Helping Your Child with ADHD Focus at School

“Sarah still doesn’t listen. Every time I look at her, she’s away with the fairies.”
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“I can tell that Tom isn’t focusing on his homework—there are silly little errors everywhere.”
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“Mary is wonderfully kind, but her constant tapping is becoming a real distraction.”

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Sound familiar?

For parents of children with ADHD, feedback like this is all too common. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) affects a child’s ability to stay focused, plan, and organise their work. They might be easily distracted, constantly fidgeting, or often caught daydreaming—not out of disobedience, but because of how their brain is wired.

Unfortunately, these behaviours are often misunderstood as laziness or bad behaviour. Children with ADHD are frequently disciplined for things outside of their control, leaving them feeling ashamed or discouraged.

But as a parent, there’s a lot you can do to support your child and help them succeed. Here are four strategies to help your child with ADHD focus better in school:

1. Partner with Their Teacher

While you can’t sit next to your child in class, their teacher can be a powerful ally.

• Start by communicating clearly: Make sure the teacher knows about your child’s ADHD. Understanding the “why” behind the behaviour can help prevent misinterpretations or unnecessary discipline.
• Collaborate on strategies: Suggest practical changes, like seating your child near the teacher or away from windows, using more interactive or hands-on tasks, or breaking up work into shorter, more engaging segments.
• Keep the conversation ongoing: Ask for updates and be open to their observations—no one sees your child in the classroom context more than their teacher.

2. Create a Consistent Homework Routine

Once the school day ends, your child needs your help to build focus at home.

• Structure is everything: Design a regular homework routine that works for your child’s needs. That might mean a snack and short break after school, followed by a set homework time.
• Avoid distractions: Find a calm, tidy space where they can work. Some children focus better with soft background music; others need total silence. Test a few options and stick to what works.
• Use visual reminders: Charts, checklists, and timers can help your child stay on track and build independence.

3. Break Assignments into Bite-Sized Chunks

A long essay or big science project can feel overwhelming—leading to procrastination or zoning out.

• Help them break it down: Show your child how to divide big tasks into small, manageable steps. For example, instead of “do the whole project,” they might aim to “write the intro” or “find 3 facts online.”
• Set micro-goals and rewards: Completing even a small part can boost motivation, especially when there's encouragement (or a small reward) at the end.

Over time, they’ll start to internalise this skill and apply it in class too.

4. Reframe Distraction as a Clue

Sometimes distraction is a sign that a child is bored, anxious, or overstimulated. Rather than forcing focus at all costs, get curious:

• Is the task too hard or too easy?
• Are they hungry, tired, or unsettled?
• Could a short movement break reset their attention?

The more you understand what causes distraction, the better equipped you’ll be to create the right environment for focus.

Final Thought: Progress, Not Perfection

Supporting a child with ADHD isn’t about eliminating all distractions or achieving perfect focus—it’s about progress, flexibility, and empathy. Celebrate the small wins, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. With patience, structure, and support, your child can thrive both in the classroom and beyond.

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