Time Management Tips for Students with ADHD
In today's school environment, a rising number of students are dealing with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). When teachers think about managing the classroom, they know that time management challenges abound. Russell A. Barkley, a well-known clinical psychologist known for his extensive work on ADHD, has shed light on the close relationship between ADHD and Executive Functioning. Barkley asserts that ADHD is primarily an Executive Function (EF) problem, noting that students with ADHD frequently struggle with a variety of EF deficiencies, including time management.
BrainTracks’ infographic "Interventions for Students who Struggle with Time Management" includes six useful ideas that students and teachers may use to build students’ time management skills. These strategies support not only students with ADHD, but also students who struggle with time management for a variety of other reasons. We hope that by using these time management interventions, educators feel empowered to support students with ADHD, resulting in a more inclusive learning environment and a better managed classroom.
Practice estimating time to complete tasks
Why it's helpful: This strategy helps kids with ADHD increase their awareness of time and their ability to properly plan and allocate time.
How teachers can use it: Encourage students to estimate how long a task will take and then compare their estimates to the actual time it took. This activity can help them improve their time management skills.
Post a daily schedule
Why it's helpful: A visual schedule gives structure and predictability, which helps reduce students' anxiety because they know what to expect throughout the day.
How teachers can use it: Display a daily schedule on the board or with visual aids in the classroom. Reference to the schedule on a frequent basis, and make sure that students know where to find it.
Use a visual timer during work time
Why it's helpful: Visual timers provide a tangible representation of time passing, aiding students in staying focused and managing their time effectively.
How teachers can use it: Incorporate visual timers, such as hourglasses or digital countdown clocks, during tasks and activities. Set clear expectations for work duration.
Teach skills for staying organized
Why it's helpful: Organizational skills are essential for effectively managing assignments, resources, and time, which is especially important for students with ADHD.
How teachers can use it: Incorporate lessons on organization into instruction; teach students organization strategies like using binders, color-coding, and digital tools for staying organized.
Identify and reduce distractions
Why it's helpful: Minimizing distractions helps students with ADHD maintain focus on tasks and use their time efficiently.
How teachers can use it: Work with students to identify common distractions and develop strategies to mitigate them, such as creating designated quiet areas for work using apps to limit distractions, or using timers to stay on task.
Make checklists and prioritize tasks
Why it's helpful: Checklists help students in breaking down complex tasks and keeping track of what needs to be done first.
How teachers can use it: Create daily or weekly checklists for assignments, homework, or projects with your students. Encourage students to prioritize tasks and complete them first so they stay on track.
Incorporating these time management strategies into your classroom can have a huge impact on children with ADHD and Executive Function issues. BrainTracks Executive Function professional development workshops are designed to give educators the tools and information you need to better manage their classroom and, as a result, increase student success. If you're ready to take the next step and bring Executive Function skills to your school, please contact us today!
