Although there are numerous drugs prescribed for children diagnosed with ADHD or similar, many parents want to try and help their kids function naturally and without medication.
If your child is hyperactive and has trouble focusing in the classroom there are other tools at your disposal aside from pharmaceuticals.
At the top of most every list on alternative methods is: exercise.
Can Using Exercise Help a Kid eLearning?
There are several ways a child can use daily exercise as a way to improve focus and attention during the school day. Some forms are during class, during breaks, and before and/or after school activities.
Many children who participate in organized sporting activities have shown improved ability to focus during class. However, some kids with severe ADHD have difficulty focusing during an organized game. If this is the case then the before or after sporting activity may be more of an “UNorganized” form. Like playground activities or riding a bike where they can burn off energy on their own.
Exercise releases brain chemicals that contribute to their ability to pay attention and focus.
Activity Tools During Class to Increase Concentration
Sitting for 30 – 40 minutes during classroom instructional time can be difficult for the average student. For a child with ADHD it can be extremely challenging.
There are several gadgets and tools that have been designed to let the kids fidget and move all while remaining focused on their school work.
This combined with allowing and encouraging activity breaks frequently throughout the school-day has shown to improve their ability to concentrate and improved testing results.
One of our most popular tools being used for homeschooling aids is the Stel’Air desk bike. Kids can sit and pedal quietly while focusing during ZOOM class on the desktop.
Effective Knowledge Acquisition Productivity Tools
Probably one of the more simplistic and effective productivity tools for kids that have trouble maintaining focusing on their work is the “checklist”.
It is easy to get overwhelmed if instructions aren’t clear and precise. For example; if a child is told to “Get ready for school.” this can be interpreted as a vague and puzzling request. It lacks specific instruction.
Try breaking things into very small and direct tasks. Put these into a checklist form that the child can read and check off when completed.
1. comb your hair
2. brush your teeth
3. put on your shirt
4. etc
Over time the checklist may be changed or may not be needed anymore. It is a good way to help introduce a child to a new activity as well. It allows for familiarisation one small step at a time.
Adding Routine and Structure for ADHD Kids
Homeschooling your children because of COVID-19 has thrown a wrench into everyone’s routine. By making a NEW routine that revolves around their eLearning will help to put things back on track.
A consistent routine helps with focus. This can be part of the task based structure of their day.
Make a schedule and stick to it. Class starts at (time), then an activity break, then back to class.
On the bright side; you can now have the strong advantage of being able to schedule the day around what works best for your child.
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