helps me keep my homework organized is having a pouch to put my calculator, pencils, compass, protractor, erasers, ect. ect. so that they are all in one place. Another thing good for homework is having a folder to put your papers in.

 

[yeshuaskid]

Definately make lists of everything. Even write down the mundane things that he does every day. It's the routine things that we have trouble remembering. I have used a date-minder organizer/calendar for the past ten years. It was the best purchase I made. With kids, it's better to break things down for them. For example...instead of saying, "Go clean your room", you might try making a list of things they need to do, instead. ADDers have a tough time looking at BIG pictures. Even as an adult, I need to list things because, if I don't, I don't know where to start and can spend an entire day trying to figure that out. CHADD is a great organization with a lot of tips to make life easier. They have a webpage, too. You may want to check them out.

God Bless...

 

[skylark1]

Thanks for the advice. Since my son is getting older, I am trying to shift more of the responsibility to him - but it isn't working very well. He doesn't like to make lists, and doesn't want to write in his planner. Maybe he doesn't want the other kids to notice. It seems like at some point he would want to help take responsibility without me telling him to do these things. I'm trying to think of the years ahead, and help prepare him for it. Maybe if I start making lists of the mundane everyday things, it will seem more natural for him to make lists and use his planner.