Leader in Supplemental Learning Motivates Children with Learning and Behavioral Disorders
Jersey City, N.J. – Back-to-school can be a stressful time for most kids, but for families with a child who struggles with a learning and behavioral disorder, such as ADHD, Dyslexia, Processing Disorders or Asperger’s, it can become even more stressful. However, with careful planning and practical strategies, heading back-to-school can turn into a successful transition.
“To help children achieve success during the school year, it is important that parents enforce specific rules, establish a routine and create healthy habits for their child,” said Dr. Robert Melillo, founder of Brain Balance Achievement Centers. “By setting rules and motivating the child to stick to them, they will be able to stay focused on their academic and social goals.”
Brain Balance Achievement Centers recommends implementing the following guidelines for helping to alleviate a child’s anxiety and, ultimately, accomplish their goals:
- Homework Time: An adult should always be present to oversee homework time, particularly if the child has ADHD. Children should complete homework as soon as they get home from school. If both parents work outside the home, it may be beneficial to push homework time to after dinner. Offer children a healthy snack, and then have them change into “homework clothes”. Just as pajamas indicate to a child that it is time for sleep and play clothes indicate that it is okay for a child to get dirty, homework clothes can help children transition to homework mode so they can be comfortable, complete their work more efficiently and earn free time.
- Television Time: As summer comes to an end, begin to limit screen time so children can adjust to their new limit before school begins. A good rule of thumb is to decrease screen time by fifteen minutes each day until they are at their new limit of 1.5 hours a day during the week and 2 hours a day on weekends. Any extra screen time must be earned. Starting this process before school begins gives kids time to adjust to the new rule.
- Rewarding Hard Work: Children with learning and behavioral disorders who accomplish their goals should expect to earn privileges. Whether it be extra weekend television time, a night out with friends, or a family dinner at their favorite restaurant, children want to know that parents recognize their hard work and accomplishments. When possible, make the reward a family affair to let children know that the whole family is proud of them and invested in their success.
ABOUT BRAIN BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT CENTERS
Since 2006, Brain Balance Achievement Centers has helped thousands of children, ages of 4 to 17, reach their, academic, social and behavioral potential through its drug-free, whole-child approach. The Brain Balance Program® utilizes sensory motor exercises, neuro-academic work and nutritional guidance to address the root cause of many learning and behavioral issues. Today, there are over 55 Brain Balance Achievement Centers nationwide. For more information, visit www.brainbalancecenters.com.
