ADHD and Tracking Homework
Alternatives to the Traditional Assignment Book
Alternatives methods to keep track of assignments that are helpful for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also know as attention deficit disorder.
Misplaced, lost, or forgotten assignments are the hallmark traits of the child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. While most school systems are going to assignment books, it has been my experience that these are not always useful or practical for students with ADD or ADHD. They are often an awkward size that is easy to lose in their lockers and backpacks, the available space to write down assignments is often too small, and it can be tricky to find the right page quickly. Here are some possible suggestions to the typical assignment book that I have found useful.
1. Small memo pad. These are small enough to fit in a jeans pocket or purse. I used them extensively. Buy a dozen and keep them scattered around. You don't have to use the same one each day. The best thing I liked about this was I could cross out a task when it was done and rip out pages after I had completed everything on them. Gave me a great sense of satisfaction. Encourage the student to write down everything, not just homework: football games, days off, late starts, doctor's appointments, chores, etc. The more he looks at it, the more useful it becomes.
2. Post-it Notes. Post-it Notes are good because the student can use them to mark the page the assignment is on in the textbook. Then, at the end of the day, he/she can look for the little colored flags and know if there is an assignment for the night. They can also write the assignment on a post it and the paste the post-it not on the side of their locker. Then, at the end of the day, they can take the ones down they need to do for the next day, past it back on the book/notebook, and then will have it when they get home. The one drawback is that they might get lost.
3. Personal Digital Assistant. Also known as Palm Pilots, PDAs, pocket PCs, and Blackberrys. I always hesitate to bring up this suggestion because they can be very expensive and the potential for losing them is high. However, if your student has been responsible with cell phones and mp3 players, you might want to consider it. The novelty of it often makes it more fun to be organized. Be sure to check with your school to see if they are allowed before bringing up the option.
4. Notebook paper. Either kept inside the notebook or folded up and placed in their pocket, this can be very effective. It's small enough that it is easy to carry; they always should have paper, and is less obtrusive than the memo pad. I have had students put notes inside their socks because I knew that they would find it once they got home. You can also tape a sheet protector on their notebook and they can store their list by slipping it inside.
