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Attention Problems
Strategies for Parents

by Marcia Weill
Folsum-Cordova (CA) Unified School District

Hyperactivity: Provide External Structure

Physical Controls

  • Include regular exercise, balanced diet, adequate sleep, medication if appropriate
  • Check schedules: mornings usually best for learning, need calm routine at bedtime
  • Check environment for safety and remove treasured items, prevent problems

Predictability

  • Use consistent rules across time and place
  • Prepare for changes to new activity
  • Practice simple daily routines
  • Have regular contact with school

Distractibility: Focus on Priorities

Priorities

  • Organize backpack and notebook
  • Have a "Launch Pad" area for next morning's materials and messages
  • Encourage on-task behavior
  • Request special education assessment if appropriate

Directions

  • Use simple, positive directions showing what to do instead of what not to do
  • Give visual clues

Distractors

  • Provide regular time and clean area for doing homework
  • Limit and balance extra curricular activities

Impulsivity: Build Self-Confidence

Social Skills

  • Build on strengths
  • Teach game-playing skills, taking turns and making choices
  • Encourage noncompetitive sports (karate, gymnastics, swimming)
  • Teach friendship skills (making requests, giving compliments, less rough play)

Parent Support

  • Enroll in classes in behavior management
  • Join support groups
  • Use "special time" for bonding

Counseling and Management

  • Use strategies to reduce impulsive behavior
  • Model positive self-talk and goal-setting
  • Reward frequently

Adapted from material previously published by the California Association of School Psychologists in CASP Today, August, 1994.

© 1998 National Association of School Psychologists, 4340 East West Highway, Suite 402, Bethesda MD 20814 301-657-0270.

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