At School or Place of Employment

• Alter the environment to reduce distractions:
  • Sitting on a inflated disc cushion may help improve your child's attention in class. The disc creates a physical distraction that helps focus.
• Decrease noise and clutter.
• Create habits to help make your instructions clear. Writing them down for others may help.
• Focus on success. Reward your child’s progress and reinforce positive behavior.
• Use checklists and reminders to help stay organized.
• Practice impulse control. (Encourage your child to do so.)
• Look for things you are good at. (Encourage your child to do things he or she is good at.)
• Do not require your child to perform difficult tasks in public.
• Practice active learning such as underlining, note taking, or reading aloud.
• Break big jobs down into small tasks.

Habits like fidgeting, pencil tapping, and constant movement may help children with ADHD stay alert and on task. Some teachers and schools may allow children to move and fidget in a quiet manner. An example is to squeeze a ball or stand at the back of the room with work.

At Home

• Apply school or work guidelines to home life as well. This will help keep balance throughout the day.
• Address family tensions. This may include problems between spouses, alcohol use disorder, drug abuse, and fighting among siblings.
• Create order, structure, and routine in the home. There is comfort in knowing what is going to happen and that things are where they belong.
• Practice good sleep habits. Try to go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning. Continue these habits even on weekends.
• Eat healthy, balanced meals. Hunger or poor nutrition can make symptoms worse.
• If you smoke, talk to your doctor about options to help you quit.

Professional Help

• A family doctor should track your child’s progress and treatment. This will help to detect and treat any problems early.
• Look for support systems at work or school. A school may be able to make alternate education options. An employment counselor may help with your work needs.
• Mental health professionals can teach coping skills. These skills can help to reduce stress. You can also learn how to better deal with emotional and social problems.
• Specially trained ADHD coaches may also help. These coaches can help to provide structure, tools, and strategies. They may specialize in working with children, adolescents, or adults.