Mindfulness for ADHD and LD
August 2, 2017
Ground Rules for Technology: Set the Rules Early!
August 16, 2017
Parents and students always feel a bit nervous about the start of a new school year. Our children look forward to reconnecting with friends, getting some new clothes and being with new teachers. At the same time they may be concerned about riding the bus for the first time, entering a new classroom or transitioning to a new school.
Our students with ADHD and LD might need several exposures to new situations before they feel comfortable. Or, you may be the one who is concerned about these new experiences and your student feels just fine! How do we make everyone feel more confident about the new beginning?
- Plan low stress evenings for the first week of school. Be available to share their impressions of their first few days. Going for an ice cream or a walk together might encourage conversation. Try to avoid late nights at work or business trips so you can be present in the evenings.
- Plan for a positive first week. Have your child pick out their clothes for the first few days. Choose some special treats for lunch. Bringing a packed lunch might be less stressful; it avoids the chaos of students navigating the lunch line, and allows a few extra minutes to eat.
- Change to “school” hours at home for bedtime and getting up in the morning. This will help adjust the student’s Circadian rhythm and allow him to be “powered on” at the right time for school. No more getting up at 10 a.m. If your child is having difficulty going to sleep at the “school” bedtime, encourage a family walk or bike ride after dinner, and turn off “blue screen” devices at least an hour before bedtime.
Have a great school year!
