When your child has ADHD, they may find it hard to complete schoolwork in groups with other students. However, being able to work in a group successfully is an important skill for any child to develop, and it may be necessary for their academic success. Here are some tips to help your student with ADHD work better in groups:
Talk to The Teacher
Before the school year begins let your child's teacher know that they have ADHD and have trouble working in groups. Your teacher can keep this in mind as they plan activities and group work. Teachers can both offer extra supervision to your child and pair him with students he may be more likely to work well with.
Help Children Read Body Language
Children with ADHD may have trouble reading body language and social cues. This makes group work difficult for them. Help improve their ability to interpret body language by practicing. Watch television shows and movies and pause at emotional moments. Ask your child to identify that the character is feeling, then discuss the feeling and how it's being expressed.
Build Self-Esteem
Figure out what hobbies and activities your child enjoys and is good at. Enroll him in those so that he can build his self-esteem. By boosting self-confidence in group settings where they excel, they can better handle social situations with other students in the classroom for more successful work.
Encourage More Social Time
Socializing with other kids is the best way for kids with ADHD to improve their social skills. Plan regular time for your child and their friends to play together. This can be after school, on weekends, or even at extracurricular activities. By planning time for your child to be with other children, you can ensure they're practicing and developing the skills they need to succeed.
Group work can be a key part of learning to cooperate, collaborate, and use self-discipline. While this experience may be challenging for a student with ADHD, it is not impossible. By using some tried and true techniques to help foster better group work and collaboration, you can improve the experience for your child and the people who are working in a group with them.
If your child struggles with social issues related to a learning or behavioral disorder, we invite you to contact us and learn more about The Brain Balance Program.