Want to know how to help ADHD child focus without medication? We are here to help! Having brought up a child with ADHD, we know how difficult it can be to make sure they are concentrating in class and not becoming a distraction to other children.
Today, we share some amazing tips that have helped our son focus in school and hope they will be of help to you too!
1. Get organized: start the night before
The evening before school, help your child get organized by laying out clothes and packing up any materials needed for the next day. This way, there won’t be a mad rush in the morning and your child can start the day feeling more relaxed.
2. Have a healthy breakfast
A nutritious breakfast will help your child’s concentration and focus throughout the morning. If your child isn’t a fan of breakfast, try packing a healthy snack to eat mid-morning.
3. Create a daily routine
Following a daily routine will help your child know what to expect each day and help them stay on track. A routine doesn’t have to be complicated, but could include things like waking up at the same time each day, brushing teeth, getting dressed and eating breakfast before school.
4. Get some exercise
Exercise is a great way to release energy and help improve focus. Even just a short burst of activity before school can make a big difference.
5. Set up a quiet place to do homework
Having a designated area for homework will help your child concentrate and stay on task. This could be a spot at the kitchen table, desk in their bedroom or even just a corner of the living room.
6. Use a timer
If your child struggles to focus on homework, try using a timer to break up the task into smaller chunks. For example, set the timer for 15 minutes and once it goes off, take a 5-minute break before starting again.
7. Make every lesson exciting and funny
Another great tip on how to help ADHD child focus without medication is by making every lesson exciting. This means that the parent should be excited about the topic as well. If the parent is not interested, then chances are the child will not be either.
For teachers, you can try some of these tips to make the lessons funny and exciting:
- Use flashlight to illuminate things in the room while the lights are off
- Use puppets or stuffed animals
- Play some music
- Tell jokes
8. Let the child sit in front
One of the best tips on how to help ADHD child focus without medication is by letting the child sit in front. By sitting in front, the child will be less likely to get distracted.
9. Encourage the child to take notes
Another great tip is to encourage the child to take notes. This will help the child stay focus and be more engaged in the lesson.
10. Give them time to move around
Last but not least, it is important to give the child some time to move around. This does not mean that the child can run around the classroom, but simply letting them stand up or walk around for a few minutes between lessons.
We hope you found these tips helpful and that they will help your child focus at school. Do you have any other tips on how to help ADHD child focus without medication? Let us know in the comments below!
10 Amazing ADHD Focus Exercises for Kids
1. Get a fidget toy
Fidget toys are great for kids with ADHD because they provide a way to release excess energy and help with focus at the same time.
2. Use a white noise machine
White noise can help block out distractions and improve focus.
3. Move around
Kids with ADHD often benefit from moving around while they learn. Try incorporating some movement into your child’s school day, such as standing up while doing work or taking a break to walk around the room.
4. Eat healthy
Healthy foods help improve focus and concentration. Make sure your child is eating a nutritious diet and avoiding sugary snacks and drinks.
5. Get enough sleep
Sleep is essential for focus and concentration. Make sure your child is getting enough rest each night.
6. Use a planner
A planner can help kids with ADHD stay organized and on track with their schoolwork.
7. Take breaks
It’s important to take breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout. Try setting a timer for 20 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break.
8. Use positive reinforcement
Whenever your child demonstrates good focus, be sure to praise them. This could be a simple “good job” or a high-five.
9. Limit screen time
Too much screen time can negatively impact focus and concentration. Make sure your child is limiting their screen time to no more than 2 hours per day.
10. Try attention training program
Attention training programs are designed to help improve focus and concentration. There are many different programs available, so talk to your child’s doctor or therapist to see if one might be right for your child.
We hope you found these tips helpful. Do you have any other tips on how to help ADHD child focus in school without medication? Let us know in the comments below!
10 Foods for Kids with ADHD to Help the Focus
Besides being beneficial for their growth and health, the right foods can help kids with ADHD to focus. Here are 10 of the best foods for kids with ADHD:
1. Omega-3 rich foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain development and function. Foods rich in omega-3s include salmon, tuna, nuts, and seeds.
So, the next time you’re wondering how to help ADHD child focus in school without medication, try some Omega-3 rich foods!
2. Protein
Protein is essential for focus and concentration. Foods high in protein include lean meats, eggs, and beans.
3. Iron
Iron is important for cognitive function and focus. Foods high in iron include dark leafy greens, red meat, and legumes.
4. Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in many biochemical reactions in the brain and is essential for focus and concentration. Foods high in magnesium include dark chocolate, nuts, and seeds.
5. Complex carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates help the body to produce serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood and focus. Foods high in complex carbs include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
6. Caffeine
Caffeine can help to improve focus and concentration. However, it is important to limit caffeine intake, as too much can lead to side effects such as anxiety and restlessness. Foods and drinks high in caffeine include coffee, tea, and energy drinks.
7. Water
Water is essential for all bodily functions, including cognitive function. Make sure your child is drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
8. Vitamins B6 and B12
Vitamins B6 and B12 are essential for brain function. Foods high in vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, and bananas. Foods high in vitamin B12 include meat, poultry, and eggs.
9. Calcium
Calcium is essential for nerve transmission and muscle function. Foods high in calcium include dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts.
10. Fiber
Fiber helps to regulate digestion and can improve focus and concentration. Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
The above foods are just some of the best for kids with ADHD. It’s important to encourage a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of healthy foods. For more tips on healthy eating for kids, check out our blog post 5 Tips for Getting Your Kids to Eat Healthy Foods.
Including the above foods in your child’s diet can help to improve focus and concentration. However, it’s important to speak with your child’s doctor or therapist before making any dietary changes.
Do you have any other tips on how to help ADHD child focus without medication? Let us know in the comments below!
ALSO READ: ADHD Child Refuses to Do School Work: How You Can Help them Succeed